Grief Counseling Resources
Help for You When You Need it MostNavigating the Loss of a Loved One
At Michaels, you are our number one priority and we are here to help when you need it most. This page provides an overview of the grief counseling resources and services available to full-time Team Members and family members navigating the loss of a loved one.
Filing Claims After a Loss
If you and/or members of your family are experiencing the loss of a loved one, please reach out to a Benefits Partner for assistance in getting a life insurance claim processed with Reliance Matrix.
To begin this process, open a Knowledge Zone ticket with any questions regarding your life claim and a Benefits Partner will contact you about your claim and next steps.
Guidance for Filing Claims with Reliance Matrix
How-To Guides
- Easy Access Claims Filing - Process flow overview for filing claims with Reliance Matrix.
- Filing Claims with Reliance Matrix - Applies to Leave of Absence (LOA), Disability, and Voluntary benefits.
- How to File Claims for Short-Term Disability (STD) & Family Medical Leave of Absence (FMLA)
- How to File Claims for Voluntary Accident, Hospital Indemnity & Critical Illness
- Download the Matrix eServices App
Important Note About Claims for Kaiser Members
Team Members who are enrolled in a Kaiser medical plan must complete an authorization release form in order to file a claim with Reliance Matrix.
- Reliance Matrix will provide you with the authorization release form to sign and return.
- This form is required in order for Reliance Matrix to obtain the required medical certification from your physician.
- Failure to provide the signed authorization release form to Reliance Matrix will result in your claim being denied.
Life & AD&D Insurance
All full-time Team Members, regardless of whether they enroll in a medical or dental plan, will receive Basic Life Insurance at no cost to them. Additionally, Michaels offers Team Members with the opportunity to enroll in Optional Life and Optional Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance. Please reach out to a Benefits Partner by opening a Knowledge Zone ticket for more information regarding these benefits for you and your spouse or domestic partner.
- Employee Life: $25,000
- Employee AD&D: $25,000
- Employee Spouse/Domestic Partner: $2,000
- Employee Child: $1,000
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Updating Your Benefits After Loss
If you experience a qualifying life event such as the loss of a loved one, you will have 30 days following the date of the life event to make changes to your benefit elections, and this change in status must be consistent with the life event.
You will first need to update your dependents in Workday before completing the qualifying life event.
Some documentation may be required with your request: an acceptable form of documentation would be a death certificate that details the date of passing of a loved one.
Changing Your Beneficiaries
Your beneficiaries are managed in Workday. To update your beneficiaries, follow the steps below.
- Log in to Workday.
- In the top left-hand corner, select Menu > Benefits. Then, select Pay > Benefits > Change Benefits.
- This will allow you to launch the “Assign Beneficiaries” task where you can remove or add beneficiaries to your current elections.
Requesting Leave (LOA)
We understand that grief can be difficult for you and your family, and you may require more time away from work to dedicate to your loved ones following a loss.
Consider requesting a Leave of Absence (LOA) if you plan to be away from work for longer than a week. You can request leave if you’re going to be absent from work for more than five (5) consecutive working days due to a personal, medical, or other reason.
Read the Michaels Leave of Absence (LOA) Guide and visit the LOA page for more detailed information about requesting leave. To initiate a request, call Reliance Matrix at 1-888-288-1354.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a free, confidential resource available for you and your family – even if you’re not enrolled in any Michaels benefit plans.
The EAP includes counseling services for all Michaels Team Members:
- Full-time Team Members are eligible to receive up to three (3) face-to-face or tele-video counseling sessions per issue at no charge.
- Part-time Team Members are not eligible for face-to-face counseling sessions but are eligible to receive confidential counseling by phone at any time.
There are three ways for you to find more information and access EAP resources:
- Visit the EAP page.
- Log in to the Resources for Living member portal with the username Michaels and password 8002835645.
- Call 1-800-283-5645 (TTY 711).
Supportiv
Supportiv is an online tool that lets you talk through any mental health, emotional, or social struggles in small group chats with people who can relate. Discussions are anonymous and are guided and safeguarded in real time by professional facilitators. Supportiv is anonymous and available 24/7.
Visit the Supportiv page for program information, resources, and on-demand webinars.
Michaels CARES
Michaels CARES is a 501(c)(3) charity that helps Michaels Team Members, including by providing financial assistance in the event of the death of a Team Member or eligible family member(s).
To request assistance, make sure you meet the requirements below and then complete the application.
Here’s a quick checklist to follow when you apply:
- Application must be completed in its entirety.
- Sponsor must sign the application (sponsors are a critical part of our process).
- Supporting documents are attached – more is better.
Have questions? Read the Michaels CARES FAQs and visit the Michaels CARES page for more information regarding this benefit.
PerkSpot Wellness
PerkSpot Wellness offers various discounts on emotional wellness services that support your mental health, offering deals on therapy, meditation, yoga, and more. Perkspot partners with reputable online counseling services like BetterHelp and Talkspace.
Visit michaels.perkspot.com to access these resources and find additional information about this benefit in the PerkSpot section of the Benefit Extras & Discounts page.
COBRA
Death is a qualifying life event. If you or your spouse/domestic partner are covered on Michaels medical, dental, vision, and/or flexible spending account (FSA), you will receive a COBRA notice that allows your continued participation in a Michaels medical program for up to 18 months.
You will receive the COBRA notice in the mail that details your coverage options from Taben, our COBRA administrator.
For more information, please reach out to the Taben Group at 800-675-7341.
If you would like an electronic copy of the CORBA notice, please reach out to Team Member Services by opening a Knowledge Zone ticket.
FSA & HSA Open Enrollment
Guidance for Electing FSA & HSA Contributions for the 2025 Calendar YearWhat you’ll find on this page:
- What you need to know about 2025 FSA and HSA enrollment
- Your election options
- Maximum contribution limits
- What happens to unused funds from 2024
- How to make your elections in Workday
- Resources and guides, including FAQs
FSA & HSA Open Enrollment Period:
Final Week!
Coverage Period:
Jan. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025
FSA & HSA Open Enrollment for 2025
What You Need to Know
Michaels offers you the opportunity to make pre-tax contributions to FSAs that you can use to pay for eligible medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, and child care expenses. When you choose to contribute to these accounts, you reduce your taxable income allowing you to pocket more of your earnings.
