WI Insurance Coverage for Adult Children up to Age 27 Change

If you have a young adult in your household, and you did not previously determine them eligible under your health insurance plan, read this information carefully. Based on this information, employees may need to submit enrollment forms before December 31st for their adult children for coverage effective January 1, 2010.

A new state law allows young adults to be able to receive coverage through their parents’ health care plan. This week the Governor announced an emergency rule from the Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI) clarifying how eligibility is determined for adult children up to age 27. 

The most notable clarification is how to determine whether or not your adult child, who is working and eligible for health insurance coverage through his/her own employer, can be added to your state insurance plan. To determine eligibility, the amount of the adult child’s premium contribution is to be compared to the additional amount you are required to pay for inclusion of the adult child under your policy.  (i.e. If you already have the family plan, then the additional premium amount to add a dependent is zero. Therefore, if your adult child’s premium contribution is greater than zero, they are eligible to enroll.)

NOTE: This does not change the information about the imputed taxable income, which is separate from determining eligibility of the adult child.  Select this link to see how the imputed taxable income will effect your check. http://www.bussvc.wisc.edu/uwpc/2010/imputed_income.html

Another notable clarification pertains to the eligibility of an adult child over age 27 that is a full-time student and was called to federal active duty in the National Guard or in a reserve component of the U.S. armed forces. The rule clarifies that if your adult child applies to an institution of higher education as a full-time student within 12 months from the date he/she has fulfilled their active duty obligation then they become an eligible dependent for insurance purposes. 

As a result of the enactment of the rule and these noted changes, the Department of Employee Trust Funds (ETF) has updated the “Children to Age 27 Q&A” on its website at: http://etf.wi.gov/publications/dependent_mandate_2010.pdf.  Revisions and new information are flagged. As mentioned above, ETF has extended the enrollment period for adult children. Employees need to submit enrollment forms before December 30, 2009 for coverage effective January 1, 2010.

One other consideration that doesn’t affect coverage: Tax dependency may be established using several methods including, but not limited to qualifying children and qualifying relative(s). IRS Publication 501  provides the criteria for determining tax dependency. If you have any questions concerning the tax status of any dependent, please review Publication 501 and consult your tax advisor.

 

Another notable clarification pertains to the eligibility of an adult child over age 27 that is a full-time student and was called to federal active duty in the National Guard or in a reserve component of the U.S. armed forces. The rule clarifies that if your adult child applies to an institution of higher education as a full-time student within 12 months from the date he/she has fulfilled their active duty obligation then they become an eligible dependent for insurance purposes. 

As a result of the enactment of the rule and these noted changes, the Department of Employee Trust Funds (ETF) has updated the “Children to Age 27 Q&A” on its website at:

http://etf.wi.gov/publications/dependent_mandate_2010.pdf

.  Revisions and new information are flagged. As mentioned above, ETF has extended the enrollment period for adult children. Employees need to submit enrollment forms before December 30, 2009 for coverage effective January 1, 2010.

One other consideration that doesn’t affect coverage: Tax dependency may be established using several methods including, but not limited to qualifying children and qualifying relative(s).  

IRS Publication 501

 provides the criteria for determining tax dependency. If you have any questions concerning the tax status of any dependent, please review Publication 501 and consult your tax advisor.

If you have a young adult in your household, and you did not previously determine them eligible under your health insurance plan, read this information carefully. Based on this information, employees may need to submit enrollment forms before December 31st for their adult children for coverage effective January 1, 2010.

A new state law allows young adults to be able to receive coverage through their parents’ health care plan. This week the Governor announced an emergency rule from the Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI) clarifying how eligibility is determined for adult children up to age 27. 

The most notable clarification is how to determine whether or not your adult child, who is working and eligible for health insurance coverage through his/her own employer, can be added to your state insurance plan. To determine eligibility, the amount of the adult child’s premium contribution is to be compared to the additional amount you are required to pay for inclusion of the adult child under your policy.  (i.e. If you already have the family plan, then the additional premium amount to add a dependent is zero. Therefore, if your adult child’s premium contribution is greater than zero, they are eligible to enroll.)

Nov 19 2009

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Pick 3. Spend 50. Save your local economy.

the 3/50 project.  Saving the brick and mortars our nation is build on…

3  What three independently owned business would you miss if they disappeared?  Stop in.  Say hello.  Pick up something that brings a smile.  Your purchases are what keep those businesses around.

