airgas online benefits directory - you drive,you decide · at airgas, you have many resources...

You Drive,You Decide

Your 2008 Guide to Airgas Benefits

Benefit

• Medical • Spending Accounts• Dental • Life Insurance• Vision • Disability• Prescription • Voluntary Benefits

from MetLifeDrug Benefits

• Medical

• Prescription Drug Benefits

• 401(k)

• Employee Stock Purchase Program

• Employee Assistance Program

Administrator

Your Benefits Resources™

(Note: When you log on to or call YourBenefits Resources, you can be connectedto any of these plans directly, such asAetna for medical, Your SpendingAccount ™ for the spending accounts, etc.)

Aetna

UnitedHealthcare

Caremark

Vanguard

E*Trade

LifeWorks

Web Site Address

www.ybr.com/airgas

www.aetna.com

www.myuhc.com

www.caremark.com

www.vanguard.com

www.etrade.com

www.lifeworks.com

Telephone Number

1-877-4AGBENEFITS or1-877-424-2363

1-888-342-3862

1-888-400-9454

1-866-273-8573

1-800-523-1188

1-800-838-0908

1-888-267-8126

At Airgas, you have many resources available to help you choose and use your benefits. With the click of your mouse or the touch of your telephone keypad, you can get theinformation you need, when you need it, to help you make the right benefits decisions for you and your family.

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About Your Airgas Benefits . . . . . . . 2

Choosing Your Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Using Your Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Two Ways to Choose and Use Your Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Information About These Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Accessing Your Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Key Facts About Choosing and Using Your Benefits . . . . . . . . . . 4

Who’s Eligible? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

When Coverage Begins . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Paying for Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

When You Can Change Your Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

If You Don’t Enroll . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Your Privacy Rights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Medical Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Coverage Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Your Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Important Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Medical Plan Highlights . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Coverage Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Tips for Building Your Own Plan . . . . 10

Building Your Medical Option . . . . . . 10

Prescription Drug Coverage . . . . . 12

Retail Charges for MaintenanceMedications—An Example . . . . . . . . 12

Caremark Advanced GuidelineManagement Program . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Vision Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Vision Care Highlights . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Dental Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Coverage Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Your Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Choosing Your Dental Option . . . . . 14

Dental Plan Highlights . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Life Insurance Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Special Features of the Life Insurance Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Life Insurance Plan Highlights . . . . . . 16

Disability Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Disability Plan Highlights . . . . . . . . . .17

Spending Accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Spending Account Highlights . . . . . . 18

Is a Flexible Spending Account Right for You? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Estimate Your Health Care Spending Account Expenses . . . . . . 18

What’s Eligible for Reimbursement and What’s Not? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Accessing Your Spending Account™ Web Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Employee Assistance Program . . . 21

Voluntary Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Auto, Home, and Personal Property Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Additional Short-Term Disability Coverage Through VIP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Other Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Know What to Do: Your AnnualEnrollment Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Quick Reference for Managing Your Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Web Site Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Your Benefits Resources™

and Your Spending Account™

are trademarks of

Hewitt Associates LLC.

AAbboouutt YYoouurr AAiirrggaass BBeenneeffiittss

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You’re in the driver’s seat when it comes to choosing and using your Airgas health and insurancebenefits. In partnership with Your Benefits Resources,™the company combines flexible options withrobust tools to help you design and select the coverages that fit both your needs and your budget.

CChhoooossiinngg YYoouurr BBeenneeffiittssYou drive. You decide. That’s the thinkingbehind a key feature of the Airgas benefitsprogram—the ability to “build your own”medical plan. When you enroll through Your Benefits Resources, you’re in control of important decisions that will helpdetermine the best plan for you. You’llchoose the network of health care providers and coverage combination (such as annual deductible, coinsurance,and copays) that work for you medically and financially. Airgas provides similarflexibility in the choices available in otherbenefits programs, as well as tools forconsidering your choices.

UUssiinngg YYoouurr BBeenneeffiittssBecause enrollment is only the first step in managing your benefits, Your BenefitsResources is available year-round wheneveryou have a question about your benefits or need guidance on getting the best care orstaying healthy. It’s your one-stop resource for tools and information to help you manageyour benefits and your health. A list of all yourbenefit-related resources is provided on page 24 of this benefits guide to help youmanage your benefits throughout the year.

TTwwoo WWaayyss ttoo CChhoooossee aanndd UUssee YYoouurr BBeenneeffiittssThis benefits guide provides you with anoverview of the benefits you can elect for thecoming year. If you want to learn more aboutthese benefits, visit Your Benefits Resourcesusing the following:

� Web site: wwwwww..yybbrr..ccoomm//aaiirrggaass; or

� Customer Care Representatives: 11--887777--44AAGGBBEENNEEFFIITTSS or11--887777--442244--22336633.

IInnffoorrmmaattiioonn AAbboouutt TThheessee RReessoouurrcceess

AvailabilityThe Your Benefits Resources Web site isavailable 24 hours a day, seven days a week.Customer Care Representatives are availablefrom 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Eastern time,Monday through Friday.

Step-by-Step Enrollment InstructionsWith the click of your mouse, you’ll receivestep-by-step instructions during the enrollmentprocess. You’ll know immediately whether or not you’ve completed your enrollmentcorrectly. If you need help, Customer CareRepresentatives can assist you with yourenrollment elections.

Annual Enrollment Communication—What to ExpectIf you don’t have an email address on file withYour Benefits Resources, you’ll receive printedenrollment materials, but there’s nothing toreturn. If you have an email address on filewith Your Benefits Resources, you’ll receive an email inviting you to enroll.

Turn to Your Benefits Resources Any Time of the YearAfter you enroll, come back to Your BenefitsResources throughout the year whenever youneed to complete a benefits transaction or getdetailed, personalized benefits information.

Your Benefits Resourcesand Security

The Your Benefits ResourcesWeb site uses state-of-the-arttechnology to ensure that only you have access to your personalized benefits.Here’s how your information is being protected:

When you log on to the Web site, you’ll be askedcertain information toauthenticate yourself.

� A user ID must be enteredeach time you log on to thesite. Your user ID is moresecure than your SocialSecurity number becauseyou create it yourself andyou can change it wheneveryou wish.

� The combination of youruser ID and password will provide access to your personal benefit information.

� To help you remember your password, you canenter a hint on the site.

� You’ll use the samepassword for the site and with Customer Care Representatives.

Note: For your protection,please do not share your userID or password with anyone.

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AAcccceessssiinngg YYoouurr BBeenneeffiittss� If you don’t have an email address on

file with Your Benefits Resources, anenrollment worksheet will be included in your enrollment kit, along with a letter and brochure. Review your kit andthen enroll at Your Benefits Resources.

� If you have an email address on file with Your Benefits Resources, you’llreceive an email inviting you to visit theWeb site to enroll. The site contains allthe information you’ll need, includingyour benefit options and price tags, a summary of changes, and manyhelpful tools to help you make your decisions.

Be sure to review and confirm your benefitschoices before you log off the Web site.You’ll have the opportunity to review changesthat you make on the site, and you will see a confirmation on the screen if you’vecompleted your activity successfully. Anytimeyou make an online transaction, it’s best toprint a confirmation for your records.

