Human Resources

Washoe County administers our COBRA program for participants in the High Deductible Health Plan, PPO and the Surest plans.

Please contact Washoe County Human Resources at 328-2081.

Current rates can be found on the Human Resources website with the following link: Washoe County Employee Benefits 

Normally, qualified beneficiaries are required to pay the entire cost of COBRA Continuation Coverage.  The amount a qualified beneficiary may be required to pay may not exceed 102 percent (or, in the case of an extension of continuation coverage due to a disability, 150 percent) of the cost to the group health plan (including both employer and employee contributions).

Terminated employees and their dependents (qualified beneficiaries) will be provided an election notice within 14 days of their termination date.

The initial premium payment must be made within 45 days after the date of the COBRA election (This is the date the Election Notice is post-marked, if mailed.) Payments must cover the period of coverage from the date of COBRA election retroactive to the date of the loss of coverage.  Qualified Beneficiaries have 60 days beyond the date they receive their election notice to sign up for their health care coverage.

The effective date of COBRA Continuation Coverage is the day following the termination date of health insurance.  The insurance is not activated until payment is received.

Your current health insurance coverage ends on your last day of work.

The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) of 1985 mandates that employers that have with 20 or more employees and offer health coverage continue to offer employees benefits when they quit, are laid off or fired or have their work hours reduced. Additionally, benefits must be offered to the employee’s spouse and dependents. COBRA benefits apply to health care plans, dental plans, vision plans, prescription drug plans, etc. Benefits may continue for up to 18, 24, 29 or 36 months, depending on the cause for the loss of benefits.

If you are separating service with the County you will most likely be entitled to 18 months of continued coverage.

You will be notified by Washoe County on the process utilized to continue your health insurance program. After you make your first payment for COBRA Continuation Coverage, you will be required to make monthly payments for each coverage period. Payments are due on the 1st of the month for that coverage period. The Plan will not send monthly notices of payments due.

Contact Voya's local representative Tom Verducci at 775-530-3089. 

The Deferred Compensation Committee has a fiduciary responsibility to act in the best interests of participants with respect to plan administrators, fund offerings, account management, plan review for compliance, best practices and competitiveness, and is responsible for plan revisions and other necessary actions to meet those responsibilities.

In accordance with NRS 287.440, the Board of County Commissioners established a Washoe County Deferred Compensation Committee in 1979 to administer the 457 plan. The powers of the Deferred Compensation Committee as established by NRS and conferred upon the Committee as approved by the Board include collecting deferred compensation, transmitting to depositories within the State, payment of deferred compensation to participants and contracting with a private entity for services necessary to the administration of the plan.

Enrollment periods are established by Federal Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Codes. For the 457 plan, eligible employees can enroll at any time. For the 401(a) plan, employees are eligible to participate after one (1) year of employment with the County and then have a 90 day window in which to enroll. After the 90 day period ends, the employee is not eligible to enroll in the 401(a) plan for the remainder of his/her employment with Washoe
County.

Participants are eligible to take loans from the deferred compensation plans. The minimum loan amount is $1,000 and the minimum loan term is 12 months. For more information contact Voya's Retirement Readiness Service Center at 1-800-584-6001 or Voya's local representative Tom Verducci at 775-530-3089.       

Participants in the 457 Plan can start your retirement savings with as little as $10 or 1% per pay period, so starting sooner rather than later is easy.  You can start or stop your contributions to the 457 at any time. Participants electing to participate in the 401(a) Plan may select a minimum contribution amount of 2.5%. 401(a) enrollment and contribution elections are irrevocable.

The Committee has conducted record-keeper and administrator searches in 2005, 2010, 2015 and 2018. During these search projects the Committee has not found any compelling evidence that there are any advantages for our employees in adding a second provider. A single provider also minimizes confusion for plan participants and creates pricing advantages due to the economies of scale that are created.

The Committee adopted a written Statement of Investment Policies and Guidelines at their August 12, 2004 meeting. This Statement establishes criteria for funds offered within the 457 and 401(a) plans as well as the criteria for eliminating investment options. The policy is reviewed annually and assists in meeting the fiduciary responsibility of the Committee to act in the best interest of all plan participants. As stated in the guidelines, “the Committee will evaluate fund performance at least annually. Performance results will be evaluated using comparisons with the guidelines, pertinent market indices and appropriate peer groups of managers. When necessary, fund performance will be reviewed more frequently.” Evaluation is focused on long-term performance, though interim qualitative factors may influence a decision to add or remove a fund.

Both the 457 and 401(a) plans are voluntary retirement plans that employees may utilize. Neither plan offers a matching contribution which means each plan is funded solely from employee contributions. The 457 plan has maintained a strong participation rate of nearly 70% for several years. The 401(a) plan is a supplemental plan and is an irrevocable enrollment which make it appealing for a smaller number of employees.

Yes. Participants in the 457 and the 401(a) plan may elect to have any portion of their account balance transferred to a defined benefit governmental plan (PERS) at any time during their employment. For more information on purchasing “time” contact Voya's local representative Tom Verducci at 775-530-3089 or the Voya Retirement Readiness Service Center at 1-800-584-6001. You will also need to contact NVPERS at 775-687-4200 or visit the PERS website at www.nvpers.org.

The Roth Provision was added to the 457 Deferred Compensation program in May 2011. This feature enables you to contribute after-tax money from your paycheck to your 457 retirement plan account. The Roth option offers alternative tax benefits. Unlike traditional before-tax contributions, the Roth feature lets you save and invest with after-tax dollars. Because Roth contributions have already been taxed, Roth contributions and earnings can grow tax free.

The GAP is administered by American Fidelity Assurance (AFA).

The easiest way to file a gap insurance claim is through your online account at Americanfidelity.com or the mobile app, AFmobile. Download American Fideity mobile app from the App Store or Google Play. 

 When filing a gap insurance claim you will need to provide the following documentation:

• Statement of Insured, completed via  online claim filing  or paper claim form
• Itemized Bills with diagnosis from each of your providers with a complete breakdown of charges for each date of service
• Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from your primary medical insurance carrier

We may also need:

• Authorization to Disclose Information Including PHI: This form gives American Fidelity authorization to get records from your medical provider(s) and others who may hold information necessary for us to review your claim. Upload the form via your online account, or mail or fax it.

To follow up on a fax (after 48 hours to allow processing time): 1-800-662-1113
  
For any other plan or claim questions, contact the local American Fidelity office at 829-1313.

The following out-of-pocket expenses are covered:

Maximum In-Hospital Benefit:

• Up to $1,000 per hospital confinement

Maximum Out-patient Benefit:

• Treatment in a hospital emergency room

• Out-patient surgery in a hospital out-patient facility or free-standing out-patient surgery center

• Diagnostic testing in a hospital out-patient facility or MRI facility

• Up to $200 for treatment of the same or related conditions unless separated by a period of 90 consecutive days (then a new out-patient benefit will be payable)

Physician Out-patient Treatment Benefit:

• Treatment in a hospital out-patient clinic, free-standing emergency care clinic or physician’s office

• Up to $25 per treatment; $125 maximum per family per calendar year (non-routine care excluded)

If your dependents are covered under the Surest Plan, you may also purchase GAP coverage for them. You may enroll dependents during the annual Open Enrollment period (mid-October through mid-November for a January 1 effective date) by meeting with an American Fidelity representative, or anytime during the year with a qualifying event. Rates can be found on the Human Resources website and premiums are collected pre-tax through payroll deduction. To enroll your dependents outside of the Open Enrollment period (with a qualifying event), contact American Fidelity at 829-1313.

