We are pleased to offer a full benefits package to you and your eligible dependents. Read this guide to know what benefits are available to you. You may only enroll for or make changes to your benefits during Open Enrollment or when you have a Qualifying Life Event.
AVAILABILITY OF SUMMARY HEALTH INFORMATION
Your plan offers medical coverage options. To help you make an informed choice, review each plan’s Summary of Benefits and Coverage (SBC) available from Human Resources.
Important Contacts
BENEFITS ASSISTANCE
Higginbotham Employee Response Center 866-419-3518
• A regular, full-time employee working an average of 30 hours per week
WHEN TO ENROLL
• Enroll by the deadline given by Human Resources
WHEN COVERAGE STARTS
• First of the month following date of hire
Employee
WHO IS ELIGIBLE
• A regular, full-time employee working an average of 30 hours per week
WHEN TO ENROLL
• Enroll during OE or when you have a QLE
WHEN COVERAGE STARTS
• OE: Start of the plan year
• QLE: Ask Human Resources
Dependent(s)
WHO IS ELIGIBLE
• Your legal spouse
• Child(ren) under age 26, regardless of student, dependency, or marital status
• Child(ren) over age 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
WHEN TO ENROLL
• You must enroll the dependent(s) at OE or for a QLE
• When covering dependents, you must enroll for and be on the same plans
WHEN COVERAGE STARTS
• Based on January 1, 2026 effective dates
Qualifying Life Events
CHANGING COVERAGE OUTSIDE OF OPEN ENROLLMENT
You may only change coverage during the plan year if you have a Qualifying Life Event, such as:
Gain or loss of
Change in employment status affecting benefits
Receiving a Qualified Medical Child Support Order
Significant change in cost of spouse’s coverage
You have 30 days from the event to notify Human Resources and complete your changes. You may need to provide documents to verify the change.
ADP Online Benefits Enrollment System
GETTING STARTED
Managing your benefits online is easy through ADP. Enroll, update, and find benefit details, costs, and additional resources in one easily accessible place.
HOW TO REGISTER
1. Select Start this Enrollment – You will be routed to the Enrollments page, where you have the option to either start the Open Enrollment Process or review your current benefits.
• To start, click Enroll Now in the Open Enrollment box. You will be brought back to the Welcome Note and Introduction screen. Review all information on this screen as there are often important references for your Open Enrollment options.
• Click Continue
• Add your dependent / beneficiary information before starting your benefit selections.
2. Making Your Elections – The left side of the screen will indicate the different plan types that are available to enroll in. When you are viewing the selected plan type, all enrollment options will be displayed on screen.
• Step 1: Which Plan Would You Prefer? You may choose to click Select Plan for the desired enrollment or Waive This Benefit. If you choose to waive a benefit, you will be required to select a waive reason.
You may review your costs on a Per Pay Period, Monthly, or Annual basis by selecting the desired view in the calculator drop down.
• Step 2: Indicate Which Dependents Should be Enrolled. The coverage level for your enrollment (Employee Only, Employee + Spouse, Employee + Child(ren), Employee + Family) is driven by which dependents you select to enroll.
Click Continue to preview. Review your enrollment, costs, and covered individuals carefully. Then click Save and Continue to Next Benefit to continue making your desired selections.
3. Review All Selections – When you are ready to confirm your selections, click Submit Enrollment. Please note that your benefit elections will not be processed until you click Submit Enrollment If Save for Later is selected, these enrollments will not be submitted to your HR team until you fully submit the enrollment.
Please ensure you receive the confirmation note indicating your elections have been submitted.
4. Making Changes or Modifications During the Open Enrollment Period – You may log in and navigate to Myself > Benefits > Enrollments and click the Enroll Now option again in the Open Enrollment box, which will bring you back to the beginning of the profile to make any desired election changes.
Plan Benefits
FOR PREVENTIVE TO CHRONIC CARE
Physician Office Visit •
• Outpatient Surgery
• Major Diagnostic Service (CAT, MRI, PET, Lab)
Retail Pharmacy
30-day supply
• Preferred generic
• Non-preferred generic
• Preferred brand name
• Non-preferred brand name
Mail Order Pharmacy
90-day supply
• Preferred generic
• Non-preferred generic
•
•
Specialty Pharmacy
30-day supply
•
• Preferred
$0
Medical
The medical plan through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) protects you and your family from major financial hardship in the event of illness or injury.
