That's tricky, because as far as I know they can't really stop you from enrolling in the benefit plans, at least not long term. I don't know if you can get the FSA without the health plan either. Maybe David or someone can tell you more?

Right, you can't really waive your eligibility to the health plans as a negotiating element. But I do know that benefits are definitely seen as part of the total compensation and explaining your situation (being on Dan's plan) might be persuasive to them.

It would really depend on the policies of the individual company you're applying to, and how much negotiating leeway the HR person would have.

I don't think it would hurt to put it on the table. In the right circumstances it could be beneficial to the company to take you on those terms. And if they don't like it, they'll just say that's not something they can do.

Generally speaking, benes are seen as standard for the pay grade / job class. And HR people don't like making lots of exceptions. OTOH, if it was for a small company where (for example) the owner's wife is the HR manager (something like Tep's situation) I could kind of see somebody biting on that.

The church up within I grew?
 
Yeah, I would say the church I grew up in, both to mean the denomination and the specific locale.

working for the county part time I did refuse the health care, and I get the dollars for the cheapest plan. but more like 700 - 1000 dollars a year, not 2k. but this is standard practice in gov't work

One of the nasty tricks that a few crazy insurance companies have slipped in is that you have the option of health coverage through a source other than your spouse then they won't extend coverage

Yeah, I've worked at companies that did this. It's shitty.

One of my former students just thanked me on FB for teaching her so much during her summer at camp that one of her college classes is a breeze.

Aw. It warms the cockles.

That's awesome, aurelia.

My main issue with that Franco photoshoot is that Terry Richardson did it. Creepy mofo.

Ah, that is all good to know! I will check with DH's company and see what is the what with them, and then work from there.

I know, I have to actually GET a job offer first, but I'm just trying to think through my options for if that happens, to try and get the best deal. I was pulling all the numbers out of my butt, anyway. I've never had to deal with the option of saying I have benes already, thanks.

Wouldn't you know, on the day of all my aimless unemployed days lately, the day I have an interview and that my stepson and his family are coming this afternoon, someone FINALLY wants the shelving I advertised on craigslist. At noon.

12:30 is just gonna have to do for them. I hope. BUY MA SHELVING! Need the space and $$.

Many vibes for the interview, Erin. And the shelving sale!

Is everyone sleeping in this morning?

I'm awake-ish. I just put together notes for the classes I'm teaching today, and pretty soon I've got to go get dressed and go teach.

I'm up, got mac to school. would very much like to sleep more, but should shower and get to work. tired.