Policies & Procedures
Benefits for NRSA Postdoctoral Fellows
Specific information regarding stipends and benefits for NRSA Postdoctoral Fellows.
Top Resources for Benefits for NRSA Postdoctoral Fellows
Policies & Procedures
FY25 Benefits Overview for Postdocs and NRSA Fellows
Policies & Procedures
Discounted Gym Membership
Policies & Procedures
Enhanced Family Support for NRSA Postdoctoral Fellows
Policies & Procedures
Wellness & Behavioral Health Resources for NRSA Postdoctoral Fellows
Frequently Asked Questions
Do my insurance options cover the J-1 visa requirements?
Yes. All insurance plans offered through Penn meet the J-1 visa requirements.
I have other questions about the benefits. Who do I contact?
For postdoc researchers and fellows contact Health Advocate at 1-866-799-2329 or the Penn Employee Solution Center. NRSA Fellows should contact Gallagher Services at UniversityServices.GBS.PDinsPlan@ajg.com.
Is enrollment in benefits required for ALL postdocs?
Yes. You must participate by either enrolling or waiving benefits.
What benefits are available to postdocs?
Postdoctoral Researchers and Fellows are eligible for the Penn Postdoc Benefits plan. NRSA Fellows are eligible for benefits through Gallagher Services.
What is an NRSA Fellow?
An NRSA Fellow is a postdoctoral position. NRSA Postdoctoral Fellows are individuals who come to the University for the principal purpose of furthering their personal development through participation in advanced training programs. They hold post-baccalaureate degrees, normally the highest degree earned in the field. The source of funding is an individual or institutional National Research Service Award from the federal government to support the individual’s training (T32 or F32).
The IRS defines an NRSA Fellow as a trainee that does not provide a service to the college. Due to these IRS regulations, no federal tax or FICA can be withheld from an NRSA Fellow stipend and an NRSA Fellow cannot receive any benefits that result in a tax impact (e.g. pre-tax contributions to a retirement account). An NRSA Postdoctoral Fellow’s stipend is subject to State, Local and State Unemployment Compensation taxes. No employment benefit rate can be charged to NRSA funding.