BCBSTX HDHP Plan
The medical plan offered is a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) which can be combined with a Health Savings Account (HSA). The plan has a $6,000 individual or $12,000 family in-network deductible and uses the Blue Choice PPO provider network.
HIGH DEDUCTIBLE HEALTH PLAN
An HDHP allows you to see any provider when you need care, and you will pay less for care when you go to in-network providers. In exchange for a lower per-paycheck cost for medical benefits, you must satisfy a higher plan deductible that applies to almost all health care expenses, including prescription drugs. If you enroll in the HDHP, you may be eligible to open a Health Savings Account (see page 17 ).
Dental
Our dental plans through Guardian help you maintain good oral health through affordable options for preventive care, including regular checkups and other dental work. You have two dental plan options:
MANAGED DENTAL CARE PLAN
When you enroll in the Guardian Managed Dental Care plan, you must choose a primary dentist from the Managed DentalGuard network directory to manage your care. There is no deductible to meet and all services are covered by a fixed copay. If you see an out-ofnetwork provider, you will be responsible for all charges.
DENTAL PPO PLAN
Two levels of benefits are available with the Dental PPO plan: in-network and out-of-network. You may see any dental provider for care, but you will pay less and get the highest level of benefits with in-network providers. You could pay more if you use an out-of-network provider.
In-Network or Out-of-Network Providers
As a participant in the Dental PPO plan, you may see any dentist and receive benefits. However, using in-network Guardian dentists will save you money. Out-of-network dentists do not have to accept discounted fees.
MAXIMUM ROLLOVER PROGRAM
If you enroll in a dental plan, you will automatically be enrolled in the Guardian Maximum Rollover Program. This program rewards you for going to the dentist regularly to prevent or detect the early signs of serious diseases. If you submit a claim (without exceeding the paid claims threshold of a benefit year), Guardian will roll over part of your unused annual maximum into a Maximum Rollover Account (MRA). This can be used in future years if your plan’s annual maximum is reached. View your MRA statement at www.guardianlife.com or call 800-541-7846
Example of How the Maximum Rollover Program Works
$1,500
Maximum claims reimbursement
$700 Claims amount that determines rollover eligibility
$350 Additional dollars added to a plan’s annual maximum for future years
Dental Plan Summary
$1,250 The limit that cannot be exceeded within the MRA
* Reimbursement for covered services received from an out-of-network dentist will be based on a percentile of the prevailing fee data for the dentist’s ZIP code. You could be balance billed for any amount due over the covered benefit.
Early Smiles
The Guardian Early Smiles program helps you save on dental care for children age 12 and under. If you enroll in a dental plan, your covered children are automatically eligible for this benefit.
• Preventive, Basic, and Major services are covered 100% — you pay nothing.
• No deductible applies — benefits can be used right away.
There is no waiting period, but frequency limitations and plan provisions may apply. If you enroll in the Dental PPO plan, orthodontic services are covered at the 50% coinsurance amount.
Vision
FOR YOUR PEEPERS
Our vision plan offers quality care to help preserve your health and eyesight. Regular exams can detect certain medical issues such as diabetes and high cholesterol, in addition to vision and eye problems. You may seek care from any vision provider, but the plan will pay the highest level of benefits when you see in-network providers. Coverage is provided through Guardian utilizing the VSP Choice network of providers.
Telemedicine
Virtual visits provided by MDLIVE make it easy for you to get the treatment you need, when you need it. This service is a convenient alternative if it is difficult for you to leave home or work for an in-person office visit or if care is needed after regular office hours. Boardcertified doctors are available 24/7 for non-emergency care by phone, online video, or mobile app.
MDLIVE doctors can treat a variety of conditions and can write prescriptions, if needed. Common health conditions include:
• Allergies
• Cold/flu
• Fever
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Sinus infections
Avoid crowded waiting rooms, expensive urgent care or emergency room bills, or waiting for weeks to see your doctor. With MDLIVE, you can talk to or see a doctor in minutes. Note: Always go to the emergency room in life-threatening situations.
Your regular provider may offer telemedicine services, so it is best to ask now and know what your options are before you need care. Costs may differ from MDLIVE services.
Visit www.mdlive.com/bcbstx
at 888-680-8646 Text BCBSTX to 635-483
Download the MDLIVE app to your smartphone or mobile device
Health Care Options
FOR NON-EMERGENCY AND EMERGENCY CARE
Becoming familiar with your options for medical care can save you time and money.
