Agenda 07/27/2010 Item #16E 2Agenda Item No. 16E2
July 27, 2010
Page 1 of 22
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Recommendation to approve an Agreement with Matrix Absence Management, Inc. for
the administration of Short Term Disability Claims in the amount of $55,440 per year.
OBJECTIVE: To provide a competitive, best value Group Life and Disability insurance
program as part of the County's comprehensive group insurance package.
CONSIDERATIONS: The Board of County Commissioners through its Risk Management
Department administers a Group Insurance Program for its employees and their eligible
dependents. As part of this program, the County provides a 40% short term disability benefit.
Employees may also purchase additional short term disability coverage to a maximum benefit
of 66 2/3% (a 26 2/3% buy -up benefit). The short term disability benefit is self funded and
requires a third party claims administration vendor to administer claims presented to the
program.
On April 27, 2010 the Board approved the award of Group Life, Long Term Disability, Short
Term Disability Administration Services, and Accidental Death Insurance to Reliance
Standard Life Insurance Company. Reliance utilizes the services of Matrix Absence
Management, Inc. to administer short term disability claims as part of the overall program.
During the implementation phase of the project, it was determined that a contract with Matrix
Absence Management, Inc. is needed to properly administer the program.
A separate agreement with Matrix Absence Management does not change the original
recommendation nor does it change the price quotation in the original award. Rather, it
formally recognizes the relationship between the County and the short term disability claims
administration vendor for Reliance Standard Life. Approval is also sought for the County
Manager to execute IRS Form 2678 (copy attached) appointing Matrix as its agent to insure
the proper withholding of Federal Income Taxes, Social Security Taxes and Medicare Taxes
and permitting it to prepare the necessary quarterly and annual tax forms from disability
payments administered by Matrix.
FISCAL IMPACT: The estimated annual cost to provide short term disability claims
administration services is $55,440 based upon enrollment. The effective date of the
Agreement is August 1, 2010. There are sufficient funds available in Fund 517, Group Health
and Life for this purchase.
GROWTH MANAGEMENT IMPACT: There is no growth management impact associated with
this item.
LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS: This item has been reviewed and approved by the County
Attorney's Office and is legally sufficient for Board action —SRT.
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the Board approves an Agreement with Matrix
Absence Management, Inc. for the administration of Short Term Disability Claims and
Agenda Item No. 16E2
July 27, 2010
authorizes the Chairman to execute the Agreement and authorizes the County "aaagefi d8
execute IRS Form 2678 appointing Matrix as its agent to insure the proper withholding of
Federal Income Taxes, Social Security Taxes and Medicare Taxes and permitting it to
prepare the necessary quarterly and annual tax forms from disability payments administered
by Matrix.
PREPARED BY: Jeffrey A. Walker, CPCU, ARM, Director, Risk Management
Agenda Item No. 16E2
July 27, 2010
Page 3 of 22
COLLIER COUNTY
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Item Number. 16E2
Item Summary: Recommendation to approve an Agreement with Matrix Absence Management, Inc. for the
administration of Short Term Disability Claims in the amount of $55,440 per year.
Meeting Date: 7/27/2010 9:00:00 AM
Prepared By
Jeffrey A. Walker, CPCU,
ARM
Director - Risk Management
Date
Administrative Services
Division
Risk Management
6/30/2010 10:34:36 AM
Approved By
Jeffrey A. Walker, CPCU,
ARM
Director - Risk Management
Date
Administrative Services
Division
Risk Management
6/30/2010 10:34 AM
Approved By
Scott R.Teach
Deputy County Attorney
Date
County Attorney
County Attorney
7/12/2010 9:47 AM
Approved By
Len Golden Price
Administrator - Administrative Services
Date
Administrative Services
Division
Administrative Services Division
7/1412010 9:20 AM
Approved By
OMB Coordinator
Date
County Manager's Office
Office of Management & Budget
711412010 1012 AM
Approved By
Therese Stanley
Manager - Operations Support - Trans
Date
Office of Management &
Budget
Office of Management & Budget
7/14/2010 6:46 PM
Approved By
Mark Isackson
Management/Budget Analyst, Senior
Date
Office of Management &
Budget
Office of Management & Budget
7/15/2010 8:31 AM
MaTRIX
Absence Management, Inc.
Agenda Item No. 1GE2
July 27, 2010
Page 4 of 22
a DELMcompany
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT is made as of August 1, 2010 by and between Collier County Board of
County Commissioners, a political subdivision of the State of Florida ( "Client"), and Matrix Absence
Management, Inc., a corporation organized and existing under the laws of the State of Delaware
( "Matrix ") .
RECITALS
WHEREAS, Client is an employer that provides benefits for its employees; and
WHEREAS, Client desires to establish a benefit program (hereinafter defined as the "Plan" or
"Plans" as that term is defined in the Definition section of this Agreement) incorporating Self Insured
Short Term Disability; and
WHEREAS, Client is the Plan Sponsor for the Plans; and
WHEREAS, Matrix offers absence and disability management products to employers; and
WHEREAS, Client desires to utilize Matrix's absence and disability management services for
Participants and Employees, and Matrix desires to afford Client access to its absence and disability
management services;
THEREFORE, in accordance with the terms and conditions contained herein, acknowledged to
be good and sufficient consideration, the parties agree as follows:
I. DEFINITIONS
"Allocated Loss Adjustment Expenses" means all costs, charges or expenses incurred by Matrix,
its agents or its employees which are properly chargeable to a Claim including, without limitation,
court costs, fees and expenses of IME's, attorneys, independent adjusters, investigators, appraisers,
medical cost containment service providers, experts and witnesses, and fees for obtaining diagrams,
reports, documents and photographs and any other items which are deemed necessary or appropriate
to process a Claim, but do not include the fees for services performed by Matrix employees.
"Agreement Period" means the period from Effective Date through the date terminated by either
party.