Just as with your health plans, dependents can only be dropped during Open Enrollment or with a qualifying event. To delete a dependent, you must contact American Fidelity directly. Dependent GAP coverage is privately purchased insurance and it is the responsibility of the employee to maintain the integrity of that policy. Calling Health Benefits to delete a dependent from your health insurance plan will not automatically delete them from your GAP Plan.

To access a copy of your Explanation of Benefits, go to member login site with Surest  and create an account.

Employees can visit www.americanfidelity.com and to set up an online account or download the AFmobile app.

This supplement benefit works in conjunction with the Surest Plan and is provided only to Surest participants. The GAP was added as a result of health insurance negotiations to offset plan design changes that helped the County meet budget needs in FY 2010/2011. The cost of the GAP Plan is covered by the County for all employees and retirees, and is available on a voluntary basis for dependents.

A list of qualifying events can be found under the “Eligibility Quick Reference” link on the Medical-Dental-Vision page of the Human Resources website:

This type of plan still allows you to participate in an HSA, and simply limits your FSA reimbursements to dental and vision expenses only (no medical).

The High Deductible Health Plan is administered by UMR. You can go to the website to search for providers, view claims, referrals and other benefit information. You can also download the UMR Mobile App. Download on the App Store or Google Play Store.

To be eligible for a Health Savings Account (HSA), you must be enrolled in a qualified High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP).

A HDHP has a lower premium than conventional health plans, and you must meet the calendar year deductible, before the plan starts paying. Prescription drugs must be paid at contract price until the deductible is met.  HSA’s help pay for the medical expenses not covered by your HDHP— tax- free.

You can continue to use your account tax-free for out-of-pocket health expenses. When you enroll in Medicare, you can use your account to pay Medicare premiums, deductibles, co-pays and coinsurance under any part of Medicare. If you have retiree health benefits through your former employer you can also use your account to pay for your share of retiree medical insurance premiums; however, the coverage may not be a Medicare Supplement Policy. Medicare premiums for a dependent who has reached age 65 is not an eligible expense.

American Fidelity will send you a debit card to pay for your qualifying expenses. You can also submit for reimbursement through your online account with American Fidelity or through the mobile app, AFmobile.

No. Medicare participants are not eligible for the HSA.  If you had an HSA before you enrolled in Medicare, you can keep it; however, you cannot continue to make contributions to an HSA after you enroll in Medicare.

American Fidelity uses First Fidelity Bank, N.A. which has had FDIC insurance since July 1, 1981.

You are the "bookkeeper."  It is  your responsibility to keep track of your deposits and expenditures and keep all of your receipts (necessary if the IRS audits you). It is also your responsibility to adhere to the regulations governing HSAs and payment of qualified medical expenses. American Fidelity does allow the option to scan receipts into their system and will save them for you should you ever be audited.

Yes.  All employees, regardless of which medical plan they are enrolled in, participate in the same self-funded dental and vision insurance plans.  You can pay for your portion of dental (other than cosmetic) and vision services from your HSA or your limited purpose FSA.

In 2010, Health Care Reform Law extended health plan eligibility to children of the covered employee until the child turns 26 years of age, so you can cover your 25 year-old on your HDHP medical plan.  However, the HSA is subject to IRS rules and guidelines, and since their definition of dependent is “up to age 24 if a full-time student,” you are not able to use your HSA funds to pay for out-of-pocket medical expenses for that dependent, even though they may be covered on your HDHP for medical expenses.

Yes. Both the PPO Plan and the HDHP utilize the same network of providers. To search for providers, please visit www.umr.com and select the United Healthcare Choice Plus Network.

In most cases, you will not be able to use your HSA funds to pay expenses for your registered Domestic Partner per IRS rules and guidelines. Please seek the advice of a tax accountant.

You are not required to contribute to the HSA; however; it is a good way to save pre-tax dollars for medical expenses incurred in the future.  You can change/stop your contribution as often as you like via the Benefits and Payroll Tab in ESS.

Although it is not a requirement, Washoe County has agreed to fund a significant portion of the $2,600/individual and $3,300/family annual calendar year deductible in 2025.

All employees enrolled on the High Deductible Health Plan effective January 1, 2025 will receive a $2,250 contribution to their Health Savings Account if they are only covering themselves or a $2,500 contribution to their Health Savings Account if they are covering one or more dependents. Anyone hired after January 1, 2025, will receive a pro-rated contribution to their Health Savings Account based upon their benefit effective date. The money in your HSA is your money and you may keep any County contributions when you change jobs or retire.

Currently, there is no cost to maintain your bank account with American Fidelity.  Upon separation from employment or transfer to another Washoe County health plan, you will be responsible for the $2 per month fee as applicable.

Yes, if the expenses are qualified medical expenses.

You will need to spend all your FSA money by December 31, 2024 in order to contribute an HSA.  You do have the option of enrolling in Limited Purpose FSA if you are participating in the HDHP/HSA; however, the Limited Purpose FSA is for vision and dental expenses only.

You will still be able to enroll and participate in the dependent care FSA.

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) allow you to contribute pre-tax dollars to an account managed by your employer. This money can be used for health care spending, but anything left over at the end of the year is forfeited. 

HSAs allow you to contribute pre-tax dollars into an account that is owned and managed by you, the employee. The money is used for health care expenses, but unlike an FSA, the unspent amount can remain in the account year after year and it stays with you in the event you terminate from your employer.

You will need to consider your options carefully. For more information, you can contact Health Benefits Staff by emailing at HR-Healthbenefits@washoecounty.gov. 

 

Yes. IRS regulations stipulate that in order to be eligible for a Health Savings Account (HSA), you must be enrolled in a qualified High Deductible Health Plan. 

IRS regulations for 2024 require the HDHP to have a minimum  deductible of $2,600 for individuals and $3,200 for families. The premium for an HDHP generally costs less than a traditional health care plan, so the money that you save can be put in your HSA. You own and control the money in your HSA and decisions on how to spend the money are made by you.

Since you are covered as individual employees by Washoe County, you will have a separate $2,600 annual deductible if both enroll in the HDHP/HSA. It may be more cost effective for one spouse to enroll in the HDHP/HSA with the $2,600 deductible ($3,300 deductible for family coverage) and the other spouse to enroll in the current PPO or Surest plan. Monies from the employee with the HSA account can be used for out-of-pocket medical expenses for family members regardless of whether or not they are on the same health plan.

