We Are Committed to the Wellness of Our Employees and Their Families!

Here you will find information regarding our key benefit offerings, like medical and dental insurance, as well as additional perks, such as MIIA's wellness classes, and Tiger Tots, our Daycare program!

When Do I Enroll, and When Do My Benefits Take Effect?

Please note, certain benefits have deadlines for enrollment. If you would like to make a change to your benefits beyond those timeframes, you must wait until Open Enrollment in May (Effective July of each year), unless you experience a Qualifying Life Event, such as loss/gain of coverage, marriage, divorce, or birth of a child. Below is an overview of each benefit’s deadlines to enroll, and when you will become eligible:

First Benefit Deductions:

While you have 30 days to elect to enroll in the above plans, your effective date for your Medical Insurance will be made retroactively to your start date. This means your deductions will be manually adjusted to “catch you up” on your first two paychecks.

Your first dental deduction will be shown on the payroll reflecting the 1st of the month following 30 days.

Health Insurance:

The Ipswich Public Schools offers the following health plans to employees, and contributes 65% of the total cost. Therefore, the employee is responsible for the remaining 35%. Below is a breakdown of the employee monthly premiums for Fiscal Year 2024.

Please note, depending on your pay frequency, the below rates will vary from what you see on your paycheck, and will be calculated into your deductions per pay period. For a specific deduction amount, please see HR for the FY24 Deduction Sheet.

Plan Differentiation: The biggest difference between the HMO and PPO plan is the need to elect a Primary Care Physician, and to stay in network. With an HMO, you need to designate a Primary Care Physician (PCP) to go to for routine care and must stay in the BCBS network. On the HMO plan, if you were to go to a specialist, you would need a referral from your Primary Care Physician. With the PPO plan, you do not need a Primary Care Physician, nor do you need a referral to see a specialist. You are able to go in and outside of the BCBS network of providers. Due to this, there is a cost difference between the plans.

Example: I break my foot. If I am on the HMO plan, I need to get a referral from my PCP to go to the foot specialist. If I am on the PPO plan, I can go directly to a foot specialist.

Further plan information can be found online at https://planinfo.bluecrossma.com/ekit/2023-miiatownofipswich-en_US.pdf

Dental Insurance:

The Ipswich Public Schools offers the following dental plans to employees. The employee is responsible for paying 100% of the dental premiums, as Ipswich Public Schools does not contribute to this benefit. Below is a breakdown of the employee monthly premiums for Fiscal Year 2024.

Plan Differentiation:

The Low Option Plan’s annual maximum is $750.00 per member per calendar year, while the High Option Plan’s annual maximum is $1,000.0 per member per calendar year. The High Option Plan pays 50% for surgical placement or endosteal implants and abutment, crowns, bridges, and partial and complete dentures. The Low Option Plan does not cover these types of procedures. Please note these are plan summaries, and consult with Altus Dental for further information and questions.

Vision Insurance:

The Ipswich Public Schools offers the following vision plan to employees. The employee is responsible for paying 100% of the dental premiums, as Ipswich Public Schools does not contribute to this benefit. Below is a breakdown of the employee monthly premiums for Fiscal Year 2024.

Flexible Spending Account:

Flexible Spending Accounts are a tremendous opportunity for you to enhance your benefits package. The Flexible Spending Account allows you to set aside pre-tax dollars per paycheck for eligible medical and dependent care expenses. Most employees pay for expenses on an after tax basis. By setting aside a portion of your paycheck tax free to pay for those expenses, you are able to reduce your taxable income, and increase your take home pay. The Ipswich Public Schools offers 2 Flexible Spending Account plans—a Healthcare FSA, and a Dependent Care FSA. Eligible expenses are listed below:

Eligible expenses are listed below:

• Healthcare FSA: Non-cosmetic medical, dental, and vision care services; prescription medications; OTC medications; menstrual products; orthodontics; prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses; laser eye surgery mental health services, alternative health therapies (i.e. chiropractic, acupuncture), and more. Maximum annual contribution is $3,050.00. Prior, it was $2,750.00.
• Dependent Care FSA: For dependent children under 13, elderly dependents, and dependents with special needs. Eligible expenses include day care, pre-school, before/after school care, day camp, and elderly day care. Maximum annual contribution is $5,000.00 for individuals or married couples filing jointly, or $2,500.00 for a married person filing separately.
  
