May 2019 NARFE Magazine

MAY

’19

COVER STORY

Volume 95 • Number 5

PART-TIME WORK AFTER

RETIREMENT LEGISLATIVE TRAINING CONFERENCE COVERAGE

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’19

WASHINGTON WATCH

6

Legislation Introduced to Provide Seniors With Accurate COLAs

7

Connolly Reintroduces the Equal COLA Act

8

Paid Family Leave Bill Introduced

9

Congressional District Leaders: Expectations and Responsibilities

10

Cabaniss Nominated to Be Next OPM Director

12 Bill Tracker

24

32

COLUMNS

COVER STORY PART-TIME WORK AFTER RETIREMENT: Whether you’re looking for a little extra income or just hungry for a change of pace, these part-time opportunities are great for retirees.

LEGISLATIVE TRAINING CONFERENCE: NARFE members learned the importance of telling their stories in fighting cuts to pay and benefits.

4

From the President

40 Managing Money DEPARTMENTS

16

Questions & Answers

42 For the Record 44 NARFE News 46 Member Perks 48 The Way We Worked MAY

’19

On the Web VISIT US ONLINE AT:

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PART-TIME WORK AFTER

RETIREMENT LEGISLATIVE TRAINING CONFERENCE COVERAGE

ON THE C OVER Illustration by GRAPHEK

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MAY 2019 | Volume 95 | Number 5

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Helen Mosher COMMUNICATIONS ASSISTANT Precious Dorch-Robinson GRAPHIC DESIGN GRAPHEK Beth Bedard EDITORIAL BOARD Kenneth J. Thomas, Kathryn E. Hensley, Barbara Sido EDITORIAL OFFICE: NARFE Magazine 606 North Washington St. Alexandria, VA 22314-1914 Phone: 703-838-7760 Fax: 703-838-7781 Email: communications@narfe.org ADVERTISING SALES: Warren Berger Media People Inc. 122 East 42nd St., Suite 1622 New York, NY 10168 Phone: 212-779-7172, ext. 223 Email: wberger@mediapeople.com NARFE FOR THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED ON THE TELEPHONE: This publication can be heard on the telephone by persons who have trouble seeing or reading the print edition. For more information, contact the National Federation of the Blind NFB-NEWSLINE® service at 866-504-7300 or go to www.nfbnewsline.org.

ON DIGITAL AUDIO: Issues of NARFE Magazine are also available in audio format through the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS).

For availability, call 202-727-2142 or your local NLS service provider.

The Association, since July 1970, has been classified by the IRS as a tax-exempt labor organization [not a union]; however, dues and gifts or contributions to the Association are not deductible as charitable contributions for income tax purposes.

National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association NATIONAL OFFICERS KENNETH J. THOMAS, President; natpres@narfe.org KATHRYN E. HENSLEY, Secretary/Treasurer; natsectreas@narfe.org EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR BARBARA SIDO, execdir@narfe.org

REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENTS

REGION I James C. Risner (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont) TEL: 207-540-6233 EMAIL: rvp1@narfe.org REGION II Kathleen Adams (Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey and Pennsylvania) TEL: 302-697-6650. CELL: 302-561-5660 EMAIL: adamskhawaii@aol.com REGION III Clarence Robinson (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina, Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands) CELL: 404-312-8028 EMAIL: crobin8145@att.net

REGION VI Marshall L. Richards (Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Republic of Panama and Texas) TEL: 903-660-2784 EMAIL: pappysdad@cobridge.tv REGION VII Rodney L. Adelman (Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming) TEL: 623-505-4719 EMAIL: narfe7vp@cox.net REGION VIII Helen L. Zajac (California, Guam, Hawaii, Nevada and Republic of Philippines) TEL: 707-644-7565 EMAIL: HLZajac125@gmail.com

REGION IV Robert L. Helfrich (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin) TEL: 317-501-1700 EMAIL: rvp4@narfe.org

REGION IX Richard Wilson (Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington) TEL: 253-210-5609, CELL: 425-736-6899 EMAIL: narfe1404@comcast.net

REGION V Cindy Reneé Blythe (Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota) TEL: 785-256-1450 EMAIL: mrsdocbusyb@yahoo.com

REGION X William Shackelford (Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia) TEL: 703-830-6590, CELL: 703-201-6304 EMAIL: wshack1951@aol.com

HERE’S HOW TO CONTACT US… TO JOIN NARFE, RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP OR FIND A LOCAL CHAPTER:

CALL (TOLL-FREE) 800-456-8410 OR GO TO www.narfe.org TO CHANGE YOUR ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER OR EMAIL LISTING:

CALL (TOLL-FREE) 800-456-8410 EMAIL memberrecords@narfe.org OR GO TO www.narfe.org, log in and click on “Update My Record”

TO REACH A FEDERAL BENEFITS SPECIALIST:

EMAIL fedbenefits@narfe.org NARFE HEADQUARTERS

606 N. Washington St. Alexandria, VA 22314 703-838-7760 Hours of operation: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. ET

www.narfe.org

narfe (ISSN 1948-4453) is published monthly by the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE), 606 N. Washington St., Alexandria, VA 22314. Periodicals postage paid at Alexandria, VA, and additional mailing offices. Members: Annual dues includes subscription. Nonmember subscription rate $40. Postmaster: Send address change to: NARFE Attn: Member Records, 606 N. Washington St., Alexandria, VA 22314. To ensure prompt delivery, members should also forward changes of address without delay. Because of the volume involved, NARFE cannot acknowledge nor be responsible for unsolicited pictures and manuscripts, although every reasonable precaution is taken. All submissions become the property of NARFE. Copyright © 2019, NARFE. Advertisements in the magazine are not endorsements of products and/or services by NARFE, unless officially stated in the ad. We shall accept advertising on the same basis as other reputable publications: that is, we shall not knowingly permit a dishonest advertisement to appear in NARFE Magazine, but at the same time we will not undertake to guarantee the reliability of our advertisers.

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From the President

REMAIN VIGILANT

A

s NARFE celebrates its 98th year, we are reminded that our initial membership of fourteen

grew to nearly half a million members by 1982.

Today we are 200,000 proud but concerned members—proud of what NARFE has accomplished, but concerned about what may happen next. In the coming weeks, Congress and the White House will be looking for ways to cut spending. Proposals to reduce the pay and benefits of federal employees and retirees are sure to be on the table.

Congress will continue to view federal government employees and annuitants as “lowhanging fruit”—the first fruit to be picked.

NARFE members are coming to understand that our benefits are in jeopardy, and they are willing to join in the fight to protect them. We will need every NARFE member to be involved in this fight.

Enter LEGcon19, NARFE’s valuable legislative training tool for protecting our earned benefits. The conference was outstanding. Most gratifying was the fact that nearly 60 percent of the attendees were at their

first legislative conference eager to learn how to best represent the association before their congressional delegations. Other attendees were veterans with years of congressional contacts.

NARFE members were honored to have a number of members of Congress appear and speak at the conference, either during the formal legislative training sessions or at the reception in the Rayburn House Office Building.

NARFE members visited with their legislators and staff on Capitol Hill. Several members reported that their elected officials said they would like to hear more from their NARFE constituents about their personal stories and their work with the federal government.

But grassroots communication cannot wait for the next NARFE legislative training conference; it must be an ongoing conversation.

We know that we must remain vigilant.

Please make a resolution to help promote NARFE’s legislative agenda at the grassroots level and recruit new members. Numbers give us more clout on Capitol Hill, and we know we will have to wield that clout in the year ahead.

NARFE’s Mission Statement To support legislation and regulations beneficial to federal civilian employees and annuitants and potential annuitants under any federal civilian retirement system and to oppose those detrimental to their interests.

To promote the general welfare of federal civilian employees and annuitants and potential annuitants, to advise and assist them with respect to their rights under retirement, health and other employee and retiree benefits laws and regulations, and to represent their interests before appropriate authorities.

To cooperate with other organizations and associations in furtherance of these general objectives.

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KENNETH J. THOMAS NARFE NATIONAL PRESIDENT natpres@narfe.org

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Washington Watch

LEGISLATION INTRODUCED TO PROVIDE SENIORS WITH ACCURATE COLAS

H

istorically, cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) fail to keep abreast of inflation incurred by America’s senior citizens living on fixed incomes, who need to stretch

every dollar to maintain their financial peace of mind and quality of life throughout retirement. Seniors deserve better than to have to watch as their hard-earned retirement security erodes little by little every year because COLAs don’t keep up with their increasing expenses.

COLAs to retiree benefits are calculated using the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W), which was the only price index available when Congress first made COLAs automatic in 1972. This index measures inflation based on the spending habits of younger workers, which is insufficient for the use of calculating COLAs for seniors’ retiree benefits. Seniors rely more heavily on medical care than does the general population, pricing of which increases more rapidly than price increases of other consumer goods. As a result, the CPI-W underemphasizes seniors’ disproportionate spending on

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medical care, and therefore does not fully account for the inflation they experience.

Seniors continue to see financial declines and losses in purchasing power year after year caused by rising consumer prices. To mend this, Rep. John Garamendi, D-CA, introduced the Fair COLA for Seniors Act, H.R. 1553, legislation necessary ACTION ALERT!

to provide seniors with COLAs based on the way retirees age 62 and over spend their money, rather than the spending habits of the general working population.

Congress should not stand by while millions of older Americans, including public servants and veterans, are shortchanged of their hard-earned financial security.

