If an employer provides you with a retiree list and asks you to contact them to explain plan characteristics, what should you do?

• A. Do not call the retirees.
• B. Go ahead and call them.
• C. Call only after obtaining their consent in writing.
• D. Only email them.

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that when an employer provides a retiree contact list specifically for outreach about plan options, you’re authorized to reach out to those retirees to explain plan characteristics. This list represents permission from the employer to contact these individuals about benefits, features, and enrollment details.

Because the employer has given you the list for this purpose, you should proceed with a telephone outreach to explain the plan characteristics, making sure you introduce yourself, identify your organization, and keep the conversation focused on clear, factual information about coverage, premiums, benefits, and enrollment timelines. If a retiree asks not to be contacted again or you encounter any opt-out instructions or Do Not Call restrictions, you must honor those requests.

Choosing not to call would miss the opportunity the employer intended. Requiring written consent from each retiree before calling would unnecessarily slow the outreach since the employer’s provision already authorizes the contact. Limiting outreach to email alone can reduce the effectiveness of conveying plan details that are often easier to discuss clearly over the phone.