  

FSA funds are loaded to a prepaid debit card, and are available for use for the employee right away. Employee can also submit for reimbursement for the Healthcare FSA should they choose not to use the card.

This plan is administered by CPA (Cafeteria Plan Advisors).  This program has a yearly fee of $60.00. For more information on this program contact Kimberly Moore at 781-848-9848 or kim@cpa125.com or Jim at Jim@cpa125.com, or visit www.cpa125.com.

Health Reimbursement Account:

In order to keep your medical benefits costs as affordable as possible, the Town of Ipswich sponsors a Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA).  This plan runs from July 1 to June 30 of each year.  Eligible expenses must be incurred in the plan year.  You must be on Ipswich Public School's health insurance to participate. 

Massachusetts 457b Deferred Compensation Smart Plan:

Preparing for retirement can be challenging, and oftentimes, stressful. Participating in supplemental retirement savings programs may help provide comfort and a more secure financial future. The Massachusetts Deferred Compensation SMART Plan (also known as 457b deferred compensation plan) allows you to save and invest each payment, on a tax-deferred and post-tax basis, as well as receive access to a diversified menu of investment options at low fees, access to local representatives, free financial education, and online planning tools that can help you prepare for retirement. The deferred compensation plan can help bridge the gap between what you have in your pension and Social Security, and how much you will need in retirement. Below are some frequently asked questions about deferred compensation plans:

What Sets a 457b Plan Apart From Other Retirement Plans?

A 457b plan may offer benefits other retirement options can’t, like no penalty withdrawals once you stop working for your public sector employer. In other plan types like a 401k, you may be subject to a fee to withdraw your funds.

What Does Tax-Deferred Mean?

Basically, you don’t have to pay income taxes on your deferred comp plan contributions or earnings until you retire and/or begin to take payments from your account. This may lower your taxable income now and in retirement. Withdrawals taken in retirement are taxed as regular income.

How Much Can I Put Into a 457 Plan?

In 2022, the normal elective deferral amount is $20,500.00. However, there are catchup provisions that will allow you to contribute even more. If you are at least 50 years old, you can contribute up to $27,000.00 this year. If you are within your last 3 years of your retirement date, you are eligible to contribute $41,000.00 (Two times the normal elective deferral limit).

Can I Combine Retirement Accounts?
The SMART Plan Retirement Specialists will work with you to combine, or consolidate your eligible retirement accounts into your deferred compensation account. This may make managing your retirement investments a little easier.

Qualified retirement plans, deferred compensation plans, and individual retirement accounts are all different, including fees and when you can access funds. Assets rolled over from your account(s) may be subject to surrender chargers, other fees, and/or a 10% tax penalty if you withdraw before age 59 ½.

To view your options or for further information, call the SMART plan at 877-457-1900 or visit www.mass-smart.com.

403(b) Retirement Plan Options:

Ipswich Public Schools offers a 403(b) retirement plan as a benefit to employees. The Plan allows employees to save and invest by making tax-deferred contributions directly from your paycheck.

Why Save with 403(b)?

You do not need to pay income tax on contributions until you begin making withdrawals from the plan, usually after your retirement.

Investment gains in the plan are not taxed until distributed.

Benefit from saving and investing!

How Can I Participate?

1) Complete a Salary Reduction Agreement (SRA). This can be done Online at www.omni403b.com

2) Open an account with an investment provider. The list of your available providers is on the right.

Want to Learn More About Your Investment Options?

Visit www.omni403b.com/spinforeq.aspx

Which Companies Can I Invest Through With This Plan?

