Page 77 - NWF November Updates

After being notified by an employee of an actual or potential short term disability absence, it is
important for the supervisor to immediately verify that the employee has relayed this
information to the Human Resources Department. Prompt notification is necessary to ensure

proper payment of wages and administration of other forms of leave. It is equally important
for the supervisor to keep the Human Resources Department advised of changes in the
employee's status after this initial notification.

The Human Resources Department will coordinate the processing of claims under the Short

Term Disability Plan. Upon notification of a pending claim the Human Resources Department
will provide appropriate forms to be completed by the employee's physician. After a
satisfactory claim has been established, the Human Resources Department will work in
conjunction with the Financial Reporting and Payroll Division to ensure that proper payments
are made through the payroll system.

Employees who are in a permanently disabled status with no immediate return to work date

will have any salary adjustment deferred until they return to active status. Any such adjustment
will not be retroactive. The next review date remains unchanged.

If a claim for disability benefits is denied, in whole or part, the employee will receive a written
explanation of the denial from the Human Resources Department within 30 days of the date a

claim is submitted, unless unusual circumstances require more time to process the claim. If

additional time is needed, the employee will be informed in writing of the need for an

extension. If the employee feels an improper decision has been made, they may submit a

written appeal within 30 days to the NWF Employee Benefits Committee which will render

a final written decision within 60 days. An additional 60 days may be taken to reach a decision
on an appealed claim if unusual circumstances so warrant.
Long Term Disability
Group Long Term Disability Insurance provides you with monthly income benefits you and
your family may need to help maintain your life-style in the event you become disabled. NWF
pays the full cost of this plan. NWF employees eligible under the Flexible Benefits Program are
automatically enrolled in the Group Long Term Disability Income Insurance Plan. The program
protects against loss of income due to partial or total disability. An employee is considered
disabled if, due to injury or sickness, they are continuously unable to perform the substantial
duties of their regular occupation, or unable to engage in any occupation.
Benefits begin after 180 days of continuous disability and pays 60% of your base salary to a
maximum monthly benefit of $12,500.