Frequently Asked Questions
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MyCarewell503
Training
Training Requirements and Deadlines
What are the training requirements?
New Worker Training:
Homecare workers, personal support workers, and personal care attendants who’ve begun work after September 1, 2021 need to complete new worker training. New worker training includes orientation — which must be taken before you are approved to work, and core training — which must be completed within 120 days of receiving a provider number.
Continuing Education:
Beginning March 1, 2026, all care providers must also complete 12 hours of continuing education every 2 years before you are re-certified.
Why is training important?
Training ensures that you have the tools and confidence to provide a high level of safety and quality care for the consumers you work with. Training also helps you learn new skills, strengthen the skills you already have, and provides an opportunity for career advancement.
How can I find out what trainings I have already completed?
For trainings offered by Carewell SEIU 503 Training, you can access your training completion information through the Carewell Learning Portal. You can also contact us by calling 1-844-503-7348 or emailing CarewellSEIU503training@RISEpartnership.com.
For trainings and certifications offered by the Oregon Home Care Commission, contact OHCC by calling (877) 867-0077 or emailing Certifications.OHCC@dhsoha.
Who determines the type of training that is required?
SEIU 503 and the Oregon Home Care Commission developed a training work group to establish minimum training standards for care providers. The work group is made up of community partners, stakeholders, advocacy groups, the union that represents the workforce (SEIU), homecare and personal support workers, consumers, and Oregon Department of Human Services representatives. The work group identified many important topics to be included that benefit consumers and care providers.
Continuing Education
When do I need to complete continuing education? How can I find my continuing education due date?
Starting March 1, 2026, continuing education is required for the 2-year renewal of your provider number. Your individual due date may be later than March 1, 2026 depending on when you began work.
You can reach out to the provider relations unit for your individual due date at 1-800-241-3013.
How do the credits/time work?
Each credit is the same as 1 hour of course time. So if a course is listed as 1.5 hours, that means you will receive 1.5 credits. You need to get a total of 12 hours (or credits) of training to fulfill your continuing education requirement.
Will I receive a stipend for continuing education? How much is it?
Yes. You will be given a stipend in an amount equivalent to the base rate of pay for 12 hours of coursework, rounded up to the nearest full dollar amount. To see what your pay rate is, please check the Oregon Homecare Collective Bargaining Agreement.
- For example, if your base rate of pay is $17.77, your stipend would be $17.77 x 12 hours = $213.24. Rounded up to the nearest dollar amount, the total would be $214.
The stipend is sent through direct deposit with Routable, a payment service provider.
If you require a check for your stipend, please reach out by email or phone: studentsupportstipend@RISEpartnership.com or 1-844-503-7348 (Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm PST.
- Include your legal name and mailing address in the email.
- Please note that opting for a check will delay the delivery of your stipend by 2-3 weeks.
Please see the stipend policy for more information on stipends.
Where can I view the class descriptions?
You can read more about each course by clicking on it in the learning portal. You can also view the course catalog here.
Do I have to take all 29 modules?
No. You need to complete 12 hours of training that includes 4 hours of required training and 8 hours of electives.
Can I take continuing education in my preferred language? What are the options?
Yes. Continuing education self-paced modules are available in the following languages:
- Spanish
- Russian
- Vietnamese
- Simplified Chinese (Mandarin voiceovers)
- Arabic
Right now, instructor-led courses (such as Discussing Cultural Awareness) are available to take with an interpreter. If training isn’t available in your preferred language, reach out to us and we can help find an option that works best for you.
Can I take training offline? What are the options?
We do not currently have offline versions of the training available. If you need internet or computer access, we recommend going to a library or WorkSource center to complete the training. If you need help finding a location, you can call us at 1-844-503-7348.
Are there exemptions for continuing education?
If you have an active certification through the state and plan to keep it active, you are exempt from the continuing education requirement. Examples of exempt certifications include:
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- Professional Development Certification (PDC)
- Enhanced Homecare or Personal Support Worker
- Exceptional Personal Support Worker
- Ventilator Dependent Quadriplegia (VDQ)
- Traditional Health Worker
Training Exemptions
Am I required to take training if I'm a family care provider?
Yes. All homecare and personal support workers who are compensated through Medicaid or Oregon Project Independence — even those who work solely for family members ─ are required to meet the training requirements.
Am I required to take the training if I work for a facility, an agency, or directly for a consumer?
You are required to take the training if you are a homecare or personal support worker who works directly for a consumer. You are not required to take the training if you work in a setting like a foster home, group home, residential care facility, assisted living facility, or nursing facility. There are different requirements you must follow. You also do not have to take the training if you work with in-home agencies or provider agencies. You are not required to take the training if you are part of the Independent Choices Program (ICP), but you may take the training if you would like to.
Am I required to take continuing education if I have a certificate from the state?
If you have an active certification through the state and plan to keep it active, you are exempt from the continuing education requirement. Examples of exempt certifications include:
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- Professional Development Certification (PDC)
- Enhanced Homecare or Personal Support Worker
- Exceptional Personal Support Worker
- Ventilator Dependent Quadriplegia (VDQ)
- Traditional Health Worker
In-person Training
Where will training be held?
