Unified Court Systems

Vision Benefit - The Unified Court System (UCS) plan allows members and their eligible dependents to one examination, one pair of glasses (lenses & frames) or soft daily wear or extended wear (both non-disposable) contact lenses. Non-plan contacts (disposable, gas permeable, toric, etc.) have a $125 allowance. Members and dependents are eligible once every 12 months.

The UCS Plan offers the Premier frame line and consists of approximately 300 frames in various designer styles and colors. Lenses include single vision, bi, trifocal, cataract, fashion tints, and prescription sunglasses. The benefit also includes progressive addition (standard & premium, no-line bi and trifocals, high index and glass photochromic.

If using a non-participating provider, reimbursements are made based on the fee schedule appearing in the Summary Plan Description provided to the member. Reimbursement is made on one pair of eye wear per person. Both services must be provided at the same time.

Dental Plan - This plan is for employees in the Unified Court System bargaining unit represented by CSEA. If you were an employee of the CSEA represented State of New York UCS bargaining unit and retired on or after April 1, 1998. Their is a $3,000 annual maximum dental benefit for each covered member and dependent(s). Whenever the estimated cost of a recommended dental treatment exceeds $250.00 it must be submitted to the Employee Benefit Fund before work begins.

Legal Services Benefit - This benefit provides assistance with meeting legal expenses. Members are free to choose any attorney according to individual needs and type of case. Reimbursement is sent directly to the member.

Limitations and Exclusions

• $1,000 per calendar year (January 1 - December 31) per family.
• Members are reimbursed for legal expenses only to the extent of fees charged and up to the identified maximum for each service. It is important that you discuss with your attorney the estimated charges before you commence any legal work. Charges over the allowances are the responsibility of the member.
• Once you decide to retain legal counsel, you may be required to make an initial payment.
• If a court awards full or partial payment for legal fees, the Fund's payment of allowances shall be reduced by that amount awarded-total will not exceed the amount charged by the attorney.
• Costs of document reproduction, filings, court fees, etc. are not covered nor are second opinion fees.
• Only matters specified in this brochure are covered. Additional exclusions are listed in the General Exclusion section of this Plan.
• You cannot claim services if your represent yourself.

The Attorney's original bill must be attached to the voucher and forwarded to the Fund Office. Write or call the Fund Office for a legal voucher (800) 323-2732 or CSEA EBF, 1 Lear Jet Lane, Latham, NY 12110.

Maternity Benefit - A member can receive the $200 benefit if either the member or the member's wife/domestic partner has a child. Write or call the Fund Office to obtain a Maternity Benefit Claim Form.

Prescription Drug Co-Pay Benefit - Reimburses prescription drug card co-payments once annually, up to a maximum of $100 per family per calendar year. Only one claim per year is processed. To obtain the maximum benefit, wait until your co-pay expenses reach $100 before filing your claim. Prescriptions must be dispensed by a licensed pharmacist.

Hearing Aid Benefit - Up to $150 per ear once every three calendar years towards the cost of a hearing aid, including charges for its fitting upon the recommendation of a physician or otologist. Submit your completed form with your paid bill and a copy of your doctor's prescription to the Fund Office. The fund does not pay for any repairs, replacement batteries or any appliances or expenses not recommended or approved by a physician or otologist.

Health Insurance Co-Pay Benefit - Reimburses co-pay expenses of physician office visits only. Reimbursement is processed once annually up to a maximum of $125 per family per calendar year. Members are entitled to reimbursement once annually for physician office visits for themselves and their dependents. Only one claim per year is processed.

Workplace Security - Criminal Assaults while in pursuit of his/her occupational duties and resulting in at least 10 consecutive workdays absent from work immediately following the incident. Submit a completed Workplace Security claim form along with copies of the filed police report signed by the investigating officer which has been reported, in person, within 48 hours of incident, a medical statement certifying the extend of injuries and proof of immediate medical attention. The plan will use the NYS Penal Law, Article 120 as the guidelines for determing assault for all claims.

Click here for the Unified Court System Booklet