How to Optimize Your University of Georgia Employee Benefits: A Guide for UGA Professors, Administrators, and Staff

As a financial planner who works closely with University of Georgia professors and staff members, I help employees navigate the complex benefits offered through the University System of Georgia (USG). These benefits are some of the most comprehensive available to benefits-eligible employees in higher education, but they require thoughtful planning to make the most of your benefit options.

Whether you work in environmental sciences, human resources, or as a campus safety ambassador, this guide will help you optimize everything from your health insurance and HSA to your retirement plans and flexible spending accounts (FSAs). Let’s break it down in plain language—with real examples.

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Health Insurance: Picking the Right USG Health Plan

Choosing the right health insurance plan is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during the open enrollment period. Most University of Georgia employees choose between:

1. Consumer Choice HSA Plan (High-Deductible Health Plan)

• Lower monthly premiums
• Access to a Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contributions
• Maximum annual out-of-pocket limit increases slightly each year
• A significantly better alternative for those in good health or with minimal annual medical expenses

Example: A professor in the College of Education opts for the Consumer Choice HSA Plan. They redirect premium savings to their HSA, invest unused HSA contributions, and build up a tax-free healthcare fund they can use in retirement.

2. Comprehensive Care Plan

• Higher premiums, but more comprehensive maternity care coverage
• Lower deductible than the HSA plan
• Ideal for those with frequent medical visits or ongoing prescription drugs

3. HMO Plans (Anthem BlueChoice and Kaiser)

• Require use of in-network providers
• Predictable copays and costs
• No out-of-network coverage (except emergencies)

Tip: Always check with your healthcare providers to ensure they’ll remain in-network when switching to a new plan.

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Health Savings Accounts (HSAs): A Triple Tax Benefit

If you select the Consumer Choice HSA Plan, you gain access to one of the most tax-efficient savings vehicles available: the Health Savings Account.

• Contributions are pre-tax
• Growth is tax-free
• Withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are tax-free

In 2025, maximum contributions are:

• $4,300 for individual coverage
• $8,550 for family coverage
• Additional $1,000 if over age 55

Example: A staff member in UGA’s development office contributes $6,000 to their HSA and uses $1,500 for vision expenses and dental procedures, while investing the rest for future tax-free growth.

Final note: Unused HSA contributions roll over annually and can be invested.

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Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Use It or Lose It

If you’re not in the Consumer Choice HSA Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts can still offer tax savings:

• Healthcare FSA: $3,200/year for medical, dental, and vision
• Dependent Care FSA: $5,000/year for school programs and child care
• Limited Purpose FSA: For dental and vision only (for HSA participants)

Tip: Be aware of the March 15 deadline for submitting receipts—unused funds are forfeited.

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Dental and Vision Benefits

Dental Insurance Plan options:

• Base plan: $1,000/person max, no orthodontia
• High plan: $1,500/person, plus $1,000 lifetime orthodontia

Vision Benefits:

• $25 eye exam copay (covered under most USG health plans)
• $150 allowance for eyeglass frames and contact lenses

Example: If a covered family member uses eyeglasses, the vision plan likely pays for itself.

Tip: If you expect additional dental work, the high dental plan offers a better financial strategy.

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Life and Disability Insurance

Basic Life Insurance:

• $25,000 in life and AD&D insurance provided at no cost

Additional Group Life Insurance Coverage:

• Up to 8x salary (subject to underwriting)
• Spouse and dependent options available

Disability Insurance:

• Short-term disability insurance: Helpful for maternity leave or minor injuries
• Long-term disability: Replaces 60% of income up to $15,000/month

Tip: Long-term coverage is crucial—especially for those without a large emergency fund.

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Retirement Plan Options: TRS vs. ORP

All full-time employees at a higher education institution in Georgia must choose between:

Teachers Retirement System (TRS):

• Defined benefit plan
• 6% employee contribution; 19.98% employer match
• Lifetime monthly benefit based on salary and years of service
• 10-year vesting

Example: A professor who stays at UGA for 25+ years receives a guaranteed pension indexed to their final salary.

Optional Retirement Plan (ORP):

• Defined contribution plan
• 6% employee contribution; 9.24% employer match
• Immediate vesting
• Greater portability for academics who move between institutions

Example: A visiting lecturer planning to transition to the University of North Georgia selects ORP for flexibility.

Strategy: ORP may offer higher long-term value if you invest aggressively and do not plan to stay in the University System of Georgia for your full career.

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Supplemental Retirement Plans: 403(b) and 457(b)

You can contribute to both the 403(b) and 457(b) plans for additional retirement savings:

• $23,000 annual limit per plan (+$7,500 if age 50+)
• Both offer Roth and pre-tax options
• No penalty for 457(b) withdrawals upon separation (regardless of age)

Example: A UGA researcher maxes out both the 403(b) and 457(b), builds over $46,000/year in retirement contributions, and lowers their taxable income.

Tip: Diversify across retirement options for tax flexibility in retirement.

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Other Employee Benefits and Considerations

• Tuition Assistance Program: Helps pay for education programs
• Wellness programs: May reduce your health premiums or boost morale
• Lifestyle packages: Discounts for identity theft protection, pet care, legal services, etc.
• Critical illness and accident insurance: Consider only if family history supports it

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A Final Word

The University of Georgia is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer committed to a diverse workforce. Your benefits are inclusive—regardless of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, veteran status, or national origin. However, your personal information and financial goals are unique.

That’s why working with a registered investment adviser who understands the University System’s benefits is key to making the right decisions for your specific situation.

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Ready to Get Personalized Advice?

If you’re a UGA professor, staff member, or other USG employee, I’d love to help you optimize your benefits and design a personalized financial plan that fits your life.

👉 Schedule a free consultation to review your benefits selections, coordinate your retirement plan options, and ensure your financial future is on track.

Let’s turn your University of Georgia benefits into long-term wealth.

Arch Financial Planning is a fee-only financial advisor headquartered in downtown Athens, GA