Benefits Handbook

In the case of a claim, the Plan Administrator will notify you of the benefit determination (whether adverse or not) no later than 90 days after your claim was received. This period may be extended one time by the Plan Administrator for up to 90 days, provided that the extension is necessary due to matters beyond the control of the Plan Administrator and/or the Benefits Administration Committee and you are notified prior to the expiration of the initial 90-day period of the circumstances requiring the extension and the date by which the Plan Administrator expects to render a decision. If additional information is needed to process the claim, the Plan Administrator and/or the Benefits Administration Committee will notify you within this 90-day period and may request a one-time extension of not more than 90 days and suspend your claim until all information is received. A denial notice will explain the reason for denial, refer to the part of the plan on which the denial is based, describe any additional material or information necessary to complete claim so it may be processed, provide the claim appeal procedures, and include a statement of your right to bring a civil action under section 502(a) of ERISA if your appeal is denied.

If you believe a benefit under a retirement or savings plan was denied improperly by the Plan Administrator, you or your representative may file a written appeal for the unpaid amount within 60 days of receipt of notification of the adverse benefit determination. The written appeal should specify the nature and amount of the claim, include any other written comments, documents, records or other information that may be pertinent and should be sent to the Plan Administrator. A written decision will usually be issued by the Plan Administrator within 60 days of your written appeal. This period may be extended for up to 60 days by the Plan Administrator if the Plan Administrator determines that the extension is necessary. You will be notified prior to the expiration of the initial 60-day period of the circumstances requiring the extension and the date by which the Plan Administrator expects to render a decision. If your appeal is denied, the written decision will explain the reason for denial, refer to the section of the plan on which the denial is based, inform you that, if you request, you are entitled to receive, at no cost, reasonable access and copies of all relevant documents, and include a statement of your right to bring a civil action under section 502(a) of ERISA if your appeal is denied.

Upon request, you will be provided, free of charge, reasonable access to, and copies of all documents, records, and other information relevant to your claim for benefits.