No.  However, you are allowed to make a one-time transfer from an IRA to an HSA.  You are also allowed to rollover funds from an Archer MSA or an existing HSA to a new HSA.  We recommend that you seek advice from a financial expert before making any transfers or rollovers.

Yes, if you have tax-qualified long-term care insurance.  However, the amount considered a qualified medical expense depends on your age.  See IRS Publication 502 for the amounts deductible by age.

The IRS has set contribution limits of $4,300 for individuals and $8,550 for families for 2025. Individuals 55 and over may contribute an extra $1,000 to their HSA.

The County’s HSA are administered by American Fidelity, and employees can make pre-tax payroll deductions every pay period.  

The HSA is owned by the employee; therefore, the funds remain in the account.  The employee can choose to use the funds for qualified medical expenses or save the funds for future medical expenses.

The expenditure will be taxed, and for individuals who are not disabled or over age 65, subject to a 10% tax penalty.  It is your responsibility to report this information on your income taxes.

 The HSA contribution maximums are set up in payroll to not exceed the IRS limitations. If an employee’s contributions exceed the IRS limitation, the employee contribution amount will not be deducted from their paycheck.

If you try to use your debit card for an expense that exceeds the available balance, your card will simply be declined at the time of purchase.

In most cases, no. You can only use your HSA to pay health insurance premiums if you are collecting federal or state unemployment benefits, or if you have COBRA continuation coverage through a former employer.

You are responsible for that decision, and therefore should familiarize yourself with what qualified medical expenses are (at least as partially defined in IRS publication 502).  Also, keep your receipts in case you need to defend your expenditures or decisions during an audit.

 Yes. The High Deductible Health Plan with a Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) is another health plan option available to retirees.

Yes. The unused balance in an HSA automatically rolls over year after year.

No, the IRS does not allow you to have an HSA if your spouse’s FSA or Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) can pay for any of your medical expenses before your HDHP deductible is met.

Yes, if you are a veteran who has not retired from the military and is not enrolled in Tricare, you can enroll in the HSA/HDHP. The only exception is for veterans with service-related disabilities. The Internal Revenue Code was amended recently to allow veterans receiving VA medical care for service-related disabilities to fund an HSA.

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are another option when it comes to conventional health insurance. It is a tax-free savings account that gives you the power to decide how to pay for your medical care. You can pay for qualified medical expenses now or save for future medical expenses—all while earning interest on your money! Tax-free withdrawals can be made by the employee to pay for qualified medical expenses incurred by the employee, spouse, children or other dependents.

Supplemental life insurance may be purchased through Western Insurance Specialties and American Fidelity.

• Western Insurance Specialties can be reached at 775-826-2333. 
• American Fidelity can be reached at 775-829-1313.

Yes.  You may name as many primary beneficiaries as you want, as long as you indicate the desired percentage of distribution.  For example, if you name two children, you may want to show that each of them is entitled to 50% of the benefit.  You may also list contingent beneficiaries as well.

You can name anyone as your beneficiary, regardless of your relationship.  However, if you name a minor, the life insurance company will typically place the benefit in a Trust until that minor turns 18 years of age.

The County provides $20,000 of life and accidental death & dismemberment insurance for all benefited-employees, as well as a $1,000 benefit for those beneficiaries who are covered under your health insurance plan.  The $20,000 benefit reduces to $13,000 at age 65, and once again to $7,000 at age 70.

The County provides a $1,000 of life insurance for dependents who are carried on the participant’s health insurance plan. In the event a dependent dies while on the participant’s insurance, the participant would receive $1,000 in life insurance.

No, not unless they are eligible to enroll onto the retiree insurance.  In that case, they would have the $1,000 life insurance benefit for as long as they remain on the plan.

Your contingent beneficiary comes into play only in the event that the primary beneficiary has predeceased them.

The County provides this benefit for as long as you are covered under one of our health insurance plans.

You must log onto ESS and submit a Life and Work Event request to add or remove a dependent.  

Please see the “Eligibility Quick Reference” on the Human Resources website for more information on adding or deleting dependents: Eligibility Quick Reference 

Under the new Health Care Reform Bill, you may cover your child/children up to age 26.  They do not have to be a full-time student, living with you, and/or dependent upon your financial support. 

If you are adding a domestic partner, you must do so within 31 days of filing the declaration of domestic partnership, or during the annual Open Enrollment period. 

You may add your new baby within 31 days of the birth by submitting a Life and Work Event request through ESS and providing a copy of the birth confirmation to Human Resources.

Washoe County Employee Benefits is located within the Human Resources Department at the County Administration Complex, 1001 East Ninth Street, Building A, Room A220, and the contact information for the benefits team is as follows:          

• • Ashley Berrington, Benefits Manager, 328-2088, aberrington@washoecounty.gov
  • Kristie Harmon, Senior Benefits Specialist, 328-2079, kharmon@washoecounty.gov
  • Molly Hodges, Benefits Specialist, 325-8111, mahodges@washoecounty.gov 
  • Christine Kirkland, Benefits Specialist, 328-2099, ckirkland@washoecounty.gov
  • Lisa Daniels, Office Specialist, 328-2082, lmdaniels@washoecounty.gov 

You may change your choice of health plan for any reason during the annual Open Enrollment period by logging on to ESS and completing the online enrollment process. 

Washoe County pays 100% of the employee premium. Through collective bargaining, the County has also agreed to pay 50% of the enrolled dependent’s premium.  Employees are responsible for the remaining premium for their enrolled dependents.

As a result of the Health Care Reform Act, dependent children may now continue on your health insurance until age 26.

Current insurance rates are posted on the Washoe County Human Resources public website. To access the website, click here: https://www.washoecounty.gov/humanresources/Benefits/healthbenefits/index.php.

Yes.  Visit the websites below to access pharmacy services, check drug prices, view your prescription history, locate pharmacies near you and enroll in pharmacy by mail program. 

• Self-funded PPO and HDHP:  www.maxorplus.com (or call 1-800-687-0707)

• Surest:  OptumRx (or call 888-290-5416)

The GAP Plan was first introduced in FY 10/11 and is available in conjunction with the Surest Plan.  Washoe County covers the cost of the GAP plan for all employees enrolled in Surest; however, it is an elective coverage for dependents, and employees are responsible for dependent premiums.  Provided by American Fidelity, the GAP Plan is designed to reimburse the following out-of-pocket expenses up to:

• $1,000 per inpatient hospital confinement

• $200 for certain outpatient services

• $25 for non-routine doctors visits (limit of $125 per family per year)

For more information about the GAP Plan, or to enroll or delete a dependent, you must contact American Fidelity directly at 775-829-1313. 

Coverage becomes effective on the 31^st day of continuous full-time or permanent part-time employment (21 or more hours per week).  You must log onto Employee Self Service (ESS) and add dependents, if applicable, and designate life insurance beneficiary(ies) for you life insurance benefit.  

If enrollment is not completed within the first 20 days of employment, you will be enrolled with employee-only as of your effective date.

