Most Iowa State employees probably think the university's benefits package is pretty good, maybe even really good. But did you know that you have access to several additional benefits and perks once you've enrolled in certain programs? From discounted health magazine subscriptions, to hotel and restaurant discounts, to identity theft kits, there are scores of discounts available to ISU employees.
Here's a look at some of these extra benefits (there may be more), who qualifies for them and how to access them. For more information about these programs and services, contact the vendors directly.
Blue365
If you're enrolled in a medical insurance plan through Wellmark, you have access to health discounts and services through Blue365, a free program that offers savings from brands like Jenny Craig, Reebok and SNAP Fitness. You also can save on personal care items -- like contact lenses -- and receive discounts on hotels and pet insurance. To sign up, go online, read the disclosure statement and select "I Agree." From there, follow the site's instructions.
EyeMed Vision Care
If you're enrolled in a Delta Dental plan, you have access to vision care through EyeMed Vision Care. Delta Dental subscribers can save up to 35 percent off frames and contact lenses, and also receive savings on eye exams. There is no limit to how often you can use these services annually. However, you cannot use these discounts in conjunction with the Avesis voluntary vision plan, currently offered by Iowa State.
PerksConnect
All state employees, including Iowa State faculty and staff, have access to PerksConnect, a free app that gives members access to local and national merchant discounts. Examples of local deals include discounts at hotels, restaurants, health clinics and recreation parks. The app is available from the Apple Store and Android Marketplace. If you don't own a smart phone, you can register online (enter STOFIA when asked for "Your Group Code").
Smoking cessation
Trying to kick the habit? There are several smoking cessation resources (most are free) available to Iowa State employees. More information is available on university human resources' benefits website (Other Benefits > Smoking Cessation Information).
Travel assistance
If you are enrolled in Iowa State's basic life insurance plan through Principal Life Insurance Company, you are eligible for travel assistance services through AXA Assistance. This benefit provides you, your spouse and dependent children (either traveling together or separately) with travel, medical, legal and financial assistance, plus emergency medical evacuation benefits. The benefits apply to domestic and international travel when you are more than 100 miles from home, for up to 120 consecutive days. Services are available 24/7, 365 days a year. For more information, call 888-647-2611 (in the United States) or 630-766-7696 (call collect outside the United States).
Legal help
Another added benefit for employees enrolled in the basic life insurance plan is access to free legal documents and identity theft protection through ARAG/Principal Financial Group. Available documents include:
- Will
- Living will
- Healthcare power of attorney
- Financial power of attorney preparation
To access these documents, go online and create a new account (left side of screen). You are required to enter a group policy number for Iowa State in the "Employer Information" section. That number is N1460.
Healthy perks
Employees enrolled in Iowa State's basic life insurance plan or long-term disability program have access to several health-related discounts.
Hearing assistance: American Hearing Benefits Inc.
- Free annual screenings
- Free one-year supply of batteries
- One year of free office visits (limit of 6)
- Go online or call 877-890-4694 for more information
Hearing assistance: Ear Professional International Corporation
- Access to a large network of audiologists and ear, nose and throat physicians
- Up to 60 percent off major hearing-aid brands
- Three-year extended warranties
- Go online or call 866-956-5400 for more information
Weight Watchers
- $10 off a three-month subscription to Weight Watchers Online
- Go online for more information
Oral health
- Discounts available on Epic brand toothpaste, oral rinse, mints and gum
- 50 percent off first order; 25 percent off additional orders
- Go online for more information
Laser vision correction
- Available through National Lasik Network, administered by LCA-Vision Inc.
- Receive 15 percent off standard pricing or 5 percent off promotional pricing for Lasik eye surgery
- Discounts apply to you, your spouse and dependent children
- Go online or call 888-647-3937 for more information
Diabetic Living magazine
- Get a one-year subscription for $6 (70 percent savings off retail)
- Go online for more information