Dates and locations of in-person Orientation trainings are posted in the Carewell Learning Portal. They are available to you after you register for new worker training.
What if I have a concern about attending an in-person class?
If you have an accessibility or health concern about attending an in-person class, please reach out to us and we can help work through your options. Call us at 1-844-503-7348 or email CarewellSEIU503training@RISEpartnership.com.
Language Support
Is training offered in languages other than English?
The Carewell SEIU 503 Training team offers training in a variety of languages including Arabic, Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, Mandarin (voice-over), and simplified Chinese (written), and Somali. If a training is not currently offered in your preferred language, the Carewell SEIU 503 Training team will work with you to schedule an interpreter for the course(s) you attend. To request an interpreter, send an email to carewellseiu503training@risepartnership.com or call 1-844-503-7348.
Technical Support
How can I access online classes?
After you register in the Carewell Learning Portal, you should be able to select and enroll in any online courses that are available to you. You will need a device with internet access such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer to access the online classes.
What if I have difficulty accessing the internet?
We’re here to help! We have a variety of alternative learning options. Please reach out to us so we can find an option that works well for you. Call us at 1-844-503-7348 or email CarewellSEIU503training@RISEpartnership.com.
What if I don't have access to a computer?
If you don’t have access to a computer, you can also use your smartphone or tablet to access the training.
Don’t have access to a smartphone or tablet? We’re here to help! We have a variety of alternative learning options. Please reach out to us so we can find an option that works well for you. Call us at 1-844-503-7348 or email CarewellSEIU503training@RISEpartnership.com.
How do I reset my password?
Go to the login page. From there, if you don’t know your password, you can click “Forgot Password” which will email you a link to reset your password. If you don’t see the reset password email right away, please check your spam folder.
What if I don't remember my username?
Your username should be your email address. Try logging in with that. If this doesn’t work, call us at 1-844-503-7348 or email CarewellSEIU503training@RISEpartnership.com.
I’m getting an error message or having an issue with the learning portal. What should I do?
If you are having a learning portal issue, such as an error message, blank loading screen, audio issues, etc., here are some steps for you to try:
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- Check your internet connection.
- Clear cookies from browser. If you aren’t sure how to do that, google how to clear cookies from browser.
- Restart your device (laptop, desktop, tablet, or phone).
- Try a new browser (Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Apple Safari) – Note: the training portal doesn’t work too well with Apple Safari.
- Close other tabs and programs while working in the learning portal.
- Email us and we can provide support. Please include the following information if you reach out to our support team:
- What device are you using? (computer, cell phone, tablet)
- What browser are you using? (Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Apple Safari)
- What issue are you having? (stuck module name, specific slides/activity/video, details about the issue, error message, audio issues)
I’m stuck on one of the training modules and unable to move forward. What should I do?
Please check to make sure you’ve completed all included activities in the module. Look back through the module for objects on the screen that may not have been selected yet. Once all the activities have been completed, the “Next” button should appear.
If you are still unable to move forward, please reach out to Carewell by phone at 1-844-503-7348 or email CarewellSEIU503training@RISEpartnership.com.
I’m having difficulty accessing the Carewell learning portal from my iOS (Apple) product (such as an iPhone, iPad, or MacBook). What should I do?
Please try accessing the learning portal using one of the following links:
- New learners: https://seiu503.myabsorb.com/#/public-dashboard
- Returning learners: https://seiu503.myabsorb.com/#/login.
Payments and Stipends
Do I have to pay for training?
No. The training is free to all homecare and personal support workers.
Will I be provided a stipend for training that I take?
Yes. Those who are applying to be a homecare or personal support worker or personal care attendant will be given a stipend equivalent to the base rate of pay x 14 hours of coursework. To qualify for a stipend payment, all new worker training courses must be completed within 120 days of receiving a provider number from the State of Oregon.
- For example, if your base rate of pay is $17.77, your stipend would be $17.77 x 14 hours = $248.78. Rounded up to the nearest dollar amount, the total would be $249.
Those who are completing continuing education will receive a stipend equivalent to the base rate of pay x 12 hours of coursework once they complete all 12 hours of the requirement. Providers will only receive a stipend for continuing education courses once per certification period.
- For example, if your base rate of pay is $17.77, your stipend would be $17.77 x 12 hours = $213.24. Rounded up to the nearest dollar amount, the total would be $214.
If you do not complete the required training before the deadline, you will not be eligible for a stipend. For more information about stipends, please see the Stipend Policy.
How do I receive the stipend?
When you’ve successfully completed your training, you will receive an email from the Carewell Learning Portal introducing you to Routable, a payment service provider. About 2 weeks later, you should receive an email from Routable that will send you a link to fill out some information. If you do not see the email from Routable, please check your spam folder.
- The email from Routable will first ask you to fill out tax-related items like your address and Social Security number.
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- Make sure to select “individual” and not “business” when it asks you which one you are.
