At Pref-Tech, we continuously monitor our benefits offerings to ensure you have access to high quality and cost-effective benefits to care for yourself and your family. Below are a few highlights of what is new for 2026:
2026 Passive Enrollment
• This year’s open enrollment is “ passive,” meaning all your current benefit elections will remain the same for the 2026 plan year unless you make changes.
• Flexible Spending Accounts still require active enrollment due to IRS regulations.
• Benefits enrollment will continue taking place in Benefits in Hand online.
• It is important to review your current coverages, listed dependents and beneficiaries to ensure you have the benefits you need.
• If you are a new hire and recently completed your enrollment for 2025, your elections will carry over to 2026, except for FSAs which require re-enrollment.
2026 PREMIUM CONTRIBUTIONS UPDATE
• NO increase to employee contributions for the 2026 plan year.
• Pre-Tech will absorb the premium increases for 2026, continuing to cover approximately 70% of the cost .
ROTH CATCH-UP CONTRIBUTIONS FOR HIGH EARNERS (SECURE 2.0)
• Beginning January 2026, employees aged 50 or older who earned more than $145,000 in Social Security wages in the prior year, will be required to make catch-up contributions to their 401(k) as Roth (after-tax) contributions.
• This change is part of the SECURE 2.0 Act and applies to 401(k), 403(b), and similar retirement plans.
• Traditional pre-tax catch-up contributions will no longer be allowed for these higher income earners.
HSA AND FSA CONTRIBUTION LIMIT INCREASES FOR 2026
• The HSA contribution limit is $4,400 for employee only and $8,750 for employee + dependent(s).
• The FSA contribution limit is $3,400.
Top 3 Healthcare Savings Tips
1. Max Your HSA/FSA – Use pre-tax dollars for medical expenses and reduce taxable income.
2. Shop Smart – Compare costs for care and prescriptions and stay in-network .
3. Use Preventive Care – Annual checkups and screenings are at no cost to you and help avoid bigger costs later.
We are pleased to offer a comprehensive benefits package intended to protect your well-being and financial health. This guide is your opportunity to learn more about the benefits available to you and your eligible dependents beginning January 1, 2026.
Each year during Open Enrollment (OE), you have the opportunity to make changes to your benefit plans. The enrollment decisions you make this year will remain in effect through December 31, 2026. To get the best value from your health care plan, please take the time to evaluate your coverage options and determine which plans best meet the health care and financial needs of you and your family. After OE, you may make changes to your benefit elections only when you have a Qualifying Life Event (QLE). Choose
and your
Employee Response Center
Employee benefits can be complicated. The Higginbotham Employee Response Center (ERC) can assist you with the following:
Call or text 866-419-3518 to speak with a representative Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CT. If you leave a voicemail message after 3:00 p.m. CT, your call or text will be returned the next business day. You can also email questions or requests to helpline@higginbotham.net . Bilingual representatives are available.
Eligibility
You are eligible for benefits if you are a regular, full-time employee working an average of 30 hours per week. Your coverage is effective the first of the month following your date of hire. You may also enroll eligible dependents for benefits coverage. The cost to you for dependent coverage depends on the number of dependents you enroll and the particular plans you choose. When covering dependents, you must select the same plans for your dependents as you select for yourself.
Eligible Dependents Include
• Your legal spouse
• Children under the age of 26 regardless of student, dependency, or marital status
• Children over the age of 26 who are fully dependent on you for support due to a mental or physical disability and who are indicated as such on your federal tax return
Qualifying Life Events
Once you elect your benefit options, they remain in effect for the entire plan year until the following OE. You may only change coverage during the plan year if you have a QLE, some of which include:
• Marriage, divorce, legal separation, or annulment
• Birth, adoption, or placement for adoption of an eligible child
• Death of your spouse or child
• Change in your spouse’s employment status that affects benefits eligibility
• Change in your child’s eligibility for benefits
• Significant change in benefit plan coverage for you, your spouse, or your child
• FMLA leave, COBRA event, judgment, or decree
• Becoming eligible for Medicare, Medicaid, or TRICARE
• Receiving a Qualified Medical Child Support Order
If you have a QLE and want to change your elections, you must notify Human Resources and complete your changes within 30 days of the event. You may be asked to provide documentation to support the change. Contact Human Resources for specific details.
Your Medical Benefits
We understand that for many of you, taking care of your family’s health care is one of the first things you look for in your employee benefits package. PrefTech offers you three medical plans through Cigna so that you can select the one that best fits your family’s needs. You may choose from two Open Access Plus (OAP) PPO plans and an Open Access Plus High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP).
Medical Options
• Cigna Open Access High Deductible Health Plan – An HDHP allows you the freedom to see any provider within the Open Access network when you need care. In exchange for a lower per-paycheck cost, you must satisfy a higher deductible that applies to almost all health care expenses, including those for prescription drugs. The plan pays 100% for health care expenses once you meet your deductible and covers prescription costs at 100% after you meet your out-of-pocket maximum.
• Open Access Plus Plans – The OAP options offer the freedom to see any provider when you need care. When you use providers from within the OAP network, you receive benefits at the discounted network cost. Providers not in the OAP network will be reimbursed at the out-of-network benefit amount.
Cigna OAP PPO Base Plan – Provides a $40/$40 physician office visit copay and 70% coinsurance. This plan has in-network and out-of-network benefits.
Cigna OAP PPO Buy-Up Plan – Provides a $40/$40 physician office copay and 80% coinsurance. This plan has in-network and out-ofnetwork benefits.
Which Plan is Right for You and Your Family?
It is not necessary to select a primary care physician or obtain referrals for specialist care in any of the three medical plans. Remember to always use in-network providers to receive the best benefit from your Cigna plans. Preventive care is covered under all plans at 100% when you visit an in-network physician. All of the plans have copays for office visits and prescriptions. You will need to meet your deductible for hospital, outpatient testing, and surgeries.
Refer to the Medical Benefits Summary on the following page for more plan details.
Find an In-network Provider
Visit www.mycigna.com or call 866-494-2111.
Medical Benefits Summary
How the Medical Plans Work
• Contribute to a Health Savings Account (HSA) pretax
• Pay $0 for in-network preventive care
• Pay $49 for Telemedicine
Pay 100% for other covered care until you meet the deductible.
• Individual deductible - $3,400
• Family deductible - $6,800
• Pay for office visits, urgent care visits, and prescriptions with copays
• Pay $0 for in-network preventive care
• Pay $40 for Telemedicine
Pay 100% for other covered care until you meet the deductible.
