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Computer Loan Plan

To actively encourage enhancement of computer skills for employees and their families, Smith offers a loan program toward the purchase of a computer for personal use. The interest rate is the prime rate minus 2% at the time you take out the loan. In addition, the Smith Computer Store offers discounted prices to employees. For information on a computer loan contact the Smith College Controllers Office at (413) 585-2220.

Domestic Partner Coverage (same sex)

Smith's definition of family embraces today's diversity by offering benefit eligibility to same-sex partners who share a long-term commitment relationship.

The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled that same-sex couples can legally marry in Massachusetts effective May 17, 2004. As of this date, Smith College will provide benefits to same-sex married couples in the same way as other married couples, with the exception of those benefits granted under federal law. Because same-sex marriages are not recognized under federal law, all pre-tax deductions (health and dental premiums) will continue to be subject to imputed federal tax. Retirement monies will not be automatically granted to a same-sex spouse in the event of the employee’s death if the spouse is not listed as a beneficiary with the employee’s retirement account. Finally, Flexible Spending Accounts still will not cover same-sex partners. Other than these exceptions, same-sex married couples will be eligible for all benefits just as opposite-sex married couples are, including not being subject to the imputed Massachusetts tax for health and dental premiums.

Smith College will continue to keep its domestic partner definition in place. There are several reasons for this decision which are highlighted below.

  1. The federal government does not recognize same-sex marriage; therefore in order to offer benefits to same-sex couples we must have a domestic partner definition in place.
  2. We can not reasonably expect all same-sex couples to get married immediately upon the effective date of the new legislation.
  3. We have to consider the possibility that this ruling could be overturned; therefore keeping the domestic partner definition in place for same-sex couples will make for a smoother, more seamless transition if the ruling is overturned.
  4. Our dental carrier is not currently recognizing the May 17 ruling because the Division of Insurance has not made any amendments regarding it at this time. We need to have the domestic partner definition in place to continue to provide dental benefits to same-sex couples.

Based on the new Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruling we will be amending our domestic partner definition to include the following eligibility requirement:

  • If you were married, your marriage would not be recognized by the federal government.

Employees may add their same-sex spouse to their benefit plans by providing a copy of their marriage certificate and completing the applicable benefit enrollment form(s) within 30 days of the date of the marriage. If an employee currently covers a domestic partner but gets married, Human Resources will need a copy of the marriage certificate to stop imputing Massachusetts taxes.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact Lynn Cocco at extension 2273.

Employee Discount Program

Smith partners with several vendors in the Northampton area to provide an Employee Discount Program.  All discounts offered are individual by the respective vendors. Smith College and Staff Council in no way endorse or specifically support the patronage of the vendors listed.

NOTE: these discounts vary widely from vendor to vendor. Often the discount does not apply to all store items. Call ahead or ask whether the discount applies before making your purchase.

Questions about the Employee Discount Program should be directed to Judith Roberge in College Relations.

Long-Term Care Insurance

Smith faculty and staff may choose to supplement their benefits package with long-term care insurance coverage offered through the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company. 

This voluntary benefit helps cover nursing home and home health care expenses. Employees and their family members are eligible for a five percent group discount. Premiums are paid directly to the carrier.

For more information, contact Martha Hand at (800) 492-3553, ext. 28602 or visit www.metlifeltc.com/muw.

People's Institute

Smith offers back-up child care on days when school is closed such as snow days and public school vacations. For more information on this child care benefit please call (413) 585-2273.

Benefited Leaves

Emeriti Benefits

Employee Assistance

Flex Benefits

Health & Welfare

Other Benefits

Retirement Benefits

Tuition Benefits

Wellness Program

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