 Self-funded PPO and HDHP Plan:

• Renown Regional Medical Center, Renown South Meadows Regional Medical Center, St. Mary's Regional Medical Center, Northern Nevada Regional Medical Center, Northern Nevada Sierra Medical Center, and Carson-Tahoe Hospital

Surest Plan:

• Renown Regional Medical Center, South Meadows Regional Medical Center, Saint Mary's Regional Medical Center, Northern Nevada Regional Medical Center, Northern Nevada Sierra Medical Center, and Carson-Tahoe Hospital

Contact information for the following plans:

•  Self-funded PPO and HDHP contact UMR at 800-826-9781.
•  Surest, contact Surest at 866-683-6440.

The HMO Medicare Advantage Plan was added to the Washoe County Retiree Health Benefits Program in FY 10/11.  The coverage is provided through Senior Care Plus, and is available only to those retirees and their dependents with both Medicare parts A and B.  This plan is a great option for those retirees who are receiving only a partial premium benefit from Washoe County and/or who are covering dependents. Please note that enrollment occurs only on the first of each month.

You may contact the Enrollment Specialist at Senior Care Plus at 775-982-3134.

Every year, mid-October through mid-November, the County holds an Open Enrollment period during which time you can make any changes to your health insurance plan without qualifying event restrictions.  This is the perfect opportunity to review all your health insurance options to make sure you and your family are appropriately covered.

With the introduction of online open enrollment in FY 12/13, you must now review and certify your existing benefits via ESS even if you are not making any changes. You are strongly encouraged to attend one of the annual Open Enrollment meetings or review the Open Enrollment data posted on the website to be sure you understand any changes occurring at the beginning of the calendar year (January 1).

We strongly encourage all employees to attend Open Enrollment meetings which are scheduled each year mid-October through mid-November.  If for some reason you cannot attend one of these informative meetings, you may contact a Benefits Specialist:  Kristie Harmon at (775) 328-2079, Molly Hodges at (775) 325-8111 or Christine Kirkland at (775) 328-2099 to set up an appointment.

If you are on the Self-funded PPO or HDHP, visit www.umr.com (select Washoe County, Nevada); or contact UMR at 800-826-9781.

If you are on the Surest Plan, visit join.surest.com; or, contact Surest Plan at 866-683-6440.

 

For a full description of what services meet the definition of preventative and routine medical care, please refer to your plan summary or contact your plan administrator directly:

• Self-funded PPO and HDHP participants:  Contact UMR Customer Service at 800-826-9781.

• Surest participants: Contact Surest Customer Service at 866-683-6440.

 

Yes, this is considered a “qualifying event” and they must be added within 31 days of the loss of coverage.  You must submit a Life and Work Event request through ESS along with documentation from the previous insurance company that indicates the last day of coverage.

Yes, this is considered a “qualifying event” and they must be removed within 31 days of the effective date of the new insurance.  You must also submit a Life and Work Event request through ESS along with documentation from your spouse’s new employer that indicates the effective date of his/her coverage.

If you are on the Self-funded PPO and HDHP, or Surest Plan you will receive a better rate if you use contracted providers, but you do have flexibility. 

 

Yes, you currently retain the same benefit provided by contract. However, the actual benefit plan design is subject to future changes that may take place during labor negotiations with the bargaining units. Upon retirement, employees hired prior to 97/98 are not required to enroll in Medicare but are strongly encouraged to do so. If Medicare is primary to your Washoe County Health Plan, it helps defray future claims costs, which in turn helps to keep premium rates down. Increased premiums impact plan design which could result in increased out-of-pocket expenses to employees and retirees.

You may contact the Chris Gourlay at Senior Care Plus, at 775-982-3134. Inform him that you are a retiree of Washoe County.

The HMO Medicare Advantage Plan was added to the Washoe County Retiree Health Benefits Program in FY 10/11. The coverage is provided through Senior Care Plus, and is available only to those retirees and their dependents with both Medicare parts A and B. Please note that enrollment occurs only on the first of each month.

No. Regardless of your insurance coverage, you must enroll in Medicare within the 8-month Special Enrollment Period immediately following termination of your employment.

Information is available on the Medicare website http://www.medicare.gov or you can contact the local Social Security Office at 1-888-808-5481; 1170 Harvard Way, Reno, NV 89502.

In general, there is no premium associated with Medicare Part A. There is a premium associated with Medicare Part B. Please contact Medicare for information on Medicare Part A and B premiums.

You are eligible for Medicare if you are 65 or older and you OR your spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least ten years. When an individual who has not paid Medicare taxes applies for Medicare (assuming the spouse has), they simply provide their spouse’s information in addition to their own.

Federal employees began paying the Medicare payroll tax in 1983 and all newly hired state and local employees (including Washoe County) began doing so in 1986. Thus, most government employees and retirees are now eligible.

If you did not sign up when you were first eligible because you are still working and covered under the County’s group plan, you can enroll anytime. After your employment ends, you can enroll anytime during the 8-month Special Enrollment Period or during Medicare’s regular Open Enrollment Period which runs from January – March each year for a July 1st effective date.

Please note: if your active employment ends and you do not enroll during the Special Enrollment Period you may have to pay a higher premium for late enrollment.

Hospitals and community mental health centers are paid a set amount of money (called the payment rate) to give some outpatient services to people with Medicare. The payment rate includes:

• Medicare’s payment amount for the service you receive
• Your yearly Medicare Part B deductible if you haven’t already paid it for the year. This amount can change each year.
• Your co-payment amount or co-insurance

The payment rate is not the same for all hospitals and community mental health centers. The payment rate for a hospital or community mental health center is a national rate adjusted to reflect what people are paid to work in hospitals in the area where you get services. Each January 1, Medicare updates the payment rates to keep up with changes in the cost of providing services.

No, because the County’s insurance is creditable coverage. Medicare provides an 8-month Special Enrollment Period in which you can sign up for Parts A and B after your employment ends. If you enroll after the 8-month period, you will face late enrollment penalties.

Yes. If you notify us upon receiving your Medicare identification card and providing us with a copy, it may lower your premium rate. In addition, we will notify the plan administrator (Homeown Health or Prominence Health Plan) which could alleviate issues relating to the payment of claims.

Yes. The Medicare Advantage Plan was added to the Washoe County Retiree Health Benefits Program in July, 2010. Coverage is provided through Senior Care Plus and is available to those retirees and their dependents with both Medicare parts A and B. This HMO plan is a great option for those retirees who are receiving only a partial premium benefit from Washoe County or who are covering dependents, as premiums are considerably lower. Please note that enrollment occurs only on the first of each month.

You can either contact the Medicare’s customer service at 800-633-4227, or you can access one of their premium or eligibility tools on their website: www.medicare.gov

Yes. Part A is available at no cost, and employees and retirees both should always take advantage of this coverage as soon as you are eligible.

• Lowers your monthly premium
• Lowers your out-of-pocket costs over time by eliminating, or greatly reducing, co-insurance/co-payments.

No, because the County’s insurance is creditable coverage. Medicare provides an 8-month Special Enrollment Period in which you can sign up for Part B after your employment ends. If you enroll after the 8-month period, you will face late enrollment penalties.