- Click “Save and continue” to move on to the next step.
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- It will next ask you to fill out your bank account information to set up direct deposit.
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- Logging in through your bank’s online system is the easiest way to set this up.
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Once you’ve provided your information to Routable, you should see your stipend within 7-10 business days.
If you require a check for your stipend, please reach out by email or phone: studentsupportstipend@RISEpartnership.com or 1-844-503-7348 (Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm PST.
-
- Include your legal name and mailing address in the email.
- Please note that opting for a check will delay the delivery of your stipend by 2-3 weeks.
Please see the stipend policy for more information on stipends.
Where can I find more information about how to get paid for the work I do as a homecare or personal support worker?
If you are a homecare worker or personal care attendant, for more information about how to submit your hours, please visit the Oregon Provider Time Capture page the DHS website.
If you are a personal support worker, for more information about how to use eXPRS please visit the Personal Support Workers Resources page on the ODDS website.
Carewell Kicks
How do I become eligible for Carewell Kicks?
Eligible workers:
- Have completed new worker training after January 1, 2024 or
- Have completed continuing education* or
- Have a qualifying certification that exempts them from continuing education, such as a Professional Development Certification (PDC).
* Check your training completion status in the Carewell Learning Portal.
Carewell will email you a link to select a pair of shoes once you become eligible.
What are the qualifying exemption certifications?
- Professional Development Certification (PDC)
- Enhanced Homecare or Personal Support Worker
- Exceptional Personal Support Worker
- Ventilator Dependent Quadriplegia (VDQ)
-
Traditional Health Worker
Do I have to pay for my shoes?
No. Caregiver Kicks are available at no cost to care providers who have completed the requirements.
How do I order my shoes?
You will receive an email from Carewell when you become eligible for Carewell Kicks. Follow the instructions in the email to log in, then select a pair of shoes from the online catalog to begin the order process.
What kind of shoes are available?
There are over 70 styles of shoes available to choose from including brands like Reebok and Sketchers. Shoe styles include sneakers, boots, clogs, slip-ons, and more.
How do returns and exchanges work?
If for any reason the shoes you order don’t work, you can return them for free and select another pair.
Your shoes will arrive with a FedEx return label that you can use to send the shoes back. If you lose that label, you can reach out to SR Max and they will send you a new one. You can contact them at 1-833-599-9621 or info@srmax.com.
Who do I contact for support with my order?
For questions around eligibility, call or email Carewell at 1-844-503-7348 or CarewellSEIU503Training@RISEpartnership.com.
For questions around ordering or using the Carewell Kicks website, reach out to SR Max at 1-833-599-9621 or info@srmax.com.
Can I pick out my shoes at a store in person?
No. The ordering system for Carewell Kicks is all online. If you have any issues with size or fit, you can return the shoes and select another pair at no cost.
Your shoes will arrive with a FedEx return label that you can use to send the shoes back. If you lose that label, you can reach out to SR Max and they will send you a new one. You can contact them at 1-833-599-9621 or info@srmax.com.
Dental
How do I get dental insurance?
You will have coverage through a Kaiser Permanente dental plan once you are eligible for Carewell SEIU 503 dental benefits. To become eligible you must work 40 or more eligible working hours — also known as bargaining unit hours — for 2 months in a row. Then you need to wait an additional month while your hours are reported to Carewell SEIU 503. Read more about eligibility on the Dental page.
Can I use my Benefit Convenience Card for dental expenses?
No, the Benefit Convenience Card cannot be used for Dental, Vision + Hearing, or Employee Assistance Program expenses.
Do I have options other than Kaiser Permanente Dental?
Carewell SEIU 503 does not offer other options for your Dental coverage. However, if you reside outside a Kaiser Service Area, you’ll be enrolled in Kaiser Permanente’s Dental Choice PPO plan. Under the KP Dental Choice PPO, you will be able to visit any licensed dentist. However, you will pay less if you visit a dentist that participates in Kaiser’s PPO network. To confirm whether you live inside or outside a Kaiser service area, contact Carewell SEIU 503 at 1-844-503-7348.
I already have a dental plan. Can I have two?
For questions regarding coordination of benefits, please contact Kaiser Permanente Customer Service.
I already have a dentist that I like. Can I keep going to this dentist?
If you reside outside a Kaiser service area and have a specific dentist who is not in-network:
Ask your dentist if they’d be willing to get credentialed with Kaiser Permanente so they can become part of the network.
If you reside inside a Kaiser service area you and have a specific dentist who is not in-network:
You will not receive coverage for any services performed by an out-of-network dentist.
Can I add my spouse or other family members?
No. Carewell SEIU 503 benefits are available only to eligible homecare and personal support workers and personal support attendants.
Can I opt out of Dental, Vision + Hearing, or Employee Assistance Program benefits?
Vision+Hearing
How do I get Vision + Hearing insurance?
You will have coverage through an Ameritas plan that provides vision, hearing, and LASIK benefits once you are eligible for Carewell SEIU 503 vision + hearing benefits. To become eligible, you must work 40 or more eligible working hours — also known as bargaining unit hours — for 2 months in a row. Then you need to wait an additional month while your hours are reported to Carewell SEIU 503. Read more about eligibility on the Vision + Hearing page.
