COVER STORY WANTED - NARFE Home Open Season Special... · 2017. 10. 19. · WANTED: FEDERAL...

P.32 TIME FOR MEDICARE? TIME FOR THE BIG PART B DECISION!

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COVER STORY

WANTED:FEDERAL CYBERSECURITY PROFESSIONALS

NOV

’17

Volume 93 • Number 11

Open Season Report excerpted from the November 2017 issue of narfe magazine.

The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) an-nounced October 4 the

2018 premium rates for the Fed-eral Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program.

The enrollee share of premiums for non-postal employees and all annuitants will increase an aver-age of 6.1 percent in 2018. (Postal employees pay a different rate because of collective bargaining agreements.) The average increase in the government share of premi-ums will be 3.2 percent.

The overall average total pre-mium will be 4.0 percent in 2018.

Health maintenance organiza-tion (HMO) premiums will go up an average of 5.5 percent, while fee-for-service (FFS) plan rates will rise an average of 3.8 percent.

Changes in FEHB coverage may be made during Federal Benefits Open Season, November 13-De-cember 11. Also included in Open Season are the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Program (FED-VIP) (see p. 56) and the Federal Flexible Spending Account Pro-gram (FSAFEDS).

There is no need for enrollees to re-enroll in FEHB and FED-

VIP unless they want to change plans or their current plan ceases participation. However, employees must re-enroll in FSAFEDS every year to continue to participate.

Enrollee Premiums. The tables on pages 43 and 44 list the six open-to-all, FFS plans, the four restricted FFS plans and the largest participating HMOs; the 2018 cost of each plan for both employees and retirees; and the increase/decrease from 2017.

Rates listed are applicable to most non-postal federal employees as well as all retirees and survivors. For a listing of all premiums, go to www.opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/ open-season/.

Changes in FEHB enrollee premiums vary from plan to plan, but, on average, enrollees with Self Only coverage will pay $5.57 more per biweekly pay period;

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OPEN SEASONREPORT

INCREASES CREATE FINANCIAL BURDEN FOR FEDS, NEW COLA CALCULATION NEEDED

NARFE President Richard G. Thissen said that the 6.1 percent aver-age premium increase is a reminder of the “all-too-familiar cycle of low or no pay raises, small or nonexistent cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) and rising medical bills.

“Like most Americans, federal employees and retirees are middle-class taxpayers, continuing to feel the pinch on their wallets every day. Years of no or low COLAs and pay raises that lag behind the private sector have created a financial burden on the federal community, in-creasing the need for meaningful reform.

“As a solution, Congress should pursue a new formula to calculate COLAs that accurately reflects the health care costs of our nation’s seniors, such as the CPI-E (Consumer Price Index for the elderly),” Thissen said. “This is just one step in the right direction to help account for the rising cost of FEHB and all health care premiums.”

(Continued on p. 46)

2017 OPEN SEASON: NOVEMBER 13-DECEMBER 11

FEHB PREMIUMS

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2018 PREMIUMS — FEE FOR SERVICE

KEY: Employees pay biweekly Annuitants pay monthly

Plan Option Code Total Premium Gov’t Pays Enrollee PaysEnrollee Increase/

Decreasebiweekly monthly biweekly monthly biweekly monthly biweekly monthly

OPEN TO ALLAPWU HEALTH PLANHigh Self 471 $322.29 $698.30 $229.25 $496.71 $93.04 $201.59 $-1.25 $-2.70High Self & Family 472 $773.48 $1,675.87 $521.58 $1,130.09 $251.90 $545.78 $-1.20 $-2.61High Self Plus One 473 $676.79 $1,466.38 $491.00 $1,063.83 $185.79 $402.55 $-1.94 $-4.20CDHP Self 474 $255.89 $554.43 $191.92 $415.82 $63.97 $138.61 $2.16 $4.69CDHP Self & Family 475 $614.12 $1,330.59 $460.59 $997.94 $153.53 $332.65 $5.19 $11.25CDHP Self Plus One 476 $562.95 $1,219.73 $422.21 $914.80 $140.74 $304.93 $4.76 $10.31BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD SERVICE BENEFIT PLANStandard Self 104 $342.41 $741.89 $229.25 $496.71 $113.16 $245.18 $7.17 $15.54Standard Self & Family 105 $793.53 $1,719.32 $521.58 $1,130.09 $271.95 $589.23 $17.72 $38.39Standard Self Plus One 106 $748.81 $1,622.42 $491.00 $1,063.83 $257.81 $558.59 $17.04 $36.92Basic Self 111 $294.90 $638.95 $221.18 $479.21 $73.72 $159.74 $2.50 $5.42Basic Self & Family 112 $702.56 $1,522.21 $521.58 $1,130.09 $180.98 $392.12 $7.39 $16.00 Basic Self Plus One 113 $662.84 $1,436.15 $491.00 $1,063.83 $171.84 $372.32 $7.20 $15.60GEHA BENEFIT PLANHigh Self 311 $332.82 $721.11 $229.25 $496.71 $103.57 $224.40 $2.11 $4.57High Self & Family 312 $790.83 $1,713.47 $521.58 $1,130.09 $269.25 $583.38 $6.68 $14.47High Self Plus One 313 $732.21 $1,586.46 $491.00 $1.063.83 $241.21 $522.63 $6.12 $13.27Standard Self 314 $219.75 $476.13 $164.81 $357.10 $54.94 $119.03 $1.08 $2.33Standard Self & Family 315 $519.70 $1,126.02 $389.78 $844.52 $129.92 $281.50 $2.54 $5.52Standard Self Plus One 316 $472.47 $1,023.69 $354.35 $767.77 $118.12 $255.92 $2.32 $5.02HDHP Self 341 $231.35 $501.26 $173.51 $375.95 $57.84 $125.31 $1.14 $2.46HDHP Self & Family 342 $547.12 $1,185.43 $410.34 $889.07 $136.78 $296.36 $2.68 $5.82HDHP Self Plus One 343 $497.40 $1,077.70 $373.05 $808.28 $124.35 $269.42 $2.44 $5.28MHBPValue Self 414 $229.41 $497.06 $172.06 $372.80 $57.35 $124.26 $-2.39 $-5.18Value Self & Family 415 $554.42 $1,201.24 $415.82 $900.93 $138.60 $300.31 $-5.78 $-12.51Value Self Plus One 416 $543.56 $1,177.71 $407.67 $883.28 $135.89 $294.43 $-5.66 $-12.26Standard Self 454 $268.82 $582.44 $201.62 $436.83 $67.20 $145.61 $-0.68 $-1.47Standard Self & Family 455 $624.72 $1,353.56 $468.54 $1,015.17 $156.18 $338.39 $-1.58 $-3.42Standard Self Plus One 456 $618.78 $1,340.69 $464.09 $1,005.52 $154.69 $335.17 $-1.57 $-3.39HDHP Self 481 $262.02 $567.71 $196.52 $425.78 $65.50 $141.93 $-0.66 $-1.43HDHP Self & Family 482 $608.83 $1,319.13 $456.62 $989.35 $152.21 $329.78 $-1.53 $-3.33HDHP Self Plus One 483 $579.85 $1,256.34 $434.89 $942.26 $144.96 $314.08 $-1.47 $-3.18NALCHigh Self 321 $308.04 $667.42 $229.25 $496.71 $78.79 $170.71 $1.39 $3.01High Self & Family 322 $691.71 $1,498.71 $518.78 $1,124.03 $172.93 $374.68 $5.04 $10.92High Self Plus One 323 $678.06 $1,469.13 $491.00 $1,063.83 $187.06 $405.30 $10.87 $23.56CDHP Self 324 $214.26 $464.23 $160.70 $348.17 $53.56 $116.06 $0.00 $0.00CDHP Self & Family 325 $473.82 $1,026.61 $355.37 $769.96 $118.45 $256.65 $2.32 $5.03CDHP Self Plus One 326 $463.49 $1,004.23 $347.62 $753.17 $115.87 $251.06 $0.00 $0.00Value Self KM1 $175.85 $381.01 $131.89 $285.76 $43.96 $95.25 $0.00 $0.00Value Self & Family KM2 $389.03 $842.90 $291.77 $632.18 $97.26 $210.72 $1.91 $4.12Value Self Plus One KM3 $380.37 $824.14 $285.28 $618.11 $95.09 $206.03 $0.00 $0.00SAMBAHigh Self 441 $421.24 $912.69 $229.25 $496.71 $191.99 $415.98 $19.98 $43.30High Self & Family 442 $1,010.97 $2,190.44 $521.58 $1,130.09 $489.39 $1,060.35 $49.78 $107.86High Self Plus One 443 $926.72 $2,007.89 $491.00 $1,063.83 $435.72 $944.06 $45.41 $98.39Standard Self 444 $326.84 $708.15 $229.25 $496.71 $97.59 $211.44 $24.64 $53.37Standard Self & Family 445 $751.74 $1,628.77 $521.58 $1,130.09 $230.16 $498.68 $62.36 $135.11Standard Self Plus One 446 $719.06 $1,557.96 $491.00 $1,063.83 $228.06 $494.13 $61.84 $133.99

