The New Hampshire Model Statement of ERICA Rights is a comprehensive document that outlines the rights and protections granted to employees who participate in employee benefit plans covered by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERICA). ERICA is a federal law that sets standards for most private sector retirement plans, health insurance plans, and other employee welfare benefit plans. The New Hampshire Model Statement of ERICA Rights serves as a legally-sound template that employers in the state of New Hampshire can use to provide their employees with essential information about their rights under ERICA. This statement ensures compliance with ERICA disclosure requirements and ensures that employees are fully informed about their benefit plans. By providing this statement, employers help their employees understand the key provisions of their benefit plans, including eligibility requirements, plan features, investment options, and claim and appeal procedures. It also informs employees about their right to receive plan information, including the Summary Plan Description (SPD), and other important documents related to their benefit plans. This model statement emphasizes the importance of employees being aware of their rights to access and receive benefits, as well as their right to appeal and review claim denials. It highlights the procedures and steps employees should follow when filing a claim, including the timeframes for submitting claims, receiving responses, and appealing benefit denials. Moreover, the New Hampshire Model Statement of ERICA Rights clarifies the role of the Employee Benefits Security Administration (BSA), a division of the U.S. Department of Labor responsible for enforcing ERICA. It assures employees that they have the right to contact the BSA if they believe their ERICA rights have been violated and provides the necessary contact information for doing so. While there may not be specifically named different types of the New Hampshire Model Statement of ERICA Rights, variations of this statement may exist depending on an employer's unique benefit plan offerings and design. Each employer is encouraged to tailor the statement to their specific benefit plans, while ensuring compliance with ERICA regulations and the New Hampshire state laws.