H.R. 1553 would end the antiquated practice of calculating annual COLAs for federal and military annuities, Social Security benefits and veterans’ benefits using the CPI-W. Instead, the bill would require a switch to the Consumer Price Index for the Elderly (CPI-E), which more accurately measures rising costs of consumer goods experienced by seniors. A recent

MAY

Want to learn more about how to become a liaison between your legislator and NARFE members in your congressional district or state? Check out the “Federation Leader, Congressional District Leader and Senatorial Leader Guide,” now available on NARFE’s Advocacy webpage.

Government Accountability Office (GAO) report confirmed that after a switch to the CPI‑E, over an extended period, beneficiaries of federal retirement programs would see substantial differences in their total retirement income due to the accumulation of incremental annual increases.

NARFE applauds Congressman Garamendi for taking the lead with this new bill and will continue to advocate alongside the Congressman to push it through the legislative process. As a part of our network of grassroots advocates, it also falls upon you to motivate your legislators into action, so please

reach out to their offices and urge them to become a cosponsor. If Congress fails to act on this bill, seniors will continue to receive inadequate retirement COLAs that don’t properly account for the effects of inflation on the elderly, causing annual decreases in earned benefits.

— BY SAMUEL BARTELS, ADVOCACY ASSISTANT

CONNOLLY REINTRODUCES THE EQUAL COLA ACT

N

ARFE worked with Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-VA, to reintroduce the Equal COLA Act, H.R. 1254, aimed at providing full cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) to Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) retirees.

Pursuant to flawed federal law dating back to the origin of FERS in the 1980s, FERS COLAs are unfairly capped at 2 percent when consumer prices increase between 2 and 3 percent, and are reduced by 1 percent when consumer prices increase by 3 percent or more.

In January, nearly 800,000 FERS retirees felt the sting of this law when their 2019 COLAs were limited at 2 percent while the relevant measure of consumer prices increased by 2.8 percent, and Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) retirees and Social Security beneficiaries received the largest COLA since 2012.

Inadequate and inaccurate COLAs fail to sufficiently protect earned FERS annuities from the erosion of inflation. COLAs should be based on the actual

measure of consumer prices and not arbitrarily constrained to the detriment of public servants.

Unless something is finally done, FERS retirees will continue to see their earned annuities decrease in value year after year and will fall further and further behind as inflation rises, exactly what COLAs are designed to prevent.

Federal retirees aren’t asking to be made better off each year; they simply don’t want to watch what they have spent a whole career earning dissolve before their eyes. Federal law should recognize the value of the federal workforce and preserve what federal retirees rightfully earned through their public service.

Please contact your representatives in Congress to support Connolly’s common sense legislation to finally rectify inequitable FERS COLA calculations by creating parity between the FERS COLA and CSRS and Social Security COLAs. It is past time for Congress to ensure FERS retirees receive a full COLA each year.

MYTH vs.

REALITY Myth: Reducing and eliminating cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) for federal annuities would only have a minor impact on the retirement security of federal retirees.

Reality: Eliminating COLAs for current and future Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) retirees would cost the typical FERS retiree nearly $250,000 over a 30-year retirement. Reducing COLAs for the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) retirees by 0.5 percent from what it would have been otherwise would cost the typical CSRS retiree nearly $170,000 in that same span.

Overall, these proposals, part of President Trump’s FY20 budget, would cost federal retirees $56 billion over 10 years.

— BY SAMUEL BARTELS, ADVOCACY ASSISTANT W W W. N A R F E . O R G

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Washington Watch

PAID FAMILY LEAVE BILL INTRODUCED

T

he Federal Employee Paid Leave Act, H.R. 1534, introduced by Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-NY, would provide federal employees with 12 weeks of paid family leave for the birth, adoption or foster placement of a child; to recover from a serious health condition or provide care to a family member suffering from a serious health condition; and for specific urgent needs that are the result of a family member’s placement on covered active military duty.

NARFE National President Ken Thomas joined Rep. Maloney for a press conference on Capitol Hill in support of the new legislation, stating “Paid family leave policies have been shown to enhance the recruitment and retention of young professionals, reduce turnover costs significantly and improve employee morale, all of which are challenges facing the federal government.” Thomas urged Congress to swiftly pass the legislation.

As NARFE members are all too familiar, civil servants are only entitled to 12 weeks of unpaid time off under the Family and Medical Leave Act. A 2015 presidential memorandum allows federal employees to advance six weeks of sick leave in connection with the birth or adoption of a child. However, the leave must be paid back, causing the employees who choose to use the advance to lose future accruals of sick leave.

Rep. Maloney’s bill would correct the federal government’s outdated policy, where employees do not receive a single day of

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paid parental leave after the birth or adoption of a child.

Federal employees should not be forced to forgo paychecks to welcome a new child into the family, recover from a serious health condition or to provide care for a seriously ill family member.

All research points to the fact that paid parental leave would reduce prohibitive turnover costs and strengthen employee morale, both of which boost workforce productivity. With an aging federal workforce and a substantial retirement wave approaching, the federal government needs to take necessary measures to recruit the young professionals needed to perform critical civil service roles.

An analysis by the Institute for Women’s Policy Research found that the federal government could avoid $50 million per year in turnover costs and prevent the 2,650 departures per year among female employees. Additionally, according to the Congressional Budget Office, the legislation is not expected to increase federal deficits.

Private-sector employers already recognize the benefits of personnel policies that grant paid leave, and it is important that federal agencies’ ensure these benefits to compete.

According to the Society for Human Resource Management, the 20 largest private employers in the U.S. provide paid parental leave, with many of those companies citing the policy as an effective method of retaining talent. This commonsense

legislation would likely help to boost civil service employee morale and has been shown to increase productivity.

The Federal Employee Paid Leave Act represents an important step in the modernization of the federal workforce. In addition to providing important paid leave benefits to civil servants, the bill would help to attract and retain new and young talent and allow the civil service to better compete with the private sector for top talent.

— BY SETH ICKES, GRASSROOTS ASSISTANT

NARFE GRASSROOTS ADVOCACY Learn more about how you can take action to protect your earned pay and benefits by reviewing NARFE Grassroots materials at www.bitly.com/ NARFE-grassroots

CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT LEADERS: EXPECTATIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

N

ARFE Congressional District Leaders (CDLs) and Senatorial Leaders (SLs) serve as the liaison between a member of Congress’ office and the NARFE members within that congressional district.

Some federations have had a CDL structure for over a decade.

Others recently introduced CDLs to their federation structure, or are planning to do so in the near future. Still other federations do not currently have a CDL structure.

By dedicating one person to serve as the liaison between NARFE members and a congressional office, NARFE’s

grassroots efforts are streamlined, efficient, consistent and more professional in messaging. When surveyed, members of Congress and their staff consistently report that having one local point person on the ground is the most effective way to get views across and persuade members of Congress to take action. Building and maintaining relationships with congressional staff is critical to advancing NARFE’s priorities.

By creating a CDL/SL structure, a federation will streamline advocacy efforts and strengthen NARFE’s message on Capitol Hill.

By being more efficient in our advocacy efforts, NARFE will be

more effective in protecting and enhancing the earned pay and benefits of its members.

At LEGcon19’s Congressional District Leader Training, NARFE unveiled its “Federation Legislative Chair, Congressional District Leader and Senatorial Leader Guide.” The guide reviews CDL responsibilities, explains how to establish a CDL program, reviews best practices for CDLs and offers pointers on how to identify NARFE advocates. It also establishes central principles for all CDLs to follow and informs federation leaders without a CDL program how to create one.

(Continued on p. 10)

Contribute To NARFE-PAC I want to make a monthly sustainer credit card contribution:

OR

q $25/month

I want to make a one-time contribution: q $250 – Gold lapel pin and water bottle q $100 – Silver lapel pin

q $10/month q Other: ______/month ($10 minimum) Sustainers receive a Sustainer lapel pin and NARFE-PAC 17oz stainless steel thermal bottle that keeps liquids hot for 12 hours or cold for 24 hours.

q $50 – Bronze lapel pin q $25 – Basic lapel pin q Other: _________

q Please do not send any gifts for my contribution (This saves NARFE-PAC money!)

NARFE Member #: _________________________________________ Name: __________________________________________________ Address: ________________________________________________ City: _________________________________________________ State: ___________

ZIP: _______________

Only members of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association may contribute to NARFE-PAC. NARFE will neither favor nor disadvantage anyone based on the amount of a contribution or the failure to make a voluntary contribution to this political action fund. NARFE-PAC contributions are not deductible for federal income tax purposes.

q Charge my credit card (required for monthly contribution) q MasterCard

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yyyy

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Or mail check payable to NARFE-PAC to: NARFE Attn. Budget & Finance 606 North Washington St. | Alexandria, VA 22314 W W W. N A R F E . O R G

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Washington Watch

CABANISS NOMINATED TO BE NEXT OPM DIRECTOR

T

he White House announced the nomination of former Federal Labor Relations Authority (FLRA) Chairwoman Dale Cabaniss to a four-year term as director of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM).

Pending confirmation, Cabaniss would fill a position held by Acting Director Margaret Weichert since the departure of former director Jeffery Pon in October of 2018 Cabaniss previously served as counsel to the Senate Governmental Affairs Subcommittee on Post Office and Civil Service before her nomination to the FLRA

by President Bill Clinton.

Most recently, she worked as Republican Staff Director for the Senate Appropriations

Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government. Cabaniss’s extensive public service career will give her important insight into the most prominent issues and challenges that the federal workforce and its retirees face in the coming years.

Cabaniss would take the helm of the agency at a tumultuous time for the federal community. Last year, the administration announced its government reorganization plan, which includes a proposal to dismantle OPM by transferring its programmatic functions to a newly named Government Services Agency (GSA) and its personnel policy function to the Executive Office of the President.