Online at wwwwww..yybbrr..ccoomm//aaiirrggaass—Your Best SourceWith the Your Benefits Resources Web site,Airgas puts the power of the Internet intomanaging your benefits. Use the site to enrollin and manage your benefits throughout theyear. After you receive your enrollmentmaterials, log on to the Your BenefitsResources Web site from any computer withInternet access to get information about andenroll in your benefits. It’s easy to use—even if you’re new to the Internet. For help whenenrolling, you can use the site’s decisionsupport tools to:

� Learn how your benefit plans work.

� Understand the expenses and services that your options cover.

� Build your own medical plan, selecting from various coverage options.

� Compare health care and insuranceoptions

� Estimate your out-of-pocket costs for your medical options.

� Search for doctors, dentists, and eyedoctors online, using the criteria you enter.

� Choose or change your beneficiary(ies).

—Estimate your need for:

—Life and long-term disability insurancecoverage; and

—A health care and/or dependent carespending account.

� Use the “Contact Us” link on the site to send a question to a Customer CareRepresentative and receive a responsewithin 24 hours

� And more!

Customer CareRepresentatives at 1-877-4AGBENEFITSor 1-877-424-2363—Help Is Available

If you need help using the Web site, have questions, or want to enroll in or changeyour benefits throughout theyear, Customer CareRepresentatives are just a telephone call away at 1-877-4AGBENEFITS or1-877-424-2363. Follow the prompts to connect with aCustomer Care Representative.

KKeeyy FFaaccttss AAbboouutt CChhoooossiinngg aanndd UUssiinngg YYoouurr BBeenneeffiittss

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WWhhoo’’ss EElliiggiibbllee??You are eligible for the Airgas benefitsdescribed in this benefits guide if you are a full-time employee regularly scheduled to work at least 30 hours per week.

NNoottee:: If you are a member of a collectivebargaining unit, you may not be eligible forsome or all of the benefits described in thisbenefits guide. Please contact your HumanResources Representative for moreinformation.

Enrolling Your DependentsYou may enroll your eligible dependents formedical, vision, and dental benefits. You areresponsible for ensuring that any covereddependents are eligible for Airgas benefitsbefore you enroll them. Eligible dependentsinclude:

� Your spouse as determined under thefederal law. A legally separated spouse or a former spouse is not an eligibledependent.

� Your unmarried children who have notreached age 19 and are not employedon a full-time basis by any employer orby Airgas in a capacity eligible toparticipate in the plan. For purposes ofthe plan, the term “children” or “child”means your natural child, your legallyadopted child or child placed with you for adoption, your stepchild provided that he or she lives with you, or a child for whom a court has namedyou “guardian.”

� Your unmarried children, as definedabove, who have not reached age 23 and are full-time students. A student is“full-time” if he or she is classified as a full-time student at the educational

institution (college, university, vocational school)in which he or she is enrolled.

� Your unmarried disabled children, as definedabove, over age 19 if the child is fully disabledbefore reaching age 19 and unable to earn aliving due to physical or mental handicap. Thefinal eligibility determination is made by Airgas’health plan administrators following evaluationof the individual’s case history.

� Your unmarried children up to age 19 (or up to age 23 if a full-time student) who do not live with you but for whom you arerequired by a Qualified Medical Child Support Order (“QMCSO”) to provide health insurance coverage.

NNoottee:: To obtain health plan coverage for anewborn child, you must enroll that child within 31 days of birth, even if you have otherchildren covered in the health program.

Domestic PartnersFor employees of Airgas—Northern California &Nevada, Inc. and NORPAC, the plan treats a“domestic partner” as a dependent. In addition,the children of a “domestic partner” are treated as the children of the eligible employee, and areeligible to participate on the same basis as anyother child under the rules described above. A person is a domestic partner of an Airgas—Northern California & Nevada, Inc. or NORPACemployee if, but only if, the employee and thepartner have a current registration of domesticpartnership with the State of California or anypolitical subdivision of the State of California.

ExclusionsAny person not described as eligible in a categorylisted above is not a dependent for purposes ofthe plan. Married children, grandchildren, yourparents, and your other relatives or extendedfamily members are not eligible for coverage.

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If you choose to cover dependents, you’ll needto enter their information (i.e., Social Securitynumbers, birth dates, etc.) on Your BenefitsResources. It’s your responsibility to maintainyour dependents’ information and keep it current.

Audit to Verify Dependent EligibilityAirgas regularly audits covered individuals toensure that they qualify as eligible dependentsunder the plan. Individuals who are not eligiblefor benefits will be dropped from coverageimmediately, and a penalty will be assessed.

If you are contacted and asked to providecertification for individuals covered under yourhealth plan, you must respond. If you do notrespond to an audit inquiry, the individuals you cover as dependents will be removed from coverage. If you participate in a non-HMOplan, claims for these individuals will beretroactively reversed (for up to two years). If you participate in an HMO plan, you will becharged the COBRA premium rate for theperiod the individual was covered. Regardlessof the plan, you will not be eligible to re-enrollthe individual until the next annual enrollmentperiod even if proof of dependent status is provided.

Spousal Surcharge Like many other employers, Airgas isconcerned about the cost of health care,including the cost of subsidies for spouseswho have medical coverage availablethrough other employers. Companysubsidies are intended for employees andeligible dependents who do not havecoverage options elsewhere. Airgas providesa larger subsidy for spouses who do nothave coverage available through theiremployer and a smaller subsidy for workingspouses who have other health care choices.

If you’ve previously recorded whether or notyour spouse has access to coverage throughhis or her employer, your prior election willcarry over for 2008. If you are adding yourspouse to your Airgas benefits for the firsttime, you’ll be asked to verify whether or notyour spouse has coverage available throughhis or her employer. Employees who chooseto cover a working spouse who has availablecoverage through his or her employer will beassessed a surcharge of $100 per month (or $1,200 per year), in addition to the 2008premium. This surcharge applies regardless of the benefit level of your spouse’s healthcare plan or the subsidy amount provided by his or her employer.

About This Benefits Guide

This benefits guide provides a brief summary of thebenefits available and theterms and conditions thatapply to receiving them. More detailed information is available from the plandocuments and administrativeand insurance contracts. If there is a discrepancybetween this benefits guideand the official plandocuments and/or contracts,the official plan documentsand contracts will govern over this benefits guide.Airgas, Inc. reserves the right to change the plans atany time for any reason. This right includes, but is not limited to, the right torequire or increase associatecontributions to any and all plans described in thisbenefits guide. You will benotified if a change affectsyour benefits. The plans and policies stated in thisbenefits guide are not a contract of any kind.

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WWhheenn CCoovveerraaggee BBeeggiinnss As a new employee, you are eligible to participate in the Airgas plans on the 31st day of your continuous employment with Airgas. This date is based on your date of hire as an eligible employee. For example, if your date of hire as an eligible employee was April 15, you become eligible for benefits on May 16, assuming that you remain an Airgas employee and you have enrolled by the deadline printed on your enrollment worksheet. If you enroll by the enrollment deadline on your enrollment worksheet, your eligibility begins May 16. If you enroll in the health care or dependent care spending account, deductions begin with the firstpaycheck that includes your eligibility for benefits.

