VISTA Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is CNCS?
CNCS stands for the Corporation for National and Community Service. This is the federal agency, created in 1993, that is responsible for managing national service resources, including all AmeriCorps funding.
Q: There are lots of AmeriCorps programs with different names. How do they differ from each other?
AmeriCorps is a national network of hundreds of service programs throughout the US. AmeriCorps is made up of three main programs: AmeriCorps VISTA , AmeriCorps NCCC, and AmeriCorps State/National. In abbreviated terms, AmeriCorps NCCC is a traveling service program for people between the ages of 18-24, AmeriCorps State/National members perform direct service in communities (building houses, tutoring, etc.), and AmeriCorps VISTA members perform indirect service in communities (building organizational capacity, creating businesses, etc.).
Q: Is AmeriCorps like Peace Corps?
Yes. AmeriCorps is often referred to as the "domestic Peace Corps." Both agencies are committed to service and both offer challenging and rewarding full-time opportunities. Peace Corps assignments are all overseas and AmeriCorps members serve only in the US. While Peace Corps volunteers serve for two years, a stint in AmeriCorps lasts one year. Some AmeriCorps VISTA members serve more than one term.
Q: What are the benefits of being an AmeriCorps VISTA?
AmeriCorps VISTA members who successfully complete a term of service are eligible to receive either an AmeriCorps Education Award of up to $5,550 or a $1,500 end-of-service stipend. Additional benefits include training, a living allowance, limited health care benefits, relocation expenses, student-loan forbearance or deferment and non-competitive eligibility. You may also be eligible for childcare assistance. Other benefits vary by site.
Q: Does AmeriCorps pay for moving expenses?
The Corporation for National & Community Service will reimburse members for mileage, or purchase air and train tickets to relocate for service. CNCS uses Rand McNally to determine the mileage and is reimbursed at the current federal rate. Those members moving more than 50 miles from their "home of record” will receive a $550 relocation allowance in their first pay check.
Q: Do AmeriCorps VISTA members receive any vacation time or medical leave?
Yes, each VISTA member receives 10 personal days and 10 sick days.
Q: Is VISTA a full-time job? Can a VISTA be a full-time student?
VISTA is a full-time, 12 month commitment. Therefore, VISTA members cannot be full-time students nor have a part-time job in any other paid position, because while serving, they are on call 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. (VISTA members typically work a normal 40 hour week, but may work more if needed)
Q: What types of training do VISTA members receive?
Pre-service Orientation (PSO): VISTA members must attend PSO before officially becoming a VISTA; benefits start the day after successful completion of PSO. If a VISTA wants to start before PSO, he/she is free to work on a volunteer basis. On-site Orientation and Training (OSOT): OSOT begins on the VISTA’s first day of service and is implemented by the VISTA Supervisor. Continuing Development Training (CDT): New York Campus Compact will provide at least one conference and two additional training opportunities for continued professional and personal development throughout your year.
Q: How does the Segal Education Award work?
If you have completed your entire term of service, you can choose to receive the Segal Education Award ($5,550 towards education) or the end of service stipend ($1,500 cash). The education award can be used to pay loans that have already accumulated or to pay for future education. Some institutions match the Segal Award, giving you twice as much spending power- be sure to check out the list of matching institutions online. Once you have selected either the education award or end of service stipend you cannot change your decision, so choose wisely!
Q: Do I have to pay my students loans/interest on loans during my service?
You can only forbear your loans if you select the Segal Education Award rather than the end of service stipend. You may qualify for postponement, or forbearance, of the repayment of your loans during your service. Contact your lender for more specific information or to confirm your loan status during AmeriCorps service- many private lenders do not accept AmeriCorps loan forbearance. The forbearance program does not require that you pay your loans during your year of service. You will continue to receive paper statements from your loan company indicating that your loan is accumulating interest- do not pay this interest because you will not be reimbursed! Your loan company will be reimbursed directly for the interest at the end of your service.
Q: Who can I contact if I have more questions?
Contact New York Campus Compact at 607-255-2366 or nycampuscompact@cornell.edu
Health Benefits Plan: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are AmeriCorps VISTA members covered by health insurance?
