Via Benefits
Columbia University offers retirees a way to access medical and prescription drug coverage for Medicare-eligible Officer retirees and their Medicare-eligible spouses.
We partner with Via Benefits, the nation’s oldest and largest private Medicare marketplace, to offer participants a wide selection of health care plans including lower cost options with coverage comparable to the current retiree medical UnitedHealthcare plans. Participants work directly with an experienced benefit advisor to provide personalized, unbiased support.
In addition, Columbia offers a tax-free Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) if you enroll in a medical plan through Via Benefits.
In 2027, Columbia University will be increasing the HRA amount to $3,250 for an individual retiree and $1,625 for their covered spouse. In 2026, the HRA amount is $2,100 for individuals and $1,050 for covered spouses.
Your initial HRA contribution will be based on your retirement date:
- January 1 – June 30, 2027: You will receive the full $3,250 annual HRA contribution.
- July 1 – November 30, 2027: You will receive 50% of the annual contribution, or $1,625.
- December 1 – December 31, 2027: You will receive the full $3,250 annual contribution, which will be deposited on January 1 of the following calendar year.
HRA contributions will be deposited the 1st of the month following your retirement date.
Learn more about Via Benefits.