Plan in Program Vs. Not in Program
When you define a benefits plan in the Plan Configuration work area, you don't have to place it in a program. However, there are advantages to associating a plan with a program.
Plans in Program
In general, associate a plan with a program when:
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Participants typically enroll in the plan at the same time that they enroll in other plans in the program.
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Participation eligibility requirements defined for the program also apply to the plan.
Plans Not in Program
Plans not in a program enable participants to enroll and disenroll multiple times throughout the year.
Example: A retirement savings plan not in program that allows unlimited, unrestricted enrollment changes
In general, don't associate a plan with a program when:
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Participants typically enroll in the plan at a different time than other plans in the program.
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Participation eligibility requirements defined for the program differ substantially from those defined for the plan.
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Benefits that the plan provides differ substantially from the benefits provided by other plans in the program.