No, the Washoe County Plans are equal to or better than Medicare Part D.

Depending on your original hire date with the County, enrollment in Medicare may or may not be required, and the decision to elect or reject Medicare may impact the way your claims are paid. We strongly encourage all retirees who are eligible for Medicare to take Parts A and B. If you are uncertain about whether or not to elect Medicare coverage, please feel free to contact our office.

You are eligible to enroll in Medicare A and B if your spouse has paid Medicare taxes for at least ten years.

If you are covered under your current employer’s group health plan in the private sector, you may want to delay enrollment in Medicare Part B.  If you are only enrolled in the Washoe County Retiree Health Benefits Program, then you should not delay enrolling in Medicare.  Retiree insurance is not considered “creditable” coverage by Medicare, so if you do not enroll in Part B at age 65 and decide to enroll later, you will be subject to a late enrollment fee of 10% for each 12-month period beyond your original Part B eligibility date.

Medicare is a national social insurance program, administered by the federal government since 1965 that guarantees access to health insurance for Americans who are:

• Age 65 years and older

• Under age 65 on Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) or diagnosed with certain diseases including End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) and Lou Gehrig's Disease (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis or ALS) The original program included:

• Part A – Hospital Care. Part A is premium-free for most people.

• Part B – Doctor and Outpatient Care. Part B requires a monthly premium.

In 2006, the program was expanded to include:

• Part D – Prescription Drug Coverage. Part D is optional and requires a monthly premium.

Established under the Internal Revenue Code section 457, deferred compensation plans are tax deferred, supplemental retirement plans. Contributions to 457 plans are not subject to federal income tax at the time of deferral.

If you become a full-time employee, all contributions to the OBRA account cease.  At this point, you may either transfer the value of your OBRA account to the voluntary 457 plan available to full-time employees, or you may simply leave the funds in your OBRA account.  If you choose to leave the funds in the OBRA, please bear in mind that the funds cannot be withdrawn until you separate employment from Washoe County.

You can contact Voya's Retirement Readiness Service Center and speak with a Customer Service Associate at 1-800-584-6001.

Yes. A total asset-based fee of 0.8% to cover recordkeeping and administrative expenses is applied to all deferred compensation accounts.

All distributions will be taxed as “ordinary income.”  Taxes are payable on amounts distributed to you in the year of receipt.

When you separate employment with Washoe County, you have several options.  You can either leave the funds in the account, accruing interest; you can roll the funds over to another qualified plan; or, you can withdraw the funds in their entirety.  If you choose to withdraw, you will be responsible for the applicable taxes on the earnings.

Yes.  Your employer will automatically deduct the required 7.5% of gross salary to provide you, as a non-benefited part time, seasonal or temporary employee, with a defined contribution plan in lieu of social security coverage.

Yes.  You can contact Voya's Retirement Readiness Service Center and speak with a Customer Service Associate at 1-800-584-6001.

Payout options include lump sum or designated amount on a monthly, quarterly or annual basis.

No.  There are no penalties or early withdrawal provisions applicable to the plan.

Participants will receive quarterly statements by mail.

No.  Your employer will make the necessary adjustments on your W-2 form, lowering your gross wages by the amount that you contributed in each tax year.

Established in 1990, OBRA is an acronym for Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act.  The primary purpose of this 457 deferred compensation plan is to provide a retirement alternative to Social Security for all non-benefited part-time, seasonal and temporary employees.  In addition, this plan permits those same employees of Washoe County to enter into an agreement which will provide for deferral of payment of a portion of their current compensation until death, retirement, severance from employment, or other event, in accordance with the provisions of Section 457 of the Internal Revenue Code.

Assets in the plan may be withdrawn upon termination of employment, regardless of age.

Contributions will be directed to the Voya Fixed Account.  The Voya Fixed Account provides safety of principle and a competitive rate of return.

OBRA requires that all state and local governmental employees be covered by social security or an employer retirement plan.

Please use the following choices when submitting a verification of employment.

Verbal Verification call 775-328-2081 ext. 3

Written Verification fax to 775-328-6119 or email HREmployeeRecords@washoecounty.gov

 

Washoe County is committed to equal employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. If you have a disability which requires special testing accommodations, please contact careers@washoecounty.gov within 3 days of receiving your notice that you have passed the minimum qualifications for the position.  Special testing accommodations will be provided in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Washoe County does not offer the option to retake an examination under the same recruitment unless under extenuating circumstances. If the same test is used for a different recruitment your score will automatically be transferred if it has been taken in less than 60 days or you will be given the option to transfer your score if taken within one year.

All correspondence about your application and the position you applied for are sent through email to the email address you provided on your application.  Prior to contacting Washoe County Human Resources, check your email spam folder. You can also log onto your governmentjobs.com account and view all messages through your inbox. Lastly, you may contact careers@washoecounty.gov to inquire about any missing emails.

As a merit system, most of our recruitments will include a competitive examination process.  The Washoe County Personnel Handbook section 5.160 outlines instances which allow the Department of Human Resources to waive the examination process.

The job announcement will outline the examination process for the recruitment and this information will include a tentative exam date for an in-person exam OR a tentative timeframe to receive an exam link for remote testing.  In addition, the areas assessed through the exam will also be listed on the job announcement.  The most commonly used exam is either a written or online multiple-choice exam; however, other examination processes such as a performance test may be used.

Some positions are unclassified and outside of the merit system.  Individuals selected for those positions serve at the pleasure of the hiring authority.  A variety of selection instruments may be used in evaluating candidates for these types of positions.

Information regarding a specific recruitment’s examination process can be found on the job announcement. You can access the job announcement by visiting https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/washoecounty. Sign in to your profile, select the application and go to the job details tab. The information can be found in the “What Happens Next” section of the Job Announcement.

After you have submitted your application and the Human Resources Analyst has determined that the minimum qualifications have been met, you will receive an email to the email address you provided on your application.  Subsequently, a separate email notification regarding the examination process will be sent to you approximately one week before the exam.

Exam results will be emailed to you within 1-2 weeks of taking the examination.

The term "examination" refers to the selection method used to rank all candidates for a particular classification.  The majority of Washoe County recruitments will include a competitive examination process.  Additional details regarding the examination process can be found on the job announcement.

Washoe County operates under a merit system, pursuant to Nevada Revised Statutes. A merit system is a means in which competitive examinations are used in the selection process and the most qualified individuals are selected for hire or promotion.

Pursuant to the Washoe County Personnel Handbook 5.160 - waiver of examination. The director of human resources may waive an examination for those classes requiring specific training, education, certification, licensure, experience or when there are an insufficient number of qualified candidates.

While the eligible list is comprised of all candidates who pass the exam, the referral list is comprised of those candidates who have been referred for an interview to the hiring department. When a referral list is generated, departments determine the number of candidates they would like to interview. Subsequently, they will receive an even number of candidates from the promotional and open competitive lists based on how many they wish to interview. For example: If a department requests six candidates to interview, they will receive the top three promotional candidates and the top three open competitive candidates.

