Active Employee Insurance Information

Active Employees

Active benefit eligible employees may enroll in health insurance either upon hire, during the annual open enrollment period each spring, or with a documented qualifying event. 

• New Hires:  New benefit-eligible employees may be eligible for health and other insurance benefits as indicated during your hiring process. If eligible, new hires will have a strict 30-day deadline to enroll, which includes submitting all required forms and supporting documentation to the HR Department. In accordance with Town Policy, new hires are eligible to start coverage on the 1st of the month following 30 days after hire date. The Town's Benefits Administrator, Gloria Congram (GCongram@southhadleyma.gov / 413-538-5030 ext. 6126) will be in touch regarding all benefit offerings and collection of enrollment materials prior to start date, but always feel free to reach out with questions and ensure compliance with deadlines and browse our website to review offerings. 
• Annual Open Enrollment: this period typically occurs in mid-April, to allow employees and dependents to make enrollment changes for an effective date of July 1st. All required forms and supporting documents must be submitted during the Open Enrollment period to be eligible. 
• Mid-year enrollment changes: please review Hampshire County Group Insurance Trust (HCGIT) rules on specific Qualifying Life Events permitting mid-year enrollment changes (i.e. outside of Open Enrollment) for employees and their dependents. The HCGIT has a strict deadline of 30 days following the Qualifying Event Date to submit all required forms and supporting documentation verifying the change.  Please note voluntary terminations from outside (non-Town) coverage, typically does not qualify to allow mid-year enrollments on Town coverage. Please contact HR in advance of any impending changes in your coverage for confirmation. 
• Turning 65? active employees and their dependents should be aware of implications of turning 65 and potential Medicare eligibility. At least 3 months prior to turning 65, please review these requirements from the HCGIT to align with Medicare and group health plan regulations, possible requiring enrollment in either Medicare Part A only, or both Parts A and B. Also please consider any requirements that might be in place 3 months prior to a planned retirement as well. Questions can also be directed to the HR Department at any time. 
• Other Health Insurance options:  If you are not eligible to enroll in the Town’s group health insurance plan due to timing or qualifying event rules, you may wish to explore coverage options through the Massachusetts Health Connector. The Health Connector offers individual and family plans and may provide financial assistance depending on your circumstances. For your reference, the Town’s Employer Coverage Notification Form is available here: Employer Notification Form (PDF)