Can I use my Benefit Convenience Card for Vision + Hearing expenses?
No, the Benefit Convenience Card cannot be used for Dental, Vision + Hearing, or Employee Assistance Program expenses.
Where can I find if a vision provider is in the VSP Choice network?
You can visit VSP’s website at vsp.com/eye-doctor or call 1-800-877-7195.
How much time do I have to submit a reimbursement claim?
You must submit a reimbursement claim form within 90 days from the date of service. For example, if you buy eyeglasses from an out-of-network provider, you will have 90 days to submit the VSP Member Reimbursement Claim Form. Call Ameritas at 1-800-255-4931 to find out more about how much you will be reimbursed if you go to an out-of-network provider.
Can I add my spouse or other family members?
No. Carewell SEIU 503 benefits are available only to eligible homecare and personal support workers.
Can I opt out of Dental, Vision + Hearing, or Employee Assistance Program benefits?
Yes. You can fill out the Waiver Form and submit it to Carewell SEIU 503.
Employee Assistance Program
How do I get employee assistance program benefits?
You will have coverage through Uprise Health once you are eligible for Carewell SEIU 503 EAP benefits. To become eligible, you must work 40 or more eligible working hours — also known as bargaining unit hours — for 2 months in a row. Then you need to wait an additional month while your hours are reported to Carewell SEIU 503. Read more about eligibility on the Employee Assistance Program page.
Can I use my Benefit Convenience Card for EAP expenses?
No, the Benefit Convenience Card cannot be used for Dental, Vision + Hearing, or Employee Assistance Program expenses.
How do I use Employee Assistance Program benefits, like counseling and financial planning?
You can access services by visiting uprisehealth.com or calling 1-800-395-1616. Your access code is OHWBT.
Can I add my spouse or other family members?
No. Carewell SEIU 503 benefits are available only to eligible homecare and personal support workers.
Healthcare Cost Assistance
For Approved Plans
What's a Special Enrollment Period and am I eligible for one?
A Special Enrollment Period (“SEP”) allows you to enroll in a health insurance plan outside of the regular Open Enrollment period (November 1 – December 15). You may qualify for a SEP if you have experienced life changes, such as losing job based-coverage, or a change in income that makes you no longer eligible for Medicaid.
If your SEP is approved by the Marketplace, you can enroll in a Marketplace plan but you have limited time to get enrolled, usually 60 days from the date of your qualifying life event. The Marketplace will also need proof that you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, so you need to gather that information as soon as possible to complete your enrollment. For assistance, call 1-844-503-7348.
Do I need to submit the Healthcare Cost Assistance Benefits Request Form every year?
Yes. To receive Healthcare Cost Assistance benefits, you must request this benefit every year that you are eligible. You must send us proof of your Marketplace Eligibility Notice and your premium bill or My Plans and Programs page from your healthcare.gov account by filling out the Healthcare Cost Assistance Benefits Request Form.
Update on HCA Benefits Requirements
Updated Trust rules require you to provide proof of your Marketplace plan by submitting your Marketplace Eligibility Notice and your premium bill or My Plans and Programs page from your healthcare.gov account. If you don’t provide these supporting documents after May 31, 2024, your Benefit Convenience Card will be switched to “temporarily inactive” until the required documents are submitted. If you enroll in or renew an approved plan, or update your income with assistance from Valley Insurance Professionals, you are not required to submit proof of your Marketplace plan by submitting your Marketplace Eligibility Notice and your premium bill or My Plans and Programs page from your healthcare.gov account. Valley Insurance Professionals will submit this information on your behalf.
For more information, click here.
Are there any exceptions to the eligibility requirements for Healthcare Cost Assistance?
If you are eligible for medical coverage through your spouse, but you choose not to enroll in that coverage, you may be eligible for Carewell SEIU 503 Healthcare Cost Assistance. Call 1-844-503-7348 for more information.
Can I use my own insurance agent rather than Valley Insurance Professionals?
You can, but we strongly recommended you use the services of Valley Insurance Professionals. They have years of experience working with the Carewell benefits program, assisting care providers with enrolling in approved Marketplace plans, and ensuring care providers can access Healthcare Cost Assistance. If you use your own insurance agent, you do not have to fill out any Agent of Record form included in the annual paperwork. However, please do call 1-844-503-7348 to let us know you are using your own agent and not completing an Agent of Record form.
Do I qualify for temporary Healthcare Cost Assistance benefits?
You may qualify for temporary Healthcare Cost Assistance if you became eligible for Carewell SEIU 503 benefits after the end of the last Open Enrollment period and you are enrolled in a non-approved plan on a Health Insurance Marketplace. In that case, you would receive a Benefit Convenience Card to pay covered out-of-pocket expenses. You may also be eligible for temporary reimbursement of your premiums.