As a merit system, most of our recruitments will include a competitive examination process. The Washoe County Personnel Handbook section 5.160 outlines instances which allow the Department of Human Resources to waive the examination process. When an examination is waived, all qualified candidates are placed on an unranked list.

Certain recruitments fall outside of the merit system and will entail a separate and unique process. The details of the process will be outlined on the job announcement.

Most eligible lists are active for a minimum of one year but may be extended by the director of human resources for up to three years. There are instances where a recruitment may be opened prior to the one year minimum.

If you pass the examination, you will receive your score  and rank via email to the email address you provided on your application.

All candidates on the list are ranked in score order, based on the number of eligible candidates.  If there is a tie score, the candidates receive the same ranking.  For example, if two people have a score of 86.44 and are ranked at #8 then both are ranked 8.  If the next candidate’s score on the list is an 87,  that candidate  would be ranked 7 due to  their higher score.

All correspondence about your application, testing and ranking are sent through email to the email address you provided on your application. Prior to contacting Washoe County Human Resources, be sure to check your email spam folder. After checking your email spam folder, if you still cannot locate an email regarding the results of the exam, please contact careers@washoecounty.gov.  

Yes, if the recruitment is continuous/open until filled, new names will be added to the list each time the exams are administered. If another applicant scores higher than you, your rank will be lowered. It is also possible for you to advance higher on the eligible list as others are hired or removed for other reasons such as finding other jobs. In addition, your rank may change from one recruitment to another even if the same exam is used.

Once the examination process has concluded, a list of top ranked candidates will be referred to the hiring department for an interview. The hiring department determines the number of candidates to interview. Depending on your rank from the exam, you may or may not be contacted for an interview as this is contingent on how many candidates the departments opted to interview. If the department did not request enough candidates to get to your ranking on the list, you will not be contacted for that round of interviews.   

If it is an unranked list, all qualified candidates will be referred for an interview. Most hiring departments will interview candidates shortly after the list is referred. Some departments may take longer than others to schedule the interview and there are instances where a list was created to fill future, anticipated vacancies.

The good news is if you passed the exam, your name will remain on the eligible list for future opportunities as they become available. Please make sure to check your email and voicemail to ensure you are not missing important communication from either the hiring department or Human Resources.

Yes, once you have completed your online application through our online application system and submitted your application, you can apply for multiple positions that are currently open and on the Job Opportunities web page. Please note you must apply for each position individually. All you have to do to apply for another job is to log back on to the online application system and apply using the same Username and password you created. The last application you submitted will still be in the system available for you to update and/or submit for another job opening. As a reminder, tailoring your application to the position you are applying for each time you apply for a job opening will increase your chances for success in the recruitment and selection process.

Applicants can complete their applications online from any computer with Internet access. After the closing date, applications will be screened by the recruitment staff and all applicants will be notified by email of their results.  Additional information is available at Recruitment and Selection Process.

The time it takes depends on several factors including the amount of work experience and education you have to enter, how fast you can type, whether you copy and paste information, etc. You should allow 20-45 minutes for the total process. However, you can speed up the process by collecting important information about previous work experience, education, certifications, etc. before you start creating your application. If you find you are missing a piece of information that is requested, you can skip the field and go back before the deadline to apply to submit your application.  The information on your application when you apply will be used to evaluate your qualifications for the job opening for which you apply-make sure it is accurate and contains all information requested as well as any specific attachments that are required.

We do not accept mailed applications.  All applications must be completed using the online application system when the position is posted on the Job Opportunities web page.

Go to our jobs page by visiting https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/washoecounty. Select the position you are interested in applying to. Click “Apply” on the top right of the pop up. Then choose “create an account”.  Be sure to create a unique Username and note it somewhere safe for future use. IF YOU HAVE PREVIOUSLY APPLIED, PLEASE DO NOT CREATE A NEW ACCOUNT.  USE YOUR PREVIOUSLY CREATED ACCOUNT OR YOU WILL HAVE TO RE-CREATE YOUR APPLICATION-NOT RECOMMENDED.

HR staff members are available to help applicants get started and to answer questions about the online application system.  For assistance, please call 775-328-2081 or email careers@washoecounty.gov.   

It is not recommended; however, you can apply to any position using your mobile device.

If you do not have access to a computer, there are local resources which offer computer access such as:

Various Washoe County Library branches Branch Location and Hours

Nevada Job Connect Centers

Internet cafes

Public community colleges and universities.  

Yes, as long as you use your previously created Username.  This is the only way to have access to your previous application.  If you do not have this information you may contact NeoGov’s applicant support line at 855-524-5627.   Be sure to save your Username and password in a safe place for future use.

Yes, you can save your in-progress application, however you must submit your application prior to the closing date noted on the job announcement.

Please log into the online application system by visiting www.governmentjobs.com/careers/washoecounty. Once you log into your account, you are able to update your contact information. Please note that if you update your email address, a confirmation link will be sent to the new email address to complete this change. The confirmation link will expire after 60 minutes.

Your application is on a secure web server and will be available to the Human Resources Department and the interviewer(s) for the specific job opening for which you apply. If the same position becomes available in a different department or with a different supervisor, your application may be reviewed for that opening by the responsible supervisor. Washoe County does not share its database with other companies or localities.

Tip #1 - Make sure to thoroughly review the job announcement for important details about the position, minimum qualifications, conditions of employment, the examination process (as applicable), and the subsequent steps of the recruitment and selection process.

The job announcement can be found by visiting Job Opportunities and selecting the applicable job title.

• The “Minimum Qualifications” on the job announcement are the experience and training requirements for the job classification. When applying for a Washoe County job opening, it is important that the information you include on your online application clearly demonstrates you meet the minimum qualifications. If your application does not demonstrate that you meet the minimum qualifications, your application will be disqualified, and you will not move forward in the recruitment and selection process.
• It is up to you, as the applicant, how many previous jobs to list on the application. Please include as much information needed to clearly demonstrate that you meet the minimum qualifications of the position. It is also important to remember that your application materials are provided to the hiring panel at the time of interview.
• You can also review the class specification for the position to get more detailed information on the duties of the position and the knowledge, skills and abilities which are required for the position. Class specifications can be found by visiting Job Specifications and Salaries.
• Some job announcements will include an “Ideal Candidate” criteria section. If you possess the skills/qualifications listed under the Ideal Candidate criteria section, we recommend highlighting these skills in your application materials and the interview. Think of ideal candidate criteria as a cheat sheet from the hiring department outlining the skills/qualifications they are seeking from a top candidate for the position.
• Please also review the “License or Certificate” section of the job announcement for information on the licenses/certificates which may be required at the time application, upon hire (appointment), or within a specific time frame upon hire.

Tip #2 - Prior to beginning your online application, read the “What Happens Next” section of the job announcement. This section outlines the steps which take place after your application is submitted. In addition, the What Happens Next section will give you important information about the examination process to include a tentative exam date for an in-person exam OR a tentative timeframe to receive an exam link for remote testing. There are instances where the Department of Human Resources will waive an exam and qualified candidates are placed on an unranked list.