If you wish to participate in a flexible spending account (FSA) and/or a health savings account (HSA) for the 2025 calendar year, you must enroll and make your contribution elections in Workday during the enrollment period for FSAs and HSAs.
The IRS requires an active enrollment to participate in FSAs and HSAs. The contributions that you elect will cover the 12-month period of Jan. 1, 2025 to Dec. 31, 2025.
Below you will find information about what you can elect, the maximum contribution limits, and the steps you must take to complete your FSA and/or HSA enrollment for 2025.
Election Options
Toggle open any of the following that apply to you to determine your election options for 2025.
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PPO Medical Plan Participant
If you’re enrolled in a Michaels PPO medical plan, you can elect to contribute to:
Choice HSA Medical Plan Participant
If you’re enrolled in the Michaels Choice HSA medical plan, you can elect to contribute to:
As a Choice HSA plan participant, you are eligible to contribute to the HSA each year. Because you have an HSA available, the IRS restricts your ability to participate in the full purpose Health Care FSA (HCFSA) and will only permit you to contribute to the Limited Purpose FSA (LPFSA), which reimburses certain dental and vision expenses. You can participate in the Dependent Care FSA (DCFSA) with no restrictions.
To ensure that you get the most out of your contributions, you may find it financially advantageous to contribute to the HSA rather than an FSA.
Kaiser HRA Medical Plan Participant
If you’re enrolled in the Kaiser HRA medical plan, you can elect to contribute to:
Not Enrolled in a Michaels Medical Plan
If you are not enrolled in a Michaels medical plan but you are benefits-eligible, you can elect to contribute to:
On Leave of Absence (LOA)
If you are or will be on Leave of Absence (LOA) during the FSA and HSA open enrollment period, you can still enroll and make your elections in Workday.
New to Michaels
Hired Nov. 1 or Earlier: During your new hire enrollment, you can enroll in an FSA and/or HSA to cover the rest of 2024. Upon completion, you will be assigned a task to set up your FSA and/or HSA elections for 2025.
Hired Nov. 2 – Dec. 31: You must make your FSA and/or HSA elections during your new hire enrollment, and your benefits will be effective starting in 2025.
What happens if I don't make my elections for 2025?
For FSA participants, if you do not complete enrollment or make your 2025 FSA elections during this open enrollment period, your contributions will be zero beginning Jan. 1, 2025, and you will be unable to make any changes to your enrollment status or your 2025 contribution elections unless you have experienced a qualifying life event.
For HSA participants, if you enroll but do not elect to contribute to your 2025 HSA, you will still receive the Michaels contribution. You can make changes to your HSA contribution at any time by submitting a HSA contribution benefit change.
Contribution Limits & Unused Funds
Each year, the IRS issues maximum contribution limits for FSAs and HSAs. For 2025, those limits are outlined below.
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Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
FSA Employee Contributions
Standard Health Care FSA (HCFSA)
- Minimum: $100
- Maximum: Up to $3,300*
Limited Purpose FSA (LPFSA)
- Minimum: $100
- Maximum: Up to $3,300*
Dependent Care FSA (DCFSA)
- Minimum: $100
- Maximum: Up to $5,000
*The projected contribution limit for 2025 was $3,200 but was finalized by the IRS to be $3,300. If you elected to contribute 80% or more of the projected maximum amount, you will be given the opportunity to increase your contribution.
What Happens to Unused FSA Funds
- New for 2025! You will be able to roll over up to $640 unused 2024 FSA funds (a minimum of $25) into your 2025 FSA.
- Rolled over funds from your 2024 FSA must be used by Dec. 31, 2025; otherwise, they will be forfeited.
- You will have until March 31, 2025 to request claims for reimbursement for FSA-eligible expenses incurred in 2024. After this date, any unused 2024 FSA funds over $640 will be forfeited.
Health Savings Account (HSA)
HSA Employer & Employee Contributions |
||
| Individual Coverage | ||
| Maximum Contribution Limit1 | How Much Michaels Contributes2 | How Much You Can Contribute3 |
|
$3,650 in 2024 $4,300 in 2025 |
$500 per year ($19.23 biweekly) |
Up to $3,150 in 2024 Up to $3,800 in 2025 |
| Family Coverage | ||
| Maximum Contribution Limit1 | How Much Michaels Contributes2 | How Much You Can Contribute3 |
|
$7,300 in 2024 $8,550 in 2025 |
$1,000 per year ($38.46 biweekly) |
Up to $6,300 in 2024 Up to $7,550 in 2025 |
|
1The HSA maximum contribution limits are set each year by the IRS and include both employee and employer contributions.
2Michaels HSA contributions are made over 26 pay periods, are prorated based on your benefits start date, and are deposited biweekly per paycheck. 3If you are age 55 or older, you may contribute an extra $1,000 per year to your HSA. |
||
What Happens to Unused HSA Funds
Any unused funds from your 2024 HSA will automatically roll over into your 2025 HSA.
As a reminder, this enrollment period is only for FSA and HSA participation during the 2025 calendar year: no other benefit elections will be accepted unless you have experienced a qualifying life event.
Make Your Elections
Log in to Workday
Resources & Guides
Overview Presentation
Download or Print the Overview Presentation
Get Support
For assistance, contact Team Member Services at 855-432-MIKE (6453) and select option 2, available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT. You can also open a Knowledge Zone support ticket.
UBS Financial Wellness Resources
For Support Center-Based Team MembersEmpower Your Future with UBS Financial Wellness
Michaels has partnered with UBS; a global wealth management and banking institution to offer eligible Team Members a wide range of information, guidance and educational support services designed to assist you in navigating your financial journey with confidence.
Whether you’re looking for personalized advice, self-guided tools, or educational events, UBS Financial Wellness can help you with the right tools to manage your money.
Continuing our commitment to your overall well-being, UBS offers:
- Personalized Financial Coaching
- Digital Tools and Educational Resources
- Financial Education Webinars
- Estate Planning
Below you will find more detailed information about the services offered by UBS and how to utilize them.
