August 2021
What's in This Bulletin?
The University Can Help You Save for Retirement
The University is committed to helping you meet your retirement goals. As of July 1, the required 403(b) employee contribution to the Retirement Savings Plan increased to 5%. Depending on your current contribution amount, it could mean an increase from 4%. Your total contribution will now be at least 10%—you contribute 5% and the University contributes 5%. Note: This change in required contribution does not apply to grandfathered groups that may have higher required contribution amounts already (such as 6%–11%, 12%, or 14%).
If you were contributing 4% before July, no action is required on your part—the University automatically increased your minimum contribution to 5% starting in July. If you were contributing 5% or more, your total contribution will not change.
Double your savings. You have the option to contribute more than the minimum contribution and the University will match up to 10%—that means you can save up to 20% of your regular pay every year! Increasing your annual contribution will increase the money in your 403(b) when you reach retirement. And, if you have a higher required contribution already, you still have the option to increase your own contribution!
If you have any questions, please contact your campus Human Resources office.
Don’t Let Stress Derail Your Health Goals
Stress can sabotage your weight loss goals, and it becomes harder to eat healthy and stay active when you can’t control what life throws at you. Real Appeal—the University’s weight loss and exercise program—is here to help.
Here are some tips to help keep your stress levels in check:
- Laugh. When you are experiencing stress, laughter is a way to get some quick relief and a mood boost.
- Step outside. Going for a walk or getting some air will help lift your spirits.
- Try new activities. Being at home for long periods of time can be its own sort of stress, so try a new activity—bread baking, painting, or piano lessons are all good options.
- Connect. Research shows that connecting with loved ones can keep stress down.
- Disconnect. Take a break from the news and social media.
- Get moving. You don’t need to do a full hour of cardio—try jumping jacks or run up and down the stairs.
Connect with a Real Appeal Transformation Coach for additional help. If you meet the eligibility requirements, you get up to a year of FREE support with a coach who will develop a personalized program that fits your needs.
To get started, visit enroll.realappeal.com.
Balancing the New Normal
Quarantine. Shelter in place. Social distancing. Vaccinations. All of the change in the past year can be unsettling and even frightening. With all the unknowns, it’s easy to set aside your own self-care and forget that you have resources available to support your mental well-being.
Focus on Self-Care
You may still be helping your children with virtual learning, caring for an elderly parent, or financially supporting a spouse who lost his/her job. All of this leads to continued feelings of worry, stress, and anxiety. You can’t care for others if you aren’t taking care of yourself.
The University’s assistance program offers support and services at no cost to you for help with managing work, home, personal, and family issues. Your loved ones can use this benefit, too!
Take Your Doctor With You
As you make travel plans and create packing lists, don’t forget to set up a virtual doctor visit before you leave. Virtual visits are an easy and convenient way to chat with a board-certified doctor online from anywhere. Plus, it’s safe and confidential via a secure video connection.
And if you suddenly feel ill or have a minor issue while away, you can:
- Chat with a doctor and describe your symptoms
- Get a diagnosis or second opinion
- Have medication prescribed and sent to the pharmacy of your choice
And your covered family members can use the service, too!
You have telehealth options through UAMS HealthNow and your local doctors (who may also offer this option). Your copay will depend on the University plan you are enrolled in.