"Effective Date" means, the date upon which this Agreement and the services described herein shall
begin to be delivered.
"Eligible Pay" means the definition of Eligible Pay set forth in the applicable Summary Plan
Description.
"Employee" means an employee of Client.
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July 27, 2010
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- "ERISA" means the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended from time to
ime, and the regulations promulgated thereunder.
"IME" means independent medical examination.
"Participant" means an Employee who elects to enroll in the Plans and Client determines is eligible
for, and who is enrolled in, and covered by the Plans.
"Plans" means the Disability Program(s), to which this Agreement applies, as described in the
Summary Plan Descriptions.
"Proprietary Business Information" means information about Client's business or Matrix's
business that is confidential, proprietary, trade secret or is not readily available to the general public;
or, information that has been designated by Client or Matrix as confidential or proprietary.
"Return to Work" or "RTW" means a transition process for return to active work of those Employees
or Participants who are (1) receiving short-term disability benefits or long -term disability benefits,
and /or (2) absent from work due to an approved leave, and who have a medical release to return to
work at modified duty or with restrictions.
"Service Period" The billing period in which Matrix provides Administrative Services to the Client.
"Self- Fund" or "Self- Funded" means that Client has the sole responsibility to pay, and provide
funds, for all covered Plan benefits and applicable payroll taxes during the term of this Agreement,
excluding administrative expenses.
"STD" means short-term disability.
"Summary Plan Descriptions" or "SPD" means documents provided to Participants describing the
terms and conditions of coverage offered under the Plans.
Tax" or "Taxes" means taxes, assessments and all other federal, state, local or other governmental
- harges.
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II. OBLIGATIONS OF Matrix
A. General Obligations
Matrix shall administer the Plans in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Plans and
this Agreement.
1. In carrying out its responsibilities under this Agreement, Matrix shall provide the
following general administrative services:
(a) Matrix shall use commercially reasonable efforts to assist Client with respect
to its Plan when requested by Client concerning issues of program design,
including benefits and eligibility and other related administrative services.
(b) Matrix shall design, produce, and distribute communication materials subject
to prior approval by Client as related to the Plans implementation process. Client
agrees to cooperate in the review and approval of such materials in a timely
manner.
(c) Matrix is responsible for maintaining and training adequate levels of staff and
providing a toll -free customer service telephone number for responding promptly
to inquiries from Client, Client's administrative staff, Employees, former
Employees that have or have had an active claim under the Plan, Participants and
providers concerning the Plans.
(d) Matrix shall provide assistance to Client's staff during the Plan's
implementation process. Ongoing assistance with training as reasonably
requested by Client upon mutual agreement of the parties will be provided at a
fee to cover associated expenses.
(e) Matrix shall provide assistance with review of the Summary Plan Descriptions
developed by Client for each product line. Client is responsible for the costs of
printing and distributing the Plan, Summary Plan Description and related
documents to its participants.
(f) Matrix shall prepare and distribute to Participants, as appropriate, forms and
related materials required for processing claims.
(g) Matrix shall provide information as permitted by law to assist Client in
preparing reports required to be furnished to governmental entities regarding the
Plans.
B. Specific Obligations
1. Matrix agrees to provide standard web based reports that are available without
modification. Customized reports may be available by mutual agreement at an
additional charge.
2. Disability Claim Management Services
(a) Matrix shall provide the following services with respect to the claims
submitted under the Plan:
(i) Matrix will evaluate each disability claim and provide clinical
duration management advice that conforms to Matrix and industry
standards and practices. Matrix will recommend the disability duration
and will provide appropriate information to Client to facilitate RTW.
(ii) Matrix will make disability determinations regarding claims
presented under the Plan to facilitate the issuance of benefits in
accordance with the Plan.
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Agenda Item No. 16E2
July 27, 2010
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(iii) During the term of this Agreement and any renewals thereof, all
initial requests for claims under the Plan will be made by the Participant
through the toll —free number provided or on the Matrix website.
(iv) Matrix will obtain all necessary medical information from the
Participant and the appropriate medical provider(s) and advise Client as to
the continued disability status of Participants. Client and Matrix will
distribute the necessary "release of medical information" authorizations to
the Participant.
(v) Matrix will provide assistance to Participants regarding eligibility
and application for Social Security Disability benefits, as appropriate.
(vi) At Client's expense, Matrix will arrange special investigative services,
IMEs, rehabilitative services, or any other services constituting Allocated
Loss Adjustment Expenses as an allocated expense to the Plan.
(vii) As per the fees outlined in Exhibit A, and with Client's advance
approval, Matrix will administer the Claims Appeals Briefs. All initial claims
shall be reviewed by Matrix. Matrix shall respond to such claims within a
reasonable period of time, but not later than 45 days after the claim is
submitted, provided that this period may be extended by up to 30 days if
Matrix determines that such an extension is necessary due to matters
beyond the control of the Plan and Matrix notifies the Claimant and Client
of the extension before the expiration of the initial 45 -day period. If
before the end of the 30 -day extension period, Matrix determines that due
to matters beyond the control of the Plan, a decision cannot be rendered
within the extension period, Matrix may extend the period for up to an
additional 30 days, provided that Matrix notifies the Claimant and Client of
the extension before the end of the first 30 -day extension period. All such
initial claim reviews and notifications shall be performed by Matrix in a
manner consistent with the Plan document.At Client's expense, Matrix will
arrange special investigative services, IMEs, rehabilitative services, or any
other services constituting Allocated Loss Adjustment Expenses as an
allocated expense to the Plan.
(viii) Matrix agrees to calculate and make payments for one LTD claim
insured with Sun Life for the additional 16 2/3 % incremental amount due
over what is covered by the insured program. Matrix will not provide any
nurse casemanagement, or any other services other than paying the
amount due. Client agrees that Matrix will not be responsible for any
overpayments due to incomplete or inaccurate information supplied to it
from either the Client or Insured Carrier. Fees for this service are
included in Exhibit A. The payment shall be made from Client's escrow
account for Short Term Disability.