Who's Eligible?
Full-time and part-time Support Center-based Team Members have access to this benefit from UBS.
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Personalized Financial Coaching
Gain clarity and confidence with a complimentary, confidential call with a UBS Financial Coach. These professionals are available to answer your financial questions, review your unique situation, and provide tailored guidance.
Whether you need help with budgeting, saving, or planning for the future, UBS Financial Coaches are ready to assist.
Get Started
To schedule your session, schedule an appointment online or call 888-346-9355.
Digital Tools & Educational Resources
Access a wealth of knowledge through the UBS Financial Wellness digital platform, UBS Online Services, offering interactive tools, calculators, and content tailored to your personal financial goals. This resource is designed to empower you to take control of your financial future on your own terms.
To get started, you’ll need to register with your Michaels employee ID. You can find that by visiting your profile in Workday. It’s the number next to or under your name.
Get Started
Financial Education Webinars
Stay informed with our virtual webinar series. Each session will feature UBS Financial Coaches and/or guest speakers discussing essential topics to help you make informed decisions about your finances.
Estate Planning Made Easy
Plan for the future with Trust & Will, a digital estate planning platform that makes it simple to create a comprehensive estate plan from home. You can create a trust, will, or both.
When you’re ready to finalize your plan, there is a fee to file your legally-binding documents. This fee is discounted 25% for eligible Michaels Team Members.
Get Started
Nobody wants to imagine their pet getting sick or injured, but when it comes to your pet’s health, it’s best to expect the unexpected. When you enroll in Pet Health Insurance, administered by Wishbone, you will receive a 70% reimbursement on your pet’s veterinary care after meeting the $250 deductible. Protecting your pet’s health and your finances has never been easier!
Wishbone Pet Insurance is accepted at any vet in the U.S., including emergency hospitals. Once you file a claim, you can expect a fast reimbursement via a mailed check.
This benefit will not be set up as a payroll deduction but instead by credit card payment through Wishbone.
Helpful Links
Scan, click, or tap on the QR code above to access UBS Online Services.
Provider
UBS Financial Wellness
Reliance Matrix Benefits Overview Video
Leave, Disability & Voluntary Benefits
Open Enrollment Webinar Presentation Video
Mercer Health Advantage (MHA) Program
This program is for Team Members enrolled in a BCBSTX medical plan.
Health Care Help for You
Sometimes managing your health requires more than doctor visits, lab tests, and prescriptions. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) makes it easier than ever for you to get the most from your health plan benefits. Your health plan includes the Mercer Health Advantage program, which offers specialized training and support from Personal Health Clinicians and Benefits Value Advisors (BVAs).
To reach a Personal Health Clinician or BVA, simply call the number on the back of your member ID card.
Program Overview
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Personal Health Clinicians
Personal Health Clinicians* are trained to help with your health and benefit questions, concerns, and more. Each clinician is backed by a team of health specialists, including behavioral health clinicians, social workers, and a pharmacist.
A Personal Health Clinician* can help you:
- Keep up with doctor’s appointments and other care-related activities.
- Review your doctor’s instructions.
- Coordinate your care needs after an illness, procedure or surgery.
- Know what to expect if you spend time in the hospital.
*Talking with a Personal Health Clinician is not a substitute for medical advice. Care and treatment decisions are between you and your health care provider. If you are having a medical emergency, call 911.
Benefits Value Advisors (BVAs)
Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, Benefits Value Advisors (BVAs) partner with dedicated Personal Health Clinicians to help you get the most from your benefits. BVAs can help you get costs for providers and procedures, assist with referrals and prior authorizations, schedule appointments and more.
Know Your Benefits
24/7 Nurseline
- Answers general health questions
- Helps you decide where to get care
Behavioral Health
- Covers treatment for anxiety, stress and depression
- Helps with substance use and eating disorders, autism and other conditions
Fitness Program
- A choice of gym networks to fit your budget and preference
- Different membership options2 to best meet needs and preferences
- Provides discounts at 40,000 well-being providers nationwide
Women’s and Family Health
- Ovia®, Ovia® Pregnancy, or Ovia™ Parenting Apps
- Helps with high-risk pregnancies
- Support from maternity specialists
Stay in Touch with BCBSTX
You can decide how you want Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) to contact you about your health plan benefits. Below are three quick steps to take now to make using your health plan easier. This way, when you need to use your benefits, you’ll be ready to go.
Step 1: Put the BCBSTX phone number in your contact list.
- You can reach a BCBSTX Personal Health Clinician or Benefits Value Advisor (BVA) by calling the number on the back of your member ID card.
- Personal Health Clinicians can answer questions about your health insurance and help you navigate the health care system. A BVA can help you get costs for providers and procedures, assist with referrals, schedule appointments, set up pre-authorizations and more.
- Put this number in your phone contact list now!
Step 2: Tell BCBSTX how you want to stay in touch.
- Add or update your contact preferences by logging in to the member portal.
- This way, BCBSTX will know how to reach you with important benefits and health information.
Step 3: Download and use the BCBSTX app to find a doctor, access your digital ID card, and more. To download, just text BCBSTXAPP to 33633.
Nobody wants to imagine their pet getting sick or injured, but when it comes to your pet’s health, it’s best to expect the unexpected. When you enroll in Pet Health Insurance, administered by Wishbone, you will receive a 70% reimbursement on your pet’s veterinary care after meeting the $250 deductible. Protecting your pet’s health and your finances has never been easier!
Wishbone Pet Insurance is accepted at any vet in the U.S., including emergency hospitals. Once you file a claim, you can expect a fast reimbursement via a mailed check.
This benefit will not be set up as a payroll deduction but instead by credit card payment through Wishbone.
Helpful Resources
Provider
Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX)
Pet Health Insurance
Prepare for the Unexpected with Your Pet's HealthWishbone Pet Health Insurance
Plan Information
Nobody wants to imagine their pet getting sick or injured- but when it comes to your pet’s health, it’s best to expect the unexpected.
Enroll in pet health insurance from Wishbone and receive 70% reimbursement on your pet’s veterinary care. With a low deductible of $250, protecting your pet’s health and your finances
has never been easier!
