Things Change
At Stanford, we know things change, and we want to help you prepare for whatever comes your way — good, bad or just different. A change in your personal or work life can change your benefits. When a "life event" takes place, you may make mid-year changes to some or all of your benefit elections. This section includes information on the following life events:
Marriage/Partnership
Whether embarking on a new commitment or ending an existing one, find out what can change for you and your spouse/partner's benefits.
Children
A new child changes everything, even your benefits. Learn about what you need to do with your benefits when you have a new child, or when your child gains or loses coverage. Also find out about Stanford's maternity, adoption and child care benefits.
Leave
Before you take time off — whether for family leave, disability or otherwise — make sure your benefits are covered.
Career
A job change for you or your spouse/domestic partner can affect your benefit eligibility. Keep up with your benefits coverage when you start a new job, go from part-time to full-time (and back again), retire or leave your job.
Other
Other life events — such as an unanticipated injury, death or even a name or address change — may impact your benefits.
Be Aware! 31-Day Window
You must make changes to your benefits within 31 days of your life event or wait until the next Open Enrollment period. Some coverage begins on the date of the event (e.g., marriage) or on the date of election (e.g. life insurance). Make Changes to MyBenefits.
Turning 65?
If you are still an active employee, nothing changes. However, if you are a retiree and turning age 65, your health benefits will change. See Retiree Health Benefits in the Medical & Life section to learn more, or contact Stanford Benefits.