C. Claims Processinq Services
1. Matrix shall process claims for covered benefits under the Plan for Participants.
Claims for Plan benefits must be submitted in a form that is satisfactory to Matrix.
Matrix will use claim procedures and standards that Matrix develops for benefit claim
determination. Client delegates to Matrix the discretion and authority to use such
procedures and standards.
2. Client delegates to Matrix the discretionary authority to determine the validity of
claims under the Plan. This delegation is subject to Client's retention of full
responsibility as Plan Administrator for the final review of claims, and Client has the
Agenda Item No. 16E2
July 27, 2010
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discretionary authority to administer, construe and interpret the terms of the Plans
and to make final, binding determinations concerning the availability of Plan benefits.
3. It is expressly agreed by the parties that Client will be the Plan Administrator and
named fiduciary of the Plan, as those terms are defined by ERISA or any similar or
successor law (collectively referred to as ERISA) with the exclusive authority to
control and manage the operation of the Plan and that Matrix will be a fiduciary with
respect to the Plan solely for purposes of, and to the extent that, its services relating
to claims processing and review of appeals are considered fiduciary functions under
ERISA and Matrix will have no other fiduciary obligations under the Plan on account
of this Agreement. In reviewing and making decisions on claims for benefits, Matrix
will have the discretionary authority to interpret the terms of the Plan and to make
factual determinations, including determining eligibility for benefits and validity of
charges submitted for reimbursement.
4. Matrix shall determine Participant benefits payable, if any, for each claim and shall
notify the Participant of the payment or if there is a denial or partial denial in
accordance with the provisions of the Plan. Where no benefits are payable, Matrix
shall notify the participant of the denial and any right to appeal the denial as
prescribed in the Plans, set forth in the Summary Plan Descriptions, this Agreement
and /or which are required under applicable law. This notification will be designed to
comply with the ERISA requirements for claim denial notices.
5. In processing claims under this Agreement, Matrix shall adhere to the Plan provisions
relating to third party liability for such claims, including without limitation non -
duplication of benefits, Worker's Compensation, and subrogation.
D. Enrollment Services for the Plan. Client shall be responsible for determining the
eligibility of Employees to be Participants. Client or its designated third -party benefits
administrator shall provide, and Matrix shall accept in an agreed upon format, eligibility
information electronically or otherwise on a weekly basis or as needed.
Matrix shall be entitled to rely on the most current information provided by Client regarding
eligibility of Participants in paying Plan benefits and providing other services under this
Agreement.
E. Compliance with Laws. Matrix represents and warrants that it will remain, throughout
the period in which this Agreement is effective, in compliance with all laws, rules, and
regulations that are now or hereafter promulgated by any governmental authority or agency
that govern or apply to the operation and /or use of the services described herein or that
otherwise govern or apply to Matrix.
F. Privacy. Matrix represents and warrants that it will remain, throughout the period in which
this agreement is effective, in compliance with applicable federal privacy laws and
regulations.
G. Other Obligations of Matrix. Matrix agrees to discharge its duties with respect to this
Agreement solely in the interest of Participants and with the care, skill, prudence, and
diligence under the circumstances then prevailing as would a prudent person, acting in a
like capacity and familiar with such matters in accordance with, and pursuant to, the
provisions of the Plan.
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III. OBLIGATIONS OF Client
A. Responsibility for the Plan. Except to the extent this Agreement specifically requires
Matrix to have the responsibility for a Plan's administrative function, Client is responsible for
the Plan. Matrix is not the plan administrator of the Plan(s).
B. Description of the Plan. Client will give Matrix a written description of the Plan benefits
and Plan provisions in a timely manner, so that Matrix will be able to provide its services
under this Agreement on the effective date.
C. Plan Documents. Client will provide Matrix with copies of Plan documents and Employee
communications. Client will provide to Matrix any documentation within reason, which
Matrix requests for review.
D. Plan Changes. Client will notify Matrix in writing if Client intends to change relevant Plan
benefits or other relevant Plan provisions, including termination of the Plan, within a
reasonable period of time but no less than thirty (30) days prior to the change becoming
effective.
E. Compliance with Laws. Client represents and warrants that it will remain,
throughout the period in which this Agreement is effective, in compliance with all laws,
rules, and regulations that are now or hereafter promulgated by any governmental authority
or agency that govern or apply to the operation and /or use of the services described herein
or that otherwise govern or apply to Client. Client acknowledges that while Matrix may,
from time to time, advise client of regulatory changes that it becomes aware of which may
affect the Plans, it is the Client's sole responsibility to maintain awareness of all regulatory
changes, and to make such modifications to the Plans as may be required.
IV. PAYMENT ARRANGEMENTS
A. Due Dates. Payments, and Penalties Matrix's charges for its Administrative Services
under this Agreement are set forth in Exhibit A attached to and made a part of this
Agreement, as may be changed from time to time by written agreement between Matrix
and Client. All invoices are due and payable on the first day of the start of the Service
Period. Payment shall be in compliance with Section 218.70, Florida Statutes, otherwise
known as the "Local Government Prompt Payment Act."
V. FUNDING ARRANGEMENTS FOR SELF - FUNDED PLANS
A. Funding. Matrix will not be required to advance its own funds to pay expenses, for any
Covered Claim. If Client fails to promptly provide funds sufficient to make required
payments on a timely basis, Matrix will have no obligation to perform any further services
and may terminate this Agreement if such failure continues for fifteen days after Matrix's
written notice to Client.
B. Termination of Agreement. When this Agreement terminates, the method of providing
funds for Plan benefits shall remain in place for the period of time as agreed to by the
parties.
L•"
Agenda Item No. 16E2
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VI. SERVICE FEES
Client agrees to pay to Matrix the service fees attached as Exhibit A to this Agreement and
incorporated herein by reference.