RESTRICTEDCOMPASS ROSE HEALTH PLAN (members of the Intelligence Community, employees of Departments of Defense and State)High Self 421 $321.36 $696.28 $229.25 $461.71 $92.11 $199.57 $7.72 $16.73High Self & Family 422 $771.27 $1,671.09 $521.58 $1,130.09 $249.69 $541.00 $20.36 $44.11High Self Plus One 423 $707.00 $1,531.83 $491.00 $1,063.83 $216.00 $468.00 $18.45 $39.98FOREIGN SERVICE BENEFIT PLAN (American Foreign Service personnel, Departments of State and Defense, USAID,Foreign Agricultural and Commercial services, other executive branch employees assigned overseas; Foreign Service retirees)High Self 401 $264.22 $572.48 $198.17 $429.36 $66.05 $143.12 $1.61 $3.50High Self & Family 402 $653.62 $1,416.18 $490.22 $1,062.14 $163.40 $354.04 $3.99 $8.64High Self Plus One 403 $647.14 $1,402.14 $485.36 $1,051.61 $161.78 $350.53 $3.94 $8.54RURAL CARRIER BENEFIT PLAN (active and retired rural letter carriers)High Self 381 $316.47 $685.69 $229.25 $496.71 $87.22 $188.98 $4.59 $9.95High Self & Family 382 $612.83 $1,327.80 $459.62 $995.85 $153.21 $331.95 $5.90 $12.77High Self Plus One 383 $600.81 $1,301.76 $450.61 $976.32 $150.20 $325.44 $5.78 $12.52PANAMA CANAL AREA BENEFIT PLANHigh Self 431 $264.38 $572.82 $198.29 $429.62 $66.09 $143.20 $4.32 $9.37High Self & Family 432 $551.88 $1,195.74 $413.91 $896.81 $137.97 $298.93 $9.03 $19.56High Self Plus One 433 $527.68 $1,143.31 $395.76 $857.48 $131.92 $285.83 $8.63 $18.70

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2018 PREMIUMS — LARGEST HMOS*Total Premium Gov’t Pays Enrollee Pays

Enrollee Increase/Decrease

State(s) Plan Option Code biweekly monthly biweekly monthly biweekly monthly biweekly monthlyDC, MD, VA AETNA OPEN ACCESS - CAPITOL REGION

High Self JN1 $509.12 $1,103.09 $229.25 $496.71 $279.87 $606.38 $32.46 $70.33High Self & Family JN2 $1,144.59 $2,479.95 $521.58 $1,130.09 $623.01 $1,349.86 $73.65 $159.58High Self Plus One JN3 $1,133.25 $2,455.38 $491.00 $1,063.83 $642.25 $1,391.55 $73.90 $160.13Basic Self JN4 $305.93 $662.85 $229.25 $496.71 $76.68 $166.14 $3.14 $6.80Basic Self & Family JN5 $700.13 $1,516.95 $521.58 $1,130.09 $178.55 $386.86 $12.41 $26.90Basic Self Plus One JN6 $642.92 $1,392.99 $482.19 $1,044.74 $160.73 $348.25 $2.19 $4.75

ID, WA KAISER HEALTH PLAN OF WASHINGTONHigh Self 541 $381.04 $825.59 $229.25 $496.71 $151.79 $328.88 $24.00 $52.01High Self & Family 542 $838.30 $1,816.32 $521.58 $1,130.09 $316.72 $686.23 $-86.65 $-187.74High Self Plus One 543 $838.30 $1,816.32 $491.00 $1,063.83 $347.30 $752.49 $106.71 $231.21Standard Self 544 $281.07 $608.99 $210.80 $456.74 $70.27 $152.25 $4.64 $10.04Standard Self & Family 545 $646.46 $1,400.66 $484.85 $1,050.50 $161.61 $350.16 $-15.76 $-34.15Standard Self Plus One 546 $646.46 $1,400.66 $484.85 $1,050.50 $161.61 $350.16 $27.06 $58.64HDHP Self PT1 $234.17 $507.37 $175.63 $380.53 $58.54 $126.84 $0.16 $0.34HDHP Self & Family PT2 $538.58 $1,166.92 $403.94 $875.19 $134.64 $291.73 $-17.16 $-37.18HDHP Self Plus One PT3 $538.58 $1,166.92 $403.94 $875.19 $134.64 $291.73 $14.95 $32.40

