The type of documents required depend on your relationship to your dependents and the eligibility rules that govern your employer-sponsored benefit plan.  Refer to the specific checklist that was included in your audit package for instructions on what documents are required.

Spouse (married any time prior to the current tax year -- in other words, you are not a newlywed) - Copy of your/your spouse's most recently filed tax return showing "married filing jointly" or "married filing separately."  In either case, both of your names should be on the tax form.  Redact the SSNs except for the last four digits.

Spouse (married in the current tax year -- you are a newlywed) - proof of marriage and Affidavit of Eligible Spouse.  See this I just got married and added my spouse to my benefits. What documents do I need to provide to verify eligibility?  post for details.

Domestic Partner (if relationship is allowed by your benefit plans) - Affidavit of Domestic Partnership in combination with proof of cohabitation and proof of financial interdependence.  See this Will my domestic partner be included in the eligibility audit? article for more details. 

Child (Natural, Step, Adopted, Legal Guardian, etc.) - birth certificate or other equivalent.  See this Dependent Eligibility Verification - Required Birth Certificate Elements article for more details.

Child (Over 19, and benefit plans require full-time student status) - birth certificate or other equivalent as per above, plus college transcript information.  See this Some of my benefits only allow dependents up to age 19 unless they are full-time students. What do I need to verify eligibility for my dependents in this case? article for more details.

Disabled Adult Dependent (other than your spouse) - required documentation as per their relationship type (refer to other sections) plus proof of disability (dependent's supplemental security income (SSI) or Social Security disability insurance (SSDI) payment stub, or proof of direct deposit into bank account for current/previous year).

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*  copies of handwritten tax returns will not be accepted
*make sure you keep a copy of all the documents you submit

*if you do not have the required document(s) as described on the following pages and/or if you have any questions at any time, call the Benetech Customer Service Help Line (518-283-8500 option 4)