Reduction in Force Information & Resources
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If you have been impacted by a reduction in force, the university is committed to providing clear information and access to available resources during this transition. Please review the information below and follow the steps that apply to your situation. Prior to your transition, you have access to confidential resources through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), which can provide guidance and support for both personal and professional concerns. We encourage you to take advantage of these resources.
Have you been impacted by Reduction in Force?
If you have been impacted by a reduction in force, we encourage you to contact your HRBP for guidance related to your department, role and next steps, including questions about the RIF process, benefits, or workplace transitions.
Reduction in Force Guidance
Regular status employees may have the right to appeal certain actions related to a reduction in force, including suspension without pay, involuntary demotion, or dismissal.
- Appeals are limited to circumstances where:
- There was no reasonable basis for the University’s action, or
- There was a substantial departure from University procedures that materially affected the employee.
- A written Notice of Appeal must be submitted to the Associate Vice President for Human Resources (or designee) within ten (10) workdays of receipt of the notice of action.
- The Notice of Appeal must include:
- The basis for the appeal
- Relevant supporting facts
- The remedy being requested
The Staff Grievance Officer is available to consult with staff members throughout the appeal process, including assistance with preparing the written Notice of Appeal. While the Staff Grievance Officer cannot act as an advocate or representative, they may work collaboratively with staff, departments, and Human Resources to seek equitable resolutions.
Employees are encouraged to review the full Appeal Policy for complete details and procedures.
End of University Contributions
The university’s contributions toward health, retirement, and other benefits end on the RIF date. Employees may be eligible to continue certain coverages at their own expense.
Health, Dental, and Vision Coverage (COBRA)
Employees will be contacted by the university’s COBRA and direct‑bill administrator with information on continuing coverage.
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage may be continued through COBRA for up to 18 months
- Coverage elections are direct billed to the employee
- Employees are responsible for timely premium payments
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
- Expenses incurred before the RIF date may be submitted for reimbursement
- Claims must be submitted by the end of the third month following the RIF date
- Expenses incurred after the RIF date are not eligible
- Employees may elect to continue FSAs through COBRA for up to 18 months, with direct billing
Life Insurance: Conversion and Portability
Regular full-time employees receive Basic life insurance equal to twice their annual salary, up to a maximum of $200,000. This policy and any supplemental coverage that you purchase can be converted to a whole life policy after leaving employment at U of L, provided you make your request and pay the premium within 31 days of your termination/resignation. MetLife will be mailing you a personalized notice regarding your conversion and/or portability options. Please contact us immediately at 852-2983 if you do not hear from them, as you only have 31 days from your termination date to enroll. Or you may contact MetLife directly at 1-877-275-6387.
Option to convert when your life insurance ends because:
- cease to be in an eligible status;
- end of employment;
- end of Group Policy and a policy holder for at least 5 continuous years.
Option to convert when your life insurance is reduced:
- on or after the date you attain age 60;
- change from one eligible class to another; or
- due to an amendment of the Group Policy.
View your Portability and Conversion options
Unemployment compensation is a joint federal–state program that provides temporary wage replacement to individuals who lose employment through no fault of their own.
Louisville Unemployment Office Locations:
- 600 W. Cedar Street, Louisville, KY 40202 | 502‑595‑3164
- 5800 Fern Valley Road, Louisville, KY 40228 | 502‑595‑4187
- 6201‑G Preston Highway, Louisville, KY 40219 | 502‑595‑4188
The following resources are offered as guidance only and do not guarantee employment outcomes.
Resume and Interview Preparation
Resume content to include:
- Contact information
- Professional summary or objective
- Work history with dates
- Education with dates
- Technical skills and soft skills
- Certifications and professional memberships
- Achievements and awards
- Optional sections (e.g., community involvement or volunteer experience)
Cover letter best practices:
- Contact information header
- Personalized greeting (or “To whom it may concern”)
- Brief introduction
- Qualifications relevant to the position
- Closing statement reaffirming interest and strengths
- Signature
Interview preparation tips:
- Research the organization and position
- Review the job description thoroughly
- Practice responses to common interview questions
- Prepare examples demonstrating skills and problem‑solving
- Secure references in advance
- Prepare thoughtful questions for the interviewer
After the interview:
- Send a thank‑you note if contact information is available
- Withdraw formally if no longer interested
- Continue applying for other positions of interest