Frequently Asked Questions – Employee

1. What is a LiLA?
A LiLA is an education savings account that is used to pay for education and training.  It is similar to a 401 (K) in that employees make regular contributions that are matched by their employer.  In some cases there is a scholarship contribution too.

2.  I understand that the My LiLA Now is a pilot program, how long will it last?
The  My LiLA Now program is funded through January 30, 2010.  Currently the program’s founders are working to ensure that the program is on-going in the future.  Legislation was introduced to the U.S. Congress in 2007 to provide tax benefits to the employer and employees who are participating in the LiLA program.  

3.  How do I enroll in the My LiLA Now program?
Enrollment is simple.  Once your employer has agreed to participate, you will attend an employee information meeting.  If you are unable to attend the My LiLA Now information meeting, your company My LiLA Now representative will be able to assist you.  Enrollment is done online at www.MyLilaNow.com.  You will select your employer name then complete the enrollment form.

4.  What are the eligibility requirements of participation in a LiLA program?
All employees of a sponsoring employer who meet the following requirements are eligible to participate in the LiLA program and ,in some case, can receive a third party match of $500 per year for approximately two years.  The employee requirements are:
  • Full time status as determined by industry standards.
  • Six months of continuous employment.
  • Performance in good standing.

The employer may determine additional requirements.

5.  How much do I need to contribute to my LiLA account?
To remain eligible in the LiLA program, an employee must contribute a minimum of $10.00 a month.  Your employer will match dollar for dollar each contribution you make up to a predetermined cap. You can deposit more than $10.00 per month if you prefer.  Deposits are made each pay period. Deposits can be made in lump sums or changed depending on your employer’s policy.

6.  Is there a time limit I have to take a class by?
Once you have saved up enough money to take the class of that you have planned for, you must register for it.

7.  If I have an emergency and need to withdraw my funds can I do it?
Yes, however requests to use your money for non-LiLA purposes will cause you to forfeit your employer’s matching funds and third party match funds if applicable. In addition you will no longer be able to participate in the My LiLA Now pilot program.

8.  How will I know how much money is in my account? 
You will have your own personal secure web page on the My LiLA Now web site.  You will login using your email address and password.  You will see instructions for checking your balance.

9.  Will my account earn interest?
No, although it will be matched by your employer dollar for dollar up to a predetermined cap.  In some cases, there is also a third party match.

10.  How will I know what class to sign up for?
You will be assigned a Career Advisor who will assist you in completing an Individual Learning Plan (ILP).  The ILP needs to be completed within 60 days of your enrollment.  You will be able to discuss your career needs and wants with your career advisor.  She/he will share information with you regarding schools, classes, career paths to help you decide the best choice(s) for you.

11.  What classes am I allowed to take?
You are allowed to take classes which help you to advance in the career of your choice.  You can take classes or participate in education activities at colleges/universities, professional organizations, vocational schools, seminars etc.  You can also take certification classes, workshops, or attend conferences.

12.  What expenses are covered by my LiLA account?
You are allowed to use your LiLA account funds to pay for the following:
  • Application fees, student fees, transcript fee, CEU fees, registration policy fees
  • Tuition
  • Lab fees
  • Certificate fees
  • Assessment fees
  • Required books, supplies, course related apparel
  • Refresher  courses
  • Workshops, seminars, conferences
  • Professional certifications and qualifying exams

Note: LiLA funds may not be used to pay for training and education that is normally paid for or offered at no cost to or by the employer.

Courses are normally taken outside work hours; however, employer policy regarding education classes is followed.

13.  What expenses am I not allowed to use my LiLA for?
Ineligible expenses include but are not limited to the following: 
  • Transportation
  • Child care
  • Hotels and food at conferences/workshops
  • Parking
  • Hobby or handicraft courses
  • Non-mandatory or elective fees
  • Any educational activity costs incurred before your enrollment date or after January 31, 2010

Note: Career Advisors are aware of resources which may cover some of the above

14.  My company has tuition reimbursement.  What is the difference between a LiLA and tuition reimbursement.
Each company has a different tuition reimbursement policy so be sure to check in to your company’s policy.  The differences between a LiLA and tuition reimbursement include the following:
  • LiLA’s pay for your classes prior to registration
  • LiLA’s include a broad use of funds, which includes books, school fees, tuition etc.
  • LiLA’s include Career Advising and completing an Individual Learning Plan. 
     You will have someone to help you plan for your future and seek the education you need
  • You can take any type of class that will help you advance in the career of your choice
  • You can take certification classes, seminars and workshops

15. How will I know when I have saved enough money to take a class?
You will receive an e-mail congratulating you for achieving your financial goal.  You can also check your account balance by going to www.MyLilaNow.com. 

16.  How do I withdraw my money to pay for a class?
Once you have saved up enough money to take a class, you will contact your Career Advisor.  She/he will verify and approve your class.  She will arrange for you to receive a My LiLA Now debit card called a Benny Card.  It is a restricted use debit card that you will use just like a credit card.  It will be loaded with the amount of money you saved to cover the required expenses of your class.  It will only be usable at education providers and specified retail locations.  You will be required to submit all receipts for purchases to verify education expenses. Any purchases made that are not required for your education activities will need to be repaid.

17.  What happens if I cannot finish my class?
If you do not finish your class, you will need to repay your employer as well as the third party investor if applicable. 

18.  What grade is required of me?
In education or training classes that are graded, you will need to receive a “C” or higher.  In non-graded classes, you will be required to submit a certificate of completion to your Career Advisor.
If you fail a class, you will need to repay your employer as well as the scholarship if applicable.

19.  Will my employer know what classes I am taking?
Yes, your employer will know what classes you are taking.  They have invested in you and are pleased that you are forwarding your career.

20.  May I use a LiLA and tuition reimbursement simultaneously? 
You will need to check with your employer since each employer’s education policy is different.

21.  Can I create a LiLA for my adult child?
LiLA’s are available through sponsoring employers.  Although you cannot create a LiLA, your adult child can ask their employer if they participate in the My LiLA Now program.  If the employer does not currently participate, they can learn more about the program through the My LiLA Now web site, www.MyLilaNow.com.

22. What do I do if my employer is not currently participating in the My LiLA Now program?
Tell your employer that you would like to participate in the My LiLA Now program and direct them to www.MyLilaNow.com.

23.  How will I know if I am a scholarship recipient?
Your employer will inform you.  There are a limited number of scholarships available for employees of Advanced Manufacturing, Biotechnology, and Healthcare.  Scholarship recipients are chosen from a lottery system due to the limited number available.