VII. COMPENSATION TO Matrix
Client shall pay Matrix the administrative fees provided for in Exhibit A. Any expenses or fees for
products or services not specified in this Agreement, must be agreed to and approved in writing by
Client and Matrix prior to commencement of such products or services.
A. Changes in Service Fees. If Client and Matrix agree, Matrix can change the service fees:
(1) on each Agreement Period anniversary; (2) any time there are changes made to this
Agreement or the Plans, which affect the fees; or (3) when there are changes in laws or
regulations which affect the services Matrix is providing, or will be required to provide,
under this Agreement. Any new service fee which arises out of such change will be effective
on the date agreed to by the parties. Matrix shall, however, provide Client with sixty (60)
days prior written notice of the revised service fees for subsequent Agreement Periods, and
service fee adjustments. If the parties are unable to agree on the changes to terms or fees,
the Agreement shall terminate upon (60) days written notice from Matrix.
VIII. CLAIMS PAYMENT ADVANCES & TAXES
A. Claims Payment Advances. Under no circumstances shall Matrix be required to advance
funds to pay for benefits administered under this Agreement.
B. Taxes. If Matrix receives notice that any kind of governmental unit or agency contemplates
imposing any use or sales tax, surcharge, or other assessment of any kind ( "Tax ") with
respect to benefits paid or any aspect of services rendered by Matrix under this Agreement,
Matrix shall provide Client with written notice as soon as practicable of receipt of such notice
and Client will pay such Tax. If Matrix fails to give notice to Client of such Tax within a
reasonable time period, then Matrix shall reimburse Client for such, interest and penalties
that may be assessed against Client for nonpayment (to the extent permissible by law).
The Taxes described in the preceding sentences shall not include any income or similar tax
imposed on Matrix that is attributable to the Agreement. Client shall, at its sole discretion,
appeal the Tax or take other action as permitted by the terms of this Agreement, including
termination of this Agreement upon sixty (60) days written notice to Matrix.
IX. INSURANCE AND INDEMNIFICATION
A. Fidelity Bond. Matrix, at its sole cost, shall procure and maintain in force during the term
of this Agreement a fidelity bond in the amount of not less than one million dollars
($1,000,000) covering all employees of Matrix.
B. Insurance. Matrix, at its sole cost, shall maintain commercial general liability and
professional liability insurance (errors and omissions liability) policies (or self- insurance
programs) with a minimum limit of two million dollars ($2,000,000) per occurrence and
annual aggregate, to insure against claims arising out of services performed under this
Agreement. The general liability insurance policy should also include personal injury and
contractual liability.
C. Indemnification Each of Client and Matrix, and their officers, employees, and agents
(collectively referred to as "Indemnitor ") agrees to hold the other party ( "Indemnitee ")
harmless and indemnify Indemnitee from and against any and all claims, liability, loss,
obligation, suit, judgment, damage, expenses and costs, including reasonable attorneys'
fees and costs of defense (collectively "damages ") which may be asserted against or
incurred by Indemnitee which arise out of or in connection with Indemnitor's performance or
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Agenda Item No. 16E2
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failure to perform its obligations under this Agreement; provided, however, that such
indemnification will, not apply to Damages resulting from or relating to Indemnitee's
negligence, bad faith, willful misconduct, breach of contract or to the extent ERISA applies,
breach of fiduciary duty; and further provided that Indemnitee agrees to reasonably
cooperate with Indemnitor in the defense of any claims or litigation. In no event, however,
shall Matrix be responsible for payment of any underlying benefits due under the Plan. The
foregoing indemnification shall not constitute a waiver of sovereign immunity by Client
beyond the limits set forth in Florida Statutes, Section 768.28 (as amended).
X. PLAN BENEFITS LITIGATION
If a demand is asserted or litigation proceedings or arbitration is commenced by a Participant or
any other person to recover benefits ( "Plan Benefits Litigation ") against Matrix, Client or any
combination of the parties, Matrix will immediately notify Client in writing of any potential or
actual legal action or regulatory enforcement activity, which affects the Plan, or the
performance of Administrative Services by Matrix. If any legal or administrative action is
brought against Matrix, Plan or Client, the defense of that action will be borne by Client at its
sole cost. Matrix will cooperate with Client in any defense of any action. In seeking any
recovery under this Agreement, Matrix will not be required to take legal action on behalf of the
Plan, but will consult with and defer to Client who will have the sole discretion and authority to
compromise, settle, or both, any claim for recovery by the Plan.
XI. AUDITS
The parties shall have the mutual right to inspect, audit and copy, upon no less than thirty (30)
days prior written notice to the other party and during normal business hours or at such other
times as may be agreed upon, said relevant books and records as they pertain to this
Agreement. Such information shall be provided to each party hereto pursuant to procedures
designed to protect the confidentiality of patient health care records in accordance with
applicable legal requirements and recognized standards of professional practice. This right shall
continue to be provided for a period of three (3) years after the termination of this Agreement.
XII. DISPUTE RESOLUTION
All disputes arising directly under the express terms of this Agreement or the grounds for
termination thereof shall be resolved as follows: The senior management of both parties shall
meet to attempt to resolve such disputes. If the disputes cannot be resolved by the senior
management, either party may make a written demand for formal dispute resolution and
specify therein the scope of the dispute. Within thirty (30) days after such written notification,
the parties agree to meet for one (1) day with an impartial mediator and consider dispute
resolution alternatives other than litigation. If an alternative method of dispute resolution is
not agreed upon within thirty (30) days after the one day mediation, either party may begin
litigation proceedings.
XIII. RECORDS
A. Maintenance. Matrix shall keep all books and records necessary to reflect accurately the
business it transacts with respect to this Agreement and to determine the respective rights
of the parties under this Agreement. Such books and records shall be kept at such location
as shall be disclosed in writing. All records will be maintained for a period of at least seven
(7) years after the date they are first prepared or for such longer period as may be required
by law.