DC, MD, VA M.D. INDIVIDUAL PRACTICE ASSOCIATION (MDIPA)High Self JP1 $331.28 $717.77 $229.25 $496.71 $102.03 $221.06 $4.90 $10.62High Self & Family JP2 $928.92 $2,012.66 $521.58 $1,130.09 $407.34 $882.47 $18.65 $40.40High Self Plus One JP3 $646.99 $1,401.81 $485.24 $1,051.36 $161.75 $350.45 $6.10 $13.20

CA KAISER FOUNDATION HEALTH PLAN OF N. CALIFORNIAHigh Self 591 $424.84 $920.49 $229.25 $496.71 $195.59 $423.78 $20.81 $45.09High Self & Family 592 $1,014.15 $2,197.33 $521.58 $1,130.09 $492.57 $1,067.24 $51.43 $111.43High Self Plus One 593 $1,014.15 $2,197.33 $491.00 $1,063.83 $523.15 $1,133.50 $52.58 $113.93Standard Self 594 $350.45 $759.31 $229.25 $496.71 $121.20 $262.60 $11.10 $24.05Standard Self & Family 595 $820.06 $1,776.80 $521.58 $1,130.09 $298.48 $646.71 $27.34 $59.24Standard Self Plus One 596 $820.06 $1,776.80 $491.00 $1,063.83 $329.06 $712.97 $28.49 $61.74Basic Self KC1 $297.87 $645.39 $223.40 $484.04 $74.47 $161.35 $0.41 $0.89Basic Self & Family KC2 $697.02 $1,510.21 $521.58 $1,130.09 $175.44 $380.12 $-11.35 $-24.60Basic Self Plus One KC3 $697.02 $1,510.21 $491.00 $1,063.83 $206.02 $446.38 $-10.20 $-22.10

CA KAISER FOUNDATION HEALTH PLAN OF S. CALIFORNIAHigh Self 621 $303.76 $658.15 $227.82 $493.61 $75.94 $164.54 $3.10 $6.73High Self & Family 622 $702.07 $1,521.15 $521.58 $1,130.09 $180.49 $391.06 $12.15 $26.31High Self Plus One 623 $702.07 $1,521.15 $491.00 $1,063.83 $211.07 $457.32 $13.48 $29.21Standard Self 624 $191.90 $415.78 $143.93 $311.84 $47.97 $103.94 $1.13 $2.45Standard Self & Family 625 $443.55 $961.03 $332.66 $720.77 $110.89 $240.26 $2.63 $5.70Standard Self Plus One 626 $443.55 $961.03 $332.66 $720.77 $110.89 $240.26 $2.63 $5.70

DC, MD, VA KAISER FOUNDATION HEALTH PLAN MID-ATLANTIC STATESHigh Self E31 $304.78 $660.36 $228.59 $495.27 $76.19 $165.09 $1.69 $3.68 High Self & Family E32 $701.00 $1,518.83 $521.58 $1,130.09 $179.42 $388.74 $-8.42 $-18.25High Self Plus One E33 $701.00 $1,518.83 $491.00 $1,063.83 $210.00 $455.00 $16.43 $35.60Standard Self E34 $233.06 $504.96 $174.80 $378.72 $58.26 $126.24 $2.41 $5.23Standard Self & Family E35 $536.07 $1,161.49 $402.05 $871.12 $134.02 $290.37 $3.33 $7.21Standard Self Plus One E36 $536.07 $1,161.49 $402.05 $871.12 $134.02 $290.37 $7.80 $16.90Basic Self T71 $212.32 $460.03 $159.24 $345.02 $53.08 $115.01 New NewBasic Self & Family T72 $509.77 $1,104.50 $382.33 $828.38 $127.44 $276.12 New NewBasic Self Plus One T73 $464.41 $1,006.22 $348.31 $754.67 $116.10 $251.55 New New

CO KAISER FOUNDATION HEALTH PLAN OF COLORADOHigh Self 651 $325.03 $704.23 $229.25 $496.71 $95.78 $207.52 $-0.02 $-0.04High Self & Family 652 $734.56 $1,591.55 $521.58 $1,130.09 $212.98 $461.46 $0.69 $1.49High Self Plus One 653 $734.56 $1,591.55 $491.00 $1,063.83 $243.56 $527.72 $1.84 $3.99Standard Self 654 $235.89 $511.10 $176.92 $383.33 $58.97 $127.77 $4.39 $9.52Standard Self & Family 655 $533.12 $1,155.09 $399.84 $866.32 $133.28 $288.77 $9.94 $21.52Standard Self Plus One 656 $533.12 $1,155.09 $399.84 $866.32 $133.28 $288.77 $9.94 $21.52Basic Self N41 $185.30 $401.78 $138.98 $301.11 $46.32 $100.37 $3.96 $8.59Basic Self & Family N42 $418.78 $907.36 $314.09 $680.52 $104.69 $226.84 $8.95 $19.41Basic Self Plus One N43 $418.78 $907.36 $314.09 $680.52 $104.69 $226.84 $8.95 $19.41

*Based on information provided by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). If your plan is not listed, it simply means that your plan is not one of the largest.

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OPEN SEASON CHANGES for employees are effective at the beginning of the first pay period after January 1, 2018. Changes for retirees and survivor annuitants are effective January 1, 2018, and premium changes will

be reflected in February 1, 2018, annuity payments. If verified enrollment is required, the change notice from OPM should suffice for annuitants; the notification from their agency will suffice for employees.

MetLife Federal Dental Plan

Metropolitan Life Insurance Company | 200 Park Avenue | New York, NY 10166L0817497791[exp1018][All States][DC,GU,MP,PR,VI] © 2017 METLIFE, INC.

1. Subject to frequency limitations.2. Savings from enrolling in the MetLife Federal Dental Plan will depend on various factors, including the cost of the plan, how often participants visit the dentist and the cost of services rendered.3. Subject to plan limitations.

Like most group bene� ts programs, bene� t programs o� ered by MetLife contain certain exclusions, exceptions, waiting periods, reductions, limitations and terms for keeping them in force. For more information please view the Federal Dental Plan Brochure, which will govern these plan options and can be viewed by visiting federaldental.metlife.com.

The MetLife Federal Dental Plan makes coverage simple. And affordable.For a dental plan with more coverage, at a competitive cost, enroll today.

