As a new hire, you can elect up to the Guaranteed Issue amounts of $200,000 for yourself, $50,000 for your spouse, and $20,000 for your child(ren) without needing to answer any health questions. If you wish to choose an amount that exceeds these Guaranteed Issue limits, you will need to complete an Evidence of Insurability (EOI) form.

After you enroll, you will receive an email from Lincoln Financial prompting you to complete an electronic EOI form and submit it for approval. Should you elect coverage that exceeds the Guarantee Issue, an EOI form will be required. Simply complete the form per the email request from Lincoln Financial and submit it electronically for review. Should you have any questions or need a paper EOI form, contact the Benefits Service Center. You will not incur deductions for any pending amounts until you receive approval.

If you elect coverage as a new hire, regardless of the amount, you can increase your insurance later, up to the Guarantee Issue amounts of $200,000 for yourself, $50,000 for your spouse, and $20,000 for your child(ren) with no health questions.

Please see below for sample premiums for life coverage in the amount of $100,000. We encourage you to enroll in the plan because as long as you are enrolled, future elections up to the guarantee issue amounts during Annual Open Enrollment do not require health questions.

• All eligible employees may enroll, regardless of age.
• Spouse life coverage cannot exceed 100% of employee amount.
• Rates are age banded and spouse rates are based on spouse's age.
• Child(ren) may be covered until age 26.
• Beneficiary information is required upon enrollment.
• Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage is included with your life insurance election for employee and spouse coverage. Dismemberment benefit is paid according to a schedule outlined in the certificate.
• For employees age 70+, the maximum voluntary life insurance and AD&D coverage amount is $50,000.
• If you are married to another Thomas County Schools employee, duplicate coverage is not allowed.
• Portability is available only for voluntary life insurance; it does not apply to Basic Life or Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage.

You may have the option to continue your coverage upon separation if certain conditions are met. The voluntary life insurance plan includes the option to port to an individual term policy or to convert to a group whole life plan. To be eligible for portability, employees must have a minimum of 12 months of group voluntary life insurance coverage prior to employment separation.  Portability coverage terminates at age 70. Upon attainment of age 70 (upon termination of ported coverage), the option to convert to an individual whole life policy if available.

The rates for portability are the same as the active employee rates, and the rates for conversion are higher, and provided at the time of conversion application. 

In the event you are interested in continuation options, please contact Lincoln Financial within 30 days of your employment separation.