B. Confidentiality. The parties each acknowledge and agree that each has developed certain
trade secrets, client lists, software, knowledge, data, tools, methodologies, processes,
plans, procedures, techniques, manuals, treatment protocols, clinical indicators, case rates,
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Agenda Item No. 16E2
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provider payment structure information, underwriting methodology, proprietary rating
plans, provider practice data, Employee- outcomes data, audit reports, actuarial analyses
and other proprietary information (collectively "Confidential Information "). For purposes of
this Agreement, the party that has developed Confidential Information to which the other
has access is referred to as the "Protected Party." Except with the express written consent
of the Protected Party, or as provided herein, the other party shall not disclose to others or
take or use for such other party's own purposes or the purposes of others at any time, any
Confidential Information of the Protected Party not otherwise in the public domain that may
have been or may be obtained by the other party by reason of its relationship with the
Protected Party. The parties further agree that this provision shall also be applied to all
information that is designated as confidential or proprietary in writing by the Protected
Party, whether by letter or by use of a stamp or legend before or at the time any such
information is disclosed or delivered to the other party. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the
parties recognize that patient's medical records are confidential and are not to be disclosed
to third parties without the consent of the patient, unless otherwise permitted or required
by applicable law.
XIV. INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS /SUBCONTRACTING
A. Independent Contractors. Matrix and Client are independent legal entities. Nothing in
this Agreement shall be construed or be deemed to create a relationship of joint venturers,
principal and agent, or employer and employee. Unless otherwise specifically authorized by
Client in writing, Matrix shall have no authority to enter into contracts or otherwise deal with
third parties on behalf of, or as agent for, Client. Although Matrix may hire its own
independent contractors, agents, or employees to supply data processing, accounting,
printing, and other services to it in connection with its performance of services for Client, it
is expressly understood and agreed that such independent contractors, agents, and
employees are those of Matrix and not of Client, and Client shall have no responsibility or
obligation, financial or otherwise, to such independent contractors, agents, or employees.
B. Assignment. Neither party can assign this Agreement or any rights or obligations under
this Agreement to anyone without the other party's written consent, which shall not be
unreasonably withheld. Any attempted assignment in violation of this Article shall be void.
C. Data Transfer to Third Parties. It is acknowledged that it may be necessary from time to
time for Matrix, in performing its duties hereunder, to make available to independent
contractors, agents, or employees documents belonging to Client and /or containing data
belonging to Client. Matrix agrees to secure from any such third parties their agreement to
maintain the confidentiality of such documents and information.
D. Subcontractors. Matrix can use its affiliates or other subcontractors to perform Matrix's
or Matrix's services under this Agreement. However, Matrix will be responsible for those
services to the same extent that Matrix would have been had it performed those services
without the use of an affiliate or subcontractor.
XV. PROPRIETARY RIGHTS
Each of the parties reserves the right to control the use of any of their symbols, trademarks, computer
programs, and service marks currently existing or hereafter established. Both parties agree that they
will not use such computer programs, work, symbols, trademarks, service marks, or other devices of
the other in advertising, promotional materials, or otherwise and will not advertise or display such
devices without the prior written consent of the other party. In addition, both parties further agree
that any such signs, displays, literature, computer programs, or material furnished to the other shall
remain the property of the other party and shall be returned upon demand upon the termination of
thisAgreement.
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VI. TERM AND TERMINATION
A. Term. This Agreement shall commence on the Effective Date of this Agreement and end
when terminated by either party on 60 days prior written notice to the other party for any
reason; or is otherwise terminated in accordance with Section XVI.B.
B. Termination. Except as provided for in "A" above, this Agreement may be terminated as
provided below.
1. Either of the parties may terminate the Agreement at any time in the event of a
material breach by the other which is not cured within thirty (30) days after written
notice to the other. The termination shall be effective, without further notice, thirty (30)
days after the initial written notice of the breach is given. Any and all performance or
other penalties provided for in this Agreement shall be in addition to, and not in lieu of,
any legal or equitable remedies either party may have in the event of a material breach
of the Agreement by the other.
2. Notwithstanding any other provision in this Agreement, if Client fails to make
funds available to pay claims or administrative fees as required under this Agreement
within fifteen (15) days after Matrix gives Client written notice that Client has failed to
do so, Matrix may terminate the Agreement. Such termination shall be effective as of
the end of the fifteen (15) day notice period.
3. If any state or other jurisdiction penalizes a party for administering the Plans
under the terms of this Agreement, the affected party may immediately discontinue the
Agreement's application in such state or jurisdiction. Notice must be given promptly to
the other party. The Agreement will continue to apply in all other states or jurisdictions.
4. If a party receives written notice of proven fraud or abandonment, that party
may terminate immediately upon receipt of such written notice.
5. By either of the parties, immediately upon written notice, if the other party shall
be adjudged bankrupt, become insolvent, have a receiver of its assets or property
appointed, make a general assignment for the benefit of creditors, or institute or cause
to be instituted any procedure for reorganization or rearrangement of its affairs.
C. Prior Obligations. Termination of this Agreement for any reason shall not relieve any
party of any obligation incurred by it prior to such termination.
D. Runout Claims Processing Matrix shall continue to provide claims administration for a
period of Six (6) months after the termination of this Agreement for claims incurred by
Participants prior to the termination date. Client agrees to pay Matrix a fee for claims
administration services during this Run -Out Period and as specified in Exhibit "A." This fee
shall be due and payable at the time of termination.
XVII. GENERAL PROVISIONS
A. Amendments. This Agreement may be amended from time to time by mutual agreement
between the parties, which amendment shall be in writing and executed by an authorized
representative of each party.