Transferring the integral functions

(Continued from p. 9)

extenuating circumstances, if we are going to be effective on a grassroots level, federations must encourage participation in NARFE’s legislative training conference.

If you are a CDL, please review the “Federation Legislative Chair, Congressional District Leader and Senatorial Leader Guide” on NARFE’s Advocacy webpage.

NARFE appreciates the time and efforts of CDLs, and wants to ensure that those appointed to the role are fully aware of their responsibilities and able to fulfill them to the best of their ability.

If you have any questions about the responsibilities of an effective CDL, or would like to schedule a training, please contact the Advocacy Department at advocacy@narfe.org.

The Advocacy department was encouraged to see more than 140 attendees participate in the Congressional District Leader training conducted as an optional breakout session. Although the participation in this session was encouraging, there’s still more to be done to makes sure all CDLs are effectively delivering NARFE message to legislators and providing support for advocacy activities throughout their congressional districts and states.

One of the requirements outlined in this document is for CDLs to answer NARFE’s calls to action. LEGcon19 should be a feather in every CDL’s cap, but many CDLs did not take advantage of this opportunity to advocate during NARFE’s day on Capitol Hill. While we understand 10

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— MOLLY CHECKSFIELD, GRASSROOTS PROGRAM MANAGER

of OPM to GSA poses risks to those important programs, which provide health care and retirement benefits to more than 8 million people. Transferring OPM’s federal personnel policy functions to the Executive Office of the President could drag the career civil service into political strife. It is vital that we keep our professional, meritbased career civil service insulated from hiring and firing based on undue political influence.

NARFE President Ken Thomas stated in a release that NARFE “looks forward to a productive working relationship with Cabaniss and to ensure that the federal community is understood and respected throughout OPM, the White House and beyond.”

— BY SETH ICKES, GRASSROOTS ASSISTANT

LEGISLATIVE RESOURCES • Legislative Hotline: A weekly update of legislative news, compiled by the NARFE Advocacy Department staff, distributed via email and available by phone (tollfree) at 800-456-8410, option 4 and online at www.narfe.org.

• Legislative Action Center: A one-stop site to send a letter to Congress, and more, at www.narfe.org.

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FOR THE 116th CONGRESS (2019-2020)

Features:

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• Complete listings of committees, subcommittees and leadership.

• Contact information for the White House, Cabinet, Supreme Court and federal agencies.

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Name___________________________________________________________________ Address _________________________________________________________________ City _________________________________________ State ______ ZIP____________ Member ID# (as it appears on narfe magazine label) _____________________________

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Expected delivery late April 2019.

Call NARFE’s Advocacy Department at 800-456-8410, option 3, to order by phone.

Washington Watch

narfe bill tracker THE NARFE BILL TRACKER IS YOUR MONTHLY GUIDE TO THE CONGRESSIONAL LEGISLATION THAT NARFE IS FOLLOWING. CHECK BACK EACH ISSUE FOR UPDATES. ISSUE

BILL NUMBER / NAME / SPONSOR H.Res. 23: Rep. Susan Davis, D-CA Cosponsors: 91 (D) 25 (R)

H.Res. 33: Rep. Stephen Lynch, D-MA POSTAL REFORM

Cosponsors: 175 (D) 29 (R)

H.Res. 54: Rep. Gerald Connolly, D-VA Cosponsors: 132 (D) 45 (R)

H.Res. 60: Rep. David McKinley, R-WV Cosponsors: 100 (D) 18 (R)

H.R. 1254: The Equal COLA Act / Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-VA Cosponsors: 3 (D) 1 (R)

FEDERAL ANNUITIES

H.R. 1553: Fair COLA for Seniors Act of 2019 / Rep. John Garamendi, D-CA Cosponsors: 22 (D) 1 (R)

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WHAT BILL WOULD DO

LATEST ACTION(S)

Expresses the sense of the Referred to the House House that the United States Committee on Oversight and Reform Postal Service should take all appropriate measures to ensure the continuation of door delivery for all business and residential customers.

Expresses the sense of the House that Congress should take all appropriate measures to ensure that the United States Postal Service remains an independent establishment of the federal government and is not subject to privatization.

Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Reform

Expresses the sense of the House that the United States Postal Service should take all appropriate measures to ensure the continuation of its six-day mail delivery service.

Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Reform

Expresses the sense of the House that the United States Postal Service should take all appropriate measures to restore service standards in effect as of July 1, 2012.

Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Reform

Provide Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) retirees with the same annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) as Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) employees.

Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Reform

Requires Social Security and federal retirement programs to use the Consumer Price Index for the Elderly (CPI-E) to calculate cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) to retirement benefits.

Referred to the House Committees on Ways and Means, Veterans’ Affairs, Oversight and Reform, and Armed Services

NARFE’s Position:

Oppose

Support

No position

EDITOR’S NOTE: These bills are all listed online at www.narfe.org/legislation/votervoice.cfm.

ISSUE

FEDERAL COMPENSATION

BILL NUMBER / NAME / SPONSOR

Passed in the House of Representatives (H.R. 790) Referred to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs (S. 262)

Provides a 3.6 percent federal H.R. 1073/S. 426: Federal employee pay raise in calendar Adjustment of Income year 2020.

Rates (FAIR) Act / Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-VA / Sen. Brian Schatz, D-HI

Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Reform (H.R. 1073)

Cosponsors: H.R. 1073: 30 (D) 0 (R) S. 426: 13 (D) 0 (R)

Cosponsors: 22 (D) 2 (R)

H.R. 141/S. 521 Social Security Fairness Act of 2019 / Rep. Rodney Davis, R-IL / Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-OH Cosponsors: H.R. 141: 112 (D) 39 (R) S. 521: 8 (D) 3 (R) 2 (I) H.R. 51: Washington, D.C. Admission Act / Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton, D-DC

DC STATEHOOD

LATEST ACTION(S)

H.R. 790/S. 262: Federal Provides a 2.6 percent federal Civilian Workforce Pay employee pay raise in 2019.

Raise Fairness Act of 2019 / Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-VA / Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-MD Cosponsors: H.R. 790: 26 (D) 0 (R) S. 262: 18 (D) 1 (R) 1 (I)

H.R. 1534: Federal Employee Paid Leave Act of 2019 / Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-NY

GPO/WEP

WHAT BILL WOULD DO

Referred to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs (S. 426)

Provides federal employees with 12 weeks of paid leave in connection with the birth, adoption, or foster placement of a child and other medical conditions.

Referred to the House Committees on Oversight and Reform, and House Administration

Repeals both the Government Pension Offset (GPO) and the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP).

Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means (H.R. 141) Referred to the Senate Committee on Finance (S. 526)

Would provide for the admission Referred to the House of the State of Washington, D.C. Committees on Overinto the Union. sight and Reform, and Rules

Cosponsors: 201 (D) 0 (R)

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Questions & Answers

The following Questions & Answers were compiled by NARFE’s Federal Benefits Institute staff.

NARFE does not provide legal, financial planning or tax advice or assistance.

EMPLOYEES DISABILITY RETIREMENT VERSUS REGULAR RETIREMENT

Q A

If I’m eligible for both disability retirement and an age-based retirement, which would be better for me? Can the agency force me to take one versus the other?

The agency cannot force FERS DISABILITY RETIREMENT you to take any type of COMPUTATION (CASE A) retirement from federal

service. If you have a choice to take one type versus another type, then you should ask your agency retirement office to run estimates for both types so you can decide which one will be best for you.

There are many factors to consider when you have a choice among multiple types of retirement options, and you shouldn’t make a decision lightly. You will need additional information from your agency retirement office and a clear explanation of how your benefits (including potential survivor benefits) are affected by your final decision.

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Q A

If I retire with a FERS disability at age 57 with 20 years of FERS service, how is my annuity computed?

Since you are not eligible for a regular unreduced retirement immediately payable upon separation at age 57 with 20 years of FERS service, then your FERS disability retirement qualifies you to receive 60 percent of your high-three average salary for the first 12 months (offset by 100 percent of any Social Security disability you might receive).

Then starting the 13th month, you would receive 40 percent

of the same high-three average salary until you reach the age of 62 (offset by 60 percent of any Social Security disability you might receive).

At age 62, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) will no longer reduce your annuity by any benefits you might be receiving from Social Security and they will recalculate your annuity using the regular FERS formula as if you had been working since the date of your separation, to include the creditable service you had before the date of separation AND to include an adjustment to your high-three average salary based on the FERS COLAs received during the previous years of retirement. Since you would have over 20 years of service credit at age 62, OPM will use the regular FERS formula that includes the 1.1 percent factor in your case.

Using you as an example: at age 62, you will qualify for 27.5

percent of your adjusted highthree average salary for the rest of your life, including future COLAs on the annuity amount.

FERS DISABILITY RETIREMENT COMPUTATION (CASE B)

Q A

If I retire with a FERS disability retirement at age 57 with 30 years of FERS service, how is my annuity computed?

Since you are eligible for a regular unreduced retirement immediately payable upon separation at age 57 with 30 years of FERS service, if you applied for a disability retirement, you would only qualify for 30 percent of your high-three average salary, and your unused sick leave wouldn’t be used to give you additional service credit in the computation of your annuity, and you wouldn’t be eligible to receive the FERS retirement annuity supplement (RAS).

In cases like this, OPM encourages the agency retirement officer to counsel the employee on his or her option to retire with a regular age-based retirement.

The final decision to file for a disability retirement versus a regular age-based retirement is still up to the employee. But if the agency fails to properly counsel the employee, OPM will usually catch this and they will assist the individual when they process the disability retirement claim if OPM sees that a regular agebased retirement might yield a

higher annuity for the individual.