Non-Emergency Care
Telemedicine
Access to care via phone, online video, or mobile app whether you are home, work, or traveling; medications can be prescribed.
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Doctor’s Office
Generally, the best place for routine preventive care; established relationship; able to treat based on medical history.
Office hours vary
Retail Clinic
Usually lower out-of-pocket cost than urgent care; when you can’t see your doctor; located in stores, and pharmacies.
Hours vary based on store hours
Urgent Care
When you need immediate attention; walk-in basis is usually accepted.
Generally includes evening, weekend, and holiday hours
Emergency Care
Hospital ER
Life-threatening or critical conditions; trauma treatment ; multiple bills for doctor, and facility.
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Freestanding 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
Infections
Sore and strep throat
Common infections
Sprains and strains
Minor broken bones Small cuts that may require stitches Minor burns and infections
Chest pain
Difficulty breathing
Severe bleeding
Blurred or sudden loss of vision
Major broken bones
Most major injuries except trauma
Severe pain
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.
BCBSTX Resources
BLUE ACCESS FOR MEMBERS
Blue Access for Members (BAM) is the secure BCBSTX member website where you can:
• Check claim status or history
• Confirm dependent eligibility
• Sign up for electronic Explanation of Benefits
• Locate in-network providers
• Print or request an ID card
• Review your benefits
• Get tips to live and eat healthier
To get started, log on to www.bcbstx.com and use the information on your BCBSTX ID card to complete the registration process.
MOBILE APP
The BCBSTX mobile app can help you stay organized and in control of your health anytime, anywhere. Log in from your mobile device to access your BAM account, including:
• Track account balances and deductibles
• Access ID card information
• Find doctors, dentists, and pharmacies
BLUE365
Blue365 can help you save money on health and wellness products and services not covered by insurance. There are no claims to file, and you do not need a referral or preauthorization. Sign up for Blue365 at www.blue365deals.com/bcbstx to receive weekly Featured Deals by email. Discount categories include:
• Apparel and footwear
• Fitness
• Hearing and vision
NURSELINE
• Home and family
• Nutrition
• Personal care
Call 800-581-0368 for immediate access to registered nurses who can answer general health questions, make appointments with your doctor, and help determine where to go for immediate or emergency health care services. You can also access an audio library of more than 1,000 health-related topics in both English and Spanish.
WELL ONTARGET
Well onTarget provides the support you need to make healthy choices and rewards you for your hard work. Use the online wellness portal and mobile app to access a suite of personalized tools and resources.
• Biometric screenings
• Health assessment
• Blue Points program
• Fitness tracking
• Fitness program
• And more
Visit www.wellontarget.com to access the Well onTarget member portal. If you have already registered on BAM, use the same log-in information. If not, you can register on this site. Get the Well onTarget mobile app, AlwaysOn, to take a health assessment, check your Blue Points balance, and track wellness information.
WELL ONTARGET FITNESS PROGRAM
As a BCBSTX member, the Fitness Program is available exclusively for you and your covered dependents (age 16 and older). Access a nationwide network of fitness locations and enjoy other program perks such as:
• Flexible gym network for a choice of gyms and preferences
• Studio class network for boutique-style classes and specialty gyms
• Family-friendly gyms
• Convenient payment
Digital Fitness is also available if you prefer to work out at home. Access thousands of digital fitness videos and live classes such as cardio, boot camp, barre, yoga, and more. Visit www.bcbstx.com or call 888-762-BLUE (2583) for details.
Important: The Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) cannot reimburse expenses paid with HSA funds. Only expenses paid using your checking or savings account, cash, or personal credit card are eligible for reimbursement under the HRA.
Health Reimbursement Arrangement
True North Employment Services provides a Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) to help offset your outof-pocket health care costs. The HRA is administered by Higginbotham.
HOW THE HRA WORKS
Under this benefit, True North will reimburse you for your medical expenses up to the benefit allowed amount.
• You must be enrolled in the medical plan to receive the funds.
• You can use the HRA to help cover in-network medical expenses.
• You can use your HRA to pay for a qualified medical expense for you or your covered spouse and dependents. You may NOT use the HRA for any expense that was paid using your HSA or any other source (e.g. another group health insurance plan).
Review your plan documents for full details.