No, AmeriCorps members do not have insurance. The health benefits plan for AmeriCorps is a self-funded plan. That means it is paid for by the Corporation for National & Community Service, with funds appropriated by the Congress. The approved benefits are paid directly by CNCS. There is no insurance company involved.
Q: Will this health benefits plan cover medical conditions that have already been diagnosed and treated?
No. The health care plan does not cover pre-existing conditions.
Q: What is a pre-existing condition?
A pre-existing condition is any physical or mental condition or illness for which medical treatment was given, or a diagnosis was made, on or before the effective date of coverage. If you have received medical attention for any physical or mental illness or condition before entering AmeriCorps, treatment of that illness or condition is your responsibility; treatment for that illness or condition is not a covered benefit.
Q: Is there coverage for dental care?
Coverage is limited and only for emergencies. Routine dental visits are not covered.
Q: How are my medical bills paid?
If you receive service for an approved benefit your claim will go to Seven Corners, Inc., the contractor administering the health benefits plan. Seven Corners pays those claims that are for approved benefits. When a claim is submitted by your doctor, Seven Corners pays the claim according to the guidelines established by CNCS in the Member Health Care Guide. Seven Corners is responsible for:
▪ Determination if the claim is for an approved benefit
▪ Payment of the claim or denial of the claim
▪ Appeals
▪ Customer service
Seven Corners is under contract to CNCS to provide these services. It is not an insurance company. It ensures that your claim is valid, covered by the benefits plan and paid according to the rules as described in the Member Health Care Guide.
Q: I currently have health insurance, should I keep it?
It depends. Only you can decide. It is always preferable to have more coverage than needed as opposed to not enough. You should examine the coverage you currently have and compare it to the limited coverage you will get in AmeriCorps. Ask for a copy of the Member Health Care Guide or go online at americorps.sevencorners.com.
Q: Does the Health Insurance Portability & Accountability Act (HIPAA) apply to the AmeriCorps health benefits plan?
According to the HIPAA legislation, the AmeriCorps health benefits plan is neither a group health care plan nor one of the government programs specifically mentioned. Therefore, for the purposes of providing “portability” to a group health plan, the law does not apply. The HIPAA law does require any organization or individual, including the AmeriCorps health benefits plan, to protect the privacy of the individual when information is transmitted electronically.
Q: Who do I call if I have questions about the health benefits plan?
Call Seven Corners, the health benefits administrator toll free at 866-699-4186.
Q: What happens if I go to the doctor and the claim is denied by Seven Corners?
Examine the reason given for the denial carefully. Read the Explanation of Benefits (EOB) that accompanied the denial. Ask the doctor or the office manager why the claim was denied. Read the Member Health Care Guide. If you believe it should be paid according to the Member Health Care Guide you can appeal the decision.
Q: What happens if the health benefits plan won’t pay after my appeal?
You are responsible for paying the claim.
Q: I went to the doctor and now I’m getting a bill, what should I do?
You should call the provider for further information.
The most common reasons for this are:No claim was ever sent. Verify that the provider sent a claim to Seven Corners
▪ The doctor or hospital is billing you instead of sending the bill to Seven Corners. Verify that a claim has been submitted to Seven Corners
▪ Our claims administrator, Seven Corners, has asked the provider for more information concerning your claim before it can be paid. Verify that the provider has sent the information requested. Ask the provider to read you the Explanation of Benefits they received from Seven Corners
▪ You were treated for a pre-existing condition. Since the health benefits plan specifically excludes pre-existing conditions, you are responsible for paying the entire claim
▪ You received care that is not a covered benefit. Check the Member Health Care Guide
Q: How do I get a new health care card?
Call Seven Corners, the health benefits administrator, toll at free 866-699-4186.
Q: What is a Preferred Provider Network (PPO) and why is it important to me?
A PPO is a network of health care providers that have agreed to participate in our plan. These providers bill the plan directly, will not require payment in advance from you (except for the $5 co-pay) and have agreed to a pre-determined fee for all services.
Using the PPO can save you money. If you do not go to a provider in the PPO network, you will be responsible for paying the difference between what the provider charges and what is a “usual and customary” fee for that service. Using the PPO can save you money.
Q: What if there is no PPO in my area?