Tip #3 - Before you submit your online application, remember to attach required documents such as copies of required licenses/certificates, etc.

• Attach any documents which you want to include within your application file such as a resume, cover letter, letter of recommendation, etc. Please note certain recruitments may require this information be included with your online application.
• Eligible veterans who were honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces shall receive one (1) bonus point upon passing Open Competitive examinations only, provided they attach proof of Honorable Discharge (DD-214 with Classification of Discharge) to the online application at time of submission.

Helpful Hints:

• Have all information ready before beginning the application. Examples of these items may be previous employment information, attachments, etc.
• You can save your application and complete it at a later time up until the deadline. Once you submit your application you will be able to view it. However, you will be unable to make any changes.
• Go through each section one at a time and verify each field is filled out with the information being requested.
• You will receive a confirmation email AFTER submitting your application from governmentjobs.com. If this has not occurred, please contact Human Resources at (775) 328-2081.

~~WHAT HAPPENS AFTER YOU APPLY~~

• Your application will be reviewed by Human Resources, and you will receive an email notification regarding the status of your application.
• If your application was accepted, you will move forward to the next phase of the selection process. This may entail being invited to take part in the examination process. Email notifications from Human Resources regarding the recruitment to include the examination process will be sent via email to the email address you provided on your application. Please thoroughly read the “What Happens Next” section of the job announcement for information regarding the examination process.
• The Washoe County Personnel Handbook section 5.160 outlines instances which allow the Department of Human Resources to waive the examination process. When an examination is waived, all qualified candidates are placed on an unranked list to be interviewed by the hiring department.
• Certain recruitments fall outside of the merit system and will entail a separate and unique process. The details of the process will be outlined on the job announcement.
• If it is determined that you do not meet the minimum qualifications for the position, you have one (1) business day after you have been notified to contact Human Resources and to file an appeal and request a review of your qualifications. Appeals are limited to clarification on the information which was already listed on your application materials. We are unable to accept new information pertaining to your education, training, and work experience when evaluating an appeal.
• Once the examination is scored, you will receive an email notification with the results. Please be advised that a hiring department will receive candidate names for an interview in rank order. If you are not contacted for an interview, this means that the hiring department did not request enough candidate names to get to your rank on the list. If you passed the exam, your name will remain on the eligible list for future vacancies.

For more information, please visit Recruitment and Selection Process.

For a full listing of our job openings and to submit an online application, please visit Job Opportunities.

Please log into the online application system using the link listed below. Once you log into your account, you are able to update your contact information. Please note that if you update your email address, a confirmation link will be sent to the new email address to complete this change. The confirmation link will expire after 60 minutes.

You will also have the option to update job details to include duties summary, dates and more. Although this will not update any submitted applications it will save your information for the next time you apply with any position within Washoe County.

You can also view a list of the recruitments which you have applied for, your submitted application for each recruitment, a copy of the job listing as well as your applicant history for each recruitment. In addition, you can also click on “Inbox” to view the notices which have been sent to you for each recruitment.

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/washoecounty

An application is required for each Washoe County job opening and is screened based on the minimum qualifications for the applicable job classification. In addition, it is likely that you may have acquired additional skills, experience and education since you originally applied which should be considered during the recruitment and selection process. The Department of Human Resources highly recommends updating your application to demonstrate you meet the minimum qualifications each time you apply for a Washoe County job opening. Finally, completing an online application ensures accurate applicant tracking information for every position.

Yes. The closing date will be listed on the job announcement and the application must be submitted by the closing date. Certain recruitments are continuous, with no set closing date and this will also be noted on the job announcement.

For a full listing of our current job openings, please visit our Jobs webpage at Job Opportunities.

For a full listing of Washoe County job descriptions - see Job Specifications and Salaries 
  
Sign up for job alerts through Washoe County’s Email Subscription Service. You will receive email updates on the job openings as they are posted on Washoe County’s Job Opportunities online recruitment page.

To sign up for job alerts go to https://www.washoecounty.gov/county_news_subscriptions.php and create a new account. You just need an email address  to get started.

No. In order to be considered for a Washoe County job opening, the online application must be submitted prior to the closing date (deadline). We do NOT accept late applications. Please continue to visit the Job Opportunities page and apply for new jobs as they become available.

If you have additional questions after reviewing the job announcement, please contact the Human Resources Analyst whose email address and telephone number is listed on the job announcement.

Or view the job specification on the Job Specification web page.

Your application will be reviewed, and you will receive an email notification from Human Resources regarding the status of your application approximately two weeks after the closing date of the job posting. Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications will be invited to take part in the examination process, if applicable.

If it is determined that you do not meet the minimum qualifications for the position, you have one (1) business day after you have been notified to contact the Department of Human Resources to file an appeal and request a review of your qualifications. Appeals are limited to clarification on the information which was already listed on your application materials. We are unable to accept new information pertaining to your education, training, and work experience when evaluating an appeal.

No. Washoe County only accepts online applications for current job openings. You must submit an application for each job opening you would like to be considered for.

There is no sure method of knowing when a specific recruitment will be opened. Your best source for up-to-date information is to go to the Job Opportunities web page.

Sign up for job alerts through Washoe County’s  Email Subscription Service. You will receive email updates on the job openings as they are posted on Washoe County’s Job Opportunities online recruitment page.

To sign up for job alerts go to https://www.washoecounty.gov/county_news_subscriptions.php and create a new account. You just need an email address  to get started.

The types of jobs offered by Washoe County are diverse and wide ranging as demonstrated by over 300 job classifications within our organization. Washoe County is responsible for many different functions including but not limited to law enforcement, human services, public health, community services, animal services, libraries, collecting taxes, assessing property, recording public documents, conducting elections, issuing licenses, the judicial process, and planning and development. The County offers an excellent and comprehensive benefit package to eligible employees. For more information on the many benefits offered by Washoe County, please visit Washoe County Employee Benefits. 

If a typing requirement is listed as a necessary skill for a specific job, there is no requirement that you submit proof or typing certificates at the time of application unless specified on the job announcement. Some departments may require a typing test prior to the interview, at which time you will be provided with the specific details to move forward in the hiring process.

The Washoe County School District is a separate agency.  Visit the Washoe County School District`s web site at https://www.washoeschools.net/

Applications are accepted via our online application system. Go to the Job Opportunities page and select "Apply Online". On the login screen select "Create an Account" link and complete the required fields. You will be creating a unique user ID and password. Please save your user ID and password for future applications.   

Once you have registered, you may apply for any of the open positions listed on the Job Opportunities page -- simply click on the title of the position you are interested in, select `Apply `, sign in and apply for the position. 

For those without Internet access you may use the computers at any WC Libraries.

You must complete a new enrollment form in its entirety, as it replaces all previous forms, and return it to Human Resources along with any applicable documentation. 

Under the new Health Care Reform Bill, you may cover your child/children to age 26 if they are not eligible for coverage under another employer-sponsored group health program.  They do not have to be a full-time student, living with you, and/or dependent upon your financial support.