• Base Plan individual deductible - $3,000
• Buy-Up Plan individual deductible - $1,000
• Base Plan family deductible - $9,000
• Buy-Up Plan family
After the deductible and out-of-pocket maximum are met, the plan pays expenses at 100%.
Meeting your deductible also satisfies your out-ofpocket maximum.
- $2,000
After the deductible is met, the Base and Buy-Up plans share the cost of covered care expenses; you are responsible for the remainder.
Once you meet your out-of-pocket maximum, both plans will pay 100% of covered network costs.
Cost Share PPO Example
How You and Cigna Share Costs
Jane's Plan Deductible: $3,000 Coinsurance: 30% Out-of-Pocket Limit : $5,000
January 1
Beginning of Coverage Period
Deductible and Out-of-Pocket Starts
December 31
End of Coverage Period
pays
Her plan pays 0%
Jane has not reached her $3,000 deductible yet.
Her plan doesn't pay any of the costs.
Office visit costs: $40
Jane pays: $40
Her plan pays: $0
Her plan pays 70%
Jane reaches her $3,000 deductible; co-insurance begins.
Jane has seen a doctor several times and needs an MRI. Her deductible is $3,000 in total. Her plan pays some of the costs for her next visit.
Office visit costs: $40
MRI costs: $1,500
Jane pays: 30% of $1,500 ($450)
Her plan pays: 70% of $1,500 ($1,050)
Her plan pays 100%
Jane reaches her $5,000 out-of-pocket limit
Jane has seen the doctor often for imaging, labs, and outpatient services and has paid $5,000 in total. Her plan pays the full cost of her covered health care services for the rest of the year.
Office visit costs: $200
MRI costs: $1,500
Her plan pays: $1,700
• HDHP (HSA) plans often cost less overall, especially when paired with the employer HSA contribution.
• PPO plans provide lower upfront costs at the doctor’s office, but higher premiums.
HDHP (HSA) VS. PPO – QUICK COMPARISON
HDHP vs. PPO Summary
Which Medical Plan Should You Choose?
If you already have a good idea of the right coverage for you, these examples should help confirm your choice of medical coverage.
Example 1
You are a healthy, single person with minimal expenses.
• Monthly allergy formulary brand-name prescription drug
• One office visit
Example 2
You have family coverage and one family member incurs $4,000 in expenses.
• Five specialist office visits
Example 3
You have family coverage and one family member has a catastrophic health condition (more than $100,000 in expenses).
• 15 specialist office visits
Example 3
IMPORTANT
MDLIVE is only available for medical visits. For covered services related to mental health and substance abuse, access the Cigna Behavioral Health network of providers.
Go to www.mycigna.com then simply select "Therapist" or you can choose "Virtual".
Call to make an appointment with your selected provider.
Telehealth visits with Cigna Behavioral Health network providers cost the same as an in-office visit.
Cigna Telehealth Connection
As a Pref-Tech employee, you have access to quality national telehealth services as part of your medical plan through MDLIVE . These services can be costeffective alternatives to visiting a convenient care clinic, urgent care center, or emergency room.
Connect with a board-certified doctor via phone without leaving your home or office. Your cost is often the same or lower than a visit to your primary care physician. Care is available day or night, weekdays, weekends, and holidays.
You should only use telehealth services for minor, nonlife-threatening conditions such as:
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Stomachache
• Cold
Register Now
• Flu
• Allergies
• Fever
• UTIs
Register for MDLIVE so you are ready to use this telehealth service when and where you need it.
• Visit www.mdliveforcigna.com
• Call 888-726-3171
• Download the MDLIVE app
Health Care Options
Becoming familiar with your options for medical care can save you time and money.
Non-Emergency Care
Access to care via phone, online video, or mobile app whether you are home, work, or traveling; medications can be prescribed
TELEMEDICINE
DOCTOR’S OFFICE
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Generally, the best place for routine preventive care; established relationship; able to treat based on medical history
Office hours vary
Usually lower out-of-pocket cost than urgent care; when you can’t see your doctor; located in stores and pharmacies
RETAIL CLINIC
URGENT CARE
Hours vary based on store hours
When you need immediate attention; walk-in basis is usually accepted
Generally includes evening, weekend, and holiday hours
• Allergies
• Cough/cold/flu
• Rash
• Stomach ache
• Infections
• Sore and strep throat
• Vaccinations
• Minor injuries/sprains/ strains
• Common infections
• Minor injuries
• Pregnancy tests
• Vaccinations
• Sprains and strains
• Minor broken bones
• Small cuts that may require stitches
• Minor burns and infections
Life-threatening or critical conditions; trauma treatment; multiple bills for doctor and facility
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
HOSPITAL ER
Services do not include trauma care; can look similar to an urgent care center, but medical bills may be 10 times higher
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
• Chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Severe bleeding
• Blurred or sudden loss of vision
• Major broken bones
• Most major injuries except trauma
• Severe pain
2-5 minutes
15-20 minutes
15 minutes
15-30 minutes
4+ hours
Minimal
Note: Examples of symptoms are not inclusive of all health issues. Wait times described are only estimates. This information is not intended as medical advice. If you have questions, please call the phone number on the back of your medical ID card.
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•
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Cigna Pathwell Bone and Joint
Cigna Pathwell Bone and Joint delivers a new standard of care for musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions. If you have spine, hip, knee, or shoulder pain, you will have help at every step in the MSK journey. Stateof-the-art predictive models, personalized guidance, benefits, and navigation tools empower you to take charge of your health resulting in better clinical outcomes, increased productivity, and lower total medical costs.
You will have access to designated providers who meet quality and cost criteria, a clinical navigation experience supported by a clinical care advocate who helps you make the right decisions about your care, and benefit design that rewards you for optimal care choices.
Find Cigna Pathwell Bone and Joint Designated providers by contacting to the Non-Clinical Care Advocate Team at conditionspecificsupport@cigna.com.
For questions or support regarding the program, call the Cigna Pathwell Bone and Joint Designated providers team at 855-678-0042 .
Cigna Pathwell Specialty
Cigna Pathwell Specialty offers a specialized support team to help manage complex specialty health conditions. Cigna helps you understand, manage, and treat complex conditions that require specialty medications.
A Cigna Pathwell Specialty Care manager can:
• Help you find an in-network treatment location and work with your doctor to get orders and information to the new treatment provider.