Wishbone Pet Insurance is accepted at any vet in the U.S., including emergency hospitals. Once you file a claim, expect fast reimbursement via mailed check. It’s that easy!
Nobody wants to imagine their pet getting sick or injured, but when it comes to your pet’s health, it’s best to expect the unexpected. When you enroll in Pet Health Insurance, administered by Wishbone, you will receive a 70% reimbursement on your pet’s veterinary care after meeting the $250 deductible. Protecting your pet’s health and your finances has never been easier!
Wishbone Pet Insurance is accepted at any vet in the U.S., including emergency hospitals. Once you file a claim, you can expect a fast reimbursement via a mailed check.
This benefit will not be set up as a payroll deduction but instead by credit card payment through Wishbone.
Provider
Pet Benefit Solutions
Voluntary Hospital Indemnity Insurance
Voluntary Hospital Indemnity Insurance
Plan Information
Hospital Indemnity Insurance, administered by Reliance Matrix, provides a range of fixed, lump-sum daily benefits to help cover costs associated with a hospital admission, including room and board costs. These benefits are paid directly to the insured following a hospitalization that meets the criteria for benefit payment.
Voluntary Hospital Indemnity Insurance Plan Highlights: English | Spanish
Voluntary Hospital Indemnity Insurance, administered by Reliance Matrix, provides a range of fixed, lump-sum daily benefits to help cover costs associated with a hospital admission, including room and board costs. These benefits are paid directly to you following a hospitalization that meets the criteria for benefit payment.
If you are newly eligible to enroll in benefits, you can elect Hospital Indemnity Insurance coverage up to the Guarantee Issue without answering any health questions. Otherwise, you will be required to provide Evidence of Insurability (EOI) and be approved by Reliance Standard before coverage begins.
Voluntary Hospital Indemnity Insurance Plan Highlights: English | Spanish
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Eligibility
All benefits-eligible full-time Team Members and covered dependents are eligible for Hospital Indemnity Insurance.
Dependents can include:
- Your legal spouse or domestic partner.
- Your dependent children from birth to 26 years.
A person may not have coverage as both a Team Member and a dependent.
Biweekly Premiums
| Coverage | Premium – High |
Schedule of Benefits
| Benefits | Amount |
| Hospital Room & Board | $100 per day (30 daily benefits per plan year*) |
| Hospital Critical Care Unit | $200 per day (15 daily benefits per plan year) |
| Hospital Admission & Observation | $1,000 (2 daily benefits per plan year) |
| Hospital Critical Care Admission | $2,000 (1 daily benefit per plan year) |
| Wellness Care** | $50 (1 daily benefit per plan year) |
| On-Call Travel Assistance Services | Included |
*In no event will the Daily Benefits exceed 30 daily benefits per Coverage Year.
**Wellness Care means medical examinations and procedures that are preventive in nature and not for the treatment of Injury or Sickness.
Features
- Guaranteed issue; no medical questions
- No pre-existing conditions exclusions
- Mental & Nervous and Substance Abuse treated same as any
other hospital admission - No deductibles
- Eligible for continuation of coverage
- HIPAA privacy compliant
- Overlying Major Medical Plan NOT Required*
- Coverage Offered on a Voluntary Basis
Video Overview of Leave, Disability & Voluntary Benefits
Get Support
For assistance, contact Team Member Services at 855-432-MIKE (6453) and select option 2, available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT. You can also open a Knowledge Zone support ticket.
File Your Claim(s) Online with Reliance Matrix
Guidance for Filing Claims with Reliance Matrix
How-To Guides
- Easy Access Claims Filing - Process flow overview for filing claims with Reliance Matrix.
- Filing Claims with Reliance Matrix - Applies to Leave of Absence (LOA), Disability, and Voluntary benefits.
- How to File Claims for Short-Term Disability (STD) & Family Medical Leave of Absence (FMLA)
- How to File Claims for Voluntary Accident, Hospital Indemnity & Critical Illness
- Download the Matrix eServices App
Important Note About Claims for Kaiser Members
Team Members who are enrolled in a Kaiser medical plan must complete an authorization release form in order to file a claim with Reliance Matrix.
- Reliance Matrix will provide you with the authorization release form to sign and return.
- This form is required in order for Reliance Matrix to obtain the required medical certification from your physician.
- Failure to provide the signed authorization release form to Reliance Matrix will result in your claim being denied.
Reliance Matrix
Disability, Life & AD&D, Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity Insurance
Contact Information
Phone: 1-800-351-7500
Quick Links
Open Enrollment Resources
Your Guide to Benefits Enrollment for the 2025–2026 Plan YearOpen Enrollment Period:
May 12–23, 2025
Benefits Plan Year:
July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026
Choose Your 2025–2026 Benefits
Open Enrollment is May 12–23, 2025
At Michaels, we offer you and your family programs and resources that support and encourage a healthy lifestyle. When needed, our benefits can ease the financial burden of health care services, physicians, and medications.
The right benefits for you and your family can look different from year to year. Open
Enrollment is your once-a-year opportunity (unless you experience a qualifying life event) to select or update benefit coverages for you and your eligible family members that will start July 1, 2025.
This year, Open Enrollment is May 12–23, 2025.
You have choices when it comes to benefits. There is a wide array of plans and options available to suit your changing needs. We encourage you to review your needs for the coming year and select the benefits that will best meet your situation. Outlined on this page are reminders and next steps for you to take during this Open Enrollment period.
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Medical, Dental, Vision & More
As a Michaels Team Member, you have access to a range of benefits to meet your needs. There’s a lot to understand, so to help you make the best decisions for you and your family, detailed benefits information is available on this website.
Get started by reviewing this page and the Benefits Enrollment Guide, and then navigate to the Benefits tab in the menu at the top of every page.
Blue Cross Blue Shield Select Networks
Michaels partners with BCBSTX for our high-quality medical plans and broad network of providers to choose from. Effective July 1, 2025, BCBSTX and Michaels will implement new networks in the locations listed below. The same Michaels benefit plans will continue to be offered across all networks.