If you miss your enrollment deadline, you must wait until the next annual enrollment period toenroll for optional benefits that will be effective the following January 1. You may be required to provide medical evidence of insurability, and have it approved by the insurance companybefore certain benefits can begin.

PPaayyiinngg ffoorr BBeenneeffiittssAirgas offers both company-provided and optional benefits. Company-provided benefits areavailable at no cost to you. Optional benefits are the benefits you have the “option” to purchase—you pay part or all of the cost. Your company-provided and optional benefits include:

Your employee contributions for medical and dental coverage and your contributions for visioncoverage and spending accounts are made on a before-tax basis through automatic payrolldeductions. This means that your contributions are deducted from your regular paycheck before federal and Social Security taxes are taken—so you pay lower taxes and save money. You also pay no state (except New Jersey residents) or local taxes on your contributions.

Company-Provided Benefits (Airgas Pays the Full Cost—You Pay Nothing)

Optional Benefits ( You Have the “Option” to Purchase—You Pay Part or All of the Cost)

Basic Life Insurance Medical

Basic Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance

Dental

Short-Term Disability Benefits Vision Care

Basic Long-Term Disability Benefits Spending Accounts

Employee Assistance Program Optional Life Insurance

Optional AD&D Insurance

Optional Long-Term Disability Buy-Up

Other benefits such as the 401(k) Plan or Employee Stock Purchase Plan

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WWhheenn YYoouu CCaann CChhaannggee YYoouurr BBeenneeffiittssThe choices you make during annualenrollment will generally be effective for the fullcalendar year, so it’s important to know all youcan before you make a decision. However, ifyou get married, have a child, or experienceother changes during the year, you may bepermitted to make certain changes to somebenefits such as the following:

� Enroll for coverage (if you previouslydeclined coverage);

� Drop coverage;

� Add eligible dependents or deletepreviously covered dependents; and/or

� Change your level of coverage (e.g., from“You Only” coverage to “You and Spouse”).

The changes you make must be consistentwith your change in status. You have 31 daysafter the event to change your optional benefitelections at Your Benefits Resources using the Web site or by speaking with a CustomerCare Representative. It’s your responsibility to contact Your Benefits Resources within 31 days to change your benefits.

What Are Life Status Changes?Life status changes include the following:

� Change in legal marital status (including themarriage, divorce, or death of a spouse);

� Change in the number of dependents for tax purposes (including birth, adoption, placement for adoption, or death of a dependent);

� Change in the eligibility status of a dependent;

� Change in your own place of residence;

� Change in the employment status, worksite, or work schedule of an associate,spouse, or dependent that results ingaining or losing eligibility for coverage;

� Significant increase in contributions or a significant reduction in coverage underyour or your spouse’s health care plan1;

� Change to comply with a state-qualifieddomestic relations order related to themedical coverage of your child (QMCSO);

� Change in dependent care providers orcosts if the providers are not your relatives(applies only for dependent care spendingaccounts)1;

� Change in your spouse’s or child’scoverage during another employer’s annual enrollment period when the otherplan has a different period of coverage;

� Entitlement to Medicare or Medicaid(applies only to the eligible person); and

� Addition, elimination, or significantcurtailment of a coverage option.

1 These changes in status do not apply to a health carespending account.

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IIff YYoouu DDoonn’’tt EEnnrroollllIf you’re a new hire and you don’t enroll inyour benefits, you’ll receive basic company-provided coverages. Depending on the plan,you may not receive any elected or optionalcoverage. You must wait until the next annualenrollment period to enroll for optional benefitsthat will be effective the following January 1.You may be required to provide medicalevidence of insurability/ proof of good healthand have it approved by the insurancecompany before certain benefits can begin.

This benefits guide provides only a generaldescription of the benefits that may apply toyou. Your specific options and prices are onthe Your Benefits Resources Web site and, if you don’t have an email address on file at Your Benefits Resources, your personalizedEnrollment Worksheet, which is included inyour enrollment kit.

YYoouurr PPrriivvaaccyy RRiigghhttssThe Health Insurance Portability andAccountability Act (HIPAA) required thefederal government to issue nationalstandards to protect the privacy of personalhealth information. These standards allowAirgas to use and disclose your personalhealth information for purposes of treatment,payment, and health care operations.

Protected health information (PHI) is theinformation that the Airgas health plan createsand obtains in providing benefits to you. This may include information regarding yourhealth status (including diagnosis, treatment,and claims payment) or the fact that you are enrolled in or have participated in theAirgas health plan.

All Airgas employees have received a copy of the Airgas privacy notice. This noticeexplained Airgas compliance procedures and responsibilities, as well as your rights to view your PHI and make any corrections. If you have any questions, please do one ofthe following:

� Call your health plan or your health care provider (e.g., hospital, physician) for questions about your medical history or claims;

� Contact the Airgas Privacy Officer withquestions or concerns about the use ofyour protected health information; or

� Call Your Benefits Resources to request anadditional copy of the privacy rights noticeor to ask questions about your enrollmentor eligibility for the Airgas benefits plan.

For detailed information aboutcoverages, use the Web site at www.ybr.com/airgasor speak with a Customer Care Representative at 1-877-4AGBENEFITS or1-877-424-2363.

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What follows is a general description of the medical plan. Your specificoptions and prices are on the Web site. For detailed information aboutcoverages, use the Web site at wwwwww..yybbrr..ccoomm//aaiirrggaass or speak with a Customer Care Representative at 11--887777--44AAGGBBEENNEEFFIITTSS or11--887777--442244--22336633.

CCoovveerraaggee LLeevveellss� You Only � You and Child(ren)

� You and Spouse � You and Family

YYoouurr OOppttiioonnssAs you review your medical plan choices online, you’ll see the following options:

� No coverage;

� An HMO (if one is available in your area);

� Aetna Core Plan;

� Your current Aetna option (if applicable); and

� A link to “build your own” option.

You can choose the option that you prefer in a few ways:

� You can enroll in the Aetna Core Plan. For most employees, the Core Plan should provide an adequate level of coverage.

� You can enroll in an HMO, if available.

� Or you can “build your own” medical option, if you’d like to enroll in UnitedHealthcare coverage or want to purchase more or less coverage than the Core Plan provides. Your paycheck contributions will vary with the amount of coverage that you choose.

All employees have access to coverage through both Aetna andUnitedHealthcare. Plan prices and coverage levels are the same. Eachcarrier has its own network of health care providers; however, thesenetworks are similar in many areas. If you’re currently enrolled in the AetnaCore Plan and want to change your carrier from Aetna to UnitedHealthcare,you’ll need to select the “build your own option” link.

Remember, once you choose or default to a medical plan, you’ll remain inthat option throughout the year and may not change until the next annualenrollment (unless you experience a qualifying life status change, asdescribed on page 7 of this guide).

NNoottee:: Your annual deductible (the up-front expenses you’ll incur before the plan beginsto pay your medical claims) will count toward your annual out-of-pocket maximum (the most you’d ever pay out of your own pocket beyond your paycheck contributions).

