Outstaffing Dental & Vision Plans – Eligibility Impact

Is Guardian making any special accommodations for employees who may lose coverage as a result of reduction in hours, layoff, or furlough?

As the impact of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continues to unfold, large numbers of employees’ hours are being reduced.  In response, Guardian is making changes to eligibility requirements in order to provide coverage on most group products.  Effective 3/1/2020, Guardian will continue to consider an employee who was enrolled as of that date to be eligible for benefits until 4/30/2020 if premium continues to be paid when:

• The full-time employee’s hours are reduced and fall below the minimum hourly work requirement to be benefit eligible.

OR

• The employee is furloughed or laid off.

We will communicate any changes regarding this temporary accommodation prior to 4/30/2020, including whether we will be extending the accommodation timeframe, or if we will return to the original contract provisions in your policy regarding eligibility requirements.