• Choose from over 360,000 dentists — one of the largest networks nationwide• Pay nothing out-of-pocket for in-network cleanings, X-rays and exams1

• Get big discounts and save even more with in-network dentists2

• Enjoy coverage of up to $35,000 per person, per year (New!)3

Find out more:federaldental.metlife.com1-888-865-6854

Enrollment dates: Nov. 13–Dec. 11, 2017

enrollees with Self Plus One coverage will pay $12.55 more per biweekly pay period; and enrollees with Self and Family coverage will pay $12.17 more per biweekly pay period. (Employees pay premiums on a biweekly basis; retirees pay premiums on a monthly basis.)

Enrollees with Self Only cover-age in the popular Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) Standard option will pay $7.17 more per

biweekly pay period in 2018; those with Self Plus One coverage will pay $17.04 more per biweekly pay period; and those with Self and Family coverage will pay $17.72 more per biweekly pay period.

CHANGES FOR 2018New Plans. The following health plan has been added: Blue Open Access POS High option (codes QM1, QM3, QM2) in the following Atlanta, GA, metro area counties: Barrow, Bartow, Butts, Carroll,

Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, Dawson, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Hall, Haralson, Heard, Henry, Lamar, Meriwether, Newton, Paulding, Pickens, Pike, Rockdale, Spald-ing, and Walton; and the following Athens, GA, area counties: Clarke, Madison, Oconee and Oglethorpe.

New Plan Options. The fol-lowing plans have new options:

• Health Net of California is add-ing a Basic option (codes T41, T43, T42) in Northern California.

• Humana Health Plan, Inc. is adding a Basic option in Den-ver, CO (codes RZ1, RZ3, RZ2); Colorado Springs, CO (codes R21, R23, R22); Chicago, IL (codes RWl, RW3, RW2); and North Western Illinois (codes ABl, AB3, AB2).

• Humana Employers Health Plan of Georgia, Inc. is adding a Basic option in Atlanta, GA (codes Q71, Q73, Q72); Macon, GA (code RJl, RJ3, RJ2); and Columbus, GA (codes RM1, RM3, RM2).

• Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of the Mid-Atlantic States is adding a Basic option (codes T71, T73, T72) in the Northern Virginia, D.C., and Baltimore, MD, areas.

• Medical Mutual of Ohio (formerly Health Span Inte-grated Care) is adding a Basic option (codes UXl, UX3, UX2) in Northeast Ohio.

• Humana Health Plan of Texas, Inc. is adding a Basic op-tion in San Antonio, TX (codes QXl, QX3, QX2); Austin, TX (codes QYl, QY3, QY2); Corpus Christi, TX (codes Q21, Q23, Q22); and Houston, TX (codes Q61, Q63, Q62).

• Scott & White is adding a Basic option in Central and West Texas (codes A81, A83, A82); and North Texas (codes P81, P83, P82).

(Continued from p. 42)

IMPORTANT OPEN SEASON INFORMATIONOpen Season doesn’t start until November 13. The 2018 premium rates are available, but many of the materials you will need to access to make your decision for 2018 will not be available until shortly before the start date. The following are ways to get information about Open Season:

• THE WEB: 2018 premium charts for all Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program plans are available at: www.opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/healthcare/plan-information/premiums.General information about Open Season can be found at: www.opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/open-season.• FACEBOOK: Updates on Open Season are available by Facebook at: www.facebook.com/USOPM.

PROVIDING DEPENDENT INFORMATIONIf you are changing your health plan this Open Season and have either a Self and Family or Self Plus One enrollment, you will need to provide information about the dependents covered under your enrollment.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONThinking About Retirement? Information about retirement and FEHB can be found at: www.opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/fastfacts/thinkfehb.pdf. • For the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) and retirement, go to www.opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/ fastfacts/thinkfedvip.pdf.OPM also has a guide for retirees and employees near retirement that gives an overview of FEHB, FEDVIP, the Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance Program (FEGLI) and the Federal Long Term Care Insur-ance Program (FLTCIP). Go to www.opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/Guide-Me/Retirees-Survivors/.

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We’re working hard to keep your premiums low.

Open Season 2017November 13th to December 11th

(800) 222-2798 | www.apwuhp.com

Together. Better Health.®

2018 Monthly Premiums

No deductible or coinsurance on covered expenses*

For more than 50 years, APWU Health Plan has served retired federal employees with focus and attention. As an APWU Health Plan member, you can rely on:

To maximize your coverage, select APWU Health Plan’s High Option along with Medicare A and B.

Stronger prescription drug coverage than Medicare Part D alone

Telehealth and 24 hour Nurse line

Shingles and Flu shots covered at 100%

Comprehensive coverage

A benefit plan with you at the center.For more than 50 years, APWU Health Plan has served federal employees and retirees with focus and attention. As an APWU Health Plan member, you can rely on: 2018 H

ealth Plan Premium

s


A nationwide network of more than 1 million providers, with no need for referrals

Two solid plans to choose between

Affordable premiums

The personal touch from people who care

+++++

Premiums for the 2018 plan year. COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS AT AN AFFORDABLE PRICE.

BiweeklyMonthly (retiree)

High Option Self Only $00.00 $00.00

High Option Self Plus One $00.00 $00.00

High Option Self and Family $00.00 $00.00

CDHP Option Self Only $00.00 $00.00

CDHP Option Self Plus One $00.00 $00.00

CDHP Option Self and Family $00.00 $00.00

Ready to enroll?If you are already a member of the APWU Health Plan, you do not need to do anything. You will remain a member automatically.*

Enter the APWU Health Plan enrollment code on the FEHB Health Benefits Election Form (SF2809), which is available:

• In your employing office• On our website: www.apwuhp.com/enroll• On the OPM website: www.opm.gov/forms/pdf_fill/sf2809.pdf

Electronic and telephonic enrollment is available in some agencies and for most annuitants.

*Moving to Self Plus One will require you to change your enrollment.

Retiree contact information

OPM Retirement Information Center

www.opm.gov/retirement-services

Phone: 888-767-6738Email: [email protected]

HIGH OPTION

100% covered services

• Preventive care and screenings

• Accidental injury within 24 hours

• Lab tests (when you use LabCorp and Quest Diagnostics)

• Maternity care

• Diabetes Management Program

• Weight Management Program

• Tobacco Cessation Program

CONSUMER DRIVEN OPTION



• Personal Care Account provides 100% coverage for the first $1,200 of your annual medical expenses for Self Only or $2,400 for Self Plus One and Self and Family

• Maternity care


You pay nothing for these services when you choose a network doctor:

It’s the smartest $35 you’ll ever spend.