Few people can afford to pay health care expenses on their own. That’s why the comprehensive health care protection offered byAirgas is so valuable. Also, with the ability to “build your own” option, you can find the right balance between your paycheckcontributions and out-of-pocket expenses.

Term What It Means

AnnualDeductible

The amount that you pay each yearout of your own pocket before theplan begins paying part of yourmedical bills. The deductible mustbe met before the plan beginspaying the coinsurance amount.

Coinsurance Percentage of the total medical bill that you pay. For example, if the plan pays 80% coinsurance,you pay 20%.

Copay Flat dollar amount that you pay per office visit, emergencyroom visit, or hospitalization.

Generic Drugs Drugs approved by the FDA forthe same effectiveness, quality,safety, and strength as brand-name drugs. However, they costmuch less for you and Airgas.

Non-PreferredDrugs

Drugs that are neither generic nor on Caremark’s preferred list.

Out-of-PocketMaximum

The maximum amount you couldpay each year in deductibles andcoinsurance. If you reach themaximum, the plan pays 100% ofyour medical bills, excluding copays.

Per-PrescriptionMaximum

The maximum amount you pay toward the total cost of eachprescription/mail-order fill.

Preferred Drugs

A preferred drug is FDA-approved and selected by Caremark for safety and cost-effectiveness.

IImmppoorrttaanntt TTeerrmmssIn order to make the best use of the tools and information available to you, you’ll need to be familiar with some of the terms used todescribe each benefit option. Review thesedefinitions before you begin.

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MMeeddiiccaall PPllaann HHiigghhlliigghhttssThe charts to the right show you the questions you’ll answer to “build your own”plan, along with possible responses. Youranswers to these questions determine yourcoverage, out-of-pocket costs, and paycheckcontributions. As a result, you can create amedical plan that balances your costs with the coverage combinations that meet yourhealth care needs.

CCoovveerraaggee NNootteessThe following apply to all coverage levels:

� Emergency room—Deductible appliesbefore the $50 copay and coinsurance

� Inpatient hospitalization—$100 copay perday, up to a maximum of $300 per stay,before the deductible and coinsurance

� Outpatient surgery—Paid at yourcoinsurance level after the deductible is met

� Lifetime maximum—$1,000,000 for all options

NNoottee:: Copayments are not counted toward meeting your deductible or out-of-pocket maximum.

TTiippss ffoorr BBuuiillddiinngg YYoouurr OOwwnn PPllaannIf you decide to “build your own” plan, keepthese points in mind:

� Choosing to “build your own” medical planallows you to select your preferred healthplan carrier and helps you customize thebenefit level that best meets your needsbased on a series of questions.

� If you’d like to buy up or down oncoverages, or simply consider variousoptions and their associated costs to you,select the link titled “Build Your Own Option.”It is listed below the pre-built options on the Web site.

BBuuiillddiinngg YYoouurr MMeeddiiccaall OOppttiioonnWhen building your own option, the site willprompt you to answer each of the fourfollowing questions. Because each questionhas several possible choices, you cancompare several coverage combinations.You’ll want to start by deciding which group of doctors and hospitals you prefer to use.Both Aetna and UnitedHealthcare have a large network of participating providers. After you’ve chosen your preferred doctor and health carrier (Aetna or UnitedHealthcare),you’ll compare your medical options. You may compare up to three medical options at a time, estimate your likely out-of-pocketcosts, find health care providers near you, and estimate your need for a Health CareSpending Account.

Notice ConcerningWomen’s Health and Cancer Rights

The Airgas Medical Plansprovide legally requiredbenefits for mastectomy-related services, includingreconstruction and surgery to achieve symmetry between the breasts,prostheses, and complications resulting from a mastectomy (including lymphedema).

QQuueessttiioonn 11:: WWhhiicchh nneettwwoorrkk ddoo yyoouu pprreeffeerr??

Network Choices

UUnniitteeddHHeeaalltthhccaarree(See if your doctor is in the network)

AAeettnnaa(See if your doctor is in the network)

Log on towww.ybr.com/airgas for up-to-date information aboutwhich doctors are in yourplan’s network and to view a side-by-side comparison of your medical plan options.Also, you can estimate yourout-of-pocket costs underdifferent medical plan options.Visit www.ybr.com/airgasfor this and other benefitsinformation. Contact yourhealth plan directly forinformation about payment of claims, ID cards, whetheror not you’ve reached yourdeductible, etc.

1111

QQuueessttiioonn 22:: WWhhiicchh ccooiinnssuurraannccee lleevveell aanndd ooffffiiccee vviissiitt ccooppaayy bbeesstt mmeeeett yyoouurr nneeeeddss??

Option 1 Option 2 Option 4

In Network Out of Network In Network Out of Network In Network Out of Network

Coinsurance 90% 80% 90% 70% 70% 50%

Office Visit Copay� Primary Care � Specialist

$10 $15

80% after deductible

$15 $20


$25 $30


Option 3

In Network Out of Network

80% 60%

$20 $25


QQuueessttiioonn 33:: WWhhiicchh aannnnuuaall ddeedduuccttiibbllee aanndd oouutt--ooff--ppoocckkeett mmaaxxiimmuumm bbeesstt mmeeeett yyoouurr nneeeeddss??

Option 1 Option 2 Option 3 Option 4

In Network Out of Network In Network Out of Network In Network Out of Network In Network Out of Network

Annual Deductible� Single � Family

$0$0

$250 $500

$300 $600

$750$1,500

$600$1,200

$1,500$3,000

$1,000 $2,000

$2,000$4,000

Out-of-PocketMaximum� Single � Family

$250 $500

$1,750 $3,500

$1,800 $3,600

$3,750 $7,500

$2,600 $5,200

$5,500 $11,000

$3,500 $7,000

$7,000 $14,000

QQuueessttiioonn 44:: WWhhiicchh pprreessccrriippttiioonn ddrruugg ccoovveerraaggee lleevveell bbeesstt mmeeeettss yyoouurr nneeeeddss??

Option 1 Option 2 Option 3

Retail Copay Mail-Order Copay Retail Copay Mail-Order Copay Retail Copay/Coinsurance

Mail-Order Copay/Coinsurance

Generic $8 $16 $7 $14 $8 $16

Preferred (Brand-Name Formulary)

$25 $50 60% covered $50 per Rx maximum

60% covered $100 per Rx maximum



Non-Preferred (Brand-Name Non-Formulary)

$50 $100 60% covered $100 per Rx maximum




Option 2

$300 $600

$750$1,500

$1,800 $3,600

$3,750 $7,500

In Network Out of Network

Note: Core Plan coverages are highlighted in blue.

Option 2

$8 $16




Retail Copay/Coinsurance

Mail-Order Copay/Coinsurance


PPrreessccrriippttiioonn DDrruugg CCoovveerraaggee

1122

To control your prescription costs, it’simportant to think carefully about yourprescription plan needs. All of the Airgasoptions have the same generic copay; however, your costs may vary more widely based on whether you obtain apreferred (brand-name formulary) drug or a non-preferred (brand-name non-formulary)drug. You can keep your costs down byasking your doctor to prescribe generic drugs whenever possible.