If there is no PPO in your area, then you may go to any provider and you will not be penalized. You should make very sure that there are no providers in you area; if there are you will be responsible for any difference between the charges and what we pay.
You may visit the Seven Corners website at americorps.sevencorners.com or you can call Seven Corners toll free at 866-699-4186 to verify if there is a PPO in your area.
Q: Who is responsible for my health care and for the bills I have?
You are responsible for your health care and for making sure that the treatment you are seeking is a covered benefit, and that all the information required to pay your bills has been forwarded to the proper place. You should not assume that information will automatically be sent to Seven Corners by your provider and you should not assume that your bill will be automatically paid. If you are having problems paying a bill, it is your responsibility to work with the provider and Seven Corners to make sure that all required information has been sent to Seven Corners.
Q: Am I covered by worker’s compensation?
Yes, you are covered by worker’s compensation. If you are injured on the job call your state office for information on how to file a claim.
Q: Am I eligible for COBRA?
No, you are not eligible for COBRA. COBRA applies to group health care plans in the private sector. The AmeriCorps health benefits plan is not a group health care plan as defined in the COBRA law and AmeriCorps is not a private sector organization.
Q: Is there a way I can get health insurance after service?
Yes. You can call Celtic Insurance Company at 1-800-365-2365 for information on how to get individual health insurance. You MUST call within 31 days of your termination date.
Q: Are there any exceptions to the pre-existing conditions clause?
Yes. The clause does not apply to pharmacy and three outpatient mental health counseling visits. (Example: prescription medication for a mental health illness that existed before starting VISTA service is covered)
Q: Is any preventative care covered?
Yes:
▪ One gynecological exam per benefit year is covered, including lab work (contraceptive evaluations/renewals should be taken care of at this appointment)
▪ Immunizations are covered
Q: Is there a co-payment?
Yes:
▪ $5 co-payment for each medical office visit
▪ $25 co-payment for emergency room visits
No co-payment for lab work, pharmacy or emergency dental (In other words, lab tests and prescription drugs are free. This includes oral contraceptives, antibiotics and other prescriptions.)
CNCS stands for the Corporation for National and Community Service. This is the federal agency, created in 1993, that is responsible for managing national service resources, including all AmeriCorps funding.
Q: There are lots of AmeriCorps programs with different names. How do they differ from each other?
AmeriCorps is a national network of hundreds of service programs throughout the US. AmeriCorps is made up of three main programs: AmeriCorps VISTA , AmeriCorps NCCC, and AmeriCorps State/National. In abbreviated terms, AmeriCorps NCCC is a traveling service program for people between the ages of 18-24, AmeriCorps State/National members perform direct service in communities (building houses, tutoring, etc.), and AmeriCorps VISTA members perform indirect service in communities (building organizational capacity, creating businesses, etc.).
Q: Is AmeriCorps like Peace Corps?
Yes. AmeriCorps is often referred to as the "domestic Peace Corps." Both agencies are committed to service and both offer challenging and rewarding full-time opportunities. Peace Corps assignments are all overseas and AmeriCorps members serve only in the US. While Peace Corps volunteers serve for two years, a stint in AmeriCorps lasts one year. Some AmeriCorps VISTA members serve more than one term.
Q: What are the benefits of being an AmeriCorps VISTA?
AmeriCorps VISTA members who successfully complete a term of service are eligible to receive either an AmeriCorps Education Award of up to $5,550 or a $1,500 end-of-service stipend. Additional benefits include training, a living allowance, limited health care benefits, relocation expenses, student-loan forbearance or deferment and non-competitive eligibility. You may also be eligible for childcare assistance. Other benefits vary by site.
Q: Does AmeriCorps pay for moving expenses?
The Corporation for National & Community Service will reimburse members for mileage, or purchase air and train tickets to relocate for service. CNCS uses Rand McNally to determine the mileage and is reimbursed at the current federal rate. Those members moving more than 50 miles from their "home of record” will receive a $550 relocation allowance in their first pay check.
Q: Do AmeriCorps VISTA members receive any vacation time or medical leave?
Yes, each VISTA member receives 10 personal days and 10 sick days.