BENEFIT AMOUNTS/ELIGIBLE EXPENSES
• Employee Only Coverage – True North will reimburse up to $3,000 of the $6,000 in-network deductible. Once you have paid the first $3,000 of your deductible under the Employee Only Coverage plan, you may request an HRA reimbursement for the remaining balance of your deductible.
• Employee + Dependent Coverage – True North will reimburse up to $6,000 of the $12,000 in-network deductible. Once you have paid the first $6,000 of your deductible under the Employee+Dependent Coverage plan, you may request an HRA reimbursement for the remaining balance of your deductible.
You may request an HRA reimbursement once you have paid the first $3,000 (individual) or $6,000 (family) of your deductible. The HRA will reimburse you for the remaining balance of your deductible.
HOW TO SUBMIT A CLAIM
Step 1: To submit a claim, please visit https://flexservices.higginbotham.net OR you may obtain a claim form from either:
• Higginbotham
• Human Resources
Step 2: Gather these three required documents:
• Completed claim form
• BCBSTX Explanation of Benefits document available at www.bcbstx.com
• Proof of payment (e.g., credit card receipt or canceled check)
Step 3: Submit your documents directly through the portal or email your claim form and documents to flexclaims@higginbotham.net
Please allow up to two weeks for processing.
Health Savings Account
FOR CURRENT OR FUTURE EXPENSES
A Health Savings Account (HSA) is a tax-exempt tool to supplement your retirement savings and to cover current and future health costs.
An HSA is a type of personal savings account that 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 current or future 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
• Not covered by another plan that is not a qualified HDHP, such as your spouse’s health plan
• Not enrolled in a Health Care Flexible Spending Account
• Not eligible to be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return
• Not enrolled in Medicare, Medicaid, or TRICARE
• Not receiving Veterans Administration benefits
OPEN AN HSA
If you meet the eligibility requirements, you may open an HSA administered by HSA Bank . You will receive a debit card to manage your HSA account reimbursements. Keep in mind, available funds are limited to the balance in your HSA. To open an account, go to www.hsabank.com
IMPORTANT HSA INFORMATION
• Always ask your network doctor to file claims with your medical, dental, or vision carrier so you will get the highest level of benefits. You can pay the doctor with your HSA debit card for any balance due.
• You, not your employer, are responsible for maintaining ALL records and receipts for HSA reimbursements in the event of an IRS audit.
Family (filing jointly)
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.
• 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.
TRUE NORTH CONTRIBUTION
True North contributes up to $2,000 annually to your Health Savings Account. This contribution amount will be prorated if you are enrolled for less than 12 months. True North’s contribution plus your contribution must remain less than or equal to the IRS maximums.
Flexible Spending Account
FOR DEPENDENT CARE EXPENSES
A Flexible Spending Account (FSA) allows you to set aside pretax dollars from each paycheck to pay for certain IRS-approved dependent care expenses. Higginbotham is our FSA plan administrator.
DEPENDENT CARE FSA
The Dependent Care FSA helps pay for expenses associated with caring for elder or child dependents so you or your spouse can work or attend school full time. You can use the account to pay for daycare or babysitter expenses for your children under age 13 and qualifying older dependents, such as dependent parents. Reimbursement from your Dependent Care FSA is limited to the total amount deposited in your account at that time. To be eligible, you (and your spouse, if married) must be gainfully employed, looking for work, a full-time student, or incapable of self-care.
Dependent Care FSA Considerations
Overnight camps are not eligible for reimbursement (only day camps can be considered).
If your child turns age 13, you may only be reimbursed for the time the child was under age 13.
You may request reimbursement for care of a spouse or dependent of any age who spends at least eight hours a day in your home and is mentally or physically incapable of self-care.
The dependent care provider cannot be your child under age 19 or anyone claimed as a dependent on your income taxes.
Important FSA Rules
• The maximum per plan year you can contribute to a Dependent Care FSA is $7,500 when filing jointly or head of household and $3,750 when married filing separately.
• You cannot change your election during the year unless you experience a Qualifying Life Event.
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 keep 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 to use the mobile app.
HIGGINBOTHAM PORTAL
The Higginbotham Portal provides information and resources to help you manage your FSAs to:
• 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 Get Started. Follow the instructions and scroll down to enter your information.
• Enter your Social Security number with no dashes or spaces as your Employee ID.
• Follow the prompts to navigate the site.