Depending on your location, you’ll have access to either the BCBS Select Network or the BCBS BlueCard PPO Network. Team Members located in the below locations can go to the specific websites to search for your provider. While some providers may no longer be considered in network, a majority of Team Members should not experience disruption in their healthcare services. For Team Members located outside of the locations below you will continue to access the BCBSTX.com/Michaels website to search for your provider.
BCBSTX Select Network Provider Finder Links
- California – Tandem PPO
- Colorado – Pathway
- Florida – Network Blue
- Georgia – Blue Open Access POS
- Illinois – Blue Choice PPO (BCS)
- Minnesota – High Value Network
- Kansas City, Missouri – Preferred Care
- St. Louis, Missouri – Blue Access Choice
- New Jersey – Horizon Managed Care Network
- Wisconsin – Blue Preferred POS
Annual Wellness Exam
If you and/or your spouse/domestic partner were enrolled in a Michaels medical plan on or before March 1, 2025, you each must complete an annual physical exam sometime between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025, to avoid paying $30 surcharge per paycheck, per person, on your medical premiums beginning in the new plan year.
Learn More: How to Fulfill Your Annual Wellness Exam Requirement
Tobacco Cessation Program
If you and/or your spouse/domestic partner are a tobacco user (including e-cigarettes and non-nicotine vaporizers) while enrolled in a Michaels BCBSTX or Kaiser medical plan, you will pay a $30 fee per person, per paycheck, added to your medical premiums beginning in the new plan year.
You can qualify to have this fee removed by completing a Tobacco Cessation Program available to you free of charge.
Pet Insurance
You have the option to enroll in pet insurance, with payment conveniently accepted via credit card.
Learn More: Wishbone Pet Health Insurance
What You Need to Do
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If you do not take action during the annual open enrollment period, your current benefit elections will continue at the new 2024-2024 rates for the 2024-2025 plan year, which begins on July 1, 2024 and ends on June 30, 2025.
You can only change your benefit elections outside the annual open enrollment period if you experience a qualifying life event. For more information about qualifying life events, please visit this link: Change in Status.
Dependent Eligibility Verification Will Be Required
If you add a new dependent to your coverage, you’ll receive instructions from Consova, Michaels third-party partner, on how to verify your dependents’ eligibility to participate in our plans. As part of the verification process, you will be asked to provide documentation for your new dependent, such as a birth certificate, court order, or marriage license.
Review the eligibility requirements to determine whether your dependent is eligible to be added to your coverage.
Important note: If you previously added a dependent to your coverage and verification was not completed, verification will be required.
Benefits for Peace of Mind: Life and AD&D Coverage
Michaels offers Basic and Voluntary Life and AD&D Insurance to help protect your income if you or your spouse/domestic partner are injured, disabled, or pass away. During Open Enrollment, you’ll have the option to enroll in or update this coverage.
Evidence of Insurability (EOI), or proof of good health, may be required based on the amount of any coverage changes. Enrollment in a Michaels medical plan is not required to enroll in Life and AD&D coverage.
Increasing Your Voluntary Life Coverage Amount
- You can increase your Voluntary Life Insurance coverage amount by up to $40,000 during Open Enrollment without being required to submit EOI for approval.
- You can also increase spouse/domestic partner coverage by up to $5,000 without EOI, or up to $30,000 with EOI.
- Any increase that causes your total coverage amount to be $500,000 or more will require EOI.
FSA & HSA Elections
You will have the opportunity to make Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and/or Health Savings Account (HSA) elections in October 2025 for the 2026 calendar year. If you change from one Michaels medical plan type to another (for example, PPO to HSA), this can affect your current FSA or HSA election for the remainder of the calendar year.
Below are FSA, HSA, and HRA scenarios that may be helpful to understand when making benefit elections. As a reminder, your FSA and/or HSA elections for the 2025 calendar year were made in October 2024.
Are you using a device with a small screen?
Tap or click the content below and scroll to access all the information.
| Medical Benefit Election Effects on FSAs, HSAs and HRAs | Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) | Kaiser Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) | Health Savings Account (HSA) | Health Savings Account (HSA) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Enrolled in: PPO Change to: Choice HSA | If you are currently enrolled in the Health Care FSA, your current account and the pretax contributions to the account will be automatically transitioned to the Limited Purpose FSA effective July 1, 2025. You can opt out of the Limited Purpose FSA during the Michaels October FSA/HSA enrollment period with the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026. | Cannot enroll | HSA: Eligible to enroll during May 2025 Open Enrollment period. The 2025 HSA pretax contribution you elect will stay in place for the remainder of 2025, unless you change it during the year. During the Michaels October FSA/HSA enrollment period, you will elect your 2026 pretax HSA contribution amount, with the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026. Bonus! You can change your HSA election amount any time during the year. This is different from the FSAs, which cannot be changed during the year unless you have a qualifying life event as described in your Summary Plan Description (SPD). You will be eligible for an HSA contribution from Michaels depending on whom you cover. | HSA: Eligible to enroll during May 2025 Open Enrollment period. The 2025 HSA pretax contribution you elect will stay in place for the remainder of 2025, unless you change it during the year. During the Michaels October FSA/HSA enrollment period, you will elect your 2026 pretax HSA contribution amount, with the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026. Bonus! You can change your HSA election amount any time during the year. This is different from the FSAs, which cannot be changed during the year unless you have a qualifying life event as described in your Summary Plan Description (SPD). You will be eligible for an HSA contribution from Michaels depending on whom you cover. |
| Enrolled in: Choice HSA Change to: PPO | If you are currently enrolled in a Limited Purpose FSA, your current account and the pretax contributions to the account will be automatically transitioned to the Health Care FSA effective July 1, 2025. You can opt out of the Health Care FSA during the Michaels October FSA/HSA enrollment period with the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026. | Cannot enroll | Required to stop contributing to your HSA. Your unused funds will remain available to use. | Required to stop contributing to your HSA. Your unused funds will remain available to use. |