All federal employees and retirees who are eligible to enroll in the FEHB program may become APWU Health Plan members. As part of enrollment, you will become an Associate Member of APWU for only $35 per year.


ealth Plan Premium

s




Affordable premiums


$


















HIGH OPTION





• Maternity care








• Maternity care






ealth Plan Premium

s




Affordable premiums



















HIGH OPTION





• Maternity care








• Maternity care





Choose any physician or facility that accepts Medicare, with no need for referrals*

Affordable premiums


*High Option members when Medicare Part A and B pay as primary

Self Only: $201.59 | Self Plus One: $402.55 | Self and Family: $545.78

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Plan Terminations. Six health plans will drop out of the FEHB after December 31, 2017:

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (codes A21, A23, A22) in the Chicago, IL, area; New Mexico Blue HMO Preferred (codes Qll, Ql3, Q12, Q14, Q16, Q15) in New Mexico; Paramount Health Care (codes N81, N83, N82) in Northwest Ohio; Aetna Whole Health in the Hous-ton, TX, area (codes ES1, ES3, ES2), in the Newport News, VA, area (codes J91, 193, 192), and the Mil-waukee, WI, area (codes F71, F73, F72); United Healthcare Benefits of Texas, Inc. (codes GFl , GF3, GF2) in the San Antonio, TX, area; and Innovation Health Plan (codes LQI, LQ3, LQ2) in Northern Virginia.

Enrollees in these plans must select new coverage during Open Season. All HMO enrollees should review their plan’s 2018 brochure to see if they still live or work in their plan’s service area.

INFORMATION SOURCESEmployees will receive Open Season information from their

agencies, and most eligible annuitants, survivor annuitants and former spouse annuitants will receive information from OPM. Plans will not automatically send enrollees their 2018 bro-chures. You must request a plan brochure or download it from www.opm.gov/insure.—FEDERAL BENEFITS INSTITUTE

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• Budget-friendly plans.• A large network.• Membership satisfaction.

Sign up at BENEFEDS.com.Open Season dates: November 13 through December 11, 2017 EST

Coveryour eyes.It could help uncover health issues.

1061649.1 17-5088

SELF PLUS ONE CAUTION!Make sure you do not pay more than you have to! In most cases, Self Plus One premiums are lower, but hundreds of thousands of enrollees have not switched from Self Plus Family. However, there are plans in which the enrollee premium for Self Plus One coverage is higher than the enrollee premium for Self and Family. Check your plan’s premiums for 2018 to make sure the Self Plus One premium is again lower than Self and Family.

The Aetna DirectSM planFederal retirees: Put money back into your pocket.

Open Season starts November 13.

To find out more, visit aetnafeds.com/aetnadirect

or call 1-855-277-4356.

• Low monthly plan premiums — below the federal average1

• A fund of up to $1,800 to help you pay for prescriptions or Medicare Part B premiums

• Waived deductibles and coinsurance for medical services if Medicare Parts A and B are primary and your provider accepts Medicare assignment

©2017 Aetna Inc.19.12.310.1-FED (9/17)

1 Assumes a single annual income up to $85,000 or a joint annual income up to $170,000. This premium increases as income increases. Rates are as of February 1, 2016, and are subject to change.

Health insurance plans are offered and/or underwritten by Aetna Life Insurance Company (Aetna). This is a brief description of the features of this Aetna health insurance plan. Before making a decision, please read the plan’s applicable federal brochure(s). All benefits are subject to the definitions, limitations and exclusions set forth in the federal brochure. Plan features and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Aetna does not provide care or guarantee access to health services. For more information about Aetna plans, refer to aetnafeds.com/aetnadirect.

aetnafeds.com/aetnadirect

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Why are the enrollee shares for some Self Plus One enrollments

the same or higher than Self and Family enrollee shares for the same plan?The Office of Personnel Manage-ment (OPM) has provided the following answer to that question:

“For most enrollees, the en-rollee share for Self Plus One will be lower than the enrollee share for Self and Family. However, it is possible that some plans will have higher enrollee shares for Self Plus One enrollments than for Self and Family enrollments. The statutory formula that is used to calculate the government contri-bution is based on the average of all plan premiums and requires that OPM calculate a maximum contribution for each enrollment type. In other words, there is a limit to how much the govern-ment will contribute toward the cost of a Self Only, Self Plus One or Self and Family enrollment. The government contributes the lesser of the maximum contribu-tion or 75 percent of the total pre-mium. The remaining amount is the enrollee share (how much the enrollee must pay). In some cases, such as plans with a premium cost that is above the program average, this calculation may re-

sult in a higher enrollee share for a Self Plus One enrollment than a Self and Family enrollment.” See example below.

Which benefit is the most important to consider?

For those not enrolled in Medi-care Part B, the catastrophic pro-tection benefit is very important. It puts a dollar limit on what you have to pay out of pocket in terms of co-payments and coinsurance for the expenses that the plan covers. Considering the cata-strophic protection benefits for a two-option plan, it is not possible, generally, to recover enough in additional high-option benefits to offset the much higher premiums. However, you should carefully compare the options, especially prescription drug coverage.

I f I make an Open Season enrollment change and I have to go to the doctor after Janu-

ary 1, which plan do I contact to provide the insurance coverage based on my visit?Your new plan is not responsible for providing coverage until the effective date of your enrollment change, which for most employees is the first day of the first full pay period in January. If you need

medical services before the effec-tive date of your Open Season en-rollment, you should contact your old plan. Please remember, while the new enrollments are not effec-tive until the first full pay period in January, the new plan benefits are effective January 1. Your old plan, therefore, will provide cover-age according to the new contract. These expenses will count toward your prior year’s deductible.

If you are an annuitant, you should contact your new plan. Your Open Season enrollment is effective January 1.

My health maintenance organization (HMO) sent a notice that it will

stop participating in the FEHB Program during the new Open Season and now I have no plans where I live. What can I do? You may not be eligible to en-roll in an HMO plan, but there are several fee-for-service plans available nationwide to all federal employees and annuitants. These plans are: APWU Health Plan, Blue Cross Blue Shield Federal Employee Program - Standard Option, Blue Cross Blue Shield Federal Employee Program - Basic Option, GEHA Health Savings Advantage high-deductible health plan (HDHP), Mail Handlers Ben-efit Plan (MHBP), MHBP - HDHP, National Association of Letter Car-riers Health Benefit Plan, SAMBA – High Option, and SAMBA – Standard Option. Please review the brochures of these plans to determine which plan best meets your medical needs.

FEHB FAQS FOR OPEN SEASON

SELF PLUS ONE SELF & FAMILYA Total premium $400 $420B Lesser of Max Gov’t. Contrib. $291 $320C A x 75 $300 $315

D Gov’t. Contrib. Lesser of B and C $291 $315

E Enrollee Contrib. A-D $109 $105

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877.590.GEHA gehadental.com/2018

© 2017 Government Employees Health Association, Inc. All rights reserved.