• If you have any questions or concerns, contact Higginbotham:
» Phone – 866-419-3519
» Email – flexclaims@higginbotham.net
» Fax – 866-419-3516
Life and AD&D Insurance
Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) insurance through Guardian are important to your financial security, especially if others depend on you for support or vice versa. With Life insurance, you or your beneficiary(ies) can use the coverage to pay off debts, such as credit cards, loans, and bills. AD&D coverage provides specific benefits if an accident causes bodily harm or loss (e.g., the loss of a hand, foot, or eye). If death occurs from an accident, 100% of the AD&D benefit would be paid to you or your beneficiary(ies). Life and AD&D coverage amounts reduce by 35% at age 65, and 50% at age 70.
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
If you need more coverage than Basic Life and AD&D, you may buy Voluntary Life and AD&D for yourself and your dependent(s). If you elect Voluntary Life and AD&D insurance at an amount greater than the Guaranteed Issue amount, you must provide Evidence of Insurability (EOI – proof of good health) within 90 days. The maximum life policy amount for Employee Only coverage is $250,000. At Open Enrollment, you may elect to increase your coverage up to five increments ($50,000/Employee and $5,000/ Spouse) without EOI, up to the guaranteed amount of $100,000. If you do not elect any Voluntary Life and AD&D insurance when first eligible, or if you want to increase your benefit amount more than $50,000 at a later date, you will need to show EOI. You must elect Voluntary Life and AD&D coverage for yourself before you may elect coverage for your spouse or children.
Employee
Spouse
Child(ren)
• Increments of $10,000 up to $250,000
• Guaranteed Issue: $100,000
• Increments of $5,000 up to 100% of employee amount
• Guaranteed Issue: $25,000
• 14 days to age 26 – $5,000 or $10,000
DESIGNATING A BENEFICIARY
A beneficiary is the person or entity you elect 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 how much each beneficiary will receive (e.g., 50% or 25%).
CONVERSION – PORTABILITY – WAIVER OF PREMIUM
Upon termination of employment, you have the option to continue your company paid Life and AD&D insurance and pay premiums directly to Guardian. Your company paid Life and AD&D insurance may be converted to an individual policy. Portability is available for Life coverage if you are enrolled in additional Life coverage. Portability is not available for AD&D. If you are disabled at the time your employment is terminated, you may be eligible for a Waiver of Premium while you are disabled. Contact the Human Resources Department for a Conversion, Portability, or Waiver of Premium application.
Disability
Insurance FOR WHEN YOU CANNOT WORK DUE TO ACCIDENT OR ILLNESS
We provide Short Term Disability (STD) and Long Term Disability (LTD) insurance through Guardian at no cost to you
SHORT TERM DISABILITY
STD coverage pays a percentage of your weekly salary if you are temporarily disabled and unable to work due to an illness, pregnancy, or non-work-related injury. STD benefits are not payable if the disability is due to a job-related injury or illness. If a medical condition is job-related, it is considered under Workers’ Compensation, not STD.
Short Term Disability Benefits
LONG TERM DISABILITY
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).
Long Term Disability Benefits
Please note, if 60% of your earnings is more than the Guaranteed Issue amount and you would like to increase the LTD to the maximum benefit, you must provide Evidence of Insurability (EOI — proof of good health) within 90 days.
Critical Care Benefits
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST UNEXPECTED MEDICAL COSTS
You and your eligible family members have the opportunity to enroll in additional coverage that complements our traditional health care programs. Health insurance covers medical bills, but if you have an emergency, you may face unexpected out-of-pocket costs, such as deductibles, coinsurance, travel expenses, and non-medicalrelated expenses.
CRITICAL ILLNESS INSURANCE
Critical Illness insurance through Guardian helps pay the cost of non-medical expenses related to a covered critical illness or cancer. The plan provides a lump sum benefit payment to you upon first and second diagnosis of any covered critical illness or cancer. The benefit can help cover expenses, such as lost income, out-of-town treatments, special diets, daily living, and household upkeep costs. Note, the chart only lists a few of the benefits covered under these plans. See plan document for full details.