| Enrolled in: PPO No change (This includes Basic & Enhanced PPO moves within the two plans) | If you are currently enrolled in the Health Care FSA, your 2025 pretax contributions will stay in place for the remainder of 2025. During the Michaels October FSA/HSA enrollment period, you will elect your 2026 pretax Limited Purpose FSA contribution amount, with the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026. | Cannot enroll | Cannot enroll | Cannot enroll |
| Enrolled in: Choice HSA No change | If you are currently enrolled in the Limited Purpose FSA, your 2025 contributions will stay in place for the remainder of 2025. During the Michaels October FSA/HSA enrollment period, you will elect your 2026 pretax Limited Purpose FSA contribution amount, with the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026. | Cannot enroll | HSA: Eligible to enroll during May 2025 Open Enrollment period. The 2025 HSA pretax contribution you elect will stay in place for the remainder of 2025, unless you elect to change your contribution during the year. During the Michaels October FSA/HSA enrollment period, you will elect your 2026 pretax HSA contribution amount, with the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026. Bonus! You can change your HSA election amount anytime during the year. This is different from the FSA which cannot be changed during the year unless you incur a Change in Status as described in your Summary Plan Description (SPD). Michaels HSA contribution to your account will continue. | HSA: Eligible to enroll during May 2025 Open Enrollment period. The 2025 HSA pretax contribution you elect will stay in place for the remainder of 2025, unless you elect to change your contribution during the year. During the Michaels October FSA/HSA enrollment period, you will elect your 2026 pretax HSA contribution amount, with the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026. Bonus! You can change your HSA election amount anytime during the year. This is different from the FSA which cannot be changed during the year unless you incur a Change in Status as described in your Summary Plan Description (SPD). Michaels HSA contribution to your account will continue. |
| Enrolled in: Kaiser HRA Change to: PPO | If you are currently enrolled in the Health Care FSA, your 2025 contributions will stay in place for the remainder of 2025. During the Michaels October FSA/HSA enrollment period, you will elect your 2026 pretax Health Care FSA contribution amount, with the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026. If not currently enrolled in an FSA, you may enroll during the October FSA/HSA enrollment period for the 2026 calendar year. | Michaels HRA contribution will stop | Cannot enroll | Cannot enroll |
| Enrolled in: Kaiser HRA Change to: Choice HSA | If you are currently enrolled in the Health Care FSA, your current account and the pretax contributions to the account will be automatically transitioned to a new Limited Purpose FSA effective July 1, 2025. You can opt out of the Limited Purpose FSA during the Michaels October FSA/HSA enrollment period with the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026 | Michaels HRA contribution will stop | HSA: Eligible to enroll in this plan during May 2025 Open Enrollment period. Your 2025 HSA pretax contribution you elect will stay in place for the remainder of 2025, unless you elect to change them during the year. During the Michaels October FSA/HSA enrollment period, you will elect your 2026 pretax HSA contribution amount, with the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026. Bonus! You can change your HSA election amount any time during the year. This is different from the FSA, which cannot be changed during the year unless you have a qualifying life event as described in your Summary Plan Description (SPD). You will be eligible for a Michaels HSA contribution to your plan. | HSA: Eligible to enroll during May 2025 Open Enrollment period. The 2025 HSA pretax contribution you elect will stay in place for the remainder of 2025, unless you elect to change it during the year. During the Michaels October FSA/HSA enrollment period, you will elect your 2026 pretax HSA contribution amount, with the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026. Bonus! You can change your HSA election amount any time during the year. This is different from the FSAs, which cannot be changed during the year unless you have a qualifying life event as described in your Summary Plan Description (SPD). You will be eligible for a Michaels HSA contribution to your plan. |
| Enrolled in: Kaiser HRA No change | If you are currently enrolled in the Health Care FSA, your 2025 contributions will stay in place for the remainder of 2025. During the Michaels October FSA/HSA enrollment period, you will elect your 2026 pretax Health Care FSA contribution amount, with the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026. If not currently enrolled in an FSA, you may enroll during the October FSA/HSA enrollment period for the 2026 calendar year. | Michaels HRA contribution will stop | Cannot enroll | Cannot enroll |
Enroll by 11:59 p.m. CT on Friday, May 23, 2025.
You don’t have to do anything to keep your current coverage. However, you must complete enrollment to:
- Change your current benefit elections
- Add new dependents to your coverage
- Remove dependents from your coverage
If you take no action during Open Enrollment, your current benefit elections will continue automatically at the new 2025–2026 rates. Outside of Open Enrollment, you will only be able to change your benefit elections if you experience a qualifying life event.
Begin Enrollment
You can enroll in or update your benefit elections online in Workday. Below you will find step-by-step instructions for how to enroll, along with information about the eValuate Health Plan Selector tool.
Enroll Online in Workday
- Log in to Workday using single sign-on or through the app. Choose View all Apps and click on the Benefits app.
- Make your elections for each plan. Click Save to make sure your choices are recorded.
- When you are done, click Review and Sign or Save for Later. You must submit any changes you have made to finalize your choices.
eValuate Helps You Choose the Right Plan
Use the eValuate tool for help selecting the right medical plan for you. Choosing a medical plan can be confusing, and eValuate can help!
The eValuate tool offers transparency in plan costs and a way to model how you and your family use your medical plan. The more you know about the available choices, plans and features, the easier it is to select and use your benefits wisely.
Open Enrollment Webinars & Meetings
All of the scheduled Open Enrollment webinars and meetings have passed. You can still access the Benefits Orientation video and presentation.
2025–2026 Benefits Enrollment Guide
Helpful Resources
Know Where to Go for Answers
Call Team Member Services at 855-432-MIKE (6453), option 2, or submit a ticket through the Knowledge Zone.
Benefits Enrollment Resources
Benefits Information for HR & People LeadersOpen Enrollment Period:
May 12–23, 2025
Benefits Plan Year:
July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026
Prepare for the New Benefits Plan Year
Open Enrollment is May 12–23, 2025
At Michaels, we offer Team Members and their family programs and resources that support and encourage a healthy lifestyle. When needed, our benefits can ease the financial burden of health care services, physicians, and medications.
The right benefits can look different from year to year. Open Enrollment is Team Members’ once-a-year opportunity (unless they experience a qualifying life event) to select or update their benefit coverages for themselves and their eligible family members that will start July 1, 2025.
This year, Open Enrollment is May 12–23, 2025.