• Work with your doctor’s office to make sure your specialty medication and medical treatment(s), including infusions and injections, are pre-approved for coverage (precertification).
• Help you stay on track with your treatment by regularly checking in with you as needed.
• Arrange for counseling/other support if you need it.
A list of drugs requiring in-network administration is available at https://pathwellspecialty.sites.cigna.com. For questions or support transferring care, call the Cigna Pathwell Specialty Care Management team at 877-505-3681
Active and Fit Direct
A single membership gives you access to a network of over 12,000 gyms and 8,800 premium exercise studios –including LA Fitness, Crunch Fitness, and Anytime Fitness – so you can stay active wherever you go for just $28 per month.1 There are no annual fees or long-term contracts, and you can switch gyms at anytime.
To check eligibility or enroll, visit www.activeandfitdirect.com/eligibility.
1Fees also include applicable enrollment fees and taxes. Costs for premium exercise studios are typically higher and vary.
HelloFresh Discounts
Cigna has partnered with HelloFresh, the world’s #1 meal kit, to offer discounted, easy-to-prepare meals that support better health and convenience.
Two Ways to Save:
Scan to get started
Discount code CIGNAWELLNESS: New customers get 12 free meals (across eight boxes) plus free shipping.
Private Offer:
• New Customers – 50% off first box plus free shipping, then 15% off up to 12 boxes plus free breakfast for life.
• Returning Customers – 15% off up to 12 boxes plus free breakfast for life.
Learn More
Find providers who participate in the Cigna Pathwell Specialty Network by searching the Cigna provider directory at Cigna.com
> Find a Doctor > Find a Doctor, Dentist, or Facility.
Prescription Weight Management Support
Your Cigna medical plan now covers prescription medications that can help with weight management when lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough. Talk with your doctor to see if these medications are right for you, and use the myCigna app to check coverage and costs before filling your prescription.
Health Savings Account
An HSA is more than a way to help you and your family cover health care costs — it is also a tax-exempt tool to supplement your retirement savings and cover health expenses during retirement. An HSA can provide the funds to help pay current health care expenses as well as future health care costs.
A type of personal savings account, an HSA is always yours even if you change health plans or jobs. The money in your HSA (including interest and investment earnings) grows tax-free and spends tax-free if used to pay for qualified medical expenses. There is no “use it or lose it” rule — you do not lose your money if you do not spend it in the calendar year — and there are no vesting requirements or forfeiture provisions. The account automatically rolls over year after year.
HSA Eligibility
You are eligible to open and contribute to an HSA if you:
• Are enrolled in an HSA-eligible HDHP (the Cigna HDHP OAP plan)
• Are not covered by another plan that is not a qualified HDHP, such as your spouse’s health plan
• Are not enrolled in a Health Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Are not eligible to be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return
• Are not enrolled in Medicare, Medicaid, or TRICARE
• Have not received Veterans Administration benefits
You can use the money in your HSA to pay for qualified medical expenses now or in the future. You can also use HSA funds for your spouse and dependents’ health care expenses, even if they are not covered by the HDHP.
Your HSA contributions may not exceed the annual maximum amount established by the IRS.
You decide whether to use the money in your account to pay for qualified expenses or let it grow for future use. If you are age 55 or older, you may make a yearly catch-up contribution of up to $1,000 to your HSA. If you turn 55 at anytime during the plan year, you are eligible to make the catch-up contribution for the entire plan year.
Opening an HSA
If you meet the eligibility requirements, you may open an HSA administered by HSA Bank through Cigna You will receive a debit card to manage your account reimbursements. Keep in mind, available funds are limited to the balance in your HSA. To open an account, go to www.hsabank.com. If you enroll in the HDHP OAP plan, an HSA Bank account will be created for you. You’ll receive a debit card for eligible expenses and can manage your account through the HSA Bank website or app.
Important HSA Information
• Always ask your health care provider to file claims with your medical provider so network discounts can be applied. You can pay the provider with your HSA Bank debit card based on the balance due after discount.
• You, not your employer, are responsible for maintaining ALL records and receipts for HSA reimbursements in the event of an IRS audit.
• You may open an HSA at the financial institution of your choice, but only accounts opened through HSA Bank are eligible for automatic payroll deduction and company contributions.
Company Contribution
Pref-Tech will make an annual one-time contribution to your account in the amount of $300 for employee only (individual) coverage and $600 for employee plus dependents (family) coverage. This will apply to your annual contribution limit. Your account is funded at the beginning of the plan year.
Abbreviated List of Qualified HSA/FSA Expenses
The products and services listed below are examples of medical expenses eligible for payment under your Health Care FSA or HSA. This list is not all-inclusive; additional expenses may qualify and the items listed are subject to change in accordance with IRS regulations. Please refer to IRS Publication 502 Medical and Dental Expenses at www.irs.gov for a complete description of eligible medical and dental expenses.
z Abdominal supports
z Acupuncture
z Air conditioner (when necessary for relief from difficulty in breathing)
z Alcoholism treatment
z Ambulance
z Anesthetic
z Arch supports
z Artificial limbs
z Autoette (when used for relief of sickness/disability)
z Blood tests
z Blood transfusions
z Braces
z Cardiographs
z Chiropractor
z Contact lenses
z Convalescent home (for medical treatment only)
z Crutches
z Dental treatment
z Dental X-rays
z Dentures
z Dermatologist
z Diagnostic fees
z Diathermy
z Drug addiction therapy
z Drugs (prescription)
z Elastic hosiery (prescription)
z Eyeglasses
z Fees paid to health institute prescribed by a doctor
z FICA and FUTA tax paid for medical care service
z Fluoridation unit
z Guide dog
z Gum treatment
z Gynecologist
z Healing services
z Hearing aids and batteries
z Hospital bills
z Hydrotherapy
z Insulin treatment
z Lab tests
z Lead paint removal
z Legal fees
z Lodging (away from home for outpatient care)
z Metabolism tests
z Neurologist
z Nursing (including board and meals)
z Obstetrician
z Operating room costs
z Ophthalmologist
z Optician
z Optometrist
z Oral surgery
z Organ transplant (including donor’s expenses)
z Orthopedic shoes
z Orthopedist
z Osteopath
z Oxygen and oxygen equipment
z Pediatrician
z Physician
z Physiotherapist
z Podiatrist
z Postnatal treatments
z Practical nurse for medical services
z Prenatal care
z Prescription medicines
z Psychiatrist
z Psychoanalyst
z Psychologist
z Psychotherapy
z Radium therapy
z Registered nurse
z Special school costs for the handicapped
z Spinal fluid test
z Splints
z Surgeon
z Telephone or TV equipment to assist the hard-of-hearing
z Therapy equipment
z Transportation expenses (relative to health care)
z Ultraviolet ray treatment
z Vaccines
z Vitamins (if prescribed)
z Wheelchair
z X-rays
Flexible Spending Account
An FSA allows you to set aside pretax dollars from each paycheck to pay for certain IRS-approved health care expenses. Higginbotham administers our FSA. The FSA runs on a calendar year (from January 1 –December 31).
