Understanding Eligibility: the basics on enrolling for benefits

Here is a quick overview that can help you better understand eligibility for NWPP health benefits and how to enroll for benefits. This overview does not cover every scenario, so please contact your local union or the Administration Office toll-free at (866) 417-4240 if you have a specific situation or any questions.

eligibility 1Becoming eligible for benefits

If you are a new employee:

  • And you work at least 140 hours within the initial 4-months of your employment
  • You will be eligible to enroll yourself and your eligible dependents in NWPP benefits
  • After a lag month (the month following your enrollment), your coverage will begin

eligibility 3Maintaining coverage

Once enrolled, coverage is maintained if you work at least 140 hours per month.

  • If you work less than 140 hours and no hours are added for 12 months (unless due to active military service), you could forfeit your coverage
  • If you work for an employer who contributes at a different amount than required under the Master Labor Agreement, your hours are prorated
  • If you work in other jurisdictions outside of the covered Plan areas, under the UA Reciprocity Program contributions made will be sent back to NWPP to allow your coverage to be maintained. Please note there may be a delay in processing these contributions

eligibility 7Adding to your hour bank

If you work more than 140 hours in a month, those hours are saved in an hour bank to count toward your eligibility for coverage in future months. You can save up to a maximum of 700 hours. Having hours saved in your hour bank helps maintain coverage:

  • During slow work periods when it may be hard to get to the required 140 per month
  • If you are suddenly unable to work due to family leave, illness or other reasons
  • If you traveled for work and there is a delay in your hours being processed
  • When you retire, or after your last day worked, for up to 1-5 months depending on your hours saved
  • After initial eligibility has been established, if you do not meet the hour requirements or you do not have sufficient hours banked, you may self-pay for coverage. COBRA is also available if needed.

To enroll, download an enrollment form or contact your local union or the Administration Office at (866) 417-4240.

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