Title: Exempt%20Employee%20Transition%20Workshop
1Exempt Employee Transition Workshop
2Welcome
- Todays session was developed in partnership
with the following - Department of Enterprise Services
- OFM/State Human Resources Division
- Public Employee Benefits Board / Health Care
Authority - WorkSource
- Employment Security
- Department of Retirement Systems
3Agenda
- Office of the State Human Resource Director
- Exempt employee return rights
- Department of Enterprise Services layoff lists,
careers.wa.gov - Health Care Authority maintaining health
benefits - WorkSource - job search resources
- Employment Security - Unemployment Insurance
- Employee Assistance Program
- Change and stress management
- Retirement Systems
- Managing your retirement and deferred
compensation
4Does an employee have exempt return rights?
- Laws (RCWs) and rules (WACs) were adopted in the
early 1970s to encourage classified employees to
accept exempt appointments by providing an
assurance of continued employment after the
termination of the exempt appointment. - Any permanent employee who was appointed to an
exempt position from a classified position
without a break in service has a return right
(unless the exempt appointment is ended for
reasons of gross misconduct). - Classified service includes higher education
service, Washington general service and
Washington management service.
5When must an employee apply to return to
classified service from exempt service?
-
- Employee must apply to return to classified
service within 30 calendar days of separation
from employment in the exempt position. - Employee who applies for return to classified
service within 30 calendar days must be returned
to a position at the time of separation from the
exempt appointment or the time of application,
whichever is later.
6What is an employees exempt return right?
- Employees right is to be returned to the
highest class of position previously held, or to
a position of similar nature and salary. - Class means classification, e.g. Forester 2 or
WMS Band 1 - Similar in Nature means work that is generally
similar to the functions performed in the highest
class of position previously held - Similar in Salary means the same salary range
of the highest classification of position - A position in the highest class does not
necessarily mean return to the most recent
employer or the exact position previously held.
7if an employee is returning from exempt service
and the employer does not have a funded vacant
position?
- An employee with return rights must be returned
to a position. If the employer does not have a
funded vacant position in the highest class held
or a funded vacant position of similar nature and
salary, the employer must - Return the employee to a filled position (i.e.
double-fill a position) and the least senior
incumbent (or the employee with the lowest
employment retention rating) is laid off or - Establish a position to return the employee to
and implement a layoff since the position is not
funded.
8Frequently Asked Questions
- If I went from a classified position to an exempt
position then to another exempt position will I
still have return rights? - Yes, as long as there were no breaks in service.
- What happens if my former agency no longer
exists? - The Human Resource Office will research where the
work you performed in the classified position
went. - What salary will I be returned to?
- The base salary must not be less than your
previous base salary in classified service,
adjusted according to any changes in salary
range. - Exempt employees who have never held classified
status or who had a break in service prior to
their exempt appointment, do not have a right of
return.
9Return Rights Flow Chart
Exempt Appointment Ended
Exempt Return Rights?
No further rights
Appointment into classified service
No
Yes
Appointment into classified service
Separation
More than one person in position or unfunded
position?
Employee consults with Human Resource Manager on
options, such as job search, retirement, and
unemployment.
Layoff Process
Yes
No
Done
10Resources
- The State Human Resources Division at OFM
- Guide for Transition of Exempt Employees at
http//wwww.hr.wa.gov/rules - Contact the OFM Rules Office
- Rules_at_ofm.wa.gov or (360) 664-6325
11Layoff
- In some cases your return from exempt status may
result in a layoff (i.e. you are the least senior
incumbent). If this is the case the employer
will provide you with a layoff letter outlining
your rights. - If you held permanent status in classified
service at the time of your exempt appointment
and are laid off (as the least senior incumbent)
you may be eligible for placement on the - Layoff List
- General Government Transition Pool (GGTP)
12Layoff Lists
- Internal layoff list - contains names of eligible
employees who have been laid off from a specific
agency or institution. - For placement on list check with your agency
- Statewide layoff list contains names of
eligible employees who have been laid off from
all other agencies or institutions. - For placement on list email your layoff letter
and a copy of your resume to Department of
Enterprise Services - Eligibility - 2 years from layoff effective date
- Check your CBA as some unions have bargained for
a 3 year eligibility period for Internal Layoff
list.
13General Government Transition Pool (GGTP)
- Resource for general government employees at risk
of, or who have been laid off from state
employment. - Skill based pool maintained by Department of
Enterprise Services. - Contact your human resource office to determine
eligibility. - Washington Management Service (WMS) employees may
be - eligible.