Q: Is VISTA a full-time job? Can a VISTA be a full-time student?
VISTA is a full-time, 12 month commitment. Therefore, VISTA members cannot be full-time students nor have a part-time job in any other paid position, because while serving, they are on call 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. (VISTA members typically work a normal 40 hour week, but may work more if needed)
Q: What types of training do VISTA members receive?
Pre-service Orientation (PSO): VISTA members must attend PSO before officially becoming a VISTA; benefits start the day after successful completion of PSO. If a VISTA wants to start before PSO, he/she is free to work on a volunteer basis. On-site Orientation and Training (OSOT): OSOT begins on the VISTA’s first day of service and is implemented by the VISTA Supervisor. Continuing Development Training (CDT): New York Campus Compact will provide at least one conference and two additional training opportunities for continued professional and personal development throughout your year.
Q: How does the Segal Education Award work?
If you have completed your entire term of service, you can choose to receive the Segal Education Award ($5,550 towards education) or the end of service stipend ($1,500 cash). The education award can be used to pay loans that have already accumulated or to pay for future education. Some institutions match the Segal Award, giving you twice as much spending power- be sure to check out the list of matching institutions online. Once you have selected either the education award or end of service stipend you cannot change your decision, so choose wisely!
Q: Do I have to pay my students loans/interest on loans during my service?
You can only forbear your loans if you select the Segal Education Award rather than the end of service stipend. You may qualify for postponement, or forbearance, of the repayment of your loans during your service. Contact your lender for more specific information or to confirm your loan status during AmeriCorps service- many private lenders do not accept AmeriCorps loan forbearance. The forbearance program does not require that you pay your loans during your year of service. You will continue to receive paper statements from your loan company indicating that your loan is accumulating interest- do not pay this interest because you will not be reimbursed! Your loan company will be reimbursed directly for the interest at the end of your service.
Q: Who can I contact if I have more questions?
Contact New York Campus Compact at 607-255-2366 or nycampuscompact@cornell.edu
Health Benefits Plan: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are AmeriCorps VISTA members covered by health insurance?
No, AmeriCorps members do not have insurance. The health benefits plan for AmeriCorps is a self-funded plan. That means it is paid for by the Corporation for National & Community Service, with funds appropriated by the Congress. The approved benefits are paid directly by CNCS. There is no insurance company involved.
Q: Will this health benefits plan cover medical conditions that have already been diagnosed and treated?
No. The health care plan does not cover pre-existing conditions.
Q: What is a pre-existing condition?
A pre-existing condition is any physical or mental condition or illness for which medical treatment was given, or a diagnosis was made, on or before the effective date of coverage. If you have received medical attention for any physical or mental illness or condition before entering AmeriCorps, treatment of that illness or condition is your responsibility; treatment for that illness or condition is not a covered benefit.
Q: Is there coverage for dental care?
Coverage is limited and only for emergencies. Routine dental visits are not covered.
Q: How are my medical bills paid?
If you receive service for an approved benefit your claim will go to Seven Corners, Inc., the contractor administering the health benefits plan. Seven Corners pays those claims that are for approved benefits. When a claim is submitted by your doctor, Seven Corners pays the claim according to the guidelines established by CNCS in the Member Health Care Guide. Seven Corners is responsible for:
▪ Determination if the claim is for an approved benefit
▪ Payment of the claim or denial of the claim
▪ Appeals
▪ Customer service
Seven Corners is under contract to CNCS to provide these services. It is not an insurance company. It ensures that your claim is valid, covered by the benefits plan and paid according to the rules as described in the Member Health Care Guide.
Q: I currently have health insurance, should I keep it?
It depends. Only you can decide. It is always preferable to have more coverage than needed as opposed to not enough. You should examine the coverage you currently have and compare it to the limited coverage you will get in AmeriCorps. Ask for a copy of the Member Health Care Guide or go online at americorps.sevencorners.com.
Q: Does the Health Insurance Portability & Accountability Act (HIPAA) apply to the AmeriCorps health benefits plan?
According to the HIPAA legislation, the AmeriCorps health benefits plan is neither a group health care plan nor one of the government programs specifically mentioned. Therefore, for the purposes of providing “portability” to a group health plan, the law does not apply. The HIPAA law does require any organization or individual, including the AmeriCorps health benefits plan, to protect the privacy of the individual when information is transmitted electronically.