The Health Care FSA covers qualified medical, dental, and vision expenses for you or your eligible dependents. The annual maximum contribution amount for 2026 is $3,400, and you are entitled to the full election from day one of your plan year. Eligible expenses include:
• Dental and vision expenses
• Medical deductibles and coinsurance
• Prescription copays
• Hearing aids and batteries
You may not contribute to a Health Care FSA if you enrolled in an HDHP and contribute to an HSA.
How the Health Care FSA Works
You can access the funds in your Health Care FSA two ways:
• Use your Higginbotham Benefits Debit Card to pay for qualified expenses, doctor visits, and prescription copays.
• Pay out-of-pocket and submit your receipts for reimbursement: Fax – 866-419-3516 Email – flexclaims@higginbotham.net Online – https://flexservices.higginbotham.net
Higginbotham
Benefits Debit Card
The Higginbotham Benefits Debit Card gives you immediate access to funds in your Health Care FSA when you make a purchase without needing to file a claim for reimbursement. If you use the debit card to pay anything other than a copay amount, you will need to submit an itemized receipt or an Explanation of Benefits (EOB). If you do not submit your receipts, you will receive a request for substantiation. You will have 60 days to submit your receipts after receiving the request for substantiation before your debit card is suspended. Check the expiration date on your card to see when you should order a replacement card(s).
Higginbotham Portal
The Higginbotham Portal provides information and resources to help you manage your FSA.
• Access plan documents, letters and notices, forms, account balances, contributions, and other plan information.
• Update your personal information.
• Look up qualified expenses.
• Submit claims.
Register on the Higginbotham Portal
Visit https://flexservices.higginbotham.net and click Register. Follow the instructions and scroll down to enter your information.
• Enter your employee ID, which is your Social Security number with no dashes or spaces.
• Follow the prompts to navigate the site.
• If you have any questions or concerns, contact Higginbotham:
Call – 866-419-3519
Email – flexclaims@higginbotham.net
Fax – 866-419-3516
Higginbotham Flex Mobile App
Easily access your Health Care FSA on your smartphone or tablet with the Higginbotham mobile app. Search for Higginbotham in your mobile device’s app store and download as you would any other app.
• View Accounts – See detailed account and balance information.
• Card Activity – View debit card activity.
• SnapClaim – File a claim and upload receipt photos directly from your smartphone.
• Manage Subscriptions – Set up email notifications to stay up-to-date on all account and Health Care FSA debit card activity.
Log in using the same username and password you use to log in to the Higginbotham Portal. Note: You must register on the Higginbotham Portal in order to use the mobile app.
FSAstore.com
FSAstore.com offers thousands of FSA-eligible products and services to purchase using your Higginbotham Benefits Debit Card or any major credit card. Competitive pricing and free shipping on orders over $50 can save you up to 40% using your FSA pretax dollars. Shop directly at FSAstore.com or have your physician submit prescriptions (when required). The FSAstore.com Services Channel allows you to search a database of more than 300,000 health care providers for nearby eligible services, such as acupuncture and chiropractic care. The FSAstore.com Learning Center focuses on answering common questions and keeping you informed about changes to your FSA benefits.
Dental Coverage
Our dental plans help you maintain good oral health through affordable options for preventive care, including regular checkups and other dental work. Premium contributions for dental will be deducted from your paycheck on a pretax basis. Your coverage is provided through Cigna.
DPPO Plan
Two levels of benefits are available with the High Plan depending on whether your dentist is in-network or out-of-network. You have the flexibility to select the provider of your choice, but your level of coverage may vary based on the provider you see for services. If you visit an out-of-network dentist using the Low Plan, you will owe the maximum allowable charge (MAC) based on participating provider fees. If you are on the High Plan and choose a provider that is out-of-network, your charges will be reimbursed at the 90th percentile of the Usual, Customary, and Reasonable (UCR) amount.
Vision Coverage
Our vision plan provides quality care to help preserve your health and eyesight. In addition to identifying vision and eye problems, regular exams can detect certain medical issues such as diabetes and high cholesterol. You may seek care from any licensed optometrist, ophthalmologist, or optician, but plan benefits are better if you use an in-network provider. Premium contributions are deducted from your paycheck on a pretax basis. Coverage is provided through Mutual of Omaha.
Cigna Health Care Wellness Experience
Get Started With These Simple Steps
• Set up your profile today on myCigna.com or by downloading the myCigna app
• Select the Wellness tab, then click Get Started to enroll.
Whether you want to reduce stress, have more energy, or get more involved in your community, you can customize your goals and find the best path to get there. It’s all included with your Cigna medical plan at no extra charge to you.
Cigna’s Wellness Experience makes taking better care of yourself fun and easy.
Take a digital coaching journey.
After you choose a goal, personalized digital coaching guides you to take small, achievable steps, so that you can “try on” and build lasting healthy habits.
Challenge yourself — and others.
Add a friendly dose of competition to your well-being journey when you challenge friends and colleagues to create new healthy habits, like taking the most steps or burning the most calories.
Track your progress.
Integrate with your Apple Watch, Fitbit, and many other fitness tracking apps and devices, so you get credit for all your activity.
Spread the motivation.
Offer free account access to up to 10 friends and family members to encourage and motivate each other.
Life and AD&D Insurance
Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) insurance through Mutual of Omaha are important parts of your financial security, especially if others depend on you for support. With Life insurance, your beneficiary(ies) can use the coverage to pay off your debts such as credit cards, mortgages, and other final expenses. AD&D coverage provides specified benefits for a covered accidental bodily injury that causes dismemberment (e.g., the loss of a hand, foot, or eye). In the event that death occurs from an accident, 100% of the AD&D benefit would be payable to your beneficiary(ies). As you grow older, your Life and AD&D coverage amount reduces by 35% at age 70, and by 50% at age 75.
