True or false: One in three employees in the U.S. would rather talk about their weight than benefits offered by their employer.

Well… it’s true, according to a 2019 survey by MetLife.

U-M has created several new tools to aid faculty, staff and retirees in choosing benefits that best meet their needs. As you’re reviewing your options for 2021 Open Enrollment, which takes place from Oct. 19-30, take advantage of interactive comparison tools, videos and more online helpers that sift through the details so you can find your fit.

Health Plans

What’s New

U-M has introduced a new health plan with benefits effective Jan. 1, 2021. Get the basics about Michigan Care and determine if you’re eligible to enroll.

U-M’s additional health plans – Comprehensive Major Medical (CMM), U-M Premier Care and Community Blue PPO – are open to benefits-eligible employees and retirees. GradCare is for benefits-eligible graduate students only.

Each health plan offers different features so you have a range of choices. Watch this video for an overview of the plans, and follow up with the Health Plan Coverage Comparison tool or 2021 comparison chart for a deeper dive into the specifics.

Dental Plans

Delta Dental is the in-network provider for all three of U-M’s dental plan options. Like with the health plans, you have options, whether your goal is to save on your monthly contribution, have a lower copay or access a larger network of physicians. Watch this video for an overview of each plan option, or use this comparison chart to help with your decision.

Vision Plan

U-M offers one vision plan, with Davis Vision as the in-network provider. Get more information regarding what’s covered and what you can expect to pay out-of-pocket.

Legal Services Plan

U-M’s Legal Services Plan covers certain services, such as will preparation, debt defense, identity protection and more, for a low monthly fee.

If you need help determining which U-M benefits are open to you, review eligibility guidelines.

View your 2021 plans rates in Wolverine Access or on this web page. If you need technical assistance when using Wolverine Access, contact the U-M Information and Technology Services Center.

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

What’s New

In 2021, the annual contribution limit for a Health Care FSA will increase to $2,750.

U-M offers two types of FSAs, or pretax accounts eligible faculty and staff can use to pay out-of-pocket expenses.

A Health Care FSA is available to cover your and your dependents’ out-of-pocket medical expenses. Think copays for covered procedures; office visits; eyeglasses and contact lenses; prescription and over-the-counter medications; and dental procedures. This video gives you an idea of how a Health Care FSA works.

You can use a Dependent Care FSA to pay eligible day care costs for dependent children younger than 13, as well as dependent elder care expenses.

For more detailed information about FSAs, review these frequently asked questions.

Not sure if you qualify to enroll in an FSA? Check the guidelines for eligibility.