New insurance options

Beginning February 1, MRA will offer life insurance and short-term disability insurance at group rates to all members, not just to those who participate in our health insurance benefit program. The change marks a substantial overhaul in MRA’s insurance offerings—the first in many years—and the new program is better suited to today’s needs.

“After a detailed study of the group insurance marketplace, MRA has selected a new insurance carrier, Unimerica, for the group life and disability benefits programs offered to MRA members,” said James P. Hallan, MRA president and chief operating officer.

Members will receive information about rates and benefits of the new plan in the mail. Highlights of the new life insurance plan include:

• New benefit increment levels of $10,000, $25,000, $50,000, with an equal amount of Accidental Death & Dismemberment coverage;

• Generous levels of “guaranteed issue” coverage—coverage for which no health questionnaire or medical exam is required;

• Age-rated benefits, which will allow many people to enjoy lower rates and/or higher coverage levels than they did on the old plan. For example, a 33-year-old person who currently receives a benefit of $6,000 can upgrade to $25,000 in coverage for about 40 cents more per month.

• Supplemental life insurance—available to plan participants in increments of $10,000 up to $200,000.

Members who received insurance through American United Life may continue their current level of benefits with the new carrier, at new rates. These members may, however, wish to take advantage of the new and improved plan that Unimerica now offers to all MRA members.

Short-term disability insurance (26-week benefit period) with varying benefit levels is also available through Unimerica to all MRA members.

Minneapolis-based Unimerica is part of UnitedHealth Group, a Fortune 100 company, and insurance is underwritten by Unimerica Insurance Company, rated “A” by A.M. Best.

MRA insurance specialist Linda Cook can provide more details about the new Unimerica offerings. If you wish to review these options, or if you have questions about the change in insurance carriers, please contact MRA’s Customer Service Department at 800.366.3699.