Alternative language employee material

[Guest groundfloor]

My client just requested benefit summaries in spanish from their insurance carrier in reference to their fully insured plan. The national carrier responded they don't provide them........isn't there some federal law that requires the alternative language materials?

Thanks for your help.

[WDIK]

At least in the case of summary plan descriptions, it is my understanding that there is no requirement that materials be translated into a foreign language, but in certain circumstances (based on the percentage of participants that are only literate in the same foreign language) a notice must be provided (in that language) which explains that help is available in understanding the rights and obligations under the plan.

See DOL Reg. 2520.102-2(c ).