February benefits highlights for University staff: Focus on heart health, wellness and financial planning

February benefits highlights for University staff: Focus on heart health, wellness and financial planning

Feb. 14, 2025

From heart health and stress management to retirement planning and tax strategies, Princeton’s benefits team is supporting you with special events and resources this month. 

February is American Heart Month

Educate yourself and your loved ones on taking care of your heart. Knowing your vitals reduces your risk of developing heart disease. Here are a few key metrics to keep in mind:

  • Blood pressure: Less than 120/80
  • Cholesterol: LDL (bad cholesterol) less than 100 | HDL (good cholesterol) above 40 for men, above 50 for women
  • Triglycerides: Less than 150
  • Blood sugar: HbA1c less than 5.7 (5.7 to 6.4 is prediabetic and 6.5 or higher is diabetic)
  • Waist circumference: Less than 40 inches for men, less than 35 for women.

Princeton’s health coaches can work with you to reduce your risk for all disease, at your own pace. The My Health Coach program is free, confidential, and available to you and your eligible dependents. To meet with a health coach in person or virtually, call (866) 237-0973.

Wellness events and resources

Coping with Stress and Burnout | Feb. 19, 2 p.m.

Learn practical strategies to manage stress and prevent burnout in this session, designed to help you navigate the pressures of daily life (offered by Carebridge).

Understanding Forgiveness | Feb. 20, 10 a.m.

Dive into the mental and emotional benefits of forgiveness and explore how letting go of past grievances can enhance your wellbeing (presented by Health Advocate).

Weight Management Support Group  | Feb. 27, Noon (first of a six-week series)

Back by popular demand, this virtual support group offers a comprehensive approach to weight management, including nutrition, exercise and behavior changes (offered by My Health Coach). Space is limited, register here.

Financial wellness resources

Virtual Individual Financial Advice Counseling Sessions with CAPTRUST | Feb. 18

Take advantage of free, confidential, one-on-one sessions with a CAPTRUST financial adviser to discuss your financial goals, retirement planning, or investment strategies. Schedule a meeting.

Tax Planning Opportunities  

Explore tax-saving strategies and planning techniques to retain more wealth and minimize your tax burden (recorded webinar by TIAA).

Financial Wellness and Mental Health: Insights from the TIAA Institute 

Learn how your financial wellbeing impacts your mental health, and how to create a balanced, stress-free financial plan (recorded webinar by TIAA).

Retirement plan contribution limits for 2025

The annual 403(b) contribution limits for 2025 have changed from 2024. If you’re under 50, the annual contribution limit is $23,500. For those 50 or older in the calendar year, you may contribute an extra $7,500 “catch-up” contribution for a total annual contribution limit of $31,000, and even more if you’re aged 60-63. Learn more.

Flexible spending account — Claims deadline for 2024

If you were enrolled in a healthcare or dependent care flexible spending account (FSA) in 2024, you have until March 31, 2025, to submit claims for eligible expenses incurred during the 2024 calendar year. Claims can be submitted by logging in to your Inspira account. Learn more. 

In-person wellness consultations

The Employee Wellness Center at 350 Alexander St. is open for in-person consultations with health and financial advisers. Schedule a free, confidential appointment with one of the following resources:

Questions?

For specific inquiries regarding physical or mental wellness resources, contact Lynn Herbine. For financial wellness questions, contact Jane Edgar. The benefits team is also available to assist you at (609) 258-3302 or [email protected]. Visit the HR website for full details on all wellness resources and programs.

For comprehensive information about staff benefits, check out the February 2025 Thrive Every Day newsletter.

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