WE DO.Keep your smile healthy with GEHA Connection Dental Federal.

See any dentist, no deductible Free preventive care, in-network Orthodontia paid at 70% No waiting period for most services and procedures (including orthodontic services for High Option)

$35,000 High Option annual maximum benefit More than 340,000 in-network provider locations nationwide

Estimate the cost of common dental procedures at gehadental.com/2018.

OPEN SEASON NOV 13 – DEC 11, 2017*

Enroll with GEHA at BENEFEDS.com.*FEDVIP Open Season enrollment closes Dec. 11, 2017, at midnight EST.

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• OPEN SEASON NOTIFICATION. The Office of Per-sonnel Management (OPM) will send you notification by mail or electronically if you have provided OPM with your email address. Both notices will provide details on Open Season and guidance on how to obtain information and materials. • PLAN PARTICIPATION. Make sure your current plan will participate in the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program for 2018. This is especially important if you are currently enrolled in a health maintenance organization (HMO) plan. • STAYING PUT. If, after reading your current plan’s brochure – particularly about changes and premiums for 2018 – you decide to continue your current cov-erage, you do not have to do anything. Your enroll-ment in your current plan will continue into 2018, and the new premiums will be deducted from your February 1, 2018, monthly annuity payment.• MAKING A CHANGE. For Open Season changes, call the Open Season Express number provided in your FEHB Open Season notice, log on to Open

Season Online at the internet address provided in your Open Season notice, or contact the Open Season Processing Center provided in your Open Season notice.• LOW ANNUITY. If your monthly annuity is not enough to cover your plan’s 2018 premiums, you must change to a plan that you can afford. You also may pay your monthly premiums directly to OPM if you want to stay with your current plan but your monthly annuity is not sufficient to withhold the premium amount. • MEDICARE ENROLLEES. Make sure you read your plan brochure’s sections titled “When You Have Medicare” and “Coordinating Benefits With Other Coverage.”• AGE 65 AND NOT ENROLLED IN MEDICARE. Fee-for-service (FFS) plans include a section in their brochures titled “When You Are Age 65 or Over and Do Not Have Medicare.” This section details how, by law, the plan must use Medicare’s approved amounts on which to base its payments.

If federal enrollees have HMOs in their local areas that do not currently participate in the FEHB Program, we encourage them to ask their HMOs to consider the FEHB market for their area.

Can I enroll online in the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance

Program (FEDVIP) without con-tacting the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), if I keep the

same health plan and do I need to do anything? BENEFEDS is an enrollment and premium processing system spon-sored by OPM that you must use to enroll in the Federal Employees

Got questions about Medicare and the FEHB? Get answers at “Medicare and the FEHB” and in the NARFE Federal Benefits Institute, www.narfe.org.

IMPORTANT REMINDERS FOR ALL FEHB PARTICIPANTS

IMPORTANT REMINDERS FOR ANNUITANTS AND SURVIVORS

• RESEARCH PREFERRED PROVIDERS. Fee-for-service (FFS) plans use preferred provider organizations (PPOs) and doctors to help contain program costs and keep premiums at a reasonable rate. Usually, you will save a lot on out-of-pocket costs if you use your plan’s preferred hospitals or doctors. However, PPO arrangements are busi-ness contracts that are not always renewed. PPO arrangements can be made and also can be dis-continued from one year to the next. In addition, there may not be PPO arrangements in all parts of the country. If you are enrolled in a FFS plan or thinking of enrolling in one, you should check with the hospitals and doctors you use and ask them if they are PPO providers in your plan. You also can review your plan’s PPO directory to see if your doctor or hospital is a PPO provider for your plan.

• ASK QUESTIONS. Be careful to confirm information in your plan’s brochure by speaking with a plan repre-sentative. Do not assume anything. For example, plans may describe benefits in terms of “annual” or “annu-ally.” This would seem to mean “each year,” when, in fact, it may mean that a year must have elapsed before it will cover you again. Also, while a hospital may be a PPO for your plan, not all departments in that hospital are PPO providers. Hospitals contract out much of their emergency room, technical and lab work to other groups that may not be PPO providers for your plan, and you will pay more for their services.• ID CARDS. New plan identification cards show-ing your enrollment are issued by the health plan. If you do not change to another plan or option during Open Season, you don’t necessarily get a new ID card from the plan.

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Dental and Vision Insurance Pro-gram (FEDVIP). BENEFEDS in-cludes a secure website and a call center. BENEFEDS also handles billing and premium administra-tion. It’s the only place to enroll in a FEDVIP plan. You enroll se-curely online at www.BENEFEDS.com or by telephone at 1-877-888-3337, TTY 1-877-889-5680.

Your personal information is safe in the BENEFEDS system. The BENEFEDS.com website employs a number of security fea-tures such as password lockouts after three consecutive incorrect attempts, session time-outs to protect unattended machines and encryption to ensure your infor-mation is kept private.

Is it possible to make a serious mistake in choosing an FEHB plan?

All FEHB plans are good. All cover hospital and physician care, prescriptions, outpatient diagnos-tic lab tests, treatment of mental illness, home health care, routine mammograms for women over age 35, routine prostate cancer tests for men over age 40 and smoking cessation programs. Some also cover special benefits such as acupuncture and dental care. In addition, many health maintenance organizations (HMOs) provide more compre-hensive preventive care.

Generally, you can make a seri-ous mistake only if you enroll in:

a costly plan or option when you don’t need one; a plan that doesn’t cover a specific benefit that you need; Self Only coverage when you need additional coverage or vice versa; or you enroll in a plan that requires you to use preferred providers and there are none in your area. Or, if you live outside the United States and Puerto Rico, and do not enroll in a plan that offers “overseas” benefits.—FEDERAL BENEFITS INSTITUTE

DON’T MISS THE DECEMBER ISSUE!

• Specific Plan Changes* Prescription Drug Guide• Dental & Vision Plan Premiums

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HAPPY TEETH. HAPPY LIFE.Affordable GEBA Dental PlansOPEN ENROLLMENT: NOV 13-DEC 18

NOW AVAILABLE to all federal employees,

retirees and their families.

GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES’ BENEFIT ASSOCIATION

GEBA.com | 800-826-1126

For 60 years, GEBA (Government Employees’ Benefit Association) has offered affordable, high-quality insurance from financially strong companies. Although we are not participants of the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program, our plans are open to ALL federal employees, retirees and their families. Visit GEBA.com to learn more about what we can do for you.

GEBADentalAd_HalfPgNonBld_NARFE9_25.indd 1 9/25/17 2:28 PM54 | N OV 2 0 17

Good health happens together. Visit uhcfeds.com to learn more.

