SIUE Benefits for Childcare
For employees who have or are expecting children, childcare issues can significantly affect their work. It is important that childcare options be available so employees can focus on their job responsibilities knowing that their children are being cared for. Quality childcare can be costly, but costs can be offset through flexible spending accounts and discounts through various providers. The University also provides other resources such as online support groups for working parents and information about child health and safety.
Managing work and family life can be demanding. The resources provided on the website will help you find affordable, high-quality care, as well as aid you in obtaining balance between work and family. When your child is in a safe and reliable learning environment, you are more likely to be productive and successful in your job. Here you can find tips and activities to help you and your child share rewarding experiences.
SIUE Family Medical Leave Act Policy
Employees may use Family Medical Leave (FMLA) to take time to adjust to a new addition to the family or in situations where a family member or employee has a serious medical condition. Employees are eligible for FMLA if they have been employed by the University for at least 12 months and have worked at least 1,250 hours during the 12 months preceding the leave. Visit the Benefits website or call (618) 650-2190 for details.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
SIUE employees can pay out-of-pocket medical expenses and/or work-related dependent care expenses during the plan year with tax-free dollars through a Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
Taxes
The IRS has defined Dependent Care expenses that a caregiver may be eligible to claim on his or her tax returns. Please remember to review your federal and state W-4 tax documents to ensure that that you are claiming the correct deductions. You are able to adjust the number of exemptions claimed through CougarNet or by contacting the Payroll section of the Office of Human Resources at (618) 650-2190.
Employee Assistance Program
The Employee Assistance Program provides support for the employee and their dependents. EAP provides support and help with conflict at work or home, domestic violence, dependent care issues, family/parenting issues, financial concerns, grief/loss, pre and postnatal concerns, stress and problems with alcohol or drugs. As an employee, you may access free counseling sessions with trained personnel 24 hours a days, seven days a week. You may call (866) 653-3848 [TTY (800) 526-0844] or visit Magellan Health Services' website for details.
Tuition Waiver
Employees who work for the university for at least 7 years receive tuition waiver benefits for their children to complete undergraduate education. A tuition waiver for your child (natural, adoptive, or step-child) covers 50% of tuition for up to 130 credit hours but the dependent must be under the age of 25 at the beginning of the academic year for which the waiver is requested. If the dependent reaches age 25 after the beginning of the Fall semester, he/she receives the waiver through the Summer semester.
One year of tuition at SIUE can exceed greater than $8,500 for in-state undergraduates.
Adoption Assistance
Adopting a child can be costly, but the Adoption Benefit Program reimburses eligible State of Illinois employees some of the incurred expenses. For details, visit the Central Management Services website.