Basic Life and AD&D
Basic Life and AD&D insurance are provided at no cost to you. You are automatically covered at $50,000 for each benefit.
Voluntary Life and AD&D
You may purchase additional Life and AD&D insurance for you and your eligible dependents. If you decline Voluntary Life and AD&D insurance when first eligible, or if you elect coverage and wish to increase your benefit amount at a later date, Evidence of Insurability (EOI) — proof of good health — may be required before coverage is approved. You must elect Voluntary Life and AD&D coverage for yourself in order to elect coverage for your spouse or children. If you are currently enrolled, you may increase your election by up to $10,000 (up to the Guaranteed Issue) without EOI.
and AD&D
• Increments of $10,000 up to the lesser of five times salary or $500,000
• Guaranteed Issue $150,000 Spouse
• Increments of $5,000 up to $250,000 not to exceed 100% of employee amount
• Guaranteed Issue $25,000
Child(ren)
• Increments of $1,000 to a maximum of $10,000 *Premium is based on employee’s age
Designating a Beneficiary
A beneficiary is the person or entity you designate to receive the death benefits of your Life and AD&D insurance policies. You can name more than one beneficiary and you can change beneficiaries at anytime. If you name more than one beneficiary, you must identify the share for each.
* Spouse rate is based on employee’s age
Cost Example
How to Calculate Your Weekly Voluntary Life and AD&D Premium
Disability Insurance
Disability insurance provides partial income protection if you are unable to work due to a covered accident or illness. We offer Voluntary Short Term Disability (STD) and Voluntary Long Term Disability (LTD) insurance for you to purchase through Mutual of Omaha if you work 30 or more hours per week.
Short Term Disability Insurance
Voluntary STD coverage pays a percentage of your weekly salary for up to 11 weeks if you are temporarily disabled and unable to work due to an illness, non-work-related injury, or pregnancy. STD benefits are not payable if the disability is due to a job-related injury or illness.
Long Term Disability Insurance
Voluntary LTD insurance pays a percentage of your monthly salary for a covered disability or injury that prevents you from working for more than 90 days. Benefits begin at the end of an elimination period and continue while you are disabled up to Social Security Normal Retirement Age (SSNRA). LTD benefits will be decreased by the same amount as any Social Security or disability claim.
Voluntary Long Term Disability
*Benefits may not be paid for any condition treated within 12 months prior to your effective date until you have been covered under this plan for 12 months.
How to Calculate Your
Divide your annual earnings by 12 to get your monthly income.
Divide that figure by $100.
Multiply that figure by your age-based rate.
Multiply that figure by 12, then divide by 52. = Per-Pay-Period Deduction =
Voluntary Benefits
Pref-Tech offers its employees and eligible family members the opportunity to enroll in additional coverage that complements the traditional health care programs. These plans are all offered through Mutual of Omaha
Accident Insurance
Accident insurance provides affordable protection against a sudden, unforeseen accident. The Accident plan helps offset the direct and indirect expenses resulting from an accident such as copayments, deductible, ambulance, physical therapy, and other costs not covered by traditional health plans. Some accidents covered under this plan include emergency visits, hospital stays, fractures and dislocations, medical exams, physical therapy, transportation, and lodging.
• Admission
• Daily Confinement
Voluntary Benefits
Critical Illness Insurance
For many, a critical illness can expose an individual to an unexpected gap in protection. While health plans may help cover many of the direct costs associated with a critical illness, expenses such as lost income, childcare, travel to and from treatment, high deductibles, and copays may quickly diminish savings. Critical Illness insurance pays a fixed benefit if you are diagnosed with a covered critical illness after your coverage effective date. A lump-sum payment is payable when you or a covered family member are diagnosed with a covered condition such as stroke, heart attack, cancer, or renal failure up to $10,000.
Critical Illness Coverage
• Employee
• Spouse
• Child(ren)
Heart attack, heart transplant, stroke, ALS (Lou Gehrig’s), advanced Alzheimer’s, advanced Parkinson’s, major organ transplant/placement on UNOS list, end-stage renal failure and cancer (invasive)
The Hospital Indemnity plan helps you with the high cost of medical care by paying you a cash benefit when you have an inpatient hospital stay. Unlike traditional insurance, which pays a benefit to the hospital or doctor, this plan pays you directly. It is up to you how you want to use the cash benefit. These costs may include meals, travel, childcare or eldercare, deductibles, coinsurance, medication, or time away from work. See the plan document for full details.
Admission & Confinement - Admission benefits are payable up to a
Mutual of Omaha Value Adds
As a Mutual of Omaha member, you have the following value-added programs available to you and your eligible dependents at no cost to you.
Employee Assistance Program
The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a confidential program to help you find solutions for personal or workplace issues. Benefits for you and your eligible dependents include unlimited telephone access to EAP professionals and up to three faceto-face or virtual sessions per year with a counselor, including legal consultations. There are professionals available 24/7 to help with the following:
• Stress/depression
• Financial issues
• Family/relationship issues
• Drug/alcohol abuse
• Grief issues
• Parenting/eldercare
• Other personal concerns
For assistance, visit www.mutualofomaha.com/eap or call 800-316-2796.
Will Preparation
Creating a will is an important investment in your future. In just minutes, you can create a personalized will that keeps your information safe and secure. Log on to www.willprepservices.com and use the code MUTUALWILLS to register.
Worldwide Travel Assistance and Identity Theft
This program provides travel assistance for you and your dependents if you are traveling more than 100 miles from home. Representatives can help with trip planning or assist in an emergency while traveling. They can find translation, interpreter, or legal services, and can assist with lost baggage, emergency funds, document replacement, and more. They can also help if your identity has been stolen with education, prevention, and recovery information.
Access this service by calling 800-856-9947
Trip Assistance
Minimize travel hassles by calling pre-departure for assistance with obtaining a passport, health advisories, embassy locations, and emergency payment and cash.
Retirement Plan
A consistent savings plan throughout your career is the foundation for security during your retirement years. A 401(k) plan can be a powerful tool in promoting financial security in retirement. Pref-Tech’s 401(k) plan through T. Rowe Price is designed to help you reach your investment goals.
How the Retirement Plan Works
You are eligible to participate in your 401(k) coinciding with or following the date the eligibility requirements are met. Eligibility requirements are 1) you must be at least 18 years of age, and 2) work at least 30 hours a week. You may enroll on your first day of full-time employment.