OPM also gives the agency a negative score if it finds out that the employee wasn’t provided with the proper counsel. If you apply for your regular age-based retirement, you could potentially receive more than 30 percent of your high-three average salary if you have a significant number of unused sick leave hours because your unused sick leave can be used to add additional service credit in the computation of this type of annuity. A regular agebased retirement like this also qualifies you for the FERS RAS, which could net you a significant amount of additional income from OPM until you reach your 62nd birthday.

Also, if you apply and get approved to receive Social Security disability retirement income, that income from Social Security will not impact your regular age-based annuity or the FERS RAS payable from OPM. Unless you are a special group employee (such as a law enforcement officer, firefighter, or air traffic controller), another small consideration for nonspecial group employees is that cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) are not applied to regular FERS annuities until after the retiree reaches the age of 62. And COLAs are never applied to the FERS RAS. However, the amount of the FERS RAS that’s potentially payable until the FERS retiree reaches the age of 62 will often outweigh the benefit of receiving

a small COLA to the FERS disability retirement earlier (without the FERS RAS). But it’s another small consideration when you are making a decision between applying for a disability retirement versus a regular agebased retirement under FERS.

RETIREES BASIS FOR REDUCTION TO CSRS OFFSET ANNUITY

Q

In the March issue of NARFE Magazine (pages 20 & 21), it stated that the reduction to the CSRS Offset retiree’s annuity is based on the amount of Social Security potentially payable at age 62 and not the larger amount that might be actually claimed at a later age. But when my wife retired as a CSRS Offset employee at age 66, OPM computed the reduction to her annuity based on the larger Social Security amount that was payable to her at that time. Was this a mistake?

A

If you take a closer look at the original question, you will see a slight difference between your wife and the individual who originally asked the question.

The individual who asked the question in March was a CSRS Offset retiree who separated for retirement before his 62nd birthday, so the offset—which is a fancy word for reduction—to his annuity won’t occur until he reaches his 62nd birthday.

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Questions & Answers

At that time, OPM will ask the Social Security Administration (SSA) for information about the Social Security amount payable, which will be the smallest amount payable to him since that will be his minimum retirement age (MRA) for Social Security.

Your wife retired as a CSRS Offset employee well beyond her 62nd birthday, so when OPM contacted the SSA during the adjudication of her retirement, they used the larger Social Security amount that was potentially payable to her at that time to compute the offset to her annuity.

When OPM computes the offset to an annuity, the offset is based on the Social Security amount potentially payable at age 62 if the CSRS Offset employee separates for retirement before the age of 62. But if the CSRS Offset employee separates for retirement after the age of 62, the offset is based on the Social Security amount potentially payable at the age of retirement from federal service.

You’ll notice that we keep repeating the words “potentially payable.” The reason for this is that if the CSRS Offset annuitant is younger than 70, he or she

might not necessarily want to claim a smaller Social Security benefit if they want to wait for a larger benefit later.

If you don’t draw Social Security benefits immediately upon becoming eligible, then the benefit you have earned for yourself based on your own work record will continue to grow up through age 70, when the benefit maxes out. But whether the CSRS Offset annuitant claims their SSA benefit or not, if the annuitant has 40 or more credits under Social Security, OPM still applies the offset to the annuity at age 62 or date of retirement, whichever is later.

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Questions & Answers

But like we said in the March issue of the magazine, if the CSRS Offset annuitant decides to wait and claim the larger SSA benefit later, OPM computes the offset once and that’s based on the smaller SSA benefit that was potentially payable earlier.

So in your wife’s case, even though OPM computes the offset based on the SSA benefit that was potentially payable to her at age 66, she could have waited until 70 to claim her maximum SSA benefit and OPM would not have increased her offset at that time.

The offset would continue to be based on the smaller SSA benefit that was potentially payable to her when she retired from federal service at the age of 66.

SOCIAL SECURITY IMPACT ON FEDERAL PENSIONS

Q A

What are some situations where Social Security might affect federal civil service pensions?

There are a few situations where eligibility for Social Security might affect some of your federal civil service pension benefits.

When an employee with CSRS Offset coverage retires from federal service, since they pay less into the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund (CSRDF) than regular CSRS employees, OPM applies an offset (i.e. reduction) to their annuity when the CSRS Offset retiree reaches the age of 62, or the offset is applied immediately upon the date of retirement if they retire after the age of 62. But if the CSRS Offset annuitant doesn’t have the

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40 credits necessary to qualify for Social Security, then OPM won’t apply the offset to their annuity unless they later obtain the necessary credits to qualify for a benefit from Social Security.

But if the CSRS Offset annuitant has the necessary credits to qualify for Social Security, OPM will apply the offset regardless of whether or not the annuitant decides to claim their Social Security benefit.

If a federal employee who obtained CSRS coverage prior to October 1, 1982, and spent enough years to be vested with a CSRS component in their civil service pension, has unpaid post1956 military deposit service upon separation from federal service, the unpaid military deposit service can be used in the computation of the CSRS component of their annuity until the retiree becomes eligible for Social Security. This is often referred to as the “catch-62 rule” and it only applies to folks who obtained CSRS coverage prior to October 1, 1982 and have unpaid military deposit service that falls under CSRS rules.

The reason why they call it the “catch-62 rule” is because if this annuitant has the necessary credits to qualify for Social Security at age 62 (or date of retirement from federal service, whichever is later), then OPM will remove the unpaid military deposit service from the computation of the federal civil service pension.

This is a “one-time look” by OPM. So if this individual isn’t eligible for Social Security at age 62 (or date of retirement from federal service, whichever

is later), the unpaid military deposit service will continue to be included in the computation of the annuity even if the annuitant later obtains the necessary credits to qualify for Social Security.

But if this specific type of employee expects that he or she will qualify for Social Security at the age of 62 (or date of retirement from federal service, whichever is later), then he or she might want to pay their military deposit before they separate from federal service if they want to receive service credit in the computation of their annuity for the military service for the rest of their life.

People under FERS usually don’t have to be concerned with Social Security ever affecting their FERS pensions unless they are receiving a FERS disability retirement before the age of 62 (as explained in the earlier example from the section of this month’s magazine). If a CSRS Offset employee ever transfers to FERS, then OPM will treat the CSRS Offset service as FERS and they will not apply an offset to the annuity as they do with CSRS Offset retirees.

But if someone has more than five years of civil service that is creditable under CSRS before electing to transfer to FERS, then they should be aware of the “catch-62 rule” that was previously described if he or she has any unpaid military deposit service that falls under the CSRS component of their annuity.

Some FERS employees who separate from federal service before the age of 62 will be eligible to receive a retirement annuity supplement (RAS) from

OPM in addition to their regular annuity payment each month.

The purpose of this RAS is to bridge the gap between the time that the FERS employee claims an immediate retirement (with the exception of disability and MRA+10 types of immediate retirement), but before they become eligible for Social Security. But whether the FERS retiree claims Social Security at age 62 or not, although the regular FERS annuity continues (unaffected by Social Security), the FERS RAS will cease to be paid by OPM when the FERS retiree reaches the age of 62.

TSP DISBURSAL TIMELINE

Q

How long does it take to receive a withdrawal from TSP?

Disbursements are processed daily. Generally, you should allow several weeks from the time you submit your completed withdrawal request and the time that payment is sent. The TSP will notify you in writing when your payment has been disbursed.

You can go to My Account under “Withdrawals,” or call the ThriftLine at 1-877-968-3778 and choose option 3 to speak with a service representative to find out the status of your request.

Your withdrawal could take longer under certain conditions, including: • Your agency or service delays reporting your separation from federal service; • You have an outstanding TSP loan; • A hold exists on the account, such as court-order hold; • You are trying to do a transfer or other split withdrawal; or • You submit forms that are not completed properly.

Note that withdrawal processing times vary: It can take less time than described above. If you want your withdrawal to take

W W W. N A R F E . O R G

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Questions & Answers

place next year, wait until then to submit your form. You cannot submit a withdrawal form and specify some future time for the disbursement to take place.

Can I leave my money in my TSP (Thrift Savings Plan) account when I leave federal service?

will no longer be able to make employee contributions. But, you transfer money into your TSP account from IRAs (although not from Roth IRAs) and eligible employer plans.

Your account will continue to accrue earnings, and you can continue to change the way your money is invested in the TSP investment funds by making interfund transfers.

Yes, you can leave your entire account balance in the TSP when you leave federal service if the balance is $200 or more. This will allow you to continue to enjoy tax-deferred earnings and low administrative expenses. Once you separate, you

To obtain an answer to a federal benefits question, NARFE members should call 800-456-8410 and select option 2 for the Federal Benefits Institute; send the question by postal mail to NARFE Headquarters, ATTN: Federal Benefits; or submit it by email to fedbenefits@ narfe.org.

TSP WHEN LEAVING FEDERAL SERVICE

Q A

NARFE at Your Service At NARFE headquarters, experts are available to answer questions and to assist in helping with a variety of benefit matters.

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Work After Retirement Want to continue working after you leave the civil service? Here are some jobs you can do periodically, a couple of days a week, or a few hours a day.

By Everett A. Chasen

Most federal retirees are in an enviable position. Whether they retired under the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) or the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), they have predictable and guaranteed pensions for the remainder of their lives, assuming no changes from Congress.

They can carry their health insurance into retirement. And they can elect to provide for their spouses after they die, although at reduced, but still significant, levels.

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Because of this, many federal employees simply retire when they decide they have had enough of their work environment; need to do so for health reasons; reach an age at which their pension benefit amounts no longer increase; receive a job offer they like from private industry; or simply want to spend more time with their families.

