Employee Benefits at Lower Columbia College
Lower Columbia College (LCC) is committed to providing a comprehensive benefits package that supports the health, financial security, and overall wellbeing of our employees. The information below summarizes available benefits and resources for benefit-eligible employees. For questions or assistance, please contact Human Resource Services.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Washington State’s Employee Assistance Program provides confidential, short-term counseling and work-life resources to full-time LCC employees, their spouse, dependents, and household members. Services include mental health support, financial and legal resources, and wellness tools.
Health & Dental Insurance
Health and dental benefits are provided through the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) and administered by the Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA). Employees may choose from several medical, dental and vision plans.
Other PEBB Resources
SmartHealth Wellness Incentive
Employees enrolled in a PEBB medical plan may earn a $125 wellness incentive through the SmartHealth program.
Life Insurance
LCC provides the following basic coverage at no cost to eligible employees:
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$35,000 Basic Life Insurance
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$5,000 Basic Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
Employees may purchase supplemental life insurance for themselves and their dependents.
Long-Term Care Insurance (LTC)
The WA Cares Fund is Washington State’s long-term care insurance program. For updates and program details, visit the WA Cares website.
Employees exploring a private long-term care exemption may review a list of approved insurers on the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner website.
Long-Term Disability Insurance (LTD)
Basic long-term disability insurance is provided at no cost. Employees may elect additional LTD coverage (employee-paid), which covers up to 60% of salary in the event of a qualifying disability.
Retirement Plans - Department of Retirement Systems (DRS) & TIAA
Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS)
The PERS plan, administered by DRS, is the mandatory retirement plan for non-academic employees.
Teacher’s Retirement System (TRS)
The TRS plan, administered by DRS, is one of two options in which faculty can choose from as their retirement plan.
State Board Retirement Plan (SBRP) – TIAA
The SBRP, administered by TIAA, is one of two options in which faculty and exempt employees can choose from as their retirement plan.
Supplemental Retirement Savings
Employees may enhance their retirement savings through voluntary plans:
These plans can be started, changed, or stopped at any time. Contact Human Resource Services for forms or assistance.
Additional Retirement Resources
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TIAA Counseling and Support
TIAA participants may schedule a virtual counseling session by calling (800) 732-8353 or booking online under Virtual Consultation days.
For account changes, distributions, allocation updates, or other transactions, contact
the TIAA Participant Services Group at (800) 842-2252.
Unemployment Compensation
Eligible employees may receive unemployment benefits as determined by state and federal
law.
For questions about eligibility, contact your local WorkSource Center.
Workers’ Compensation
All employees contribute to the medical portion of Washington State Workers’ Compensation coverage. LCC pays the employer contribution to the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I).
Employees injured at work may be eligible for medical benefits and wage-replacement (time-loss) benefits. All workplace injuries must be reported immediately to your supervisor and an accident report must be submitted.
Additional Employee Benefits
Benefit-eligible employees may also access:
- Tuition waivers for classes at LCC or other participating institutions
- Up to a 12% discount on auto and home insurance through Liberty Mutual.
- Paid leave benefits (varies by employee classification).
Red Devil Wellbeing Program activities and resources.