Benefits & Well-being Newsletter

TIAA and the Market

Have the recent trends of the market caused you anxiety or worry? If so, you’re not alone. TIAA is here to help you navigate through market turbulence, and offer guidance to help you stay focused on your long-term financial goals. Visit TIAA’s website for more information and resources. If this topic is causing you stress, anxiety, or worry, and you need additional support, reach out to Employee & Family Resources, our EAP vendor.
 

Wellmark Connect

Wellmark recently launched Wellmark Connect for those enrolled in one of UNI’s self-insured health plans, and this is a benefit you are going to want to take advantage of. Wellmark Connect is a one stop shop for health content, podcasts, videos, habit-tracking tools and more, all on a personalized digital platform. Log into your Wellmark account today to see what Wellmark Connect has to offer you.
 

Summer and Sun Protection

With the official start of summer quickly approaching we are spending more time outdoors. Spending more time outside is great for our physical and mental health, but also comes with risks. Too much exposure to UV light can increase your risk of developing skin cancer or cataracts. Although the sunshine feels great, don’t forget to keep your skin protected. It is recommended to use sunscreen daily, even when you won’t have direct sun exposure. However, on days when you’ll have more direct sun exposure, be sure to apply a broad spectrum sunscreen every two hours, or more often if you are swimming or sweating. You can also increase your protection with shade, clothing, and sunglasses. Visit the CDC’s website for more information.
 

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

Summer is a great time to remind those who have elected a FSA that it can be used on many over-the-counter items. Sunscreen and over-the-counter allergy medications are eligible for reimbursement. For a listing of eligible expenses, as well as over-the-counter eligible expenses, visit the FSA website. 

For those who utilize a dependent care flexible spending account, many summer camps can be paid for with dependent care FSA contributions. Please see the Dependent Care FSA eligible expenses listing for a complete listing of options.
 

Save Now for a Child’s Tomorrow

Although school is out for the summer, you should still be thinking ahead for the child(ren) in your life. Planning for their future is easy with College Savings Iowa 529 plans. Plans are easy to set-up and provide many tax benefits. While a pre-tax payroll deduction is not an option for this great savings plan, you can set-up a direct deposit through payroll for funds to go into your 529 plan. 

Savings can be used for: 

• K-12 Tuition
• Apprenticeships & Trades
• College & University Tuition
• Supplies & Equipment
• Room & Board
• Computers & Internet