RFP-2026-21 Voluntary Benefits, Section 125 Flexible Benefit Plan, Enrollment and Related Employee Services

Harnett County Schools is requesting proposals for voluntary employee benefits, Section 125 Flexible Benefit Plan administration, enrollment services, and related employee support services under RFP-2026-21, with proposals due November 13, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. Eastern time.

The scope includes voluntary insurance benefit options (dental, vision, cancer, critical illness, accident, disability, and life insurance), Section 125 plan administration with flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care, enrollment and employee communication services, and coordination with the District's existing Teladoc telemedicine provider and OneAmerica Employee Assistance Program. The District emphasizes that proposers must explain how they will coordinate with or maintain these existing arrangements; the RFP indicates no current dissatisfaction with existing providers, and the District reserves the right to retain, replace, or coordinate based on proposals received.

The initial contract term runs September 1, 2026 through August 30, 2029, with optional extensions for two additional one-year periods at the District's discretion. Proposals will be evaluated on benefit design and value (25% weight), service and account management (20%), enrollment and communications (15%), Section 125/FSA administration (15%), fees and financial transparency (15%), and transition/compliance/security (10%). The District states it is not obligated to select the lowest-cost proposal and may consider overall value, service quality, and employee impact.

Proposers must complete a detailed pricing schedule identifying all fees, commissions, overrides, implementation costs, and third-party charges, clearly distinguishing costs borne by the District versus employees. All proposals must remain valid for at least 90 days after submission. Proposers must provide North Carolina licensing evidence, proof of insurance, cybersecurity certifications, and compliance documentation including debarment certification, non-collusion affidavits, and E-Verify compliance. Written questions are due October 23, 2026. Initial review is scheduled for November 20, 2026, with presentations or interviews anticipated for December 7–11, 2026. Anticipated selection and notice is January 13, 2027, with contract finalization in January–February 2027 and implementation/testing in February–March 2027.