If you are adding a domestic partner, you must do so within 31 days of filing the declaration of domestic partnership, or during the annual Open Enrollment period.

Your retirement checks are issued directly from PERS.  Please contact them at 775-687-4200 if you have any questions or concerns about your monthly retirement checks.  

Yes, but you will need to contact the applicable company directly to make arrangements for payment:

• American Fidelity 775-829-1313
• Western Insurance 775-826-2333

You may have several options available to you in regard to your Deferred Compensation Account.  For more information, please contact their local representative Tom Verducci at 775-530-3089.

This benefit is available up to three months after your retirement date.  You may contact GuidanceResources  for assistance at 844-209-0463.

Your contingent beneficiary comes into play only in the event that the primary beneficiary has predeceased them.

The County provides $20,000 of life and accidental death & dismemberment insurance for all benefited-employees, as well as a $1,000 benefit for those beneficiaries who are covered under your health insurance plan.  You will retain this benefit as a retiree for as long as you are covered under the County’s Retiree Health Benefit Program.  However, the benefit reduces to $13,000 at age 65, and once again to $7,000 at age 70.

Yes.  You may name as many primary beneficiaries as you want as long as you indicate the desired percentage of distribution.  For example, if you name two children, you may want to show that each of them is entitled to 50% of the benefit.  You may also list contingent beneficiaries as well.

The County provides $1,000 of life insurance for dependents who are carried on the participant’s health insurance plan. In the event a dependent dies while on the participant’s insurance, the participant would receive $1,000 in life insurance.

You can name anyone as your beneficiary, regardless of your relationship.  However, if you name a minor, the life insurance company will typically place the benefit in a Trust until that minor turns 18 years of age.

No, not unless they are eligible to enroll onto the retiree insurance.  In that case, they would have the $1,000 life insurance benefit for as long as they remain on the plan.

You may add or delete a dependent at this time since the Retiree Plans are not subject to the Section 125 Internal Revenue Code restrictions (premiums are now post-tax).

Yes.  Retirement is considered a qualifying life event so you are able to change health plans at this time.  You may also change plans during any Open Enrollment period (mid-October through mid-November) for a January 1 effective date.

Members of the Surest and the Senior Care Plus Medicare Advantage Plan must receive care only from the physicians, hospitals and other health care providers that are contracted to provide services for Surest Plan and Senior Care Plus. 

If you are on the Self-funded PPO or High Deductible Health Plan, you will receive a better rate if you use contracted providers, but you do have flexibility.  

Although dental insurance is an optional coverage and not part of your Retiree Health Benefit, you may purchase this coverage for yourself and your dependents at your cost.  The monthly premiums are posted in the Benefits section on the Washoe County Retirees webpage.  Premiums are updated annually.

Current insurance rates can be found in the Benefits section on the Washoe County Retirees webpage.

Yes.  Visit the websites below to check drug prices, view your prescription history, locate pharmacies near you, and enroll in the pharmacy mail order program.

• Self-funded PPO or High Deductible Health Plan:  www.maxorplus.com (or call 1-800-687-0707)

• Surest:  OptumRx (or call 1-888-290-5416)

The GAP Plan was first introduced in FY 10/11 and is available in conjunction with the HMO Plan only.  Washoe County pays the cost of the GAP plan for all employees enrolled in the HMO Plan; however, it is an elective coverage for dependents and employees are responsible for those premiums.  Provided by American Fidelity, the GAP Plan is designed to reimburse the following out-of-pocket expenses up to:

• $1,000 per inpatient hospital confinement

• $200 for certain outpatient services

• $25 for non-routine doctors visits (limit of $125 per family per year)

 For more information about the GAP Plan including rates or how to enroll/delete a dependent, you must contact American Fidelity directly at 775-829-1313. 

You will receive your pension check from PERS at the end of each month. Insurance premiums are deducted one month in advance.  For example, the premium deducted from the PERS Pension check in January is to pay for February’s premium; February’s deduction pays for March’s premium, etc. 

Upon your initial retirement, you will be responsible for submitting your portion of the first month’s insurance premium to Human Resources along with the completed Retiree Health Benefits Enrollment form.  The exact amounts (which are sometimes pro-rated) will be calculated for you by our Benefits Specialist.

The HMO Medicare Advantage Plan was added to the Washoe County Retiree Health Benefits Program in FY 10/11.  The coverage is provided through Senior Care Plus, and is available only to those retirees and their dependents with both Medicare parts A and B.   Please note that enrollment occurs only on the first of each month.

You may contact the Enrollment Specialist at Senior Care Plus at 775-982-3134.

You will still need to complete a new Retiree Health Benefits Enrollment form to enroll in the County’s Retiree Health Benefits Program.  If you do not submit a new application, the assumption will be made that you do not wish to continue your health insurance through Washoe County and your insurance will terminate as of your last day of employment.

If you do not wish to make any changes to your insurance plan during the annual Open Enrollment period, you do not need to complete a new form. 

If you are starting your new life as a retiree outside of Washoe County, you are eligible for the PPO, HDHP, and the Surest Plan.

Please update your contact information with Health Benefits any time you change your address, and remember that if you move out of the local area in the future, it may be necessary to change your choice of health plans.

Please contact the following listed providers:

• PPO Plan administered by UMR with the United Healthcare Choice Plus Network, visit www.umr.com or call 800-826-9781.
• Surest Plan, visit www.join.surest.com or call Customer Service at  1-866-683-6440.
• Senior Care Plus Medicare Advantage Plan, go to www.seniorcareplus.com. Click on provider directory, choose Senior Care Plus HMO, enter the provider's name and click search.  Or you may contact Hometown Health Customer Service at 775-982-3112.

For a full description of what services meet the definition of preventative and routine medical care, please refer to your plan summary or contact your plan administrator directly:

• Surest participants can contact Surest Plan Customer Service at 866-683-6440.
• High Deductible Health Plan participants can contact UMR Customer Service at 800-826-9781.
• Senior Care Plus Medicare Advantage participants can contact Senior Care Plus Customer Service at 775-982-3112.
• PPO Plan participants can contact UMR Customer Service at 800-826-9781.

 

We strongly encourage all retirees to attend one of the Open Enrollment meetings scheduled each year.  If for some reason you cannot attend, you may contact one of our Benefits Specialists, Kristie Harmon at (775) 328-2079, Molly Hodges at (775) 325-8111, or Christine Kirkland at (775) 328-2099 to set up an appointment.

Separate checks are not issued for pay-offs; you will receive your final check on a normal payday.

Yes.  You will need to contact the local Voya Representative, Tom Verducci at 775-530-3089, to complete a Contribution Change form which must then be forwarded to Payroll at least ten days prior to your retirement.

You need to notify the Comptroller’s (Payroll) in writing or by e-mail at least ten days prior to your retirement date to insure your requested changes can be made.

Office of the Comptroller, P O Box 11130, Reno NV  89520-0027; email: payroll@washoecounty.gov

Washoe County is a biweekly payer; all checks are taxed biweekly.  Please consult your tax advisor for advice.