Medications taken on an ongoing basis (i.e., maintenance medications) must bepurchased through Caremark’s mail-orderservice. Failure to use the mail-order servicewill result in an additional charge of double the usual (i.e., 34-day) copay starting on thethird fill of a prescription at a retail pharmacy.

RReettaaiill CChhaarrggeess ffoorr MMaaiinntteennaanncceeMMeeddiiccaattiioonnss——AAnn EExxaammppllee The following chart illustrates how theadditional charge for purchasing maintenancemedication through a retail pharmacy worksusing a preferred drug (each fill includes a 34-day supply of the drug):

For additional details about prescription drug coverage, use the Web site atwwwwww..yybbrr..ccoomm//aaiirrggaass or speak with a Customer Care Representative at 11--887777--44AAGGBBEENNEEFFIITTSS or11--887777--442244--22336633.

CCaarreemmaarrkk AAddvvaanncceedd GGuuiiddeelliinneeMMaannaaggeemmeenntt PPrrooggrraammThis program requires that employees takingcertain specialty drugs must first try otherdrugs in the same category before takingnewer, more costly medications for the samecondition. This program will require that youtry standard medications to treat yourcondition before the plan will cover newertreatments. If you’re taking medicationsaffected by this program, Caremark willcontact you with more information.

When you enroll for medical benefits through Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, or an Aetna HMO, you receiveprescription drug coverage through Caremark. (If you’re eligible for and enroll in another HMO, you’llreceive prescription drug coverage under the HMO.)

Copay

First Fill $$2255

Second Fill $$2255

Third Fill (and subsequent fills)

$$5500

1133

Log on towww.ybr.com/airgasfor more detailed informationabout vision care. Choose“Find an Eye Doctor in YourVision Plan” for a list ofEyeMed providers near you.Detailed information is alsoavailable by speaking with aCustomer Care Representativeat 1-877-4AGBENEFITS or1-877-424-2363.

VViissiioonn CCaarree

You can enroll in vision care through EyeMed Access Plan. You don’t have to be enrolled in themedical plan to receive vision coverage. You pay for vision care coverage. The company does not pay any portion of the cost. What follows is a general description of vision care.

VViissiioonn CCaarree HHiigghhlliigghhttss

In Network Frequency

Exams 12 months

Lenses 12 months (one set of lenses/year, may be eyeglass or contact lenses)

Frames 24 months

Contacts 12 months

Cost

Exams $10 copay

Laser Vision Correction 15% retail price discount or 5% promotionalprice discount (whichever is better)

Lenses $20 copay

Frames $20 copay; plan pays 100% up to $130 retailand 20% discount off balance over $130

Contacts (elective, in lieu of eyeglasses) $20 copay; plan pays 100% up to $130 retail;15% discount off balance over $130; appliestoward materials only

Out of Network Cost

Exams Plan pays up to $35

Materials

Lenses: Plan pays up to:

—Single —$25

—Bifocal —$40

—Trifocal —$55

—Lenticular —Not covered

Frames Plan pays up to $65

Contacts (elective, in lieu of eyeglasses Plan pays up to $104

NNoottee:: Oral surgery, definedas any procedure in whichthe gums are cut, isn’tcovered under the AirgasDental Plan. Instead, oralsurgery is covered underthe Airgas Medical Plan. If you’re enrolled in an HMO that doesn’t coveroral surgery, the dental plan will cover it. See your HMO for details.

DDeennttaall PPllaann HHiigghhlliigghhttss

DDeennttaall PPllaann

1144

CCoovveerraaggee LLeevveellss� You Only

� You and Spouse

� You and Child(ren)

� You and Family

You do nnoott have to cover the samedependents under medical and dental. You may choose to cover some of themunder medical but not dental, or vice versa.

YYoouurr OOppttiioonnss� Basic Option

� Premium Option

CChhoooossiinngg YYoouurr DDeennttaall OOppttiioonnThere are minimal differences between the Basic and Premium dental options. ThePremium Option will pay a higher benefit level (80%) for basic services and offers an orthodontia benefit.

However, if you or your covered dependentsdo not frequently use the basic services orhave already reached the lifetime maximumallowed for orthodontia, you may want toconsider selecting the Basic Option, whichhas a lower-cost premium.

You may enroll yourself and your eligible dependents in the Basic Option or Premium Option,or you may choose no dental coverage. What follows is a general description of the dental plan.Your specific prices are on the Web site.

For detailed information aboutcoverages, use the Web site at www.ybr.com/airgasor speak with a Customer Care Representative at 1-877-4AGBENEFITS or1-877-424-2363.

Basic Option Premium Option

Deductible � You Only � You and Family

$50$150

$50 $150

Coinsurance � Preventive/Diagnostic � Basic � Major� Orthodontia

100%50% 50% 0%

100%80% 50% 50%

Annual Maximum $1,500 $1,500

Orthodontia Lifetime Maximum

N/A $1,500

1155

LLiiffee IInnssuurraannccee PPllaann

While everyone needs some life insurance, the amount that’s right for you will depend on a numberof factors, including your age, family status, and personal savings.

TThhaatt’’ss wwhhyy AAiirrggaass::

� Provides company-paid basic life andaccidental death and dismemberment(AD&D) insurance coverage for you;

� Gives you the flexibility to buy optional life and AD&D insurance for yourself;

� Offers the option to buy life and AD&D insurance for your spouse and/or your children; and

� Offers estate guidance and will preparationservices, available through The Hartford.

Basic and optional life and AD&D insurancepay a benefit to your beneficiary if you die.Basic and optional AD&D insurance canprovide income for you if you have anaccidental loss of limb or sight or for yourfamily if you die. For coverage levels, youmay enroll in “You Only” or “You and Family”coverage.

In addition, rates for life insurance will bebased on whether or not you smoke.Smoking includes the use of tobacco in anyform, such as cigarettes, pipes, snuff, orchewing tobacco. To qualify for nonsmokerrates, you cannot have used tobacco in any form in the last 12 months.

What follows is a general description of the life insurance plan. Your specific options and prices are on the Web site.

The Hartford offers a number of programs for the convenience of those covered underthe life and disability plans they administer.Unlike the other benefits included in the Airgas program, these services areadministered by The Hartford. You cancontact a Hartford Life Examiner directly at 11--880000--774411--44330066 if you have questionsabout the services provided.

One service, Estate Guidance, allows you toprepare a will online, at no cost to you. Whenaccessing the site, you will be asked to providea promotional code, which is HFD2097.

To use the Travel Assist services, you may need to provide the group number, which is 675809.

You may access more information about theseadded services on the Your Benefits Resourcessite by clicking on “Plan Information.”

SSppeecciiaall FFeeaattuurreess ooff tthhee LLiiffee IInnssuurraannccee PPllaann

1166

2Increases of one coverage level in optional life and spouse and child life insurance during subsequent enrollments are allowed without EOI or proof of good health. Any increase in coverage level from no coverage to coverage or any election above $500,000 generally requires EOI or proof of good health.

LLiiffee IInnssuurraannccee PPllaann HHiigghhlliigghhttssFor specific information aboutcoverages, use the Web site at www.ybr.com/airgasor speak with a Customer Care Representative at 1-877-4AGBENEFITS or1-877-424-2363.