Once they retire, however, some federal retirees find they miss the work environment— even if their pension and savings are enough to allow them to live comfortably. Some miss lunching with their co-workers; enjoying dinner or drinks after work; or attending holiday parties—the social aspect of their jobs.

Others miss the mental challenges their jobs provided or find themselves unhappily sitting on the couch watching television. And still other federal retirees find a few extra dollars will allow them to take better vacation trips, dine at fancier restaurants, or be more generous with their gifts to their children and grandchildren.

Therefore, many federal retirees take part-time jobs after retirement. Working less than full days, two or three days a week, or only during busy seasons frees them from the demands of a full-time job and its limited vacation schedule.

Plus, they can keep their money in their Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) account, Social Security, and other accounts and investments longer— allowing their nest eggs to grow until the time they no longer can or want to work.

If a federal retiree is interested in part-time work after retirement, it is beneficial to know what is relevant and attainable. Whether a

“If a federal retiree is interested in part-time work after retirement, it is beneficial to know what is relevant and attainable.”

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person retired as a GS-3 or as a member of Senior Executive Service, here are some meaningful, fulfilling and fun job ideas to consider: Phased Retirement: Federal workers who already know they want to work part time before leaving their jobs can consider phased retirement.

This is an Office of Personnel Management (OPM) program encouraging employees to continue to work at their agencies on a part-time basis to mentor and train the people who will take over their work.

Program advantages include continuing to work with friends and co-workers on a limited basis; having the opportunity to pass on the skills and knowledge the federal employee has gained from a lifetime of experience; and earning additional CSRS or FERS retirement benefits based on the amount of time they are working.

Participation in the phased retirement program must be a mutual decision between the employee and the agency, and it is available only to those who meet certain criteria, such as age and years-of-service requirements. Employees who are subject to mandatory retirement, such as law enforcement officers, are excluded. The agency’s human resources office will provide additional information.

Substitute teaching: Whether or not federal employees have been teachers before, spending time in a classroom enables them to give back to their community in a meaningful way. They can work every day or just a few days per week during the school year. There is nothing more rewarding than regular interaction with young people to keep retirees on their toes—learning from them and their experiences as they learn from federal retirees.

“I like subbing because it’s satisfying, socializing and very flexible,” explains Christopher J. Scheer, a retired federal employee in Arlington, Virginia.

“I pick and choose my jobs each evening via a website that lists all opportunities for the next day and week. I can take breaks, go on trips and do other things that come up and always come back to subbing. I can’t think of any more important public undertaking than education, and I feel I’m a small part of that. Believe me, keeping up with those kids will keep you young!”

Different states and municipalities have different basic requirements. Always check with the state’s education department to find out what is necessary to move forward in a teaching position.

Child and elder care: The thought of taming a classroom filled with teenagers or pre-teens may not appeal to some, so another option to consider is watching smaller numbers of children

as a nanny or babysitter—or working with groups of kids at day care centers and nursery schools.

These days, most parents of both genders work, even when their children are very young—and someone who has raised his or her own children will often be perceived as a better child care option than a young adult.

Retirees who are physically fit and relatively healthy are fortunate—they know others are not so lucky. Those who worked in health care during their government careers have a lot of part-time options—but many seniors need help with their everyday activities, such as bathing, getting dressed and running errands, as well as performing light housekeeping, grocery shopping, meal preparation and monitoring medication. And, there are the benefits of companionship. Helping others in this way requires little to no background in health care.

Home health aides do not require much training, and the job offers particular satisfaction to federal retirees who themselves are older.

Pet sitting/dog walking: If a more solitary part-time job seems desirable, and a person prefers the company of animals, pet sitting or dog-walking jobs are a great alternative. Through dog-walking, a retiree can set his or her own hours, make lots of new furry friends and keep fit by walking.

The website for Wag, a dog-walking service that hires walkers in many different cities, points out, however, that “taking care of someone’s pet

is a responsibility to be taken seriously.” At times, a dog walker may have to feed the pets and administer their needed medications. At other times, dog walking calls for defusing tense (or excessively enthusiastic!) situations among dogs, so some upper body strength is a plus.

Those who really love animals also can provide pet-sitting services, in which retirees either temporarily board pets at their homes (think Airbnb for pets) or stay in someone else’s home so the pet remains in his or her own familiar environment.

Hosting an Airbnb: On the subject of Airbnb, one could consider hosting travelers with this service. Airbnb connects people with places to stay and things to do worldwide. Hosts provide their guests with the unique opportunity to travel like a local. If a retiree has a room to share, the Airbnb website allows clients to list their space for free and choose their own schedule, prices and guest requirements.

Nearly three million people now serve as hosts, and more than 800,000 guests stay at an Airbnb every night. As a host, the retiree can require a government-issued ID before booking, set house rules that guests must agree to in advance, and read reviews of travelers from past trips before agreeing to host them.

If a person has always dreamed of being an innkeeper, but does not own a quaint country property, check out Airbnb’s site (www.airbnb.com).

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“Because they have found the work to be interesting and rewarding, retirees can be mentors and coaches, and get paid for doing so.”

Mentoring: If federal retirees enjoy helping others become successful, those employees— especially those who served for a long time and have mentored others during their career—are ideal candidates for mentoring. Because they have found the work to be interesting and rewarding, retirees can be mentors and coaches, too—and get paid for doing so.

Nevin Weaver, a retired senior executive, helped many new federal executives during his government career. When he retired, he attended a coaching institute accredited by the International Coach Federation for 60 hours of intensive training, followed by practice with actual clients, and then an evaluation exam.

“I like helping people define or refine their vision, help them build strategies to get there, identify obstacles, and then figure out how to work through them and execute their plan,” says Weaver. He suggests that retirees interested in working in the field speak to someone who currently coaches. “All you have is influence to get people to shape their ideas. You don’t tell them what to do,” he emphasizes. “It’s a big shift from being an executive in charge to helping someone navigate their career.”

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Freelance Writing: Federal retirees with a knack for putting words together can consider becoming a freelance writer. Numerous publications and websites are always looking for content creators who can write well and meet deadlines. Writer’s Market, an annual guide, and its companion website www.writersmarket. com offer freelancers information on thousands of publications. This information includes their editorial focus, how they like material to be submitted, and what they will pay.

Aspiring freelance writers should find areas in which they would like to write and then concentrate on those. These subject areas do not necessarily have to relate to the jobs they held in their federal careers. Retirees can learn how to interview subject matter experts effectively, and then practice editing their own work. It is important to note that no matter how good a freelance writer’s ideas are, or how compelling their content, editors are not going to hire freelance writers more than once if they do not turn in clean, strong copy.

Real estate sales: U.S. News and World Report calls selling real estate “the ultimate second career for seniors,” because it offers both income and a social outlet. Those working in the

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field can work as little as 20 hours a week or as many as 80 hours or more.

Real estate is a particularly good field for retirees, because real estate agents need to know the areas in which they work—and seniors may have lived in an area for many years. They can easily answer questions clients have about neighborhoods and direct them to community resources like schools.

Becoming a licensed real estate agent, according to U.S. News and World Report, is not difficult.

Educational requirements vary by state, and some have licensing classes online. A licensed real estate agent needs a reliable vehicle, a computer and a telephone (preferably a mobile phone).

Driver: For federal retirees that enjoy driving, ride-hailing companies such as Uber and Lyft are a possible source of income. Uber actively recruits older drivers. The organization recently conducted a survey that found 23 percent of those who drive for them are at or above 50 years old, and twothirds of all their drivers have never made money driving before Uber was established. Drivers set their own schedules, and all they need is a latemodel, four-door car, personal liability insurance, gas and a smartphone. The driver pays the service a commission for using Uber’s app.

If driving strangers around gives you pause, consider that many school districts need part-time bus drivers. The job offers time off during the day, a lot of contact with children and adults, summers and weekends off, and the opportunity to make a significant contribution to the community and its children. School districts and bus companies will help provide all necessary training.

“There are many other ways for federal retirees to earn money part-time.”

Tax preparer: A former government career with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is not a requirement for becoming a tax preparer. If retirees worked in a federal jobs that involved numbers or budgeting, then preparing tax returns for individuals or small businesses may be right up their alley. They will find plenty of work between January 1 and April 15, especially if they sign up to work for a tax preparation or accounting firm—and then they are free for the rest of the year.

Before getting started, government retirees must pass a competency test, a suitability check and a tax compliance check. They also will need to register with the IRS and pay $50 for a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). There are a number of places to receive training, including the major tax preparer firms and the Accreditation Council for Accountancy and Taxation.

There are many other ways for federal retirees to earn money part time, including sales jobs, temporary work, making and selling craft items, becoming a tour guide, working as a musician, serving as a financial counselor, or working in event planning and staffing. Never overlook the many benefits that volunteering offers!

Retirees who have only applied for jobs within the federal government during their careers should become familiar with job search websites such as Indeed, Monster, Simply Hired and Craigslist.

Consider joining LinkedIn, which helps find jobs through a retiree’s extended network. Finally, Glassdoor is a website that will provide insight into a company’s work environment, interview processes, salaries and benefits before signing up.

And sometimes, it’s still as simple as walking down the street. You never know when your favorite local business will have a “part-time help wanted” sign in the window.

Happy hunting!

— EVERETT A. “EV” CHASEN IS A WRITER AND COMMUNICATIONS CONSULTANT IN THE WASHINGTON, D.C. AREA. HE IS RETIRED FROM THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AFTER 35 YEARS OF SERVICE.