You can adjust your contribution amount by following your employer's guidelines. Any changes you make will take effect as soon as possible and stay in place until you decide to update them again. You’re in control of how your account is invested. You can stop your contributions anytime in writing (via a form that Human Resources will send you).
You may contribute to the plan on a pretax (traditional) or after-tax (Roth) basis, or a combination of both. The maximum you may contribute to both combined for 2026 is projected to be $24,500. The amount you elect will be deducted on a per-pay-period basis. If you are age 50 or older, you may contribute an additional $8,000 (projected for 2026).
Safe Harbor
In order to maintain “safe harbor” status, Pref-Tech will make a safe harbor matching contribution equal to 100% of your salary deferrals that do not exceed 4% of your compensation. This safe harbor contribution is 100% vested.
Vesting
You are always 100% vested in your own contributions, and safe harbor matching amounts are 100% immediately vested.
Investment Options
You may direct your contributions to any of the investments offered within the Pref-Tech 401(k) plan. Changes to your investments can be made with a Contribution Change Form. This can be found on the Glove Box SharePoint site.
Learn More
For more details, refer to your 401(k) Enrollment Guide or email hr@pref-tech.com
Important SECURE 2.0 Update:
Starting January 1, 2026, if your prior-year wages from Pref-Tech were $145,000 or more (indexed for inflation), all catch-up contributions must be made on a Roth (aftertax) basis. Employee below this threshold may continue to choose between pre-tax and Roth for their catch-up contributions.
2026 Employee Contributions
Glossary of Terms
Beneficiary – Who will receive a benefit in the event of the insured’s death. A policy may have more than one beneficiary.
Coinsurance – Your share of the cost of a covered health care service, calculated as a percent (for example, 20%) of the allowed amount for the service, typically after you meet your deductible.
Copay – The fixed amount you pay for health care services received.
Deductible – The amount you owe for health care services before your health insurance begins to pay its portion. For example, if your deductible is $1,000, your plan does not pay anything until you meet your $1,000 deductible for covered health care services. The deductible may not apply to all services, including preventive care.
Employee Contribution – The amount you pay for your insurance coverage.
Employer Contribution – The amount Preferred Technologies contributes to the cost of your benefits.
Explanation of Benefits (EOB) – A statement sent by your insurance carrier that explains which procedures and services were provided, how much they cost, what portion of the claim was paid by the plan, what portion of the claim is your responsibility, and information on how you can appeal the insurer’s decision. These statements are also posted on the carrier’s website for your review.
Flexible Spending Account (FSA) – An option that allows participants to set aside pretax dollars to pay for certain qualified expenses during a specific time period (usually a 12-month period).
Health Savings Account (HSA) – A personal savings account that allows you to pay for qualified medical expenses with pretax dollars.
High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) – A medical plan with a higher deductible in exchange for a lower monthly premium. You must meet the annual deductible before any benefits are paid by the plan.
In-Network – Doctors, hospitals, and other providers that contract with your insurance company to provide health care services at discounted rates.
Out-of-Network – Doctors, hospitals, and other providers that are not contracted with your insurance company. If you choose an out-of-network provider, you may be responsible for costs over the amount allowed by your insurance carrier.
Out-of-Pocket Maximum – Also known as an outof-pocket limit. The most you pay during a policy period (usually a 12-month period) before your health insurance or plan begins to pay 100% of the allowed amount. The limit does not include your premium, charges beyond the Reasonable and Customary Allowance (R&C), or health care your plan does not cover. Check with your health insurance carrier to confirm what payments apply to the out-of-pocket maximum.
Prescription Medications – Medications prescribed by a doctor. Cost of these medications is determined by their assigned tier: Generic, Formulary Brand Name, or Non-Formulary Brand Name.
• Formulary Brand Name Drugs – Brand name drugs on your provider’s list of approved drugs. You can check online with your provider to see this list.
• Generic Drugs – Drugs approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to be chemically identical to corresponding brand name versions. The color or flavor of a generic medicine may be different, but the active ingredient is the same. Generic drugs are usually the most cost-effective version of any medication.
• Non-Formulary Brand Name Drugs – Brand name drugs not on your provider’s list of approved drugs. These drugs are typically newer and have higher copayments.
• Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications –Medications typically made available without a prescription.
Preventive Care – The care you receive to prevent illness or disease. It also includes counseling to prevent health problems.
Reasonable and Customary Allowance (R&C) – Also known as an eligible expense or the Usual and Customary (U&C). The amount your insurance company will pay for a medical service in a geographic region based on what providers in the area usually charge for the same or similar medical service.
SSNRA – Social Security Normal Retirement Age.
Online Enrollment Instructions
1
2
Go to www.benefitsinhand.com. (Firsttime users: Follow steps 2-5. Returning users: Log in and start at step 6.)
If this is your first time to log in, click on the New User Registration link. Once you register, you will use your username and password to log in.
3
Enter personal information and the company identifier PrefTech, then click Next .
4
5
Create a username (work email address recommended) and password. Then check the I agree to terms and conditions box before you click Finish
If you used an email address as your username, you will receive a validation email to that address. You may now log in to the system.
6
7
8
Click the Start Enrollment button to begin the enrollment process.
Confirm or update your personal information and click Save & Continue.
Edit dependents or add dependents who need to be covered on your benefits. Once all dependents are listed, click Save & Continue.
9
10
Follow the on-screen steps to make your selections, or click on Decline Coverage if preferred.
Once you have elected or declined all benefits, you will see a summary of your selections. Click the Click to Sign button. Your enrollment will not be complete until you click the Click to Sign button.
online at
Have questions about your benefits or need help enrolling?
Call or text the ERC at 866-419-3518
Representatives are available to take your call or text Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CT.
Important Notices
Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998
In October 1998, Congress enacted the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998. This notice explains some important provisions of the Act. Please review this information carefully.
As specified in the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act, a plan participant or beneficiary who elects breast reconstruction in connection with a mastectomy is also entitled to the following benefits:
• All stages of reconstruction of the breast on which the mastectomy was performed;
• Surgery and reconstruction of the other breast to produce a symmetrical appearance; and
• Prostheses and treatment of physical complications of the mastectomy, including lymphedema.
Health plans must determine the manner of coverage in consultation with the attending physician and the patient. Coverage for breast reconstruction and related services may be subject to deductibles and coinsurance amounts that are consistent with those that apply to other benefits under the plan.