50 If half the employed population spent $50 each month in locally owned independent businesses, it would generate more than $42.6 billion in revenue.*  Imagine the positive impact if 3/4 the population did that.

68 For every $100 spent in locally owned independent stores, $68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll, and other expenditures.  If you spend that in a national chain, only $43 stays here.  Spend it online and nothing comes here.

1  The number of people it take to start the trend….you.

Pick 3.  Spend 50.  Save your local economy.

http://www.the350project.net/home.html

Sep 17 2009

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Governor Quinn, Microsoft Launch Public-Private Partnership

Elevate America to provide free technology training for up to 51,000 Illinoisans

Chicago-  Governor Pat Quinn joined Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer at the Chicagoland Chamber’s Annual Meeting to announce a major public-private partnership between Microsoft and the State of Illinois to provide free technology training for up to 51,000 Illinoisans, starting July 31.

“This is a great opportunity for Illinoisans looking to improve their skill set,” said Governor Quinn.  “Whether you are out of a job or the technological revolution has simply passed you by, taking advantage of these vouchers is one way to get back on board as our economy moves forward.”

The Microsoft Elevate America initiative will provide up to 1 million vouchers nationwide for Microsoft e-Learning courses and select certification exams.  The program is part of Microsoft’s overall effort to provide technology training for at least 2 million people during the next three years.

“Microsoft is committed to improving access to the education and workforce readiness skills required for 21st century jobs,” said Ballmer.  “We believe these types of public-private partnerships are key to helping rebuild the nation’s economy and getting people back to work.”

In Illinois, Microsoft is working with the state’s Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and its partners to distribute 51,000 vouchers starting July 31.  Online courses available using Elevate America vouchers include intermediate level Microsoft Office 2003 and Microsoft Office 2007 training, and advanced-level training for technical professionals.

From August through October, eligible Illinoisans can apply for a voucher through one of the following workforce networks:

Voucher recipients will be required to register with Illinois workNet, an online one-stop-shop that provides access to worker resources at www.illinoisworknet.com.  To learn more about Elevate America, visit:  www.microsoft.com/elevateamerica

Jul 30 2009

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Support High Speed Rail System Connecting Chicago & Dubuque w/stops in Galena, Freeport, Rockford & Belvidere

It is the mission of the Northwest Illinois Blackhawk Express to bring rail service to our region, providing a route connecting Dubuque and Chicago with stops in Galena, Freeport, Rockford and Belvidere.  With Amtrak rail, our region would have the ability to:  • Provide safe, efficient options for transportation • Build a foundation for economic competitiveness • Support interconnected, livable communities within a region • Offer alternative inter-city transportation that is among the cleanest and most energy-efficient transportation modes. The availability of funding through the State of Illinois Capital Program and federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for the expansion of Amtrak presents a feasible and timely opportunity for our region. Never have we been this close to receiving federal and state legislative support and funding to bring inter-city rail transportation to our region.  Become involved today! How? Sign the petition http://tiny.cc/dUnth to show your support as we take our combined voice to our elected officials and show the regional strength and support for bringing Amtrak here. http://tiny.cc/dUnth and http://www.BringRail.com

Jul 9 2009

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the 3/50 project…support independent businesses

the 3/50 project. Saving the brick and mortars our nation is build on…

3 What three independently owned business would you miss if they disappeared? Stop in. Say hello. Pick up something that brings a smile. Your purchases are what keep those businesses around.

50 If half the employed population spent $50 each month in locally owned independent businesses, it would generate more than $42.6 billion in revenue.* Imagine the positive impact if 3/4 the population did that.

68 For every $100 spent in locally owned independent stores, $68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll, and other expenditures. If you spend that in a national chain, only $43 stays here. Spend it online and nothing comes here.

1 The number of people it take to start the trend….you.

Pick 3. Spend 50. Save your local economy. http://www.the350project.net/home.html

Jul 7 2009

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Calling Around…Looking for Work

One of our policies at Furst for those individuals registered with us who are available and seeking employment is to make sure they phone into our office once a week to let us know of your availability.  We also receive calls from individuals who are seeking employment but not yet registered with our company.

There are a lot of people looking for work right now.  Unfortunately, there are not enough jobs to offer each person who calls us seeking work.  If you scroll through our previous blogs you will see we have tried to offer some suggestions to set yourself apart from the crowd whether it is through interview preparation, job research, networking, or cover letter and resume/cv preparation. 