To continue receiving Healthcare Cost Assistance after the end of the year, you must enroll in an approved plan as soon as you can and no later than Open Enrollment (between November 1 and December 15). Otherwise, your Healthcare Cost Assistance will stop at the end of the calendar year.
To check if you qualify for temporary Healthcare Cost Assistance benefits, call 1-844-503-7348.
What is my net health insurance premium?
Your net premium is the monthly amount that you must pay to your insurance company to maintain your insurance. For example, if your gross premium (the full cost of the premium from your insurance carrier) is $500 per month and your Advance Premium Tax Credit or APTC (the financial assistance from the federal government) is $200 per month, your net premium would be $300 per month.
I appealed last year and was allowed to select another approved plan than the one for my area. What should I do if I want to continue to receive Healthcare Cost Assistance?
If the plan you enrolled in is still an approved plan for the following calendar year, the decision on your appeal still stands. During Open Enrollment, you will need to review the information on the Healthcare Cost Assistance for Approved Plans page to make sure you successfully renew your medical coverage and continue receiving Healthcare Cost Assistance. You are also encouraged to review the new plan summary and provider networks to make sure this option still works for you.
I live in the Lane County or Linn County Kaiser service area and have been enrolled in the approved Providence plan since 2018. Do I need to change plans?
No, you do not have to change plans. You can change to the 2024 approved KP Silver 3000/40 plan if you would like, or you can stay in the approved Providence plan. Once you transition to the approved Kaiser plan, the Kaiser plan will be your approved plan for the rest of the year. You will no longer have the option to receive Carewell SEIU 503 benefits for the Providence plan after you switch to the Kaiser plan.
I live in the Lane County or Linn County Kaiser service area and I am enrolling for the first time in Carewell SEIU 503 benefits. Can I enroll in the approved Providence plan?
No, if you live in the Lane County or Linn County Kaiser service area and you are newly enrolling in Carewell SEIU 503 benefits for 2024, your approved plan is the Kaiser KP Silver 3000/40 plan.
Benefit Convenience Card
What can I use the Benefit Convenience Card to pay for?
- Your net monthly premium bill for an approved Marketplace plan.
- The deductible applicable to your approved Marketplace plan. A deductible is the amount you must pay for the services that your insurance plan covers before your insurer begins to pay.
- The copayments for medical services and prescriptions covered by your approved Marketplace plan. A copayment (or copay) is a fixed amount your insurance plan may require you to pay, and is usually due at the time that you receive the service or prescription.
- The coinsurance for medical services and prescriptions covered by your approved Marketplace plan. Coinsurance is a percentage of the costs you must pay for services your insurance plan covers. For example, if your insurance plan has an 80/20 coinsurance arrangement, this means that, after you pay any deductible, your insurance company will pay 80% of the cost of the covered medical expense and you must pay the remaining 20%.
How do I use my Benefit Convenience Card?
Your Benefit Convenience Card works just like a regular credit card, with two important differences:
1. Your card is limited in use, meaning you can only use it for the covered expenses listed under “What can I use the Benefit Convenience Card to pay for?”
2. You cannot use your card at an ATM or to obtain cash back when making a purchase.
How much money is on the Benefit Convenience Card?
There are 2 accounts on your Benefit Convenience Card. One account is preloaded with the annual amount for paying medical and prescription copays, deductibles, and coinsurance expenses for covered services and prescriptions. In 2024, this amount is $7,165, but this may change from year to year. The other account is preloaded with the amount necessary to pay your net monthly premium: the portion of your individual health insurance premium that is not covered by your advance premium federal tax credit (APTC).
Does my leftover balance roll over into the next year's amount?
No. The maximum amount you can be reimbursed for covered expenses incurred in each calendar year is the set amount for that calendar year. Any portion that is not used for a calendar year cannot be rolled over for payment of expenses incurred in a future calendar year.
When does my Benefit Convenience Card expire?
Your Benefit Convenience Card will expire on the date you are no longer eligible for Carewell SEIU 503 Healthcare Cost Assistance benefits, or the month and year listed on the front of the card, whichever date is first. Ameriflex will send you a new Benefit Convenience Card a month before the expiration date on your current card if you are still eligible for Healthcare Cost Assistance benefits at that time. If you have questions about this, call Ameriflex at 1-888-868-3539.
My Benefit Convenience Card didn't work to pay my premium. What should I do?
Check your balance with Ameriflex, the Benefit Convenience Card administrator, using your MyAmeriflex mobile app or your Ameriflex online account. You can also call 1-888-868-3539. If there is enough money to pay the premium, ask your insurance carrier to try again. If you do not have enough money on your card to pay the premium, please call 1-844-503-7348 right away.
My Benefit Convenience Card didn't work to pay for my out-of-pocket costs. What should I do?
Call Ameriflex, the Benefit Convenience Card administrator, at 1-888-868-3539. Identify yourself as a homecare or personal support worker and have the following available at the time of your call: your Benefit Convenience Card, the date and type of service you were attempting to pay for, and a description of the issue you experienced.
I have medical bills from last year. Can I pay them with my Benefit Convenience Card?