•
• Increments of $2,500 up to
•
• 25% of employee benefit
Children
First Occurrence Benefit
Full Coverage
Bone Marrow Failure, Benign Brain or Spinal Cord Tumor, Invasive Cancer, Heart Attack, Heart Failure, Severe Stroke, Kidney Failure, Major Organ Failure, Coma, Loss of Hearing, Loss of Sight, Loss of Speech, Permanent Paralysis, Severe Burns, Advanced Alzheimer’s Disease, ALS, Advanced Multiple Sclerosis, Advanced Parkinson’s Disease
Partial Coverage
BRCA1 or BRCA2 Mutation, Carcinoma in Situ, Coronary Artery Disease, Pacemaker, Pulmonary Embolism, Moderate Stroke, TIA, Addison’s Disease, Early Stage Alzheimer’s Disease, Huntington’s Disease, Early Stage MS, Myasthenia Gravis, Early Stage Parkinson’s Disease, Crohn’s Disease, Epilepsy, Lupus, Ulcerative Colitis
Wellness Benefit
One per covered person per calendar year
• Guaranteed Issue: any
Guardian Value Added Benefits
The following programs are available to you as part of your benefits through Guardian.
EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
The GuidanceResources Employee Assistance Program (EAP) helps you and your family members cope with life, from everyday stresses to unexpected losses. The EAP is a confidential counseling service available 24/7 to help address any work or life matter. Find support for:
• Anxiety, depression, and stress
• Child or eldercare
• Grief and loss
• Legal or financial questions
• Substance abuse concerns for yourself or a dependent
The EAP also provides three free face-to-face or virtual counseling sessions with a licensed counselor (per issue, per year).
For More Information
Visit www.guidanceresources.com (enter web ID Guardian)
Call 855-239-0743 Download
WILL PREPARATION
EstateGuidance Online Will Preparation provides online tools to easily prepare a will to protect your family’s future. You can also create a living will to ensure you get the end-of-life care you desire and a final arrangements document expressing your wishes for funeral services.
• Complete and download a custom will – free
• Receive a printed copy of your custom will – $14.99
Pet insurance through Spot Pet is a financial safety net for your furry family. Get reimbursed for accidents and illnesses, and get a prompt response via the 24/7 pet health helpline.
Choose between two coverage options: Accident Only or Accident and Illness.
Spot Accident Only plans cover eligible claims for:
• Vet Exam Fees and Lab Tests
• MRI or CT Scans, X-rays
• Surgery and Hospitalization
• Medical Supplies
• IV Fluids and Medications
• Prescriptions
• Tooth Extractions
• Alternative Therapy
Spot Accident and Illness plans cover eligible claims for:
• Vet Exam Fees
• Microchip Implantation
• Behavioral Issues
• X-Rays and Tests
• Virtual Vet Visits
• Dental Illnesses and Gum Disease
• Digestive Illnesses
• Hip Dysplasia
• Cancer and Growths
• Emergencies and Hospitalizations
• Orthopedic Injuries
• Infectious Diseases
For a comprehensive list of what each plan covers, visit https://spotpet.com/what-does-pet-insurance-cover
True North employees can receive up to a 20% discount by using the link below. You are free to enroll at anytime during the year. https://spotpet.link/truenorthadvisors HOW SPOT PET INSURANCE WORKS
1 Visit any licensed vet.
2 Submit your claim online.
3 Get reimbursed for eligible vet bills.
Retirement Plan
A 401(k) plan can be a powerful tool to help you be financially secure in retirement. Our 401(k) plan through July Services can help you reach your investment goals.
HOW THE RETIREMENT PLAN WORKS
You are eligible for the plan if you are 18 years of age or older. Beginning January 1, 2026, all qualified employees will be eligible to participate on the first of the month after their date of hire. You may contribute up to the 2026 IRS limits.
• $24,500 up to age 50
• $32,500 if age 50 or older
• $35,750 if age 60-63
True North will contribute 3% of your eligible compensation into your 401(k) account, regardless of whether you make your own contributions. You may opt to start or stop your contributions at anytime in accordance with the plan. The plan allows for both traditional (pretax) and Roth (after-tax) contributions.
You decide how much you want to contribute and can change your contribution amount anytime. All changes are effective as soon as administratively feasible and remain in effect until you update or stop your contributions. You also decide how to invest the assets in your account and may change your investment choices anytime. For more details, refer to your 401(k) Enrollment Guide or contact July Services at 888-333-5859
ENROLLMENT
You must enroll through July Services at www.julyservices.com or by calling 888-333-5859
INVESTMENT OPTIONS
You may direct your contributions to any of the investments offered within the company 401(k) plan. Changes to your investments can be made by calling 888-333-5859
VESTING AND CONTRIBUTIONS
All contributions are 100% vested. You can contribute up to 100% of your eligible compensation up to the IRS annual limit.