Q: Who do I call if I have questions about the health benefits plan?
Call Seven Corners, the health benefits administrator toll free at 866-699-4186.
Q: What happens if I go to the doctor and the claim is denied by Seven Corners?
Examine the reason given for the denial carefully. Read the Explanation of Benefits (EOB) that accompanied the denial. Ask the doctor or the office manager why the claim was denied. Read the Member Health Care Guide. If you believe it should be paid according to the Member Health Care Guide you can appeal the decision.
Q: What happens if the health benefits plan won’t pay after my appeal?
You are responsible for paying the claim.
Q: I went to the doctor and now I’m getting a bill, what should I do?
You should call the provider for further information.
The most common reasons for this are:No claim was ever sent. Verify that the provider sent a claim to Seven Corners
▪ The doctor or hospital is billing you instead of sending the bill to Seven Corners. Verify that a claim has been submitted to Seven Corners
▪ Our claims administrator, Seven Corners, has asked the provider for more information concerning your claim before it can be paid. Verify that the provider has sent the information requested. Ask the provider to read you the Explanation of Benefits they received from Seven Corners
▪ You were treated for a pre-existing condition. Since the health benefits plan specifically excludes pre-existing conditions, you are responsible for paying the entire claim
▪ You received care that is not a covered benefit. Check the Member Health Care Guide
Q: How do I get a new health care card?
Call Seven Corners, the health benefits administrator, toll at free 866-699-4186.
Q: What is a Preferred Provider Network (PPO) and why is it important to me?
A PPO is a network of health care providers that have agreed to participate in our plan. These providers bill the plan directly, will not require payment in advance from you (except for the $5 co-pay) and have agreed to a pre-determined fee for all services.
Using the PPO can save you money. If you do not go to a provider in the PPO network, you will be responsible for paying the difference between what the provider charges and what is a “usual and customary” fee for that service. Using the PPO can save you money.
Q: What if there is no PPO in my area?
If there is no PPO in your area, then you may go to any provider and you will not be penalized. You should make very sure that there are no providers in you area; if there are you will be responsible for any difference between the charges and what we pay.
You may visit the Seven Corners website at americorps.sevencorners.com or you can call Seven Corners toll free at 866-699-4186 to verify if there is a PPO in your area.
Q: Who is responsible for my health care and for the bills I have?
You are responsible for your health care and for making sure that the treatment you are seeking is a covered benefit, and that all the information required to pay your bills has been forwarded to the proper place. You should not assume that information will automatically be sent to Seven Corners by your provider and you should not assume that your bill will be automatically paid. If you are having problems paying a bill, it is your responsibility to work with the provider and Seven Corners to make sure that all required information has been sent to Seven Corners.
Q: Am I covered by worker’s compensation?
Yes, you are covered by worker’s compensation. If you are injured on the job call your state office for information on how to file a claim.
Q: Am I eligible for COBRA?
No, you are not eligible for COBRA. COBRA applies to group health care plans in the private sector. The AmeriCorps health benefits plan is not a group health care plan as defined in the COBRA law and AmeriCorps is not a private sector organization.
Q: Is there a way I can get health insurance after service?
Yes. You can call Celtic Insurance Company at 1-800-365-2365 for information on how to get individual health insurance. You MUST call within 31 days of your termination date.
Q: Are there any exceptions to the pre-existing conditions clause?
Yes. The clause does not apply to pharmacy and three outpatient mental health counseling visits. (Example: prescription medication for a mental health illness that existed before starting VISTA service is covered)
Q: Is any preventative care covered?
Yes:
▪ One gynecological exam per benefit year is covered, including lab work (contraceptive evaluations/renewals should be taken care of at this appointment)
▪ Immunizations are covered
Q: Is there a co-payment?
Yes:
▪ $5 co-payment for each medical office visit
▪ $25 co-payment for emergency room visits
No co-payment for lab work, pharmacy or emergency dental (In other words, lab tests and prescription drugs are free. This includes oral contraceptives, antibiotics and other prescriptions.)