LLiiffee IInnssuurraannccee PPllaann ((ccoonnttiinnuueedd))

Coverage Amounts CoverageMaximums

Who Pays

Evidence of Insurability(EOI)/Proof of GoodHealth Requirements2

Basic Life and AD&DInsurance

1x annual earnings (basesalary plus commission)for basic life and 1x annualearnings (base salary pluscommission) for AD&D

$50,000 foreach type

Companypays

None

Optional LifeInsurance

In addition to basic life,buy coverage in multiples,from 1x to 4x annualearnings

Combined basicand optional lifeand AD&D foremployees maximum is$1,250,000

You paygroup rates

Required if you enroll laterthan your initial deadline ormove up more than onecoverage level duringsubsequent enrollments,and for combined basic andoptional amounts above$500,000

OptionalAD&DInsurance

In addition to basic life,buy coverage in multiples,from 1x to 4x annualearnings

Combined basicand optional lifeand AD&D foremployees maximum is$1,250,000

You paygroup rates

None

OptionalSpouse LifeInsurance

$10,000, $25,000,$50,000, $75,000,or $100,000

Up to 50% oftotal employeeamount to amaximum of$100,000

You paygroup rates

None if you enroll when youare first offered the benefit

None if you move up onecoverage level duringsubsequent enrollments

Required if you move upmore than one coverage level

Optional Child LifeInsurance

$5,000, $10,000,$15,000, $20,000, or$25,000 per child

Up to $25,000per child

You paygroup rates

None if you enroll when youare first offered the benefit

None if you move up onecoverage level duringsubsequent enrollments

Required if you move upmore than one coverage level

1177

DDiissaabbiilliittyy PPllaann

Disability benefits provide financial protection against the loss of your income. Your benefits programincludes two types of company-paid disability coverage—short-term disability (STD) and long-termdisability (LTD). You also have the option to enroll for the optional long-term disability buy-up benefits.

This chart is a general description of the disability plan. Your specific long-term disability options and prices are on the Web site. For detailed information about long-term disability coverages, use the Web site at wwwwww..yybbrr..ccoomm//aaiirrggaassor speak with a Customer Care Representative at 11--887777--44AAGGBBEENNEEFFIITTSS or 11--887777--442244--22336633.

DDiissaabbiilliittyy PPllaann HHiigghhlliigghhttss

Feature Short-Term Disability Long-Term Disability

When Benefits May Begin

If a non-work-related injury or illness prevents you fromworking, STD benefits may be payable when you have been disabled for more than seven calendar days. To receivebenefits, you must apply and submit medical evidence thatyour illness or injury makes you unable to perform yourregular job.

LTD benefits begin when you have been disabled for six months (180 days) provided you are totally disabled as determined by theinsurance company and the terms of the plan. Benefits are payablefor both non-work-related and work-related illness or injury.

How Long Benefits MayContinue

You may receive STD benefits for up to 26 weeks. Of course, benefits stop if you recover, even if you have not received STD benefits for the full period.

LTD benefits are paid until you recover or reach age 65 (benefits may extend beyond age 65 in certain situations). Unless you arehospitalized, benefits for disabilities related to mental illness are limited to 24 months.

Benefit Amount Benefit equals 60% or 100% of weekly earnings or $300, whichever is less, for up to 26 weeks. Benefit is based on length of service with the company:

� Less than one year of service: Eight weeks at 60%; 18 weeks no pay

� One year but less than five years of service: Four weeks at 100% and 22 weeks at 60%

� Five years but less than 10 years of service: Eight weeks at 100% and 18 weeks at 60%

� 10 or more years of service: 13 weeks at 100% and 13 weeks at 60%

Benefits are reduced by income you receive from a state disability plan or other benefits.

VVoolluunnttaarryy ((SShhoorrtt--TTeerrmm)) IInnccoommee PPrrootteeccttiioonn::You may purchase additional STD protection. See page 22 or call Total Package Partners at 11--887777--223366--22666677 for details.

CCoommppaannyy--PPaaiidd LLoonngg--TTeerrmm DDiissaabbiilliittyy:: Replaces 50% of your basic monthly earnings (maximum benefit of $2,500 per month),minus disability income you receive from other sources such as Social Security, Workers’ Compensation, a state disability plan, or other company benefit plans.

LLoonngg--TTeerrmm DDiissaabbiilliittyy BBuuyy--UUpp:: You may “buy up” to a 60%replacement of your basic monthly earnings (maximum benefit of $10,000) per month.

When Benefits Are Not Paid

You cannot receive an STD benefit if your injury or illness is work related and covered by Workers’Compensation or if you are disabled as the result of an act of war, while participating in a felony or misdemeanor, while on military duty, or for a self-inflicted injury; other limitations may apply.

FFoorr NNeewwllyy HHiirreedd AAssssoocciiaatteess aanndd AAssssoocciiaatteess WWhhoo EElleecctt BBuuyy--UUppCCoovveerraaggee DDuurriinngg TThheeiirr SSeeccoonndd oorr SSuubbsseeqquueenntt EEnnrroollllmmeennttPPeerriioodd:: If you become disabled during the first 12 months ofcoverage, LTD benefits will not be paid if your disability results from an illness or injury for which you received medical treatment, advice, or medications during the three-month period before coverage tookeffect. Certain disabilities, such as a disability that results fromcommitting a crime, are not covered.

Evidence ofInsurability/Proof of Good HealthRequirements

None None

1188

You can learn more byselecting the “Why Use aHealth Care SpendingAccount?” link from theMedical Expense Estimatorresults page. Since anymoney left over in youraccounts is forfeited at theend of the year, it’s very important to estimateconservatively!

SSppeennddiinngg AAccccoouunnttss

Looking to save money on your out-of-pocket costs? Spending accounts allow you to set asidebefore-tax dollars to pay for certain health care and dependent day care expenses. Each dollar you contribute is a dollar not taxed.

SSppeennddiinngg AAccccoouunntt HHiigghhlliigghhttssThere are two separate accounts—a Health Care Spending Account and a Dependent Care Spending Account. You may enroll in one, both, or neither ofthese accounts. The two accounts operateseparately. This means that you can’t usemoney in the health care account fordependent care expenses and vice versa.Here are some additional points to consider:� To participate, you must enroll on an

annual basis. You aren’t re-enrolled in thisplan automatically from year to year.

� If you enroll, the annual amount you elect is deducted from your paychecks andspread throughout the year on a before-taxbasis. This means it is not subject tofederal and Social Security taxes.

� When you have an eligible expense, such as day care for your child or medical copays, you’re paid back from the tax-free money you set aside.

� IRS rules say that you must forfeit any money left in your accounts at the end of the year—so estimate yourexpenses carefully.

� Although it’s a good idea to submit your claims as you incur expenses, you have until next March 31 to claimreimbursement for eligible expenses from the current plan year.

IIss aa FFlleexxiibbllee SSppeennddiinngg AAccccoouunnttRRiigghhtt ffoorr YYoouu??Log on to wwwwww..yybbrr..ccoomm//aaiirrggaass to estimatehow much you should set aside annually inthe spending accounts. See Your EnrollmentDecision Toolkit on the Web site’s mainenrollment page for help in estimating howmuch to contribute to a spending accountand your likely tax savings.