You can only use the Benefit Convenience Card to pay for covered services received in the same year. If you receive claims from a previous calendar year for out-of-pocket expenses relating to a covered service, you will need to use the reimbursement process.
Advance Premium Tax Credit (APTC)
What is the Advance Premium Tax Credit (APTC)?
The Advance Premium Tax Credit (APTC) is a tax credit issued by the federal government that you can use to lower your monthly insurance payment (called your “premium”) when you enroll in a plan through a Health Insurance Marketplace. Your tax credit is based on the income estimate and household information you put on your Marketplace application. If your estimated income falls between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Line, you qualify for a premium tax credit.
How does APTC apply to my Healthcare Cost Assistance?
To qualify for Healthcare Cost Assistance for payment of your approved Marketplace plan premiums and out-of-pocket expenses, you must apply the full amount of any Advance Premium Tax Credit (APTC) you qualify for toward your plan premiums. If you underestimate your annual household income, and receive a higher APTC than you should have, and as a result, you owe a reconciliation fee to the IRS at your annual tax filing, you may be eligible for reimbursement of the reconciliation fee from Carewell SEIU 503 Benefits. Call 1-844-503-7348.
How does my APTC change?
When you apply for coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace, you’ll find out if you qualify for an Advance Premium Tax Credit based on what you estimate for your income and family size. However, if your income changes, or if you add or lose members of your household, your Premium Tax Credit will probably change too. It’s very important to report income and household changes to the Marketplace as soon as possible. For assistance, contact Valley Insurance Professionals at 1-503-974-8471.
I qualify for Medicaid (or other coverage). Can I keep my Marketplace plan, APTC, and Healthcare Cost Assistance?
No. If you qualify for Medicaid, you are not eligible for Carewell SEIU 503 Healthcare Cost Assistance benefits. You are also not eligible for any Advance Premium Tax Credits or Marketplace Cost Share Reductions. If you qualify for Medicaid and are currently enrolled in a Marketplace plan, please call 1-844-503-7348 as soon as possible.
For more information about Medicaid and a Marketplace plan, refer to healthcare.gov/medicaid-chip/cancelling-marketplace-plan/. For more information on other coverage and a Marketplace plan, refer to healthcare.gov/have-job-based-coverage/options/.
What do I need to know about my APTC for my tax filings?
If anyone in your household has a Marketplace plan, you should receive Form 1095-A, Health Insurance Marketplace Statement for your taxes. The 1095 forms are sent in January-February for the previous year’s coverage. It includes information about the Marketplace plans under which anyone in your household had coverage. It comes from the Marketplace, not the IRS. You should receive it by mail or in your online Marketplace account.
You or your tax preparer will need Form 1095 to complete IRS Form 8962, which needs to be filed each year with your taxes in order to reconcile your Advance Premium Tax Credits. Learn more about Form 1095 at healthcare.gov/tax-form-1095/. If you did not receive a 1095-A, you can download a copy in your Marketplace account or contact the Health Insurance Marketplace directly at 1-800-318-2596.
I overestimated my income and received too little APTC. What do I do?
Submit the Advance Premium Tax Credit Adjustment Form along with your tax forms 1040, 1095A, and 8962 to Carewell SEIU 503.
Call Carewell SEIU 503 at 1-844-503-7348 if you have questions.
I underestimated my income and received too much APTC. What do I do?
Call Carewell SEIU 503 at 1-844-503-7348 if you have questions.
What happens if I no longer qualify for APTC?
If you lose eligibility for an APTC because the Marketplace determines your household size and/or income disqualifies you from receiving a tax credit, you will still qualify for Carewell SEIU 503 Healthcare Cost Assistance benefits relating to your approved Marketplace plan. However, if you lost eligibility for the APTC because you did not respond to a request for information, or otherwise failed to take any action required to maintain such APTC, you will only be eligible to receive the premium assistance benefit that would have been payable had your APTC not been terminated. You will be responsible for the difference in the premium.
How do I regain my eligibility for an APTC if I lost it because I did not respond or failed to take action to maintain my APTC?
If you lost eligibility for the APTC because you did not respond to a request for information from the Marketplace, or otherwise failed to take any action required to maintain such APTC, you need to submit the information the Marketplace is requesting and attempt to restore your tax credit or be re-determined for a tax credit. You will be responsible for the difference in the premium until the Marketplace redetermines what, if any, APTC you qualify for.
Call 1-844-503-7348 for questions or Valley Insurance Professionals at 1-503-974-8471 for assistance in restoring your APTC.
Healthcare Cost Assistance
For Medicare
Information for people transitioning to Medicare
If you are currently enrolled in a Marketplace plan, you will need to take steps to end your Marketplace plan the day before your Medicare plan starts. The agents at Valley Insurance Professionals may be able to help you with that — call 1-844-503-7348 for assistance. Also, if you already have a Benefit Convenience Card, please hold on to it. You will continue to use it for covered Medicare copays, coinsurance, deductibles, and prescriptions as long as you remain eligible for Healthcare Cost Assistance. However, you cannot use your Benefit Convenience Card for your Medicare premiums.