Special Enrollment Rights
This notice is being provided to ensure that you understand your right to apply for group health insurance coverage. You should read this notice even if you plan to waive coverage at this time.
Loss of Other Coverage or Becoming Eligible for Medicaid or a state Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
If you are declining coverage for yourself or your dependents because of other health insurance or group health plan coverage, you may be able to later enroll yourself and your dependents in this plan if you or your dependents lose eligibility for that other coverage (or if the employer stops contributing toward your or your dependents’ other coverage). However, you must enroll within 31 days after your or your dependents’ other coverage ends (or after the employer that sponsors that coverage stops contributing toward the other coverage).
If you or your dependents lose eligibility under a Medicaid plan or CHIP, or if you or your dependents become eligible for a subsidy under Medicaid or CHIP, you may be able to enroll yourself and your dependents in this plan. You must provide notification within 60 days after you or your dependent is terminated from, or determined to be eligible for, such assistance.
Marriage, Birth or Adoption
If you have a new dependent as a result of a marriage, birth, adoption, or placement for adoption, you may be able to enroll yourself and your dependents. However, you must enroll within 31 days after the marriage, birth, or placement for adoption.
For More Information or Assistance
To request special enrollment or obtain more information, contact:
Preferred Technologies, LLC
Human Resources 1414 Wedgewood Street Houston, TX 77093 281-442-0550
Your Prescription Drug Coverage and Medicare
Please read this notice carefully and keep it where you can find it. This notice has information about your current prescription drug coverage with Preferred Technologies, LLC and about your options under Medicare’s prescription drug coverage. This information can help you decide whether or not you want to enroll in a Medicare drug plan. Information about where you can get help to make decisions about your prescription drug coverage is at the end of this notice.
If neither you nor any of your covered dependents are eligible for or have Medicare, this notice does not apply to you or the dependents, as the case may be. However, you should still keep a copy of this notice in the event you or a dependent should qualify for coverage under Medicare in the future. Please note, however, that later notices might supersede this notice.
1. Medicare prescription drug coverage became available in 2006 to everyone with Medicare. You can get this coverage through a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan or a Medicare Advantage Plan that offers prescription drug coverage. All Medicare prescription drug plans provide at least a standard level of coverage set by Medicare. Some plans may also offer more coverage for a higher monthly premium.
2. Preferred Technologies, LLC has determined that the prescription drug coverage offered by the Preferred Technologies, LLC medical plan is, on average for all plan participants, expected to pay out as much as the standard Medicare prescription drug coverage pays and is considered Creditable Coverage. The HSA plan is considered Creditable Coverage.
Important Notices
Because your existing coverage is, on average, at least as good as standard Medicare prescription drug coverage, you can keep this coverage and not pay a higher premium (a penalty) if you later decide to enroll in a Medicare prescription drug plan, as long as you later enroll within specific time periods.
You can enroll in a Medicare prescription drug plan when you first become eligible for Medicare. If you decide to wait to enroll in a Medicare prescription drug plan, you may enroll later, during Medicare Part D’s annual enrollment period, which runs each year from October 15 through December 7 but as a general rule, if you delay your enrollment in Medicare Part D after first becoming eligible to enroll, you may have to pay a higher premium (a penalty).
You should compare your current coverage, including which drugs are covered at what cost, with the coverage and cost of the plans offering Medicare prescription drug coverage in your area. See the Plan’s summary plan description for a summary of the Plan’s prescription drug coverage. If you don’t have a copy, you can get one by contacting Preferred Technologies, LLC at the phone number or address listed at the end of this section.
If you choose to enroll in a Medicare prescription drug plan and cancel your current Preferred Technologies, LLC prescription drug coverage, be aware that you and your dependents may not be able to get this coverage back. To regain coverage, you would have to re-enroll in the Plan, pursuant to the Plan’s eligibility and enrollment rules. You should review the Plan’s summary plan description to determine if and when you are allowed to add coverage.
If you cancel or lose your current coverage and do not have prescription drug coverage for 63 days or longer prior to enrolling in the Medicare prescription drug coverage, your monthly premium will be at least 1% per month greater for every month that you did not have coverage for as long as you have Medicare prescription drug coverage. For example, if nineteen months lapse without coverage, your premium will always be at least 19% higher than it would have been without the lapse in coverage.
For more information about this notice or your current prescription drug coverage:
Contact the Human Resources Department at 281-442-0550.
NOTE: You will receive this notice annually and at other times in the future, such as before the next period you can enroll in Medicare prescription drug coverage and if this coverage changes. You may also request a copy.
For more information about your options under Medicare prescription drug coverage:
More detailed information about Medicare plans that offer prescription drug coverage is in the “Medicare & You” handbook. You will get a copy of the handbook in the mail every year from Medicare. You may also be contacted directly by Medicare prescription drug plans. For more information about Medicare prescription drug coverage:
• Visit www.medicare.gov
• Call your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (see the inside back cover of your copy of the “Medicare & You” handbook for their telephone number) for personalized help.
• Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users should call 877-486-2048
If you have limited income and resources, extra help paying for Medicare prescription drug coverage is available. Information about this extra help is available from the Social Security Administration (SSA) online at www.socialsecurity. gov, or you can call them at 800-772-1213. TTY users should call 800-325-0778 . Remember: Keep this Creditable Coverage notice. If you enroll in one of the new plans approved by Medicare which offer prescription drug coverage, you may be required to provide a copy of this notice when you join to show whether or not you have maintained creditable coverage and whether or not you are required to pay a higher premium (a penalty).
January 1, 2026
Preferred Technologies, LLC Human Resources 1414 Wedgewood Street Houston, TX 77093 281-442-0550
Notice of HIPAA Privacy Practices
This notice describes how medical information about you may be used and disclosed and how you can access this information. Please review it carefully.
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) imposes numerous requirements on employer health plans concerning the use and disclosure of individual health information. This information known as protected health information (PHI), includes virtually all individually identifiable health information held by a health plan – whether received in writing, in an electronic medium or as oral communication. This notice describes the privacy practices of the Employee Benefits Plan (referred to in this notice as the Plan), sponsored by Preferred Technologies, LLC , hereinafter referred to as the plan sponsor.