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Special Section

NARFE National President Ken Thomas kicks off LEGcon19 with a packed house in attendance.

2019

Rep. Anthony Brown

NARFE

LEGISLATIVE TRAINING CONFERENCE

By Helen Mosher, Jill Talley and Samuel Bartels

Photos by Johnny Bivera

E

very two years, NARFE members—federal workers and retirees— converge upon the nation’s capital and pour themselves into the hard work of protecting their pay and benefits from the

congressional chopping block. New and seasoned advocates alike got the benefit of insight and training from NARFE’s Advocacy team, inspiration to continue the fight from legislators who share our commitment to Feds, and ideas on new ways to engage their representatives from storytelling experts at LEGcon19, this year’s legislative training conference held March 10-13, 2019, in Alexandria, VA and Washington, DC.

NARFE National President Ken Thomas kicked off the conference with a story of his own. He started his career as a congressional staffer and knows all too well how difficult and demanding those jobs are. They are ever more so, in the intractable political world we now live in, he said.

“It used to be that members of Congress would stab each other in the back during the day, but at night they’d slap each other on the back,” he said. “It’s how things got done.”

That’s missing from modern legislating, he noted. Now, it’s all political backbiting and posturing, and nothing gets done. In fact, much of NARFE’s legislative agenda for the 116th Congress is similar to what it was 10 years ago, a testament to NARFE’s success in keeping cuts to federal pay and earned benefits far from the President’s desk.

“There are advocacy techniques that do work. You have to cross the aisle,” Thomas said, to great applause. “We are doing what we can at National Headquarters, but NARFE members—our grassroots advocates—are the power behind it.”

PHOTOS BELOW, CLOCKWISE: Attendees review and discuss advocacy materials; David Lusk gives tips on using storytelling in advocacy; Rep. Steny Hoyer, D-MD, greets Maryland NARFE members.

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NARFE LEGISLATIVE TRAINING CONFERENCE LEFT PHOTO: Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton, D-DC, hosts a NARFE delegation at her office.

RIGHT PHOTO: John Hatton (seated far left), Director of Legislative and Political Affairs for NARFE, moderates a panel of congressional staffers on making the most of legislative meetings. From left: Kathleen Connor, Kathleen Gayle, and Ashley Poling.

The conference drew nearly 250 attendees, representing 45 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. Speakers included several members of Congress, congressional staff members, leaders from NARFE and the Federal Managers Association, and advocacy experts. Breakout sessions provided in-depth training on grassroots mobilization, state advocacy, making the most of NARFE’s “Day on the Hill,” and becoming an effective NARFE Congressional District Leader or Senatorial Leader. Participants also got insight into NARFE-PAC, which they supported with one-time contributions totalling $3,472.

A total of 18 people joined the Sustainer program and six individuals increased their Sustainer program contributions, resulting in an additional $7,200 over a two-year period.

MAKE FEDERAL WORK A CALLING AGAIN

Rep. Anthony Brown, D-MD, who represents more than 100,000 Feds, praised attendees for dedicating their lives to public service and noted the importance of investing in civil service to “really make our country great.” One priority he noted was the need to modernize legacy systems that have been in use for far too long, in contrast to the current White House plan to “modernize” with reorganization and a pay freeze. “We’ll make those investments,” Brown said.

Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-MD, also spoke at length about the importance of federal workers to a healthy government. “We need to resurrect the idea of public service as a noble calling,” he said. “Too many politicians bash civil servants, but the civil service is an expression of the values and priorities of the American people.”

Rep. Don Beyer, D-VA, talked about the history of federal service in his family. His own first federal job was as a park ranger at the Lincoln Memorial, and his wife is a retired federal manager.

Sen. James Lankford, R-OK, noted his appreciation for federal employees and retirees.

“Thank you for your service, for your dedication to the nation, and for taking care of the nation,” he said in a video specially prepared for the conference. “I couldn’t be more grateful for all the folks that engage so much of their time and life.”

ABOVE, FROM LEFT: William Greenhill and Deborah Riley are introduced to Sen. Tim Scott, R-SC, by NARFE National Secretary/ Treasurer Kathryn Hensley.

ENDING SHUTDOWN SHOWDOWNS

Several of the legislative speakers had things to say about shutdown politics, especially with regard to the 35-day partial shutdown that closed numerous agencies over the winter.

“It was unacceptable,” said Brown. “All Feds are important, but the Coast Guard remaining on the watch without pay is unacceptable,” he said.

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Sen. Mark Warner

Rep. Jamie Raskin

LEGcon19 attendees review the agenda while waiting for the next presentation.

Sen. Tim Kaine

Sen. Mark Warner, D-VA, echoed this sentiment, noting that he did not know of any private-sector workers who would show up to work for 35 days without being paid. “Feds do their jobs with a sense of duty,” he said.

Raskin pointed out that there was a silver lining to the shutdown.

“People rallied to the support of federal workers, and the federal community came together,” he said.

Staff Vice President for Advocacy Jessica Klement provided an update that spotlighted the work of NARFE during the shutdown that included regular updates on the shutdown negotiations, a webinar with information for furloughed and excepted employees, resources including a FAQ document and other things to know, the partnership with FEEA for microgrants to help affected Feds, and outreach to press and Capitol Hill.

“NARFE positioned itself as the experts on all things shutdown, not just on the Hill, but to reporters as well,” she said. “We sent an email to every legislator’s office letting them know NARFE is available to answer their constituents’ questions, while also expressing our frustration over the shutdown.”

Sen. Tim Kaine, D-VA, talked at length about the shutdown, and made a point of thanking NARFE for its Shutdown Central resource for Feds and shutdown-related advocacy efforts. “NARFE was fantastic during the shutdown,” he said. “Thank you for all your hard work.”

ADVOCACY SUCCESS STARTS WITH YOU At a break between sessions, attendees enjoyed refreshments and the opportunity to browse sponsor tables.

Left to right: Renee Johnson, President, Federal Managers Association; Rep. Don Beyer; Ken Thomas, President, NARFE

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Much of the advocacy training in the conference focused on ways to make an impression on the legislator in preparation for Wednesday’s meetings on Capitol Hill. Even as he opened the conference, Thomas reminded attendees of the importance of having a clear “ask,” thanking the staff and following up afterward.

This year’s conference placed a strong emphasis on the value of personal stories. “Personal stories have a greater influence on a legislator’s decisionmaking than form letters,” said Klement. “Legislators understand the policies: What they want to hear from you is how those policies would impact their district or state. Explain how you would be affected by a policy … to humanize the issues.”

A panel of congressional staffers shared tips for attendees on successful Hill visits. For one, they said, don’t be surprised when there isn’t much time with the congressional member, or if you only meet with staff. “You have much more time when you’re meeting with staff,” said Kathleen Connor, district director for Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-MD. “You have less time if you’re meeting with the congressional member—time to quickly tell one personal story and then make your ask.”

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NARFE LEGISLATIVE TRAINING CONFERENCE

Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick addresses NARFE members at the closing reception.

It’s not just time that runs short. “The front office of a member’s D.C. office can get cramped,” said Kathleen Gayle, communications director and legislative assistant for Rep. Rob Wittman, R-VA. “Oftentimes, we might need to meet in the hall.”

Time and again, the panelists came back around to the importance of telling your story. “Be engaged,” said Ashley Poling, senior policy counsel for the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. “Talk about how these priorities impact your own life so your message sticks.”

Connor agreed. “Share your personal story,” she said. “It makes all the difference and gets to the congressperson’s heart.”

David Lusk, founder and CEO of the DC-based company Key Advocacy, explained the power of advocate storytelling in his Tuesday keynote. Getting lawmakers to listen requires more than a fact-sheet and list of action items.

“They want to hear about your experiences, not just facts,” he said. He noted the example of the shutdown, and how statistics and timetables weren’t what moved legislators: Rather, what moved them was hearing about the consequences and emotional toll of the shutdown on Feds.

“Persuasive storytelling takes practice,” he said, explaining that there were 3 “C”s to an effective story: be clear, be concise and have a charge. In other words, be upfront about your purpose, be succinct, and include an action that you want the legislator to take.

TAKING THE FIGHT TO CAPITOL HILL

Clockwise from left: Tom Yager, Ray Orland, Bill Shackelford and John Hill talk NARFE issues with Paige Schwartz, senior legislative assistant for Rep. Bobby Scott, D-VA.

NARFE RESOURCES Go to www.narfe.org, click on Advocacy and then select Legislative Training Conference on the left to access PowerPoint presentations from conference sessions.

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The final day of LEGcon19 was marked by attendees meeting with their members of Congress and congressional staff on Capitol Hill.

Armed with grassroots skills and passion for their cause, NARFE members explained how proposals in Congress and the administration, such as ones to change pension calculations, increase employee retirement contributions and change health benefits for postal retirees, among others, would harm the federal community and the profession of civil service. From the Senate to the House, NARFE’s advocates blanketed Capitol Hill as the annual budget process begins for fiscal year 2020 (FY20).

When the day’s advocacy activities were complete, Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick, R-PA, and Matt Cartwright, D-PA, spoke at a networking reception. Both acknowledged the hard work of civil servants past and present. A former federal employee, Fitzpatrick relayed to the crowd his personal experience of working for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Cartwright noted the importance of the federal workforce to the American people and the loss felt by them and the public during the partial government shutdown.

Meanwhile, the closing reception also offered an opportunity for members of Congress and their staffers to enjoy mingling with NARFE’s advocates in today’s federal workforce and learning about work experiences of retirees from years past.