One thing that strikes me a bit odd is how people conduct themselves when phoning a company seeking work.  Perhaps it is because we are a staffing firm/temp agency and they feel we conduct ourselves differently than applying directly with a company.  In the past week, I personally have probably talked to 20 people who simply state “I am looking for a job” or “I need a job” or “Do you have any work”. 

Let’s go back to setting yourself apart…in a positive way.  If you are serious about your job search, conduct your search in a serious and professional manner.  I had no idea whether those individuals calling in where currently registered with Furst.  I don’t know their name.  I don’t know what type of work they are seeking. We speak with a large number of people each day and I cannot recognize every voice….some yes.

Whether you are calling Furst, another staffing firm, a business or a government agency write a little script to guide you through and clearly explain your purpose for calling. 

Let’s say you are not familiar with a staffing firm you are calling: “Good Morning.  My name is Jennifer.  I was wondering if someone is available to speak with me about current and future job opportunities.”

Let’s say you are registered with the staffing firm:  “Good Morning.  This is Jennifer Furst.  I am registered with FurstStaffing and am calling in my availability for the week.  My experience focuses on Machine Operation, Picking & Packing, some Material Handling…but I am flexible for anything you feel I could do. Preference is on 1st or 2nd shift…but will do 3rd. Do you have anything that matches up with my skills?” 

Let’s say you are not familiar with a business you are calling:  “Good Morning.  My name is Jennifer Furst.  I am interested in learning about employment opportunities with ABC Co. Who should I speak with regarding potential opportunities? Are they available?”

In each of these situations, the person on the other end of the phone will know how to move forward with the conversation from the start.  They will not have to play 20 questions.  Remember conduct yourself  professionally and you will stand out more than someone who is unprepared.

If you have any questions or any topics you would like to learn about or discuss, please email heretohelp@furststaff.com

Jun 23 2009

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Lab Tech w/Quality Assurance Exp in Lena, IL

Furst-to-Hire opportunity for a Lab Technician with Quality Assurance experience. Position is located in Lena, IL.  Conducting Quality Checks for 2nd and 3rd shift, with backup for 1st shift.  Oxygen testing, conducting weight checks, read and record lab results, prepare dilutions and ingredients for production and packaging, follow GMP’s and GLP’s, report all products that are not in technical specs, complete all paperwork and calculations, maintain clean work area.

Location:  Lena, IL

Hours:  Ability to work flexible hours and shifts…specific shift is TBD, may be overtime required.   

Pay:  $9.43/hr

 Project Duration:  This project is a Furst-to-Hire opportunity. 

Job Requirements

Please submit your resume:  jacki or contact Jackie with Furst Staffing in Stockton @ 815.947.3377.e.ernst@furststaff.com

Follow FurstStaffing  on Twitter http://twitter.com/FurstStaffing
 

FurstStaffing provides comprehensive staffing solutions for industrial, administrative and office support, engineering and technical positions.  Furst Staffing  provides temporary, Furst-to-Hire and direct hire services, as well as exclusive on-site programs in Northern Illinois, Southern Wisconsin and the Chicagoland area. 

Jun 4 2009

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Re-Vitalizing the Kishwaukee Corridor (Rockford, IL)

There is a group that’s been meeting at the Abilities Center for the last several months. It is a Public/Private initiative that was started by the City of Rockford when the Kishwaukee Corridor construction started. As you know the City is trying to re-vitalize the Kishwaukee Corridor with emphasis on manufacturing infrastructure. Also homeowners and other stakeholders are encouraged to participate. I have been working along with this initiative as have been Rogers Brothers, Reg-Ellen, the Abilities Center, Bourn & Koch, Rockford Products, etc among others have participated in many events. This event/speaker is next Wednesday evening and should be very interesting. Jonah Katz – Planner II from the City of Rockford is the point of contact and leader of this Kishwaukee Corridor Empowerment Group initiative. Reid Montgomery, Paul Zuroske and Rob Lamb are often presenters at these meetings. We are trying to get the word out to all the regional manufacturers about this free event. Could you please use your email lists to forward this flyer to announce this to others. This group is open to anyone who wants to participate.