Real Appeal is a voluntary weight loss program that is offered to eligible participants as part of their benefit plan. The information provided under this program is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be nor should be construed as medical and/or nutritional advice. Participants should consult an appropriate health care professional to determine what may be right for them. Any items/tools that are provided may be taxable and participants should consult an appropriate tax professional to determine any tax obligations they may have from receiving items/tools under the program. Virtual visits are not an insurance product, health care provider or a health plan. Unless otherwise required, benefits are available only when services are delivered through a Designated Virtual Network Provider. Virtual visits are not intended to address emergency or life-threatening medical conditions and should not be used in those circumstances. Services may not be available at all times or in all locations. Insurance coverage provided by or through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or its affiliates. Administrative services provided by United HealthCare Services, Inc. or their affiliates. Health Plan coverage provided by or through a UnitedHealthcare company. 17-5783 MT-1070327.1 9/17 ©2017 United HealthCare Services, Inc.

24/7 online access to a doctor can help ease the pain.Switch to a health plan that provides access to care anywhere. UnitedHealthcare health plans for federal employees include benefits that help you stay healthier. Like our Real Appeal® personalized weight loss program. And Virtual Visits, which provides 24/7 online access to a doctor.

The average premium increase for the Fed-eral Employees Dental

and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) will be 1.20 percent for dental and 0.48 percent for vision in 2017, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) announced October 4. FEDVIP is separate and different from the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program.

OPM has contracted with 12 insurance carriers to provide comprehensive coverage under 14 different plans.

DENTAL INSURANCEThere are 10 dental plans:

• Aetna Life Insurance Company• Delta Dental Services• Dominion Dental• FEP BlueDental

(Blue Cross Blue Shield)• Humana• Government Employees

Health Association, Inc. (GEHA)

• EmblemHealth, Inc.• MetLife, Inc.• Triple-S Salud• United Concordia

Companies, Inc.Dental plans will provide a

comprehensive range of services, including the following:

• Class A (Basic) services, which include oral examinations, pro-phylaxis, diagnostic evaluations, sealants and X-rays.

• Class B (Intermediate) ser-vices, which include restorative procedures such as fillings, pre-fabricated stainless steel crowns, periodontal scaling, tooth extrac-tions and denture adjustments.

• Class C (Major) services, which include endodontic services such as root canals, periodontal services such as gingivectomy,

major restorative services such as crowns, oral surgery, bridges and prosthodontic services such as complete dentures.

• Class D (Orthodontic) services with a 12-month waiting period.

Please review the dental plans’ benefits material for detailed in-formation on the benefits covered, cost-sharing requirements and provider directories.

VISION INSURANCEThere are four vision plans:

• Aetna Life Insurance Company• FEP BlueVision

(Blue Cross Blue Shield)• United Healthcare Vision Plan• Vision Service Plan (VSP)Vision plans will provide com-

prehensive eye examinations and coverage for lenses, frames and contact lenses (in lieu of eye-glasses). There are no deductibles or waiting periods. Other benefits such as discounts on LASIK sur-gery also may be available.

You must review the vision plans’ benefits material for de-tailed information on the benefits covered, cost-sharing require-ments and provider directories.

PREMIUMSPremiums will vary by plan and by enrollment type.

Premiums for the dental plans are based on home ZIP codes. (For most dental plans, there are five “rating areas” for each carrier. The rating areas for each carrier are not the same for all plans. See the specific plan bro-chure or call the plan’s customer service number to determine your region and premium.)

There is no government contri-bution to FEDVIP premiums.

If you are a federal employee, your premiums will be taken from

your salary on a pretax basis when your salary is sufficient to make the premium withholding.

If you are an annuitant, premi-ums will be withheld from your monthly annuity check when your annuity is sufficient. Based on the Internal Revenue Code, pretax premiums are not avail-able for annuitants.

For information on each plan’s premiums, visit www.opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/dental-vision/plan-information.

FEDVIP FAST FACTSEligibility. Federal and U.S. Postal Service employees eligible for the FEHB or the Health In-surance Marketplace (Exchange), unless excluded by law or regu-lation, are eligible to enroll in FEDVIP. Annuitants are eligible regardless of FEHB or Health Insurance Marketplace eligibility.

Enrollment options. The following options are available:

• Self Only. Covers only the en-rolled employee or annuitant;

• Self Plus One. Covers the enrolled employee or annuitant plus one eligible family member specified by the enrollee; and

• Self and Family. Covers the enrolled employee or annuitant and all eligible family members.

Eligible family members. Eligible family members include your spouse, unmarried depen-dent children under age 22, and unmarried dependent children age 22 or over incapable of self-support because of a mental or physical disability that existed before age 22.

The Affordable Care Act does not mandate coverage under dental and vision plans for dependents up to age 26, as it does for health insurance.

FEDVIP PREMIUMS

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This Open Season, protect your smile with Delta Dental’s Federal Employees Dental Program. Enjoy the flexibility of two plans to meet your needs. With both plan choices, 100% of your costs are covered for routine services like exams and cleanings when you see one of our FEDVIP network dentists. We make it easy to take care of your oral health with great benefits, affordable rates, and a large network of dentists nationwide.

Discover what’s new for 2018 in Delta Dental’s

Federal Employees Dental Program. Visit deltadentalins.com/fedvip.

Copyright © 2017 Delta Dental. All rights reserved.

FEDP #106793 (rev. 7/17)

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This Open Season, protect your smile with Delta Dental’s Federal Employees Dental Program. Enjoy the flexibility of two plans to meet your needs. With both plan choices, 100% of your costs are covered for routine services like exams and cleanings when you see one of our FEDVIP network dentists. We make it easy to take care of your oral health with great benefits, affordable rates, and a large network of dentists nationwide.

Discover what’s new for 2018 in Delta Dental’s

Federal Employees Dental Program. Visit deltadentalins.com/fedvip.

Copyright © 2017 Delta Dental. All rights reserved.

FEDP #106793 (rev. 7/17)

Active and Retired Federal Employees ... Join NARFE Today!The only organization dedicated solely to protecting and preserving the benefits of all federal workers and retirees, NARFE informs you of any developments and proposals that affect your compensation, retirement and health benefits, AND provides clear answers to your questions.

If your future security is tied to federal retirement benefits – federal retirees, current employees, spouses and individual survivors – you should join NARFE.

NARFE MEMBER BENEFITS• Get monthly issues of narfe magazine with news and insights for the federal community. • Access the NARFE Federal Benefits Institute for powerful resources to help you fully understand and manage your benefits. • Visit the Legislative Action Center to contact your representatives about bills affecting federal benefits. • Visit the Member Perks page for a full listing of the many time-, money- and hassle-saving benefits available only to NARFE members.• The opportunity to get involved at the local level by joining a chapter in your area.

q YES. I want to join NARFE for the low annual dues of $40. q Mr. q Mrs. q Miss q Ms.