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Managing Money

ROTH CONVERSIONS IN THE TCJA ERA

I

have been a longtime proponent of Roth conversions, which involve converting traditional tax-deferred retirement plans, such as the traditional Thrift Savings

Plan (TSP), to Roth accounts. Now that we are in the era of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), I’m beating the drum even louder.

In most cases, a Roth conversion is a taxable event; income taxes will be due on the amount converted from the traditional account to the Roth account. Unfortunately, many mistakenly view paying tax as a cost, or loss, and don’t pursue the opportunity any further.

However, a Roth conversion will only “cost” if more tax is paid on the conversion than would otherwise be paid when the money was later distributed from the traditional account.

In fact, assuming all things (which includes taxes paid, stealth taxes, and length of time the money remains in a taxadvantaged account) are equal there is no economic difference between a traditional and Roth account.

We must remember that a traditional retirement account doesn’t avoid taxes; it simply defers them until the money is withdrawn. And at some point in time, wanted or not, a traditional account owner or his or her beneficiary must take distributions when Required Minimum Distributions (RMD) 40

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kick in. RMDs are typically required beginning in the year an owner turns 70½, and for the beneficiaries, RMDs are typically required the year following the year of the deceased owner’s death. Once RMDs start, they continue every year thereafter.

Accepting the fact the money must come out of a traditional account at some point, we can begin to understand it’s possible to save money, not lose money, if we have an opportunity to pay less tax on a Roth conversion than would otherwise be paid when the money is distributed from the traditional account in the future.

The TCJA provides such an opportunity. The TCJA tax rates are temporary, and beginning in the year 2026, tax rates revert back to the 2017 levels. This means it may be possible to convert to a Roth IRA and pay less tax today than in the future when rates are higher.

Let’s imagine, though, that the TCJA tax rates are

BY MARK A. KEEN,

CFP®

made permanent and a future Congress never changes the tax rates. In this scenario, once again assuming all things are equal, there is no economic difference between the converted Roth IRA and the traditional tax-deferred account if left unconverted.

To illustrate this, let’s imagine you have $10,000 in your traditional TSP account and that you are in the 22 percent tax bracket. In this case, what’s the real economic value (the after-tax value) of that account assuming you can distribute it and remain in the 22 percent bracket? After some quick math we can determine the after-tax value is $7,800.

Alternatively, the traditional account could be converted to a Roth account, and after paying the $2,200 in tax, the Roth account will be worth $7,800.

Assuming no early distribution penalty (a 10 percent penalty applies if you are under age 59½ and five years hasn’t passed since the year of conversion), the real economic value of the Roth account is also $7,800 (no additional taxes are owed since they have already been paid). Both the traditional and Roth accounts are economically worth the same, day one.

But how do the future values compare? To illustrate the future economic value of the

BENEFITS RESOURCES NARFE offers members a wide range of information on federal benefits. Visit www. narfe.org/federalbenefits and www.narfe.org/ FederalBenefitsInstitute.

traditional and Roth accounts we’ll assume a 7.2 percent return, which I only use for simplicity as the account value will double every 10 years. In this case, the unconverted traditional account would be worth $20,000 while the Roth IRA would be worth $15,600.

Once again, we have to consider taxes to compare the real economic value of these two accounts. Assuming a qualified distribution,

which means the Roth account has been open for at least five years and the owner is over age 59½, the earnings will be distributed tax-free, and the Roth account’s real value is $15,600.

Assuming the entire traditional account can still be distributed at the 22 percent rate, it’s also worth $15,600 after paying the $4,400 taxes. As you can see, there’s no economic difference when tax rates remain constant and the money gets to stay in the accounts the entire period.

Ah, but things are rarely ever equal. Next month we’ll continue to explore the Roth conversion strategy and how it may apply to your TSP. MARK A. KEEN, CFPŽ, IS PARTNER, KEEN & POCOCK, AND AN INVESTMENT ADVISER REPRESENTATIVE AND REGISTERED PRINCIPAL OF THE STRATEGIC FINANCIAL ALLIANCE, INC. (SFA). SECURITIES AND ADVISORY SERVICES ARE OFFERED THROUGH SFA.

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N A R F 5 1 9

OFFER VALID UNTIL - June, 20th 2019

W W W. N A R F E . O R G

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41

2019

G FUND

F FUND

C FUND

S FUND

I FUND

MARCH

0.23%

1.93%

1.95%

-1.03%

0.71%

FEBRUARY

0.20%

-0.06%

3.21%

4.98%

2.55%

JANUARY

0.23%

1.07%

8.01%

11.64%

6.60%

YTD

0.67%

2.95%

13.65%

15.99%

10.09%

1 YEAR

2.92%

4.63%

9.48%

5.13%

-3.64%

3 YEAR*

2.41%

2.22%

13.51%

13.39%

7.68%

5 YEAR*

2.30%

3.06%

10.94%

8.08%

2.69%

10 YEAR*

2.30%

4.02%

15.96%

16.65%

9.30%

2019

L INCOME

L 2020

L 2030

L 2040

L 2050

MARCH

0.52%

0.61%

0.87%

0.96%

1.02%

FEBRUARY

0.80%

1.06%

2.00%

2.36%

2.68%

JANUARY

1.83%

2.53%

4.92%

5.86%

6.67%

YTD

3.18%

4.25%

7.96%

9.40%

10.65%

1 YEAR

3.59%

3.73%

4.33%

4.46%

4.54%

3 YEAR*

4.34%

6.20%

8.34%

9.34%

10.26%

5 YEAR*

3.66%

4.82%

6.09%

6.66%

7.12%

10 YEAR*

4.92%

8.82%

10.69%

11.92%

N/A

*ANNUALIZED

RETURNS are net of the effect of accrued administrative expenses and investment expenses/costs. Source: TSP (For additional monthly returns, go to www.tsp.gov.)

G Fund: Government securities (specially issued to the TSP) F Fund: Government, corporate and mortgage-backed bonds C Fund: Stocks of large- and medium-size U.S. companies S Fund: Stocks of small- to medium-size U.S. companies (not included in the C Fund) I Fund: International stocks of 21 developed countries L Fund: (Lifecycle) Invested in the G, F, C, S and I Funds (The proportion of L Fund balance invested in each of the individual TSP funds depends on the L Fund chosen.)

OPM RETIREMENT CLAIMS PROCESSING STATUS

2018

Claims Received

Inventory Monthly FYTD (Steady State Average Processing Average Processing is 13,000) Time in Days Time in Days

FEBRUARY 13,290 24,225 MARCH 7,767 18,730 APRIL 8,390 17,489 MAY 7,625 18,024 JUNE 9,397 18,198 JULY 8,281 18,334 AUGUST 8,826 17,513 SEPTEMBER 7,142 17,628 OCTOBER 9,012 19,729 NOVEMBER 7,510 19,162 DECEMBER 5,782 18,019 JANUARY 13,264 23,121 FEBRUARY 10,792 23,370

46 49 58 58 65 57 56 64 63 61 60 58 58

59 57 57 58 59 59 58 59 63 62 61 60 57

FOR THE NUMBER of new retirement cases the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) receives each month by agency and the percent with errors that it returns to those agencies, go to www.opm.gov/retirement-services/. l Source: OPM 42

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A

midst reports of slowing global growth, stocks found some support from optimism about trade talks and a belief that the Federal Reserve is unlikely to hike interest rates in 2019. An absence of any serious inflation threat supported this view. Large-cap stocks rose across U.S. and international developed markets, boosting the C Fund and the I Fund. Losses in U.S. small- and midcap stocks led to the S Fund’s decline. Fixed-income investors drove Treasury yields lower, helping the F Fund to solid gains. The L Funds also rose. — BY SEAN

MCCAFFREY, CHIEF INVESTMENT OFFICER, THRIFT SAVINGS PLAN

*ANNUALIZED

’19

For the Record

TRADE TALKS, LOW INFLATION HELP STEADY MARKET

THRIFT SAVINGS PLAN FUND RETURNS

2 019

COUNTDOWN TO COLA

The Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) increased by 0.44 percent in February 2019. To calculate the 2020 costof-living adjustment (COLA), the 2019 third-quarter indices will be averaged and compared with the 2018 third-quarter average of 246.352. The percentage increase determines the COLA. February’s index, 246.218, is down 0.05 percent from the base.

Benefits awarded under the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA) to individuals suffering work-related injuries or illnesses are adjusted according to each calendar year’s percentage change in the CPI-W. February’s index is 0.59 percent higher than the December 2018 base index of 244.786.

Individuals receiving insurance benefits under FECA received a 1.8 percent COLA in March 2019.

The CPI represents purchases of food and beverages, housing, apparel, transportation, medical care, recreation, education and communication, and other goods and services. Included are various government fees, such as water charges, auto registration fees, and sales and excise taxes.

MONTH

CPI-W

Monthly % Change

% Change from 246.352

OCTOBER 2018

247.038

0.19

0.28

NOVEMBER

245.933

-0.45

-0.17

DECEMBER

244.786

-0.47

-0.64

JANUARY 2019

245.133

0.14

-0.49

FEBRUARY

246.218

0.44

-0.05

MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER

Donate to NARFE Programs Support Alzheimer’s Research WRITE YOUR CHAPTER NUMBER ON YOUR CHECK; MAKE IT PAYABLE TO: NARFE-Alzheimer’s Research AND MAIL TO: Alzheimer’s Association 225 N. Michigan Ave., 17th Floor Chicago, IL 60601-7633

YOUR CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTION IS TAX-DEDUCTIBLE TO THE FULLEST EXTENT ALLOWED BY LAW. Enclosed is my NARFE-Alzheimer’s contribution: $______________ Every cent that is contributed is used for research.