OMNI offers you the ability to open accounts with the following approved service providers:

• AIG/CoreBridge
• Ameriprise Financial Services
• Aspire Financial Services
• Brighthouse Life Insurance (Metlife CT/Travelers)
• Equitable
• Global Atlantic Financial Group
• Horace Mann Life Insurance Company
• Lincoln Investment Planning
• MetLife
• NY Life Insurance and Annuity Group
• Security Benefit

Tiger Tots:

TTLC provides a safe, reliable, relaxed, and fun daycare environment for all of staff members. The Program is staffed by a group of caring teachers who provide a warm and secure environment for the children. The low child-teacher ratio helps make it possible to effectively encourage the children to respect and enjoy each other.

• The children are offered a wide variety of enriching activities throughout their day and are encouraged to experience autonomy, cooperation and responsibility.
• We provide a developmentally appropriate curriculum for all ages incorporating all areas of learning from math and science to art, literature as well as movement activities.
• The Preschool teacher(s) work collaboratively with the local Kindergarten teachers to make sure their transition is as seamless as possible.
• The program has been a very happy and healthy place for children, teachers, and parents since 2007 and is looking forward to many more successful years ahead!
• Please note, the program is based on availability, as there is limited space.

Tuition Rates for 2022-23:

For more information, click here!

Wellness Benefits:

MIIA Sponsored Fitness Programs and Seminars:

As the Ipswich Public Schools is part of the MIIA network, there are many additional perks that are no cost to the employee.The Ipswich Public Schools offers a variety of fitness programs and seminars for employees to participate in, free of charge. Programs range from yoga, to bootcamp and nutrition seminars. Classes are typically held in either the Town Hall or Ipswich High School/Middle School and are open to all employees and spouses. Priority is given to MIIA members (those enrolled in the health or dental insurance). Information is emailed to all employees.

Blue Cross Blue Shield’s Resources:

There are many additional bonuses that come with being a member of BCBS’s medical insurance plan. Below are a few:

• Fitness Reimbursement: Receive up to $300.00 back each year for participating in qualified gym and fitness programs.
• Weight-Loss Reimbursement: Receive another $300.00 back each year for participating in qualified weight-loss programs, including WeightWatchers and hospital-based programs.
• Free 24 hour nurse phone line at 888-247-BLUE (2583)
• Discounts: Naturally Healthy Rewards: 5-25% discount on approved nutritionists, acupuncturists, and massage therapists. blue-365.com
• Free apps, such as Goal Getter, EatBetter, and Blue National Doctor and Hospital Finder.

Discounted Membership to the Ipswich YMCA:

You can receive a discounted membership to the Ipswich YMCA, as fitness clubs will often run specials for Town employees. This information is emailed to employees when available. To enroll, visit or call the Ipswich Family YMCA and ask to enroll in a corporate Membership. Just bring proof of employment. Email Zachary Hall, Membership Director, at hallz@northshoreymca.org for further questions.

Employee Assistance Program:

The Employee Assistance Program is geared at helping you navigate the stresses of everyday life. You and your household are entitled to confidential counseling and referral services through the Employee Assistance Program. The EAP provides support in a variety of areas, including:

• 3 confidential in-person or phone counseling sessions for various topics, including:
  • Managing Anxiety/Depression
  • Adjusting to Demands of Work
  • Resolving Relationship Conflict
  • Becoming a Better Communicator
• 30 minutes office or telephone consultation per legal matter (not including job-related legal issues), for various issues, including:
  • Divorce
  • Child Custody
  • Car Accidents
  • Real Estate/Landlord/Tenant issues
• 30 minutes of free telephone consultation per financial issue, including:
  • Financial Planning
  • Credit Card Debt
  • College Planning
  • Tax Advice
  • Retirement Consultation

Download the app MIIA EAP and use the code miiaeap, or call 800-451-1834 to learn more.

Membership to Merrimack Valley Credit Union

As an employee of the Town of Ipswich you are eligible to join the Merrimack Valley Credit Union. A credit union is a not-for-profit, democratically controlled, cooperative financial institution owned by its members.  This structure places primary emphasis on service to all its members.  Credit unions are strong, consumer-friendly organizations that strive to give a good value to members through the many economical products and services they offer.  The focus is on saving members money on their everyday financial needs. To enroll you must complete a membership application which can be found on their website and include requested documentation.  Merrimack Valley Credit Union website: https://www.mvcu.com/rtn