What can I use the Benefit Convenience Card to pay for?
- The deductible applicable to your Medicare plan. A deductible is the amount you must pay for the services that your Medicare plan covers before Medicare begins to pay.
- The copayments for medical services and prescriptions covered by your Medicare plan. A copayment (or copay) is a fixed amount your Medicare plan may require you to pay, and is usually due at the time that you receive the service or prescription.
- The coinsurance for medical services and prescriptions covered by your Medicare plan. Coinsurance is a percentage of the costs you must pay for services your Medicare plan covers. Cost sharing may range from 20% to 50% of a covered service, depending on your Medicare plan. For example, if your Medicare plan has an 80/20 coinsurance arrangement, this means that, after you pay any deductible, your Medicare plan will pay 80% of the cost of the covered medical expense and you must pay the remaining 20%.
How much money is on my Benefit Convenience Card?
The Benefit Convenience Card is preloaded with the annual amount for paying medical and prescription copays, deductibles, and coinsurance expenses for covered services and prescriptions. In 2024, that amount is $7,165, but this may change from year to year.
Does my leftover balance roll over into the next year's amount?
No. The maximum amount you can be reimbursed for covered expenses incurred in each calendar year is the set amount for that calendar year. Any portion that is not used for a calendar year cannot be rolled over for payment of expenses incurred in a future calendar year.
When does my Benefit Convenience Card expire?
Your Benefit Convenience Card will expire on the date you are no longer eligible for Carewell SEIU 503 benefits, or the month and year listed on the front of the card, whichever date is earlier. Ameriflex will send you a new Benefit Convenience Card a month before the expiration date on your current card if you are still eligible for Healthcare Cost Assistance benefits at that time. If you have questions about this, you can call Ameriflex at 1-888-868-3539.
Paid Time Off
Earning PTO
What if I work less than 20 hours every month?
If you work less than 20 hours in a month, this benefit will not be available to you. You will earn PTO for any month in which you work at least 20 hours.
If I work less than 20 hours in a month, will those hours roll over and be added to the next month’s hours so I can earn PTO?
No, hours do not roll over and cannot be combined with another month.
What rate of pay will my PTO hours be paid?
The rate of pay will be calculated at the most recent pay rate from your payroll vendor reflected in our system, and not at the time it was earned.
For example, let’s say you earn 12 hours of PTO by working 80 hours every month in August, September, and October of 2023. On January 1, 2024, you get a raise negotiated by your union. You decide to take some time off to visit family in February. Even though you earned the PTO benefit hours before your raise, you will get paid out at a higher rate because you requested the benefit after your raise took effect.
What if I stop working and have less than 8 hours earned?
If you stop working, your remaining PTO benefit hours will be paid out to you if you have a Form W-9 on file with us.
I work 120 hours per month, so why won’t I earn 6 PTO hours per month?
Care providers can receive up to 4 PTO hours every month according to the SEIU contract negotiations. This new PTO program is designed to provide the greatest number of PTO hours possible to the largest number of care providers. Those previously earning 40 hours per year will now earn 48 hours per year.
Why might I earn less with the new PTO program than I did with the previous PTO program?
This new PTO program is designed to provide the greatest number of PTO hours possible to the largest number of care providers.
How to Request PTO Benefits
What if I don’t submit a Form W-9?
You will not be able to receive payment for your PTO hours earned because this benefit is taxable income.
What if I never submit a W-9 and continue to work?
PTO hours earned can only continue to add up for 12 months without a Form W-9. If Carewell does not receive your completed Form W-9 within 12 months of when you first earn an hour of PTO benefits, your PTO Benefit hours will begin to expire on a first in, first out basis.
This means that any PTO benefit hours earned more than 12 months before your Form W-9 is received will be permanently lost.
Can I choose to take less than the total number of hours of my PTO benefits accrued?
Yes, it is your choice after meeting the 8-hour minimum requirement.
What if I stop working and do not request my PTO benefits?
As long as there is a W-9 on file, you will be paid automatically after 6 months of 0 hours worked. Payments will be sent by direct deposit or check to the address on file with us.
Other Questions About PTO
I got a notice from Carewell SEIU 503 Benefits about unclaimed PTO benefits?
Our records showed that we sent you a payment, but it has not cleared our bank. When a check has not been cashed after a certain period of time, it becomes an unclaimed, or “stale” check. We are required to report unclaimed checks to the Oregon Treasury.
If you have not received your payment, you can contact Carewell Benefits at 1-844-503-7348, Monday–Friday, 8 am–6 pm PST, or email us: CarewellSEIU503Benefits@RISEpartnership.com. If you have the check, please cash it or deposit it in your bank account.
How do I find out my PTO benefit balance?
You can call Carewell SEIU 503 Benefits at 1-844-503-7348. Or you can use MyCarewell503, a new online benefits tool.
Why should I complete the Designation of Beneficiary Form?
This form makes sure that in the event of your death, the person you choose receives the balance of the PTO benefit you’ve earned.