Wednesday, June 3rd
5:00pm to 6:00pm
Goodwill/Abilities Center
1907 Kishwaukee Street, Rockford, IL

Special presentation by Robert D. Cecil (Chairman of R.D. Cecil & Company).
Mr. Cecil has been a management consultant and trainer for about 40 years. He will describe a possible use for one or more of Rockford’s closed manufacturing plants. He has pulled together a number of ideas for processing raw waste materials such as tires, newspapers, aluminum cans, and plastic bottles — not just into intermediate basic materials to be used as inputs for outside manufacturing plants, but into vertically integrated processing/production lines that turn out actual value-added products on site. Some of these processes might produce energy for such a plant.

For more information please contact Jonah Katz, 815-967-6772

http://xrl.us/beuy8z

Jun 1 2009

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“What can you do for me?” Prospective Employer

Think It Through

Every prospective employer is asking you the question, “What can you do for me?”  You must do more than tell the employer what you can do - you must PROVE IT!  Specific examples of your past accomplishments are indicators of your future value.

The following list will help you recall your past accomplishments. Use each question as a springboard toward thinking through what you’ve done.  You’ll be surprised at how much good information you can share about yourself!

  1. For each evaluation period, what were your primary goals and objectives?  Were they accomplished?
  2. What were your major accomplishments in your work history or schooling?
  3. Have you ever been given awards, commendations or special recognition?  Why?
  4. Have you been given raises, bonuses, promotions, special temporary assignments?  Why?
  5. Have you ever been given an increase or promotion sooner than anticipated?  Why?
  6. What have you done to change the nature of your job?  What has been the result?
  7. Have you ever saved money for the company?  How?
  8. Did you ever come up with a new idea, way of doing things, order in which a product has been processed, or way to minimize waste?
  9. Did you ever start any new tasks or projects?
  10. Did you suggest any plicy changes or procedures?  What was the result?  Are they being used?
  11. Did you ever change something that was losing money into something that was making money?
  12. Have you worked with, proposed, or managed budgets?
  13. Have you done creative or innovative things on the job or in school?
  14. What extra, out-of-the-ordinary job responsibilities have you accepted?  What has been the outcome?
  15. Have you ever developed or assisted in sales or marketing efforts?
  16. What kind of problems did you solve for your boss or for the company?  How did you do this?
  17. How did you make your boss look good?
  18. How did you make your boss more effective or successful?
  19. What people problems did you solve?  How?
  20. Have you supervised others?  How many? Who reported to you?
  21. Have you ever supervised others who were managers?  How did you control their activities?
  22. Have you been responsible for hiring others?  How many?  How did they perform?  Have you ever had to terminate someone?  How did you do it?
  23. What kind of written communication have you done?  Have you written any grants, proposals or reports that have been published internally or externally?
  24. Have you given speeches?  To Whom? On what subjects?
  25. What professional or community organizations have you been active in?  Have you held any offices?
  26. What kind of reading do you do?
  27. What continuing education, seminars, or workshops have you taken?  How did you do?
  28. What kind of volunteer work have you done?  What roles have you taken?  What was the outcome of your work?  What unique combination of skills do you have?
  29. How would your company have been different had you not been there?

Now that you’ve thought through your accomplishments, don’t hesitate to market these accomplishments to employers.  Remember that employers don’t read minds.  you have to tell them just how good you really are!

Finding employment is similar to promoting and selling a product.  In this case, the product you are promoting is yourself.  You have to begin by understanding your qualities, capabilities, values, and attributes.  Once you have a thorough understanding of yourself, you can focus on the field in which you want to work.

One questions you should ask yourself is “Who am I?”  To find an answer to this question, you need to seek answers to the following questions:

The more you know about yourself, the more efficient and less frustrating your job search will be.  If you struggle with this, ask someone who you know well to brainstorm with you to help you prepare for you interview.

May 15 2009

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Sales Representative (Part-Time)

Established Loves Park company has an opportunity for a Part-Time Sales Representative.  The Sales Representative is responsible for quoting and selling HVAC jobs.  Previous sales experience and knowledge of HVAC products/industry.  Inbound sales.

Location:  Loves Park, IL

Hours:  10 to 25 hours per week, to start

Type of Placement:  Furst-to-Hire

Start Date:  ASAP

Pay:  DOE, based on experience.

Minimum Experience:  At least 1 year of sales experience, preferrably with HVAC systems.

Job Requirements

Please submit your resume to:  furst. lsm@furststaff.com

Any questions, please call Lori with FurstStaffing in Rockford @ 815.229.7810.

Follow FurstStaffing on Twitter http://twitter.com/FurstStaffing

May 13 2009

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