____________________________________________________Full Name

____________________________________________________Street Address

____________________________________________________Apt./Unit

____________________________________________________City State ZIP

____________________________________________________Phone

____________________________________________________Email

I am a (check all that apply) q Active Federal Employee q Active Federal Employee Spouse

q Annuitant q Annuitant Spouse q Survivor Annuitant

q Please enroll my spouse

_______________________________________________Spouse’s Full Name

_______________________________________________Spouse’s Email

PAYMENT OPTIONSq Check, Money Order or Bill Pay (Payable to NARFE)q Bill me (NARFE membership will start when payment is received.)q Charge my:

q MasterCard q VISA q Discover q AMEX

_________________________________________________Card No.

Expiration Date _____ /________ mm yyyy

_________________________________________________Name on Card_________________________________________________Signature_________________________________________________Date

TOTAL DUES$40 Annual Dues X ___________ = ___________Per Person # Enrolling Total Dues

Dues payments are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes.

MAY WE THANK SOMEONE? If applicable, please provide the name, membership and chapter number of the member who introduced you to NARFE:

_________________________________________________Recruiter’s Name

_________________________________________________Recruiter’s Membership ID

_________________________________________________Recruiter’s Chapter Number

NARFE MEMBERSHIP APPLIC ATION

Who Should Join the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association?

1Q6

THREE EASY WAYS TO JOIN1. Complete this application and mail with your payment to NARFE / Member Records / 606 N. Washington St. / Alexandria, VA 22314-1914

2. Join online at www.narfe.org.3. Call 800-627-3394, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET.

NARFE respects the privacy of our members. Personal information is used to provide content and relevant communications to our members, and will not be sold or rented to third parties without your express permission.

Looking to meet others in the federal community and participate in NARFE at a local level? Call 800-627-3394 to learn about a NARFE chapter in your area.

Or, if known, add Chapter # to join now ________________

Mr. Mrs. Miss Ms.

Full Name ______________________________________

Street Address __________________________________

Apt./Unit _______________________________________

City _________________________ State _____ ZIP _____

Phone (__________) ______________________________

Email __________________________________________

Date of Birth _________ /_________ / ____________________ dd mm yyyy

NARFE MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION

NARFE Membership ID ____________________________________

NARFE Chapter # (If applicable) _______________________________

YES. I Also Authorize My (NARFE Member) Spouse’s Dues To Be Withheld From My Annuity. (Additional annual dues of $34 and, if applicable, chapter dues to be withheld annually.)

If YES, enter spouse’s information below.

Spouse’s Name ___________________________________________

________________________________________________________

Spouse’s Membership ID ___________________________________

MAIL THIS FORM TO: NARFE, ATTN: Member Records, 606 N. Washington St., Alexandria, VA 22314-1914www.narfe.org 800-627-3394 [email protected]

NARFE Dues Withholding Application for Retirees

NARFE’s Dues Withholding Program

AUTHORIZATION (Withholding will begin in 60-90 days). No payment should be forwarded with application.I authorize the United States Office of Personnel Management to make appropriate deductions from my annuity payments, not to exceed the amount certified by the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association as the amount of dues for which I am annually obligated, in accordance with elections I made above, and to pay the deducted sum to the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE). This authorization shall also apply to any and all dues changes certified by NARFE membership in accordance with elections I made above: Please allow 60-90 days for processing.I understand that this authorization shall be valid until NARFE receives and processes my written notice of cancellation in accor-dance with its agreement with the Office of Personnel Management and that any disputes regarding this authorization shall be a matter between NARFE and myself. I hold the Office of Personnel Management harmless for any erroneous allotment deduction made pursuant to this authorization.

___________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________ Signature of Annuitant or Survivor-Annuitant Date

Dues payments and gifts or contributions to NARFE are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes.

What is dues withholding?It is a dues-payment method that gives NARFE members (retirees) the option of having their annual NARFE membership dues deducted from their annuities on a monthly basis.

Advantages• Save 15% off your annual NARFE dues! • Sign up your spouse and double your savings!• You’ll never get another dues reminder from us!• Your monthly payment is affordable and convenient!• You may cancel your dues withholding at any time!

How does it work?One-twelfth of your total dues is automatically deducted from your monthly annuity. Your monthly deduction is determined by the following formula:

(NARFE dues ÷ 12) + (Chapter dues - if applicable ÷ 12) = Total Monthly Deduction

How do I sign up?It takes 60-90 days to process your application. Once the pro-cess is complete, you will receive a special membership card distinguishing you as a NARFE dues-withholding member.

To learn more about dues withholding, call 800-627-3394. Retirees, spouses of retirees and annuitant survivors are eligible for dues withholding.

YES. I want to enroll in NARFE’s Dues Withholding Program (Annual NARFE dues of $34 and, if applicable, Chapter dues of record to be withheld annually.)

– –Social Security Number (9-digit number)

C S (Include prefix, CSA or CSF)

(Include any applicable suffix)

– – –

Civil Service Annuity Number

Do not send money with this form DW-2 (11/16)

FEDcon18 in Jacksonville, Florida,

sets the stage for a one-of-a-kind forum

celebrating the dedication of America’s

civil servants.

Get ready for a fast-paced, two and

one-half days of thought-provoking

speakers, leadership training, intensive

benefit education and the opportunity to

engage and connect with your federal

colleagues.

• All Feds who want to maximize the value of their benefits and annuity and avoid post-retirement financial pitfalls

• Any Fed anxious about legislation and policies that will derail their retirement

• All Feds, spouses and survivors who want to safeguard their financial future

• NARFE leaders engaged in chapter development and governance

• Federal HR and benefits specialists who want to advance their expertise to better serve their colleagues

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

NARFE’S PREMIER CONFERENCE

LEARN FROM THE BEST AT FEDcon18 – the premier training conference for the federal community where NARFE experts deliver:

• Practical, easy-to-understand knowledge to ensure that you capitalize on your federal benefits and leave nothing on the table at retirement and beyond

• A close inspection of legislation and policies threatening the security of current and retired Feds – and what you can do

• Best practices and leadership development to enhance the federal community’s contribution at the local level

AUGUST 26-28, 2018 • JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA

NARFE, the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association, provides legislative advocacy to protect and preserve the earned pay, retirement and benefits of federal employees, retirees and their survivors. NARFE provides expert education on and assistance with benefits for all members of the organization.

SIGN UP for updates at www.narfe.org/FEDcon18

ALL

NEW!

HYATT REGENCY JACKSONVILLE RIVERFRONT

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