How do I find a backup care provider for my consumer during my time off?
It is not your responsibility to find a replacement when you take paid leave. The consumer has the primary responsibility for selecting and hiring their providers.
Paid leave must be authorized by the consumer before you take time off work, relief must be available if necessary, and the consumer must notify the appropriate agency to authorize the substitute worker’s hours. Sometimes the consumer will require assistance from the case manager/personal agent/service coordinator in finding a suitable replacement provider.
Do I need to report what days or hours I am taking off from my consumer to Carewell SEIU 503 Benefits?
No, you do not need to report your time off to Carewell SEIU 503 Benefits.
What is the difference between Paid Oregon leave and Carewell’s Paid Time Off benefit program?
Paid Leave Oregon
Paid Leave Oregon is a new program that allows employees in Oregon to take paid time off for many of life’s most important moments. This includes:
- Family Leave: to care for a family member with a serious illness or injury, or to bond with a new child after birth, adoption, or foster care placement.
- Medical Leave: during your own serious health condition.
- Safe Leave: for survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, harassment, or stalking.
Note: this is managed by the state, not Carewell SEIU 503 Benefits.
Under Oregon Paid Leave, any employee, no matter how many hours worked, who earned at least $1,000 in the year before claiming paid leave, may be eligible. This includes care providers and any employees who may use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number to file their taxes. Tribal governments, those who are self-employed, and independent contractors may choose to participate but are not required to do so.
For more information and resources, go to Oregon Paid Leave website.
Carewell Paid Time Off Benefits Program
The Carewell Paid Time Off benefits program is specifically for care providers. The purpose of this benefit is so that you can take time off when you need to, whether it’s a vacation or for some personal time to take care of yourself. Eligible care providers can earn up to 48 hours of paid time off (PTO) benefits per year.
For more information and resources about the PTO off benefit, go to the PTO webpage.
MyCarewell503
What is MyCarewell503?
Care providers now have the power of managing their benefits available to them online, 24 hours a day.
Carewell SEIU 503 offers a self-service tool to put the power of managing benefits in the hands of care providers! We’ve heard from hundreds of care providers that being able to access their benefits online is extremely important to them. For more details, click here.
What are the benefits of using MyCarewell503?
By using MyCarewell503, you can manage your benefits on your schedule!
MyCarewell503 makes it easier to:
- Request your Paid Time Off (PTO) benefits
- Check on your reported work hours
- View your payment status
- View your PTO benefits earned
- Fill out the W-9 form
- Fill out the Direct Deposit form
Click here for more information and detailed steps on how to access these features.
*Note: you cannot submit or change your work hours on MyCarewell503. You should still use Oregon Provider Time Capture (OR PTC DCI) and/or PPL to enter and change your work hours.
How do I register for MyCarewell503?
Go to MyCarewell503.org and follow the steps below:
1. Click on Register as a New User.
2. Follow the prompts to set up your account. Enter your Social Security number and press Next.
3. Ensure your Social Security number is correct. You will also see your name. Enter your Zip Code and Date of Birth then press Next.
4. Read the Terms and Condition. Scroll to the bottom and if you agree, select “I Accept Terms & Conditions” and press Next.
5. Create and confirm a password, then enter your email address. Choose a security question & answer. Then press Next.
6. You will then be prompted to input your phone number, email address, and preferred method of communication. Once completed, press Save Communication or Continue Later.
7. The privacy feature allows the user to choose whether or not they want to share their information with others on their plan. Turning this setting on indicates that you don’t want to share your information with other members on your plan. Press Save Privacy or Continue Later.
Selecting Save Privacy will complete the registration process.
*Note: remember to save your username and password somewhere safe so you can refer to it if you forget!
Tip! You can use your email address as your username, so it is easier for you to remember.
I forgot my password and/or username. What should I do?
Forgot Password
On the MyCarewell503 login webpage, click the link below “Forgot Password?” Follow the instructions on the next page to enter your username or email address. Then you will need to enter the last 4 digits of your Social Security number, zip code, and enter your new password. A password reset link will be sent by email to the address we have on file.
Forgot Username
On the MyCarewell503 login webpage, click the link below “Forgot Username?” It will take you to another page where you can enter the last 4 digits of your Social Security number, date of birth, and zip code so they can verify your identity. It will then ask you to answer your security question. Your username will be shown to you.
Who do I contact if I have questions about MyCarewell503?
Call us at 1-844-503-7348 or email us at CarewellSEIU503Benefits@RISEpartnership.com for any issues you have with MyCarewell503.
We are available Monday – Friday, 8am – 6 pm PST.
Can I use my phone to access MyCarewell503?
Yes! You can use this link to get access to MyCarewell503 with your smartphone: MyCarewell503.org or download the MyCarewell503 mobile app on your phone to manage your PTO benefits on the go!
Note: MyCarewell503 uses Create Technology to provide a login page for you to access your CarewellSEIU503 benefits. MyCarewell503 is currently available in English.
MyCarewell503 User Guide
For a deeper dive on actions you can take on MyCarewell503, please check out this User Guide.