EEssttiimmaattee YYoouurr HHeeaalltthh CCaarreeSSppeennddiinngg AAccccoouunntt EExxppeennsseessUse this worksheet online to estimate howmuch you and your dependents will spend onmedical, dental, vision, and other eligiblehealth care expenses. Then enter the totalamount when you make your Health CareSpending Account choice.

1199

You can find a complete listing of eligible expenses for the health care and dependent carespending accounts by visiting the IRS Web site at wwwwww..iirrss..ggoovv and reading publications 502 and 503.

WWhhaatt’’ss EElliiggiibbllee ffoorr RReeiimmbbuurrsseemmeenntt aanndd WWhhaatt’’ss NNoott??

Health Care Spending Account Dependent Care Spending Account

Eligible Expenses

� Medical or dental plan deductibles;� Copays and coinsurance amounts; � Over-the-counter (nonprescription) drugs

such as allergy medicines, antacids, and pain relievers;

� Nonprescription smoking cessation gum or patches;

� Expenses that are not covered or are onlypartially covered under your medical, dental, or vision benefits;

� Orthodontia; � Laser vision surgery; � Expenses beyond maximum medical

and/or dental benefit limits, and/or usual and customary charges or plan limits; and

� Smoking cessation programs.

� Licensed preschool or kindergarten (only the cost of care is an eligible expense if it can beseparated from the cost of schooling);

� Before- and after-school programs;� Summer day camp; � Household services related to the care of

a dependent and necessary for well-being and protection;

� Qualified day care or family care center thatrequires a fee for service; it also must meet state or federal regulations if it cares for more than six nonresident people at a time; and

� Care in your home (the care provider cannot be your dependent or one of your children under age 19).

Noneligible Expenses

� Expenses fully reimbursed by medical, dental, or vision plans;

� Cosmetics, toothpastes, soaps, lotions,shampoos;

� Health club, spa, or exercise class fees; � Weight loss programs without a doctor’s

prescription; � Cosmetic surgery (unless necessary to

correct a congenital deformity, or deformityresulting from injury or disease); and

� Contributions, or premiums, for health carecoverage for you, your spouse, and/or your children.

� Care not related to employment (such as a baby-sitter during your non-working hours);

� Overnight portion associated with camp fees; � Nursing homes; and � Expenses paid by another policy or plan

(including health insurance, Medicare, or other federal or state programs).

2200

SSppeennddiinngg AAccccoouunnttss ((ccoonnttiinnuueedd))

AAcccceessssiinngg YYoouurr SSppeennddiinngg AAccccoouunntt WWeebb SSiitteeYour Spending Account offers usefulinformation and helpful tools that you’ll access to manage your spending accountbenefits after you enroll. You can log on towwwwww..yybbrr..ccoomm//aaiirrggaass to access yourspending account benefits after you enroll in either a Health Care Spending Account or a Dependent Care Spending Account.

� The Your Spending Account Web site willallow you to submit claims and reviewclaim status, learn about eligible expenses,check your account balance(s), and findinformation about the debit card.

The site will be available 24 hours a day,seven days a week, and will be accessiblefrom any computer with Internet access.

� Service Center Representatives areavailable if you have questions or needadditional information. Representatives will be available Monday through Fridayduring regular business hours.

� The debit card program allows you to pay for eligible medical expenses with a special debit card. When you use thedebit card, your eligible expense will beautomatically deducted. You may use the debit card at an eligible provider such as a pharmacy, hospital, doctor or dentist office, or vision center.

NNoottee:: Dependent Care Spending Accountexpenses can’t be paid for with the debit card.

2211

Your conversations with anEAP counselor are paid for by Airgas. Sometimesadditional counseling orspecialized treatment canrequire payment; it dependson your medical plan. YourEAP counselor can help youdetermine if extended servicesare covered under your planand the approximate cost of such services.

EEmmppllooyyeeee AAssssiissttaannccee PPrrooggrraamm

The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a professional, confidential telephone counseling service available to help you and your household members resolve personal issues and problems before they affect health, relationships, and performance.

You are enrolled automatically in this programthat is administered by LifeWorks, anindependent, nationally respected provider of EAP and related services. The EAPprovides confidential counseling, referral, and follow-up services to assist you inresolving personal problems, such as:

� Marital issues

� Financial issues

� Child or elder issues

� Problems with coworkers

� Balancing work and family responsibilities

� Stress management

� Alcohol and drug abuse

� Family/relationship concerns

� Anxiety or depression

The EAP counselors also may providereferrals to legal, financial, or other services as necessary. You can call the EAP anytimefor help 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, at 11--888888--226677--88112266.

2222

Other Coverages

Along with helping you selectand use the benefits that youremployer sponsors, YourBenefits Resources can helpyou purchase other productsand services to supplementthose benefits. For example,you may have a dependentwho isn’t eligible for yourgroup’s medical coverage. Or you may want to purchaseadditional life insurance. Visit the Your BenefitsResources Web site atwww.ybr.com/airgas for a selection of individual health insurance policies andother insurance products.

VVoolluunnttaarryy BBeenneeffiittss

AAddddiittiioonnaall SShhoorrtt--TTeerrmm DDiissaabbiilliittyy CCoovveerraaggee TThhrroouugghh VVIIPP The Airgas short-term disability (STD) coverage provides a basic level of incomereplacement (see page 17 for details) when you’re unable to work. Depending on your financial situation, you may need additional income to bridge the gap until you can return to work. The VIP Plan pays a disability benefit in addition to your Airgasshort-term disability coverage. VIP features include:

You may find appropriate and affordable auto,home, and/or personal property insurancecoverage with MetLife. You may be eligible for special group rates and discounts as anAirgas employee. Depending on your individualfactors, having insurance coverage throughMetLife may provide significant savings.

AAuuttoo,, HHoommee,, aanndd PPeerrssoonnaall PPrrooppeerrttyy IInnssuurraannccee

To get a quote, call MetLife through the Your Benefits Resources automatedtelephone system at 11--887777--44AAGGBBEENNEEFFIITTSSor 11--887777--442244--22336633. MetLife’s CustomerService Representatives are available to helpyou with your concerns about premiumquotes, claims, and other questions.

For more information about voluntary short-termdisability protection through the VIP Plan,contact Total Package Partners by email at iinnffoo@@ttoottaallppaacckkaaggeeppaarrttnneerrss..ccoomm or call toll free at 11--887777--223366--22666677.

Email iinnffoo@@ttoottaallppaacckkaaggeeppaarrttnneerrss..ccoomm ifyou’ve lost or misplaced your PIN. Pleaseindicate that you are an Airgas employee. If you are newly hired this year and have not been offered VIP, you will receive your PIN code in a separate mailing.

� Coverage for eligible employees ages17–69 who are actively at work.

� Up to 75% of income (benefits base salary)replacement (40% for state disability plans),from $400 and $5,000 of additionaldisability coverage. It does not offset yourAirgas or state disability benefits.

� A discounted rate starting at $3.86 per week for employees under age 50 and $4.85 perweek for ages 50–69 provides $400 ofadditional monthly coverage. Customize theamount you need to protect your income.