- Eligibility - 2 years from layoff effective
date.
14What options do employees without return rights
have?
- Exempt employees who have never held classified
status or who had a break in service prior to
their exempt appointment, do not have a right of
return. - However, there are several other options for you
to consider. - WMS has flexible hiring processes and includes
management and policy positions that you may be
well suited. - Exempt openings in other agencies, higher
education institutions, or the Legislature. - Job openings are posted on the state careers
website www.careers.wa.gov.
15Washington Management Service Information
- Exempt employees seeking new opportunities should
consider applying for jobs in WMS. - offers flexibility in recruitment, screening, and
hiring recruitment and hiring of WMS positions
takes place at the agency level. - Each state agency has a recruitment and selection
policy and/or procedure to best meet
organizational needs. - Important to pursue opportunities directly with
those agencies that have WMS positions.
16Where to start
- Do your homework
- Research to find out which state agencies are a
good match for your skills, knowledge, and
career interests check out agency websites. - Make contacts
- Network with agencies for specific information on
career opportunities and recruiting plans pursue
informational interviews - Contact agencies to find out more about the
agency, job opportunities, and how you may better
prepare for openings. Approach employers with
the attitude that you are seeking career advice.
17Careers.wa.gov
18WA State Human Resources www.hr.wa.gov
19Department of Enterprise Services Resources and
Services
- General Inquiries
- CareersHelp_at_des.wa.gov
- Layoff Information
- LayoffandGGTP_at_des.wa.gov
- Contact us or visit
- 360 664-1960 or toll free 1-877 664-1960
- 800 to 500 - Monday through Friday
- 1500 Jefferson, Olympia State Capitol Exit 105
off I-5
20Public Employee Benefits Board (PEBB)/Health
Care Authority
- PEBB Benefits
- PEBB Continuation of Coverage Options
- Accessing PEBB Benefits
- What to Expect
- Resources
21PEBB Benefits
PEBB Benefits When they will end if you take no action
Medical and Dental Insurance The last day of the month in which employment ends
Basic Life Insurance The last day of the month in which employment ends
Supplemental Life Insurance The earlier of (1) the last day of the month in which employment ends, or (2) the last day of the month in which the employee is eligible for the employer contribution or employee premiums were paid, whichever is later
Basic Long-Term Disability The date employment ends
Optional Long-Term Disability The last day of the month in which employment ends or the last day in which a required premium contribution was made
Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) Participation ends the date employment ends
Auto/Home and Long-Term Care may continue as
before. If using payroll deduction for Auto/Home,
contact Liberty Mutual to make other payment
arrangements.
22Options to continue coverage
- Options to continue most of your coverage are
based on your individual situation - Continued employment through reversion, reduction
in hours, or agency transfer - Enroll as a dependent on a spouse or
state-registered/qualified domestic partners
account - Self-pay for your self and eligible dependents
- Retiree coverage
23Option Continued Employment
- Establishing eligibility
- You are eligible for the employer contribution
with eight hours or more per month of pay status
for up to 24 months - Examples include Revert to another position
Have current position hours reduced or Transfer
to another agency - Must notify the employing agency of potential
eligibility as a laid off employee (WAC
182-12-129) - After the 24th month, employee must re-establish
eligibility under WAC 182-12-114
24Option Coverage as a dependent
- Medical/dental coverage
- No later than 60 days after losing coverage your
spouse, state-registered/qualified domestic
partner, or parent must submit the required forms - When the agency receives the form affects when
coverage begins To avoid a break in coverage,
the form must be submitted prior to the date your
current employer coverage ends. - Life Insurance
- Employment ending transfer life insurance to a
spouse/state-registered domestic partners PEBB
account within 31 days of losing coverage - Separation from employment continue life
insurance on a self-pay basis
25Option Self-pay
- Layoff
- Eligible for PEBB Leave without Pay coverage
- Continue medical, dental, and/or life insurance
coverage for up to 29 months - Employment Ending
- Eligible for COBRA coverage
- Continue medical and dental coverage for up to 18
months
26Option Retiree coverage
- Must be eligible to retire per your retirement
plan - May use continuation of coverage to bridge to
retirement - Continue medical and dental coverage
- May have option to enroll in retiree life
insurance
27What to expect
- A Continuation of Coverage Election Notice in the
mail - Enroll in coverage no later
- than 60 days from the
- postmark date
- May enroll eligible dependents