B. Entire Agreement. This Agreement, including the exhibits and schedules supersedes any
and all other agreements, either oral or in writing, between the parties with respect to the
subject matter hereof, and contains all of the covenants and agreements between the
10
Agenda Item No. 16E2
July 27, 2010
Page 14 of 22
parties with respect to such matters. Any inducements, promises, or agreements, oral or
otherwise, that have been made by any party, or anyone acting on behalf of any party,
which are not embodied herein, shall not be valid or binding. This Agreement shall be
binding upon the parties, their successors and permitted assigns.
C. Applicable Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with
ERISA, federal law, and to the extent not pre- empted, by state law.
D. Waiver of Breach. Nothing in this Agreement is considered to be waived by any party
unless the party claiming the waiver receives the waiver in writing. Waiver of a breach of
any provision of this Agreement shall not be deemed a waiver of any other breach of the
same or a different provision.
E. Severability. In the event any portion of this Agreement is rendered invalid or
unenforceable, the remainder of the provisions of this Agreement shall remain in full force
and effect.
F. Headings. The headings of articles and sections contained in this Agreement are for
reference purposes only and shall not affect in any way the meaning or interpretation of this
Agreement.
G. Notices. Any notices required to be given pursuant to the terms and provisions of this
Agreement shall be in writing, postage prepaid, and shall be sent by certified mail, return
receipt requested, to the parties at the addresses below, The notices shall be effective on
the date indicated on the return receipt.
To: Collier County Board of Supervisors
3301 East Tamiani Trail
Naples, FL 34112
To:
Matrix Absence Management, Inc.
5225 Hellyer Avenue, Suite 210
San Jose, California 95138
H. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in more than one counterpart, each of
which shall be deemed to be an original and all of which, when taken together, shall
constitute a single instrument.
I. Information Exchange. Each party shall be responsible for liabilities arising from errors
or omissions made by it in the transmission of information to the other party, and each
party shall be entitled to assume the accuracy of all information transmitted to it by the
other party and to rely on such information for all purposes under this Agreement.
1. Force Maieure. Neither party shall be liable to the other for any failure of (or delay in
performance of) its obligations hereunder due to any cause or circumstance which is beyond
its reasonable control including, but without limiting the generality of the foregoing, any
failure or delay caused by fire, explosion, shipwreck, act of God or the public enemy, war,
riot, interference by the military or governmental authorities, act(s) of terrorism or
compliance with the laws of the United States or with the laws or orders of any other
government or regulatory authority.
11
Agenda Item No. 16E2
July 27, 2010
Page 15 of 22
K. Cooperation. Each party agrees to consult, cooperate with and assist the other as
reasonably necessary in the performance of its obligations under this Agreement.
L. Representations and Warranties. In addition to other representations and warranties
throughout this Agreement, each party represents and warrants that this Agreement and
the transactions and activities contemplated hereby (i) are within its corporate powers; (ii)
have been duly authorized by all of its necessary corporate action; (iii) constitute its legal,
valid and binding obligations, enforceable against it in accordance with its terms; and (iv)
do not and will not conflict with or result in a breach of any of the provisions of, or
constitute a default under the provisions of any law, regulation, licensing requirement,
charter provision, by -law or other instrument applicable to it or its employees or to which it
is a party or by which it may be bound.
FIA`M!IIF E _11114ulSd61 * *J
A. System Access. Subject to the terms of any applicable E- services Agreement, Matrix
grants Client the nonexclusive, nontransferable right to access and use the functionalities
contained within the web based systems Matrix makes available to the Client for the
purpose of accessing Client's data and reports, under the terms set forth in this Agreement.
Client agrees that all rights, title and interest in the systems and all rights in patents,
copyrights, trademarks and trade secrets encompassed in the systems will remain Matrix's.
In order to obtain access to the systems, Client shall obtain, and be responsible for
maintaining, at no expense to Matrix, the hardware, software and Internet browser
requirements Matrix provides to Client, including any amendments thereto. Client shall be
responsible for obtaining an Internet Service Provider or other access to the Internet. Client
shall not (a) access systems or use, copy, reproduce, modify, or excerpt any of the systems
documentation provided by Matrix in order to access or utilize systems, for purposes other
than as expressly permitted under this Agreement; or (b) share, transfer or lease Client's
right to access and use systems, to any other person or entity which is not a party to this
Agreement. Upon prior written consent by Matrix, Client may designate any third party to
access systems on Client's behalf, provided the third party agrees to these terms.
B. Security Procedures. Client shall use commercially reasonable physical and software -
based measures, and comply with Matrix's security procedures, as may be amended from
time to time, to protect the system, its functionalities, and data accessed through systems
from any unauthorized access or damage (including damage caused by computer viruses).
Client shall notify Matrix immediately if any breach of the security procedures, such as
unauthorized use, is suspected.
C. System Access Termination. Matrix reserves the right to terminate Client's system
access (a) on the date Client fails to accept the hardware, software and browser
requirements provided by Matrix, including any amendments thereto or (b) immediately on
the date Matrix reasonably determines that Client has breached, or allowed a breach of, any
applicable provision of this Agreement or any applicalble E- Services Agreement. Upon
termination of this Agreement, Client agrees to cease all use of systems, and Matrix shall
deactivate Client's identification numbers and passwords and access to the system.
12
Agenda Item No. 16112
July 27, 2010
Page 16 of 22
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, authorized representatives of the parties have confirmed the agreement of
the parties to the foregoing terms by affixing their signatures below:
ATTEST:
DWIGHT E. BROCK, Clerk
0
Deputy Clerk
Approved as to form and
legal sufficiency
Jeffrey A. Klatzkow
County Attorney
Matrix Absence Management, Inc.
9M
Name: Ivars Zvirbulis
Title: President
Date
Witness (Signature)
Name:
(Print or Type)
Witness (Signature)
(Print or Type)
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA
R2
13
Fred W. Coyle, Chairman
Agenda Item No. 16E2
July 27, 2010
Page 17 of 22
Exhibit A
Service Fees
Program
At Cost
Short Term Disability
$2.20 Per Employee Per Month, with
Nurse Case Management
an estimated annual fee of $52,800
One Time STD Takeover Fee, if Applicable
$265 per claim
As applicable the Administration of one
$500 per year
LTD claim; including check cutting and
At Cost
reporting
At Cost
Summary of Fees:
All fees outlined above will be paid in monthly installments beginning on August 1, 2010.
