This is a common question we get in Human Resources. Spousal coverage is available for all spouses/Other Eligible Individuals (OEIs) of benefits-eligible employees who enroll in an MSU health plan. This seems simple enough, but the premium threshold for spousal coverage can become confusing!

If your spouse/OEI has health care coverage from their employer that costs $850 or less per year (for a single policy, not two-person or family), they need to enroll in their employer’s health plan. But, they also can have secondary coverage with you through your MSU health plan.

If your spouse/OEI has employer coverage that costs more than $850 per year, they aren’t required by MSU to enroll in their employer’s health plan and can be covered solely under MSU’s health plan.

If your spouse/OEI’s employer coverage changes during MSU’s plan year, you should update the health plan affidavit in the EBS Portal, but you do NOT need to remove them from your MSU health plan! The affidavit can be found under the Benefits section of Employee Self Service (ESS).

For more questions related to spousal coverage, please contact the HR Benefits office at 517-353-4434 or benefitsinfo@hr.msu.edu.