EBSA Create Web Page to Assist Benefit Plan Participants

The Department of Labor’s Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA) has launched a Consumer Assistance Web Page to answer questions for retirement and health benefit plan participants and beneficiaries, and enable them to submit electronically any complaints regarding their plans. The site includes a link whereby a viewer can request assistance from a benefits advisor. This feature will automatically direct such requests to the appropriate EBSA regional office based on the user’s ZIP code. While aimed primarily at benefit plan consumers, the site does link to various resources and tools such as fact sheets, frequently asked questions (FAQs), and other materials that may be helpful for employers and plan sponsors.

In a press release, EBSA Assistant Secretary Phyllis C. Borzi said: “Helping retirement and health plan participants find answers to questions about their benefits and providing assistance when they believe their benefits have been improperly denied is one of our most important responsibilities,” adding: “The new consumer assistance Web page and electronic inquiry/complaint process will provide quick answers to the most frequently asked questions and connect workers to experienced benefits advisers if assistance is needed.”

Photo credit: doram

Information contained in this publication is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or opinion, nor is it a substitute for the professional judgment of an attorney.