Please circle: Mr.

Mrs.

Miss

Ms.

Name:____________________________________________________ Address:__________________________________________________ City:______________________________________________________ State:_____________________________________________________

NARFE MEMBERS CONTRIBUTED FOR ALZHEIMER’S RESEARCH: $14 Million Fund

$13,038,481.70*

*Total as of February 28, 2019 100 percent of all contributed funds go to Alzheimer’s research.

If you have any questions, write to: NATIONAL COMMITTEE CHAIR Olivia Williams, 22 Garden Springs Road Columbia, SC 29209 EMAIL: oeashf3@gmail.com

Give to the NARFE-FEEA Fund

MAKE CHECK PAYABLE TO: NARFE-FEEA Fund PLEASE MAIL COUPON AND CHECK TO: FEEA 1641 Prince St. Alexandria, VA 22314

ZIP:______________________________________________________ Chapter Number:___________________________________________ Credit Card Information:

MasterCard

VISA

Discover

AMEX

Card Number:______________________________________________ Expiration Date:_____(mm)/____ (yy) 3-Digit Security Code:______ Signature:_______________________________ Date:___ /___ /____ Name: (please print)________________________________________

YES!

I would like to help with my contribution.

The NARFE-FEEA Fund supports NARFE members during disasters; provides scholarships to their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and funds other programs to support NARFE members at the direction of NARFE and FEEA.

Enclosed is my NARFE-FEEA Fund Contribution: $______________ Name:____________________________________________________ Address:__________________________________________________ City:______________________________________________________

YOUR CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTION IS TAX-DEDUCTIBLE TO THE FULLEST EXTENT ALLOWED BY LAW.

State:_____________________________________________________ ZIP:______________________________________________________ Email:____________________________________________________ To make credit card or e-check contributions, visit www.feea.org/ givenarfe.

DID YOU KNOW?

NARFE News

NARFE’s popular webinars are available online with 48 hours of the original broadcast. Access the recordings at www.narfe.org/ member/FederalBenefitsInstitute (login required).

NEW PERKS FOR NARFE MEMBERS

N

ARFE Member Perks offer benefits on many goods and services to our members. We are excited to announce two new Member Perks partners this spring.

Allied/Coleman Van Lines has been providing outstanding moving services throughout the United States since 1914. From transporting a single household to massive corporate and government transfers, Coleman-Allied is equipped to handle your needs.

Driven by a long-held commitment

to customer service and supported by a high standard of excellence, Allied/Coleman focuses on you and your family. NARFE members will receive a complimentary estimate and discounts of up to 70 percent off a qualifying move. Contact them at 800-239-4099, extension # 99445.

Entertainment Benefits/ Member Deals offer NARFE members access to huge savings on nationwide attractions and events. Find exclusive discounts, special offers, preferred seating, and

You also can download a transcript of the Q&A sessions and view the slides from the programs. NARFE’s Federal Benefits Institute helps you take charge of your benefits!

tickets to top theme parks, shows, sporting events, hotels, movie tickets, and much more. Visit www. memberdeals.com/narfe to start saving.

Interested in learning more about NARFE’s Member Perks Program? Visit www.narfe.org/ memberperks for information on accessing members-only discounts on insurance, travel, wellness and much more.

— BY STEPHANIE SATTERFIELD, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AND MEETINGS MANAGER

NARFE-ALZHEIMER’S RESEARCH FUND DONATIONS TOP $13 MILLION

C

umulative NARFE-member donations to the NARFEAlzheimer’s Research Fund reached $13 million in January, NARFE National President Ken Thomas announced. “The fact that NARFE members have raised $13 million for the NARFE-Alzheimer’s Research Fund is a testament to their unwavering commitment to the general public and specifically, Feds—tens of thousands of whom have been affected by this cruel disease,” Thomas said. “From bake sales to car washes and many other fundraisers, NARFE members have demonstrated the honor and nobility of public service for which the federal community has long been known.

“Although Alzheimer’s robs patients and caregivers

44

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of memories, experiences and relationships, NARFE members live the concept of giving back and recognize that research is the key to better understand it, diagnose it and treat it” he continued. “Thank you to everyone who has donated; your colleagues, coworkers and community appreciate it.”

NARFE took on Alzheimer’s as a cause in 1985. Since that time, members have raised money by setting progressively higher cumulative goals. NARFE reached the $12 million point in November of 2016. Now, NARFE will aim for $14 million in 2020.

Through a partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association, the NARFE-Alzheimer’s Research Fund directly funds research, with 100 percent of member donations

going directly to Alzheimer’s research. During the nearly 35-year long partnership, NARFE has funded 78 research projects.

To make a tax-deductible contribution to the NARFEAlzheimer’s Research Fund, please use the form on p. 43.

FEDERATION ELECTIONS Federation election information was included in the January through April 2019 issues of NARFE Magazine. The Oregon Federation has notified us their election deadline was extended to April 30, so there may still be time to vote. Contact Becky Stiles at 541-953-2045 or by email at beckystiles@comcast. net for information.

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.

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

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.

1Q6

NARFE MEMBERSHIP APPLIC ATION 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

THREE EASY WAYS TO JOIN 1. 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 800-456-8410, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET.

PAYMENT OPTIONS q 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.

Looking to meet others in the federal community and participate in NARFE at a local level? Call 800-456-8410 to learn about a NARFE chapter in your area.

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

MAY WE THANK SOMEONE? If applicable, please provide the name, membership ID and chapter number of the member who introduced you to NARFE: _________________________________________________ Recruiter’s Name _________________________________________________ Recruiter’s Membership ID _________________________________________________ Recruiter’s Chapter Number

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.

(0219)

Member Perks Perks Member

SAVE MONEY WITH NARFE PERKS NARFE appreciates your service, and so do businesses across the country.

Whether you are planning your next vacation or planning for retirement, members can save money on everyday purchases, thanks to our Affinity Partners. It’s just one more way we’re able to say “thank you” for being a NARFE member.

PUT YOUR NARFE MEMBERSHIP TO WORK

Money-saving discounts that benefit you. For a complete list of Member Perks, visit www.NARFE.org/memberperks

46

| M A Y

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INSURANCE: NARFE Insurance Services 1-800-233-5764 www.narfeinsurance.com

Plans administered by Mercer Health offering life, short term recovery, pet, travel, vision and hospital insurance policies.

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Discover how Nationwide’s suite of insurance solutions can help protect your financial future.

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Receive 20% off of your next stay when you use the special rate id 00801967.

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Drive Happy with Alamo, where NARFE members receive year-round discounts using contract id 262544.

Avis 1-800-633-3469 www.avis.com

Avis has 5,500 locations worldwide.

Get discounted rate using the AWD number A701900.

MemberDeals 1-877-579-1201

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Exclusive discounts on nationwide attractions and entertainment.

WELLNESS: Brookdale Senior Living 813-440-8415 www.brookdale.com

Discounts on memory care, independent and assisted living communities, and more throughout the U.S. Offer good on new move-ins only.

Lifeline

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1-800-324-9906 www.lifelinescreening.com/narfe Call and mention code BKHN075 or go online to schedule your health screening appointment.

PERSONAL SERVICES: Allied Van Lines – Coleman Worldwide 800-239-4099, ext. 99445 nicole.wood@colemanallied.com Discounted moving services across the United States

Office Depot/Office Max

1-855-337-6811, ext. 2897 www.officediscounts.org/narfe

Save up to 80% on more than 93,000 products. Shop online or in any Office Depot or Office Max Store.

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Monitor your identity from every angle.

NARFE Members receive a discounted rate of $8.95 for individuals or $18.95 for families.

W W W. N A R F E . O R G

|

47

The Way We Worked

FEDERAL TEA TESTERS In this 1927 photo, a member of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Board of Tea Experts smells various samples of tea. The seven-member board was established by the Tea Importation Act of 1897; they would meet once a year for two days to assess the quality of tea to ensure it was fit for consumption. After the meeting, FDA chemists would test, taste and reject teas that did not met the standards of the board. The program was deemed unnecessary in the 1970s but wasn’t formally eliminated until 1996, when Congress abolished it. The FDA still regulates tea via packaging and labeling requirements.

PHOTO from the Records of Food and Drug Administration, National Archives, courtesy of the National Archives History Office; in collaboration with the Society for History in the Federal Government (SHFG), bringing together government professionals, academics, consultants, students and citizens interested in understanding federal history work and the historical development of the federal government. To join, visit www.shfg.org.

48

| M A Y

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DID YOU KNOW? In 1906, President Theodore Roosevelt signed the Pure Food and Drugs Act. This legislation was also known as the Wiley Act, named after Harvey Washington Wiley, then chief chemist at the Department of Agriculture. The Act prohibited the transportation of misbranded or poisonous foods, drugs, medicine or liquor.

It was enforced by the Bureau of Chemistry, which became the U.S. Food, Drug and Insecticide Administration in 1927, then finally became the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 1930.

On the web: www.fda.gov.

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The hearing aids NARFE members want with the outstanding service HearUSA is known for every step of the way.

The hearing aids NARFE members want with the outstanding service HearUSA is known for every step of the way.

*This is not insurance and insurance benefits vary. Some restrictions apply. 1 year battery supply with purchase of hearing aids. Offer valid at participating HearUSA providers only. Call for details. *This is not insurance and insurance benefits vary. Some restrictions apply. 1 year battery supply with purchase of hearing aids. Offer valid at participating HearUSA providers only. Call for details. *This is not insurance and insurance benefits vary. Some restrictions apply. 1 year battery supply with purchase of hearing aids. Offer valid at participating HearUSA providers only. Call for details.