Team Members have choices when it comes to benefits. There is a wide array of plans and options available to suit their changing needs. We encourage Team Members to review their needs for the coming year and select the benefits that will best meet their situation.
Beginning the week of May 5, 2025, Team Members will be directed to the Open Enrollment Resources for Team Members page for an overview of Open Enrollment, plan changes and resources, and step-by-step instructions on how to enroll online in Workday.
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Medical, Dental, Vision & More
Michaels Team Members have access to a range of benefits to meet their needs. There’s a lot to understand, so to help Team Members make the best decisions for themselves and their family, detailed benefits information is available on this website.
Team Members can get started by reviewing this page and the Benefits Enrollment Guide, and then navigate to the Benefits tab in the menu at the top of every page.
Blue Cross Blue Shield Select Networks
Michaels partners with BCBSTX for our high-quality medical plans and broad network of providers to choose from. Effective July 1, 2025, BCBSTX and Michaels will implement new networks in the locations listed below. The same Michaels benefit plans will continue to be offered across all networks.
Depending on their location, Team Members will have access to either the BCBS Select Network or the BCBS BlueCard PPO Network. Team Members located in the below locations can go to the specific websites to search for their provider. While some providers may no longer be considered in network, a majority of Team Members should not experience disruption in their healthcare services. For Team Members located outside of the locations below they will continue to access the BCBSTX.com/Michaels website to search for their provider.
BCBSTX Select Network Provider Finder Links
- California – Tandem PPO
- Colorado – Pathway
- Florida – Network Blue
- Georgia – Blue Open Access POS
- Illinois – Blue Choice PPO (BCS)
- Minnesota – High Value Network
- Kansas City, Missouri – Preferred Care
- St. Louis, Missouri – Blue Access Choice
- New Jersey – Horizon Managed Care Network
- Wisconsin – Blue Preferred POS
Annual Wellness Exam
If Team Members and/or their spouse/domestic partner were enrolled in a Michaels medical plan on or before March 1, 2025, they each must complete an annual physical exam sometime between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025, to avoid paying $30 surcharge per paycheck, per person, on their medical premiums beginning in August 2025.
Learn More: How to Fulfill Your Annual Wellness Exam Requirement
Tobacco Cessation Program
If Team Members and/or their spouse/domestic partner are a tobacco user (including e-cigarettes and non-nicotine vaporizers) while enrolled in a Michaels BCBSTX or Kaiser medical plan, they will pay a $30 fee per person, per paycheck, added to their medical premiums beginning in August 2025.
Team Members can qualify to have this fee removed by completing a Tobacco Cessation Program available to them free of charge.
Pet Insurance
Team members have the option to enroll in pet insurance, with payment conveniently accepted via credit card.
Learn More: Wishbone Pet Health Insurance
What Team Members Need to Do
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If you do not take action during the annual open enrollment period, your current benefit elections will continue at the new 2024-2024 rates for the 2024-2025 plan year, which begins on July 1, 2024 and ends on June 30, 2025.
You can only change your benefit elections outside the annual open enrollment period if you experience a qualifying life event. For more information about qualifying life events, please visit this link: Change in Status.
Dependent Eligibility Verification Will Be Required
If Team Members add a new dependent to their coverage, they will receive instructions from Consova, Michaels third-party partner, on how to verify their dependent’s eligibility to participate in our plans. As part of the verification process, they will be asked to provide documentation for their new dependent, such as a birth certificate, court order, or marriage license.
Team Members can review the Eligibility Requirements to determine whether their dependent is eligible to be added to their coverage.
Important Note: If Team Members previously added a dependent to their coverage and verification was not completed, verification will be required.
Benefits for Peace of Mind: Life and AD&D Coverage
Michaels offers Basic and Voluntary Life and AD&D Insurance to help protect Team Members’ income if they and/or their spouse/domestic partner are injured, disabled, or pass away. During Open Enrollment, Team Members will have the option to enroll in or update this coverage.
Evidence of Insurability (EOI), or proof of good health, may be required based on the amount of any coverage changes. Enrollment in a Michaels medical plan is not required to enroll in Life and AD&D coverage.
How Team Members Can Increase Their Voluntary Life Coverage Amount
- Team Members can increase their Voluntary Life Insurance coverage amount by up to $40,000 during Open Enrollment without being required to submit EOI for approval.
- They can also increase spouse/domestic partner coverage by up to $5,000 without EOI, or up to $30,000 with EOI.
- Any increase that causes the total coverage amount to be $500,000 or more will require EOI.
FSA & HSA Elections
Team Members will have the opportunity to make Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and/or Health Savings Account (HSA) elections in October 2025 for the 2026 calendar year. If Team Members change from one Michaels medical plan type to another (i.e. PPO to HSA), this can affect their current FSA or HSA election for the remainder of the calendar year.
Below are FSA, HSA, and HRA scenarios that may be helpful for Team Members to understand when making benefit elections. As a reminder, FSA and/or HSA elections for the 2025 calendar year were made in October 2024.
