Considering FEPLI? Here Are Five Things You Should Know
As a federal employee, you know that any mistake can lead to serious consequences. Even baseless accusations can put your career and your finances at risk. But there is a solution. Federal Employee Professional Liability Insurance (FEPLI) provides the insurance protection you need. Here are five things to know about the coverage.
1. Your policy will include key coverages for federal workers.
Federal employees are subject to certain risks, and FEPLI coverage can provide protections for these risks.
Different plans are available to meet the unique level of risk that comes with different positions. Depending on the plan option you select, your FEPLI policy can provide coverage for the following:
· Disciplinary actions or investigations
· Allegations of negligence
· Failure to perform professional duties
· Defense against administrative proceedings to revoke a security clearance
· Baseless accusations of discrimination, harassment or retaliation
· Liability arising out of acts, errors or omissions under the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act
2. Claims can happen to anyone.
To err is human. No matter how careful you are, you can’t guarantee that you won’t make a mistake. You forget something, you misjudge something, and that’s it — you’re facing an investigation.
And even if you don’t do anything wrong, accusations are still possible. An action you believe is reasonable may result in a claim of harassment or discrimination. In some cases, false accusations may be made by disgruntled workers as a form of revenge. You may know that you’re not responsible, but proving it is a different matter.
3. Your employer might not defend you.
As a diligent federal employee, you may assume that your federal agency will have your back if anything happens. Don’t be so sure. Liability issues can get complicated, and your agency may decide to terminate or otherwise discipline you if anything goes wrong.
This is true even if you’re part of a union. Although your union has a duty to protect the rights of its members, this does not guarantee that the union will give you the representation you desire during a dispute.
4. Your insurer can organize your defense.
If someone filed a baseless discrimination claim against you, would you know how to proceed on your own? Many people wouldn’t even know where to start.
FEPLI provides more than a payout if you’re sued. After a covered complaint is filed against you, Starr Wright USA will assist you in accessing the legal resources to plan your defense. This will help you avoid negative outcomes and protect your career. FEPLI obtained through Starr Wright USA also assists with legal defense costs for covered claims.
5. You may be reimbursed for your premiums.
FEPLI coverage provides a good value. Depending on the policy you select, a FEPLI policy can cost under $300 a year — an average of only about $1 per day.
Even better, qualified federal employees are eligible for reimbursement of up to 50 percent (or up to $150) of their Starr Wright USA FEPLI premium. Talk to your HR department to see if you qualify for reimbursement.
And if you’re on the fence about whether you need FEPLI coverage, think about this — the federal government considers coverage important enough to provide reimbursement for qualified employees. Shouldn’t it be important to you as well?
Purchase your FEPLI coverage today.
Article authored by and contains the opinions of Starr Wright USA; the article is offered solely for informational purposes.
Starr Wright USA is a marketing name for Starr Wright Insurance Agency, Inc. and its affiliate(s). Starr Wright USA is an insurance agency specializing in insurance solutions for federal employees and federal contractors. For more information, visit WrightUSA.com. Starr Wright USA is a division of Starr Insurance Companies, which is a marketing name for the operating insurance and travel assistance companies and subsidiaries of Starr International Company, Inc. and for the investment business of C.V. Starr & Co., Inc.