- Self-pay rates apply
28Resources
- PEBB Program
- PEBB program customer service 1-800-200-1004
- PEBB website www.pebb.hca.wa.gov
-
29WorkSource
- A joint venture of organizations dedicated to
addressing Washington States employment and
training needs - WorkSource provides all the information,
technology and services businesses need to thrive
and job seekers need to achieve successful
careers - Partners include state, local government and
local community based organizations that provide
a wide range of employment and training-related
services - There are over 35 WorkSource Centers at various
locations across the state. To find an office
nearest you, go to www.go2worksource.com
30(No Transcript)
31Services for Job Seekers
- Free use of computers, copiers, phones, faxes and
other career resources - Internet access to post your resume and find jobs
- Job referrals and job search assistance
- Hiring events and career fairs
- Workshops on resume writing, interviewing, and
job search strategies - Information on the fastest growing jobs and wages
32WorkSource Programs
- WorkSource has programs for
- Youth
- Adults
- Laid-off workers
- Persons with disabilities
- Veterans
- Older Adults
- Displaced Homemakers
- For more information about programs visit
www.go2worksource.com and click on WorkSource
Services
33Dislocated Worker Program
- Our first priority is to help you find a job by
- Providing 1-on-1 career counseling
- Teaching you effective job search strategies
- Comparing your transferable skills to the needs
of todays job market - Referring you to job openings
- Referring you to workshops and other
skill-building classes
34Financial Aid Resources
- Free Application for Federal Student Aid
- http//www.fafsa.ed.gov
- Other financial aid resources are often available
- http//www.hecb.wa.gov/Paying/index.asp
35Unemployment Insurance
- What is Unemployment Insurance?
- How do I apply?
- What if I move to another state?
- How long can I get benefits?
- How does severance pay affect my benefits?
- Are unemployment benefits taxable?
- What are my responsibilities while claiming
benefits? - Can I go to school?
- How much will I get?
- How do I claim weekly benefits?
- When will I get my first payment?
- Are extensions available?
- How does a pension affect my benefits?
- What if I am denied benefits?
- Do I have to accept bump options?
- Where can I get more information?
36What is Unemployment Insurance?
- Unemployment is 100 funded by employers and
designed to - help workers unemployed through no fault of their
own.
How much will I get?
- Benefits are based on earnings in an unemployment
base year. - Weekly benefit amount - average of two high
quarter earnings. - The maximum and minimum weekly benefit amount is
set in June for new claims filed beginning Sunday
of the first full week of July.
37How do I apply for benefits?
- Online at www.esd.wa.gov
- 24 hours a day/7 days a week
- Unemployment Claims Center
- 1-800- 318-6022
- 800 AM to 500 PM Monday Friday
How do I claim weekly benefits?
- Online at www.esd.wa.gov
- By telephone at 1-800-318-6022
- Choose the weekly claim option (1)
- Create a personal identification number
- Your PIN is your electronic signature
38Can I still file a claim if I move out of
Washington State?
- You can file your application before moving.
- If your claim is based on only Washington wages,
you will have a WA claim if you apply here and
after you relocate. - If you relocate after you apply in WA you can
change your address online at www.esd.wa.gov. - You will be required to register for work with a
state employment agency in the state that you
relocate to.
When will I get my first payment?
- Generally two to three weeks from when you file
your application. - Week for unemployment begins Sunday and ends
Saturday midnight. You cant claim a week until
its over. - First eligible week is an unpaid waiting week.
- Direct deposit
39How long can I get my benefits?
- Benefit Year
- 52 weeks from the week you file your application
- Its the only WA claim you can have for that year
- Maximum regular benefits available in a benefit
year - 26 X the weekly benefit amount
Are extensions available?
- Maybe - extensions are based on the statewide
unemployment rate - Federal Extension
- Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC)
- ended 12/28/2013.
- Federal/State extended benefits
- Extended Benefits program ended 4/21/2012
40How does severance pay affect my benefits?
- Severance pay is not deductible.
- Vacation and sick leave is not deductible if it
is a cash-out.
How does a pension affect my benefits?
- Retirement Pension
- PERS Employer contribution percentage is
deductible from your unemployment benefit. - PERS 1 58
- PERS 2 60
- PERS 3 100
- Social Security is not deductible.
41Are Unemployment Insurance benefits taxable?
- Yes
- You can choose to have 10 of your UI payment
withheld. - Sent immediately to the IRS you cant get it
back. - If you are later denied a week in which the 10
was withheld, the amount sent to the IRS is
included in any overpayment amount.
What if I am denied benefits?
- Decisions are always in writing.