The above rates are guaranteed through December 31, 2013.
Expenses
)nline E Services
Included
Banking, Funding, Positive Pay fees
At Cost
Attorney Fees
At Cost
Nurse Case Management
Included
Medical Records
At Cost
Independent Medical Examinations
At Cost
Functional Capacity Examinations
At Cost
Surveillance
At Cost
All costs, charges or expenses incurred by
Matrix, its agents or its employees which
are properly chargeable to a Claim
At Cost
• Nurse Case Management will be applied to all claims in which the duration of disability is twice
(2x) normal guidelines as defined by the Workloss Data Institute. Nurse Case Management may
also be applied at the discretion of the claim examiner. Should Client request Nurse Case
Management assigned to cases where the estimated duration is within guidelines or less than
the 2x threshold, an additional cost may be incurred.
)ptional Services - Requires prior Client approval
14
Agenda Item No. 16E2
July 27, 2010
Page 18 of 22
Description
Bank Fee Administration (Exhibit B), if
Included
applicable
Payroll Tax Withholding and Remittance
Not Selected
Run Out Claims administration STD
$265 per open and pending
claim at time of termination
Appeal Brief
$350 per appeal
Customized Intake Statement
$200 /hr
Custom Reports
$40 /ea
Special ad hoc reporting and data analysis
$150 /hr
requests
Non - standard data feed (more than one
5150 /hr plus $200 /mo per
source, pre - processing or non - electronic
exception
transmission
15
Agenda Item No. 16E2
July 27, 2010
Page 19 of 22
Exhibit B
Bank Agreement
(I) Matrix will establish and maintain an account at a bank of its selection for the payment
of amounts due under client's programs and give prior written notice to ( "Client ") of any
change in bank. Matrix will have full responsibility for the care, custody and control of
such bank accounts. All Banking fees and charges are the responsibilities of the Client.
(II) Matrix will forward the account number and wire information to Client for the initial
deposit ( "escrow balance ") and Client will notify Matrix when the initial deposit has been
made. Both the initial and ongoing fund transfers are to be made electronically via wire
transfer payment. The escrow balance will be periodically reviewed against actual
payment activity and adjusted upward or downwards as appropriate.
(III) Matrix will have full authority and control in all matters pertaining to the payment,
processing, investigation and administration of claims.
(IV) Matrix will not be required to advance its own funds to pay losses or allocated loss
adjustment expenses for any submitted claim. If Client fails to promptly provide funds
sufficient to allow required payments to be made timely, Matrix will have no obligation to
perform any further services and may terminate this Agreement upon three days prior
written notice to Client.
(V) On a monthly basis Matrix will supply to client a reconciliation of the bank account and a
check register of all charges for the month in a standard format along with an invoice for
the amount of funds required to replenish the account to its initial escrow balance. The
invoice is due and payable at time of receipt and will be considered past due after 10
days from invoice date.
(VI) Should any individual payment of a Qualified Claim or allocated loss adjustment expense
exceed one - quarter (1/4) of the escrow amount, Matrix will request that Client
electronically transfer additional funds to cover the amount of such payment.
(VII) Fees for such services are outlined in the Service Agreement.
16
Form 2678 Employer /Payer Appointment of Agent
(Rev. May 2007) Department of the Treasury — Internal Revenue Service
Use this form if you want to request approval to have an agent file returns and make
deposits or payments of employment or other withholding taxes or if you want to
revoke an existing appointment.
• If you are an employer or payer who wants to request approval, complete Parts 1 and
2 and sign Part 2. Then give it to the agent. Have the agent complete Part 3 and sign
it.
Note: This appointment is not effective until we approve your request. See the
instructions for your reporting, deposit, and payment requirements while we are
processing your request.
• If you are an employer, payer, or agent who wants to revoke an existing appointment,
complete all three parts. In this case, only one signature is required.
Part 1: Why you are filing this form...
(Check one)
J❑ You want to appoint an agent for tax reporting, depositing, and paying.
❑ You want to revoke an existing appointment.
1 Employer identification number (EIN)
2 Employer's or payer's name
(not your trade name)
3 Trade name (if any)
Agenda Item No. 16E2
July 27, 2010
Page 20 of 22
OMB No 1545 -0748
1010 01M
4 Address x33 CJ ( w
il Vif'An.
M4 Fl
Number Street
Suite or room number
J- )Z-7
ice(
.34!/x.
cry
State
ZIP code
5 Forms for which you want to appoint an agent or revoke the agent's appointment to file.
For ALL For SOME
employees/ employees/
(Check all that apply.)
payees payees
Form 941, 941 -PR, 941 -SS (Employer's QUARTERLY Federal Tax Return)
Form 943, 943 -PR (Employer's Annual Federal Tax Return for Agricultural Employees)
❑
❑
Form 944, 944 -PR, 944 -SS, 944(SP) (Employer's ANNUAL Federal Tax Return)
❑
❑
Form 945 (Annual Return of Withheld Federal Income Tax)
❑
❑
Form 1042 (Annual Withholding Tar. Return for U.S. Source Income of Foreign Persons)
❑
❑
Form CT -1 (Employer's Annual Railroad Retirement Tax Return)
❑
❑
Form CT -2 (Employee Representative's Quarterly Railroad Tax Return)
❑
❑
Note: You may NOT appoint an agent to report, deposit, and pay taxes reported on Form
940, Employer's Annual Federal
Unemployment (FUTA) Tax Return.