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| Medical Benefit Election Effects on FSAs, HSAs and HRAs | Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) | Kaiser Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) | Health Savings Account (HSA) | Health Savings Account (HSA) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Enrolled in: PPO Change to: Choice HSA | If you are currently enrolled in the Health Care FSA, your current account and the pretax contributions to the account will be automatically transitioned to the Limited Purpose FSA effective July 1, 2025. You can opt out of the Limited Purpose FSA during the Michaels October FSA/HSA enrollment period with the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026. | Cannot enroll | HSA: Eligible to enroll during May 2025 Open Enrollment period. The 2025 HSA pretax contribution you elect will stay in place for the remainder of 2025, unless you change it during the year. During the Michaels October FSA/HSA enrollment period, you will elect your 2026 pretax HSA contribution amount, with the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026. Bonus! You can change your HSA election amount any time during the year. This is different from the FSAs, which cannot be changed during the year unless you have a qualifying life event as described in your Summary Plan Description (SPD). You will be eligible for an HSA contribution from Michaels depending on whom you cover. | HSA: Eligible to enroll during May 2025 Open Enrollment period. The 2025 HSA pretax contribution you elect will stay in place for the remainder of 2025, unless you change it during the year. During the Michaels October FSA/HSA enrollment period, you will elect your 2026 pretax HSA contribution amount, with the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026. Bonus! You can change your HSA election amount any time during the year. This is different from the FSAs, which cannot be changed during the year unless you have a qualifying life event as described in your Summary Plan Description (SPD). You will be eligible for an HSA contribution from Michaels depending on whom you cover. |
| Enrolled in: Choice HSA Change to: PPO | If you are currently enrolled in a Limited Purpose FSA, your current account and the pretax contributions to the account will be automatically transitioned to the Health Care FSA effective July 1, 2025. You can opt out of the Health Care FSA during the Michaels October FSA/HSA enrollment period with the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026. | Cannot enroll | Required to stop contributing to your HSA. Your unused funds will remain available to use. | Required to stop contributing to your HSA. Your unused funds will remain available to use. |
| Enrolled in: PPO No change (This includes Basic & Enhanced PPO moves within the two plans) | If you are currently enrolled in the Health Care FSA, your 2025 pretax contributions will stay in place for the remainder of 2025. During the Michaels October FSA/HSA enrollment period, you will elect your 2026 pretax Limited Purpose FSA contribution amount, with the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026. | Cannot enroll | Cannot enroll | Cannot enroll |
| Enrolled in: Choice HSA No change | If you are currently enrolled in the Limited Purpose FSA, your 2025 contributions will stay in place for the remainder of 2025. During the Michaels October FSA/HSA enrollment period, you will elect your 2026 pretax Limited Purpose FSA contribution amount, with the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026. | Cannot enroll | HSA: Eligible to enroll during May 2025 Open Enrollment period. The 2025 HSA pretax contribution you elect will stay in place for the remainder of 2025, unless you elect to change your contribution during the year. During the Michaels October FSA/HSA enrollment period, you will elect your 2026 pretax HSA contribution amount, with the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026. Bonus! You can change your HSA election amount anytime during the year. This is different from the FSA which cannot be changed during the year unless you incur a Change in Status as described in your Summary Plan Description (SPD). Michaels HSA contribution to your account will continue. | HSA: Eligible to enroll during May 2025 Open Enrollment period. The 2025 HSA pretax contribution you elect will stay in place for the remainder of 2025, unless you elect to change your contribution during the year. During the Michaels October FSA/HSA enrollment period, you will elect your 2026 pretax HSA contribution amount, with the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026. Bonus! You can change your HSA election amount anytime during the year. This is different from the FSA which cannot be changed during the year unless you incur a Change in Status as described in your Summary Plan Description (SPD). Michaels HSA contribution to your account will continue. |
| Enrolled in: Kaiser HRA Change to: PPO | If you are currently enrolled in the Health Care FSA, your 2025 contributions will stay in place for the remainder of 2025. During the Michaels October FSA/HSA enrollment period, you will elect your 2026 pretax Health Care FSA contribution amount, with the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026. If not currently enrolled in an FSA, you may enroll during the October FSA/HSA enrollment period for the 2026 calendar year. | Michaels HRA contribution will stop | Cannot enroll | Cannot enroll |
| Enrolled in: Kaiser HRA Change to: Choice HSA | If you are currently enrolled in the Health Care FSA, your current account and the pretax contributions to the account will be automatically transitioned to a new Limited Purpose FSA effective July 1, 2025. You can opt out of the Limited Purpose FSA during the Michaels October FSA/HSA enrollment period with the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026 | Michaels HRA contribution will stop | HSA: Eligible to enroll in this plan during May 2025 Open Enrollment period. Your 2025 HSA pretax contribution you elect will stay in place for the remainder of 2025, unless you elect to change them during the year. During the Michaels October FSA/HSA enrollment period, you will elect your 2026 pretax HSA contribution amount, with the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026. Bonus! You can change your HSA election amount any time during the year. This is different from the FSA, which cannot be changed during the year unless you have a qualifying life event as described in your Summary Plan Description (SPD). You will be eligible for a Michaels HSA contribution to your plan. | HSA: Eligible to enroll during May 2025 Open Enrollment period. The 2025 HSA pretax contribution you elect will stay in place for the remainder of 2025, unless you elect to change it during the year. During the Michaels October FSA/HSA enrollment period, you will elect your 2026 pretax HSA contribution amount, with the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026. Bonus! You can change your HSA election amount any time during the year. This is different from the FSAs, which cannot be changed during the year unless you have a qualifying life event as described in your Summary Plan Description (SPD). You will be eligible for a Michaels HSA contribution to your plan. |
| Enrolled in: Kaiser HRA No change | If you are currently enrolled in the Health Care FSA, your 2025 contributions will stay in place for the remainder of 2025. During the Michaels October FSA/HSA enrollment period, you will elect your 2026 pretax Health Care FSA contribution amount, with the effective date of Jan. 1, 2026. If not currently enrolled in an FSA, you may enroll during the October FSA/HSA enrollment period for the 2026 calendar year. | Michaels HRA contribution will stop | Cannot enroll | Cannot enroll |
The enrollment deadline is 11:59 p.m. CT on Friday, May 23, 2025.
Team Members don’t have to do anything to keep their current coverage. However, they must complete enrollment to: 1) change their current benefit elections, 2) add new dependents to their coverage, and/or 3) remove dependents from their coverage.
If Team Members take no action during Open Enrollment, their current benefit elections will continue automatically at the new 2025–2026 rates. Outside of Open Enrollment, they will only be able to change their benefit elections if they experience a qualifying life event.
Open Enrollment Webinar & Meeting Schedule
All of the scheduled Open Enrollment webinars and meetings have passed. You can still access the Benefits Orientation video and presentation.
Team Member Communications
Below are the communications that have been, or are scheduled to be, distributed to Team Members regarding Open Enrollment.
Home Mailer Announcement: English | Spanish
Open Enrollment Overview Page: English | Spanish
Benefits Enrollment Guide: English | Spanish
Emails: May 7 (Coming Soon), May 12 (Now Open), May 16 (One Week Left), May 22 (One Day Left), and May 23 (Last Day)
Know Where to Go for Answers
Call Team Member Services at 855-432-MIKE (6453), option 2, or submit a ticket through the Knowledge Zone.