- The right to appeal is included in the decision.
- Hearings conducted by the independent state
Office of Administrative - Hearings (OAH).
- OAH can affirm, modify, or overturn our decision.
42What are my responsibilities while claiming
benefits?
- Must be immediately available for and actively
seeking suitable work. - Three job contacts
- Three approved in-person job search activities at
WorkSource - A combination of the above
- Suitable work is generally work youve done
recently. - Must be willing to accept prevailing wages,
hours, and other working conditions.
Do I have to accept any bump option offered?
- Were you
- Unemployed through no fault of your own?
- Could you have remained working?
- If so, was the work suitable?
- Wages, hours, conditions of work comparable?
43Can I go to school and still get UI benefits?
- Commissioner Approved Training (CAT)
- Not required to look for work.
- Includes self-employment assistance programs
(SEAP). - Training Benefits (TB)
- Not required to look for work.
- Additional unemployment benefits.
- Must apply within applicable deadlines.
- In most cases, 90 days/be enrolled within 120
days. - For TB dislocated workers, before end of benefit
year.
44More information
See our website at www.esd.wa.gov for more
unemployment information or to apply for benefits.
- How to videos available online
- Choose Forms Publications at the bottom of the
page. Topics include - Applying for unemployment insurance
- Submitting a weekly claim
- How to complete your job search
- Training Benefits program
- Appealing a benefits decision
45WA State Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Voluntary, no charge, confidential service to
employees and family members - Assessment, problem-solving and referral service
for personal and job concerns - Assistance in coping with transitions,
challenges, problems and stress
46Change and Stress
- Change
- Situational one event causing stress or distress
- Cumulative additional events impacting you
- Traumatic situation with magnified impact on you
- Stress
- Eustress everyday stress of life
- Distress feeling all stressed out
47Impact of distress
- Physical
- increased heart rate, blood pressure
perspiration headache GI issues illness
disease - Mental
- impaired decision-making, problem-solving,
concentration, focus, attention memory - Emotional
- uncertainty, fear, depression, anxiety grief
sadness hopeless helpless frustration, anger - Behavioral
- isolation temper tantrums violence misuse of
food, medication, substances, computer, etc. - Workplace
- performance or attendance issues interpersonal
conflicts -
48ResilienceThe ability to bounce back and move
forward
- Key attributes
- Positive
- Focused
- Flexible
- Organized
- Proactive
49Stress Management The key to resilience
- Develop an action plan
- consult with all available resources
- use information to develop coping strategies
- Practice pro-active self-care
- healthy diet nutrition
- exercise, movement, stretching breathing
- social support family, friends, co-workers,
church, professional organizations,
support-groups, counselors, EAP, etal
50WA State EAP
- Pro-Health and Pro-Performance
- Contact your EAP for assistance in dealing with
lifes twists and turns - Toll Free 877.313.4455
- Olympia 360.407.9490
- Online www.hr.wa.gov/EAP
51 Department of Retirement Systems Career
Transitions
How Transitions Affect Your Retirement Accounts
52What happens to your retirement contributions if
you leave employment?
- What happens depends on you. Benefits are
protected. - Can you retire? (vested and eligible) (Member
Handbook) - DRS Publications
- Defined Benefit (Guaranteed and Lifetime)
- IRS Tax Code 401(a) and Survivorship options
- Defined Benefit Calculation (Formula)
- x Service Credit Years(SCY) x Average Final
Compensation(AFC) - Defined Benefit Estimator
53What if you leave work and dont retire?
- Leave contributions interest in Trust Fund
benefit guaranteed - Withdraw contributions Interest from Trust Fund
benefit forfeited
- Plan 3 Request for Payment of Defined
Contribution Funds
- Access to Defined Contribution account four
payment options - No effect on Unemployment Insurance payments
- Defined Benefit guaranteed if vested
- 3 indexing if 20 Service Credit Years (SCY)
- State Deferred Compensation Program (DCP)
- Access to DCP funds five payment options
- Continue to manage no transaction fees
- No effect on Unemployment Insurance payments
54Beneficiary Designations and Conclusion
- One Beneficiary Designations form for Retirement
and DCP be sure to keep it current. - Defined Benefits are guaranteed to all vested
members. - If you leave employment withdrawal of retirement
and/or DCP contributions is optional (no required
withdrawals). - Retirement plan membership is required when
returning to a DRS eligible position. - Stay informed by phone, internet, and sign up for
email updates
55Department of Retirement SystemsResources
available www.drs.wa.gov
56Thank you
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attending a live session.