I am authorizing the IRS to disclose otherwise confidential lax information to the agent relating to the authority granted
under this appointment, including disclosures required to process Form 2678. The agent may contract with a third party,
such as a reporting agent or certified public accountant, to prepare or file the returns covered by this appointment, or to
make any required deposits and payments. Such contract may authorize the IRS to disclose confidential tax information
of the employer /payer and agent to such third party. If a third party fails to file the returns or make the deposits and
payments, the agent and employer /payer remain liable.
XPrint your name here
Sign your
name here Print your title here
Date / / Best daytime phone ( )
Now give this form to the agent to complete. -11�
Cat, No 18770D Form 2678 (Rev. 5 -2007)
Agenda Item No. 16E2
July 27, 2010
Page 21 of 2�
Forth 2676 (Rev. 5 -2007) Page
Part 3: Agent Information: If you will be an agent for an employer or payer, or want to revoke an appointment, complete this part.
6 Agent's employer identification number (ERN ❑7 7E — ❑Q q❑ E ❑g F51 ❑p
7 Agent's name (not trade name) Matrix Payroll Services, Inc.
8 Trade name (if any)
9 Address
P.O. Sox 1468
San Jose CA 35109
city State ZIP code
❑ Check here if the employer is a disabled individual or other welfare recipient receiving home -care services through a state
or local program
Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this form and any attachments. and to the best of my knowledge and belief, it
is true, correct, and complete.
XSign your
name here
Date
Print your name here Dan Peterson
Print your title here Senior Accountant
Best daytime phone ( 916 ) 786 _ 6848
Fom 2678 (Rev. 5 -2007)
Agenda Item No. 16E2
July 27, 2010
Page 22 of 22
Forrn 2678 (Rev. 5 -2007) Page $
Instructions for Form 2678
Section references are to the Internal Revenue Code.
Use this form if you want to request approval to have an
agent file returns and make deposits or payments of
employment or other withholding taxes or if you want to
revoke an existing appointment. You cannot use a prior
version of this form. All prior versions are obsolete and will
not be accepted.
• If you want to appoint an agent, check the box in Part 1
that says, "You want to appoint an agent for tax reporting,
depositing, and paying," and complete Part 2.
• If you are an agent and you want to accept an
appointment, complete Part 3. If you are a corporate officer,
partner, or tax matters partner, you must have the authority
to execute this appointment of agent.
Note: If the employer /payer will be making payments not
covered by the appointment, the employer /payer must file all
related returns and deposit and pay taxes for those
payments. When completing line 5, check the boxes) "For
SOME employees /payees."
• If you are an employer, payer, or agent and you want to
revoke an existing appointment of an agent, check the box in
Part 1 that says, "You want to revoke an existing
appointment," and complete Parts 2 and 3. However, only
one signature is required. If an existing appointment is
revoked, the IRS cannot disclose confidential tax information
to anyone other than the employer/payer for periods after the
appointment is revoked.
What are the reporting, deposit, and payment
requirements while we are processing the request?
Send Form 2678 to us 60 days before the date when you
want the appointment to become effective. This appointment
is not effective until we approve your request. We will send a
letter with the effective date to the agent after we have
approved the request. Until we approve the request, the
employer/payer must continue to file all tax returns and make
all deposits and payments.
What are the reporting, deposit, and payment
requirements after the IRS approves the
appointment?
.Agents must follow the procedures in Revenue Procedure
70 -6 for employment taxes (unless you are a sub -agent for a
state agent under Notice 2003 -70) and Revenue Procedure
84 -33 for backup withholding. Agents for employers who are
receiving home -care services through a state or local
program are often referred to as "fiscal agents" and
"household employer agents." All agents, employers, and
payers remain liable for filing all returns and making all tax
deposits and payments while this appointment is in effect. If
an agent contracts with a third party, such as a reporting
agent or certified public accountant, to prepare or file the
returns covered by this appointment or to make any required
tax deposits or payments and the third party fails to do so,
the agent, employer, and payer remain liable.
Where to send this form Send your
If you are in ... form to ...
Connecticut Maryland Pennsylvania IRS
Delaware Massachusetts Rhode Island Cincinnati, OH
District of Michigan South Carolina 45999 -0046
Columbia New Hampshire Vermont
Illinois New Jersey Virginia
Indiana New York West Virginia
Kentucky North Carolina Wisconsin
Maine Ohio
Alabama Iowa North Dakota IRS
Alaska Kansas Oklahoma Ogden, UT
Arizona Louisiana Oregon 84201 -0046
Arkansas Minnesota South Dakota
California Mississippi Tennessee
Colorado Missouri Texas
Florida Montana Utah
Georgia Nebraska Washington
Hawaii Nevada Wyoming
Idaho New Mexico
No legal residence or place of business IRS
in any state Ogden, UT
84201 -0046
Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice: We ask
for this information to carry out the Internal Revenue laws of
the United States. We need it to figure and collect the right
amount of tax. You do not have to provide the information
requested on a form that is subject to the Paperwork
Reduction Act unless the form displays a valid OMB control
number.
Generally, tax returns and return information are
confidential, as required by section 6103. However, section
6103 allows or requires the IRS to disclose or give the
information shown on this form to others as described in the
Code. For example, we may disclose your tax information to
the Department of Justice for civil and criminal litigation, and
to cities, states, and the District of Columbia for use in
administering their tax laws. We may also disclose this
information to other countries under a tax treaty, to federal
and state agencies to enforce federal nontax criminal laws, or
to federal law enforcement and intelligence agencies to
combat terrorism.
The time needed to complete and file Form 2678 will vary
depending on individual circumstances. The estimated
average time is 30 minutes. If you have comments
concerning the accuracy of this time estimate or suggestions
for making Form 2678 simpler, we would be happy to hear
from you. You can write to the Internal Revenue Service, Tax
Products Coordinating Committee, SE:W CAR:MP:T:T:SP,
1111 Constitution Ave., NW, IR -6406, Washington, DC
20224, DO NOT send Form 2678 to this address. Instead,
send it to the Internal Revenue Service at the address
indicated in the table above.