� After-tax payroll deduction, which meansbenefits are tax free when received asdisability income.

� Premiums that don’t increase each year withage. If you currently carry supplemental STDthrough another vendor, such as AFLAC,you may not have this feature.

� Coverage that begins the first of the monthwhen your payroll deductions begin.

� Portability. You can take it with you if youleave the company. The premiums remainthe same.

2233

Don’t Wait UntilRetirement to ThinkAbout Retirement!

Did you know that you couldspend up to one-third of your life in retirement? To maintain your lifestyle,many experts say that you’llneed a retirement incomethat’s about 80% of yourpreretirement income. Youcan’t rely on Social Securityalone, because it may not be enough. Don’t think youcan afford to save? Thinkyou’re too young to save?Don’t know how to invest your money? Think again!Start saving or considerincreasing your contributionsto the 401(k) Plan today.

KKnnooww WWhhaatt ttoo DDoo:: YYoouurr EEnnrroollllmmeenntt CChheecckklliissttRReeaadd tthhiiss gguuiiddee.. You’ll be in control of your decisions, and you want to be informed. If you think you’re ready to enroll, log on to the Your BenefitsResources Web site.

KKnnooww yyoouurr ppaasssswwoorrdd.. To makechanges or review your benefits, you’llneed to know your password. If youdon’t know your password, log on to the Your Benefits Resources Web siteand a new one will be sent to you. Or, if you’ve established answers to yoursecurity questions online, these answerswill allow you to access your account.

RReevviieeww yyoouurr cchhooiicceess ccaarreeffuullllyy.. Usethe Your Benefits Resources Web site tocompare your options, learn about yourbenefits, make your choices, or buildyour own preferred level of coverage.

CCoonnffiirrmm yyoouurr wwoorrkkiinngg ssppoouussee’’ssaacccceessss ttoo ootthheerr hheeaalltthh ccaarree ooppttiioonnss..If you’re covering your working spouse,you’ll need to confirm whether or notyour spouse has access to other healthcare options through his or her employer.

CCoonnffiirrmm tthhaatt aallll ooff yyoouurr ddeeppeennddeennttssaarree eelliiggiibbllee ffoorr ccoovveerraaggee.. Airgasconducts periodic audits of the coveredindividuals on the Airgas medical plan toensure that they meet the definition ofan eligible dependent under the planrules. It is your responsibility to managethe listing of your covered dependents.

CCoonnffiirrmm yyoouurr eelleeccttiioonnss.. When you have completed your enrollment online, you will receive a “completedsuccessfully” message confirming yourelections. Be sure to print a confirmationof your enrollment for your records.

OOtthheerr BBeenneeffiittss

This benefits guide highlights the benefits you can enroll in for the upcoming year. However,Airgas provides a number of other programs and services designed to recognize your efforts or help make your life easier to manage.

See your Human Resources Representativefor more information about these plans. They include:

� 440011((kk)) PPllaann——You can save from 1% to50% of your base salary in the plan. Youcan contribute:— Your before-tax contributions to the

Airgas 401(k); or— Your after-tax contributions to the

Roth 401(k)Airgas will match up to 50% of the first 4% of your savings in the plan.

� EEmmppllooyyeeee SSttoocckk PPuurrcchhaassee PPrrooggrraamm——You can buy Airgas, Inc. stock at a 15%discount regardless of your earnings.

� PPaaiidd TTiimmee OOffff——Includes vacation,holidays, jury duty, and funeral leave.

� TTuuiittiioonn RReeffuunndd PPrrooggrraamm—Check withyour Human Resources Representative to see if you are eligible to be reimbursedup to 100% of the cost of tuition,registration fees, books, and supplies.

� AAiirrggaass SScchhoollaarrsshhiipp PPrrooggrraamm ffoorrDDeeppeennddeenntt CChhiillddrreenn—Check with your Human Resources Representative for more information.

� DDiissaasstteerr RReelliieeff PPrrooggrraamm——Establishedthrough employee and companycontributions, this nonprofit fund providesfinancial help to repair damage caused bynatural disasters, such as Hurricane Katrina.Check with your Human ResourcesRepresentative for more information.

2244

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Once you’ve chosen your benefits for the year, you’ll want to know the resources available to helpyou when you need to use them. Here are some resources to help you get the most from your Airgas benefits throughout the year.

If You Need to . . . You Contact . . .

Enroll in your benefits. Your Benefits Resources Web site at wwwwww..yybbrr..ccoomm//aaiirrggaass.

Change your password or request a new password for your health and insurance benefits.

Log on to the Your Benefits ResourcesWeb site at wwwwww..yybbrr..ccoomm//aaiirrggaassor call a Customer Care Representative at 11--887777--44AAGGBBEENNEEFFIITTSS or 11--887777--442244--22336633.

Report a life event change (like a birth,marriage, adoption, divorce, etc.). A listof life events is provided on page 7 of this guide.

A Customer Care Representative at 11--887777--44AAGGBBEENNEEFFIITTSS or 11--887777--442244--22336633within 31 days of the event.

Access information or ask questions regarding medical, dental, vision, spendingaccounts, life insurance, or disability benefits.

Your Benefits Resources Web site atwwwwww..yybbrr..ccoomm//aaiirrggaass or call a Customer CareRepresentative at 11--887777--44AAGGBBEENNEEFFIITTSS or 11--887777--442244--22336633.

Ask a question or make a change to your 401(k) Plan.

Log on to wwwwww..vvaanngguuaarrdd..ccoomm or call 11--880000--552233--11118888.

Enroll in Airgas’ Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) during one of the quarterlyenrollment periods.

Log on to wwwwww..eettrraaddee..ccoomm//eennrroollll.

Get a quote for auto, home, or personalproperty insurance.

Call MetLife through the Your BenefitsResources automated telephone system at 11--887777--44AAGGBBEENNEEFFIITTSS or 11--887777--442244--22336633.

Learn more about additional short-term disability coverage.

Call 11--887777--223366--22666677 or log on towwwwww..ttoottaallppaacckkaaggeeppaarrttnneerrss..ccoomm.

Find help to resolve personal issues. Employee Assistance Program 24 hours a day, 365 days a year at 11--888888--226677--88112266.

Ask a question about your paid time off. Your Human Resources Representative.

Web Site Directory

Airgas provides a number of useful online resources for your benefit questions. The Web directory of providers should help you manage the resources available to you.

Access Your Benefits Information

Web Site Web Address

Your Benefits Resources www.ybr.com/airgas

Your Spending Account www.ybr.com/airgas

Access Reliable Health Information


Your Benefits Resources www.ybr.com/airgas

Your Health Connection www.ybr.com/airgas

Access Your Benefit Plan Carriers


Aetna www.aetna.com

Caremark (if not in an HMO) www.caremark.com

E* TRADE www.etrade.com/enroll

EyeMed www.eyemedvisioncare.com

MetLife Voluntary Benefits www.metlife.com

The Hartford www.thehartfordatwork.com

Total Package Partners www.totalpackagepartners.com

UnitedHealthcare www.myuhc.com

Vanguard www.vanguard.com

Your 2008 Guide to Airgas Benefits

airgas online benefits directory - you drive,you decide · at airgas, you have many resources...

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