Have you or a family member ever faced a health emergency and wished you were better prepared? Critical illness insurance can alleviate some of the financial burden by giving you a lump-sum of money to help cover unexpected or additional costs in the event of a health emergency. During the Open Enrollment period (October 1-31), benefits-eligible faculty, academic staff and support staff have the option to enroll in critical illness insurance through MetLife.
Outside of the Open Enrollment period, benefits-eligible new hires or newly-eligible employees have 30 days to enroll from their date of hire or date of eligibility.
What is Critical Illness Insurance?
Critical illness insurance works to complement your medical coverage. This type of insurance helps safeguard your finances by providing you with a lump-sum payment when you or an eligible dependent (such as your spouse or child) need it most. In the event your family experiences a health emergency, such as a heart attack, cancer or stroke, your critical illness insurance can help you pay for unexpected medical costs or anything else you may need. The extra cash can help you focus on getting back on track— without worrying about finding the money to cover some of your expenses (MetLife, 2019).
Watch the video below to learn more about Critical Illness Insurance through MetLife:
What Illnesses Does It Cover?
The following medical conditions are covered under critical illness insurance:
- Stroke
- Heart Attack
- Full Benefit Cancer
- Partial Benefit Cancer
- Kidney Failure
- Major Organ Transplant
- Coronary Artery Bypass Graft
- And many more! Find a complete list on the plan summary sheet on the HR website.
Benefits-eligible faculty, academic staff and support staff have now through October 31 to enroll in this optional benefit through MetLife. Find more information and enroll through MSU Benefits Plus.
Note: Individuals enrolled in Critical Illness for the 2022 plan year will continue to be enrolled in the 2023 plan year without any action.
Questions? Learn more about critical illness insurance and other voluntary benefits on the HR website. For questions about enrollment, contact MSU Benefits Plus Customer Care at 888-758-7575. Contact the HR Solutions Center with any additional questions at SolutionsCenter@hr.msu.edu or 517-353-4434.
MetLife (2019). MetLife Critical Illness Insurance provides you cash when you need it most. New York City, NY.