Important Notices
The Plan is required by law to maintain the privacy of your health information and to provide you with this notice of the Plan’s legal duties and privacy practices with respect to your health information. It is important to note that these rules apply to the Plan, not the plan sponsor as an employer. You have the right to inspect and copy protected health information which is maintained by and for the Plan for enrollment, payment, claims and case management. If you feel that protected health information about you is incorrect or incomplete, you may ask the Human Resources Department to amend the information. For a full copy of the Notice of Privacy Practices describing how protected health information about you may be used and disclosed and how you can get access to the information, contact the Human Resources Department.
Complaints: If you believe your privacy rights have been violated, you may complain to the Plan and to the Secretary of Health and Human Services. You will not be retaliated against for filing a complaint. To file a complaint, please contact the Privacy Officer.
Preferred Technologies, LLC Human Resources 1414 Wedgewood Street Houston, TX 77093 281-442-0550
Conclusion
PHI use and disclosure by the Plan is regulated by a federal law known as HIPAA (the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act). You may find these rules at 45 Code of Federal Regulations Parts 160 and 164. The Plan intends to comply with these regulations. This Notice attempts to summarize the regulations. The regulations will supersede any discrepancy between the information in this Notice and the regulations.
Premium Assistance Under Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
If you or your children are eligible for Medicaid or CHIP and you’re eligible for health coverage from your employer, your state may have a premium assistance program that can help pay for coverage, using funds from their Medicaid or CHIP programs. If you or your children aren’t eligible for Medicaid or CHIP, you won’t be eligible for these premium assistance programs but you may be able to buy individual insurance coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace. For more information, visit www.healthcare.gov
If you or your dependents are already enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP and you live in a State listed below, contact your State Medicaid or CHIP office to find out if premium assistance is available.
If you or your dependents are NOT currently enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP, and you think you or any of your dependents might be eligible for either of these programs, contact your State Medicaid or CHIP office or dial 1-877-KIDS NOW or www.insurekidsnow.gov to find out how to apply. If you qualify, ask your state if it has a program that might help you pay the premiums for an employer-sponsored plan.
If you or your dependents are eligible for premium assistance under Medicaid or CHIP, as well as eligible under your employer plan, your employer must allow you to enroll in your employer plan if you aren’t already enrolled. This is called a “special enrollment” opportunity, and you must request coverage within 60 days of being determined eligible for premium assistance. If you have questions about enrolling in your employer plan, contact the Department of Labor at www.askebsa.dol.gov or call 1-866-444-EBSA (3272).
If you live in one of the following States, you may be eligible for assistance paying your employer health plan premiums. The following list of States is current as of July 31, 2025. Contact your State for more information on eligibility.
To see if any other States have added a premium assistance program since July 31, 2025 , or for more information on special enrollment rights, you can contact either:
U.S. Department of Labor Employee Benefits Security Administration www.dol.gov/agencies/ebsa 1-866-444-EBSA (3272)
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services www.cms.hhs.gov 1-877-267-2323 , Menu Option 4, Ext. 61565
Important Notices
Continuation of Coverage Rights Under COBRA
Under the Federal Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 (COBRA), if you are covered under the Preferred Technologies, LLC group health plan you and your eligible dependents may be entitled to continue your group health benefits coverage under the Preferred Technologies, LLC plan after you have left employment with the company. If you wish to elect COBRA coverage, contact your Human Resources Department for the applicable deadlines to elect coverage and pay the initial premium.
Plan Contact Information
Preferred Technologies, LLC Human Resources 1414 Wedgewood Street Houston, TX 77093 281-442-0550
Your Rights and Protections Against Surprise Medical Bills
When you get emergency care or get treated by an out-ofnetwork provider at an in-network hospital or ambulatory surgical center, you are protected from surprise billing or balance billing.
What is “balance billing” (sometimes called “surprise billing”)?
When you see a doctor or other health care provider, you may owe certain out-of-pocket costs, such as a copayment, coinsurance, and/or a deductible. You may have other costs or have to pay the entire bill if you see a provider or visit a health care facility that isn’t in your health plan’s network.
“Out-of-network” describes providers and facilities that have not signed a contract with your health plan. Out-of-network providers may be permitted to bill you for the difference between what your plan agreed to pay and the full amount charged for a service. This is called “balance billing.” This amount is likely more than in-network costs for the same service and might not count toward your annual out-ofpocket limit.
“Surprise billing” is an unexpected balance bill. This can happen when you can’t control who is involved in your care—like when you have an emergency or when you schedule a visit at an in-network facility but are unexpectedly treated by an out-of-network provider.
You are protected from balance billing for:
• Emergency services – If you have an emergency medical condition and get emergency services from an out-ofnetwork provider or facility, the most the provider or
facility may bill you is your plan’s in-network cost-sharing amount (such as copayments and coinsurance). You cannot be balance billed for these emergency services. This includes services you may get after you are in stable condition, unless you give written consent and give up your protections not to be balanced billed for these poststabilization services.
• Certain services at an in-network hospital or ambulatory surgical center – When you get services from an innetwork hospital or ambulatory surgical center, certain providers there may be out-of-network. In these cases, the most those providers may bill you is your plan’s in-network cost-sharing amount. This applies to emergency medicine, anesthesia, pathology, radiology, laboratory, neonatology, assistant surgeon, hospitalist, or intensivist services. These providers cannot balance bill you and may not ask you to give up your protections not to be balance billed.
If you get other services at these in-network facilities, out-ofnetwork providers cannot balance bill you, unless you give written consent and give up your protections.
You are never required to give up your protections from balance billing. You also are not required to get care out-ofnetwork. You can choose a provider or facility in your plan’s network.
When balance billing is not allowed, you also have the following protections:
• You are only responsible for paying your share of the cost (like the copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles that you would pay if the provider or facility was in-network). Your health plan will pay out-of-network providers and facilities directly.
• Your health plan generally must:
• Cover emergency services without requiring you to get approval for services in advance (prior authorization).
• Cover emergency services by out-of-network providers.
• Base what you owe the provider or facility (costsharing) on what it would pay an in-network provider or facility and show that amount in your explanation of benefits.
• Count any amount you pay for emergency services or out-of-network services toward your deductible and out-of-pocket limit.
If you believe you have been wrongly billed, you may contact your insurance provider. Visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises for more information about your rights under federal law.
This brochure highlights the main features of Preferred Technologies, LLC employee benefits program. It does not include all plan rules, details, limitations, and exclusions. The terms of your benefit plans are governed by legal documents, including insurance contracts. Should there be an inconsistency between this brochure and the legal plan documents, the plan documents are the final authority. Preferred Technologies, LLC reserves the right to change or discontinue its employee benefits plans at anytime.