Access to high-quality investments: Our team members have access to the same investment fund options in their 401(k) and their personal accounts that are approved for our clients. Qualified employees are also able to invest in private market investments managed by True North.
Additional Benefits
NEW HIRE BONUS
True North encourages the addition of talented staff through personal employee referrals. Therefore, each employee is eligible to receive a $2,000 bonus for recommending a candidate who is hired by True North and stays with the company for a minimum of 90 days. New hire bonuses will be paid in one lump sum on the payroll immediately following 90 days from the new employee’s start date. An employee must be employed by, and in a current pay status with, True North on the payroll cycle following the 90th day after the referred candidate’s hire date in order to receive this new hire bonus.
VOLUNTEERING TIME
Full-time employees are eligible to participate in the Volunteer Time Off (VTO) program. True North supports activities and projects that enhance and serve our local and global communities, and we desire for our firm to get involved as a team. The VTO policy provides True North employees with the chance to participate in volunteer opportunities that are available during normal business hours.
New hires at the Director level and above will begin accruing PTO at a rate of 20 days per year, with additional increases as detailed in the table above.
HOLIDAYS
25
True North follows the NYSE holiday schedule plus the Friday after Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve.
Eligible employees will be allowed to take up to two (2) paid VTO days per calendar year. At least eight (8) hours of VTO must be used for True North group volunteer activities, i.e., volunteer opportunities sponsored/promoted by the firm. The additional eight (8) hours of VTO may be used for personal volunteering by the employee.
TUITION REIMBURSEMENT
True North encourages employees to pursue industry or jobrelated licenses, certifications, and educational programs which could enhance their performance and job satisfaction. Both the employee and True North share in the responsibility of researching such opportunities and evaluating the worthiness of such programs relative to their current position. Employees are required to pay upfront for most education, licensing, certifications, or training. After an employee passes a licensing exam, receives a passing grade in a class, or obtains a certificate of completion for training, the employee may submit a request for reimbursement, not to exceed the $3,500 annual allowance limit and provided that the applicable expenses are pre-approved.
BEREAVEMENT
The death of a family member is a time when employees wish to be with their families. If the employee is full-time and loses a close relative, the employee will be allowed paid time off of up to five workdays to assist in attending to obligations and commitments. For the purpose of this policy, immediate family means employee’s spouse, or domestic partner, mother (in-law, step), father (in-law, step), brother (step), sister (step), child (ren) and step child (ren), (whether biological or adopted), grandparents or any other relation required by applicable law. Employees may be granted 1 day of paid bereavement leave for the death of an extended family member. Extended Family means aunts, uncles, cousins, brother in-law, sister in-law, nieces, nephews or any other relation required by application law.
Legal 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:
True North Employment Services, LLC
Human Resources
3131 Turtle Creek Blvd., Suite 1300 Dallas, TX 75219 214-360-7300
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 True North Employment Services, 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. True North Employment Services, LLC has determined that the prescription drug coverage offered by the True North Employment Services, 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.
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 True North Employment Services, 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 True North Employment Services, 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 reenroll 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 214-360-7300
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 800772-1213. 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
True North Employment Services, LLC Human Resources 3131 Turtle Creek Blvd., Suite 1300 Dallas, TX 75219 214-360-7300
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 True North Employment Services, LLC, hereinafter referred to as the plan sponsor.
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.
True North Employment Services, LLC Human Resources 3131 Turtle Creek Blvd., Suite 1300 Dallas, TX 75219 214-360-7300
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 1-866444-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, 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
Continuation
of Coverage Rights
Under COBRA
Under the Federal Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 (COBRA), if you are covered under the True North Employment Services, LLC group health plan you and your eligible dependents may be entitled to continue your group health benefits coverage under the True North Employment Services, LLCs 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
True North Employment Services, LLC
Human Resources
3131 Turtle Creek Blvd., Suite 1300 Dallas, TX 75219
214-360-7300
Your Rights and Protections Against Surprise Medical Bills
When you get emergency care or get treated by an out-of-network 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-of-pocket 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 innetwork 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-of- network 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 in-network 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-of-network 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-of-network. 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-ofnetwork providers.
» Base what you owe the provider or facility (cost-sharing) 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 outof-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 the True North Employment Services, 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. True North Employment Services, LLC reserves the right to change or discontinue its employee benefits plans anytime.
