May 2022 NARFE Magazine

A NARFE PUBLICATION FOR FEDERAL EMPLOYEES AND RETIREES

May 2022 VOLUME 98 ★ NUMBER 4

P. 24

Scams Targeting Seniors

P. 32 Q&A with OPM Director Kiran Ahuja

P. 44 NARFE Officer Candidate Statements

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Contents MAY 2022

COVER STORY PAGE 24

FEATURE PAGE 32

SCAMS TARGETING SENIORS: DON’T TAKE THE BAIT Read about current scams, what to do if you’ve been defrauded, and how to protect yourself from becoming a victim.

Q&A WITH OPM DIRECTOR KIRAN AHUJA Find out what the director sees as the challenges and opportunities for the agency, and what changes may be coming to OPM.

Special Feature

44 NARFE Officer Candidate Statements

Washington Watch

8 Postal Service Reform Act of 2022 Passes Congress With Bipartisan Support

9 Senate Committee Advances

NARFE-Supported Bipartisan Legislation

10 Why Doesn’t a Bill Become a Law?

11 NARFE Celebrates Public

Service Recognition Week

11 MSPB and FLRA Board

Nominees Renominated

Columns

A NARFE PUBLICATION FOR FEDERAL EMPLOYEES AND RETIREES

4 From the President

May 2022 VOLUME 98 ★ NUMBER 4

P. 24

22 Benefits Brief

Scams Targeting Seniors

38 Managing Money Departments

P. 32 Q&A with OPM Director Kiran Ahuja

6 NARFE Online 18 Questions & Answers

P. 44 NARFE Officer Candidate Statements

ON THE COVER Illustration by TGD

19 Countdown to COLA 40 NARFE News 54 NARFE Perks 56 The Way We Worked

Connect with us!

Visit us online at www.narfe.org Like us on Facebook NARFE National Headquarters Follow us on Twitter @narfehq

Follow us on LinkedIn NARFE

NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

1

MAY 2022 VOLUME 98 ★ NUMBER 4

REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENTS

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Jenn Rafael

REGION I James C. Risner

SENIOR EDITOR Mabel Yu CREATIVE SERVICES MANAGER Beth Bedard ADDITIONAL GRAPHIC DESIGN TGD EXECUTIVE EDITOR Helen Mosher EDITORIAL BOARD Kenneth J. Thomas, Kathryn E. Hensley, Barbara Sido CONTACT US NARFE Magazine 606 North Washington St. Alexandria, VA 22314-1914 Phone: 703-838-7760 Fax: 703-838-7781 Editorial: communications@narfe.org Advertising Sales: Anita Nelson advertising@narfe.org

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 NFBNEWSLINE® 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.

NATIONAL OFFICERS KENNETH J. THOMAS President; natpres@narfe.org KATHRYN E. HENSLEY Secretary/Treasurer natsectreas@narfe.org

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR BARBARA SIDO execdir@narfe.org

REGION II Gary Roundtree Sr. (Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey and Pennsylvania) Tel: 443-929-7045 Email: groundtreesr@comcast.net

REGION III Clarence Robinson (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina, Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands) CELL: 404-312-8028 Email: crobin8145@att.net

REGION IV Robert L. Helfrich (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin) Tel: 317-501-1700 Email: rlhelfrich@yahoo.com

REGION V Cindy Reneé Blythe

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 “My Account”

TO REACH A FEDERAL BENEFITS SPECIALIST:

EMAIL fedbenefits@narfe.org

NARFE HEADQUARTERS 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.

(Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont) Tel: 207-540-6233 Email: rvp1@narfe.org

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

(Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota) Tel: 785-256-1450 Email: mrsdocbusyb@yahoo.com

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 Robert H. Ruskamp (California, Hawaii, Nevada and Republic of Philippines) Tel: 703-628-3234 Email: rvp8@narfe.org

REGION IX Linda L. Silverio (Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington) Tel: 503-391-2963 Email: l.l.silverio.narfe@gmail.com

REGION X William Shackelford (Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia) Tel: 703-830-6590, CELL: 703-201-6304 Email: rvp10@narfe.org

NARFE Magazine (ISSN 1948-4453) is published monthly except in February and July 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 $48. 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 © 2022, 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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NARFE MAGAZINE MAY 2022

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From the President 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.

Employee Recognition Is Good Business

I

n 1985, Congress officially designated the first full week in May as Public Service Recognition Week (PSRW). It’s a time to

honor the people who serve our nation as employees of federal, state, county and local governments. PSRW is celebrated throughout the country by mayors, governors, community leaders, government agencies and public service organizations with proclamations, award ceremonies, special tribute events and messages about the value of public service.

Amid the pandemic and the unprecedented challenges this past year, civil servants have displayed resilience and dedication to their work.

They have helped research and find treatments for the coronavirus, and they’ve supported our small businesses, schools, national parks and infrastructure. These workers appreciate sincere recognition from their managers, supervisors, colleagues and community members. Public Service Recognition Week provides you with an opportunity to say “thank you” to civil servants for their service.

Employee recognition is sometimes scarce because managers or supervisors think too narrowly about what people will find rewarding and what constitutes true recognition. They don’t always know how to provide employee recognition effectively, assuming that one size fits all. But it’s

4

NARFE MAGAZINE MAY 2022

worthwhile to learn how to give positive feedback; when employees feel valued at work, it increases engagement, productivity and loyalty. Employees who feel appreciated are happier and more productive. Recognition shows employees that they are valued and they are not invisible.

Managers and supervisors should create goals and action plans for employee recognition.

Acknowledge the actions, behaviors, approaches and accomplishments that you know will make your organization more productive and efficient.

When an individual performs positively, provide recognition immediately, and be specific. Make sure that fairness, clarity and consistency are prioritized in employee recognition. Employees need to see that each person who makes a similar contribution has an equal likelihood of receiving recognition for their efforts.

Remember, it’s not necessary to wait until the first full week of May to honor the people who serve the public. Don’t miss your opportunity to thank civil servants for their service, not only during Public Service Recognition Week, but also throughout the year.

Stay safe.

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

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NARFE Online SPOTLIGHT YOUR MEMBERS HAVE A RECENT chapter or federation activity, featured on our website by sending photos to communications@narfe.org. Please include the names of members in the photo, when you held your activity and what you did. Visit www.narfe. org/spotlight for more details.

Celebrate Feds This Month by Sharing Your Story

T

he first week of May is Public Service Recognition Week, and NARFE wants to help you share your experience in the federal workforce.

To raise awareness of diverse professions within the federal workforce and the talented and

passionate individuals who serve the nation, NARFE is highlighting the contributions of current and retired federal employees, asking them to share insights from their time in the federal workforce, why they enjoy working for the American people

and what motivated them to work in public service.

To share your story, visit NARFE’s online community, FEDHub, at fedhub.narfe.org and look for the discussion thread called “We Are Feds” in the Open Forum.

TSP UPDATE ONLINE

Get the most recent monthly and annual Thrift Savings Plan returns (G, F, C, S, I and L Funds) online at www.narfe.org/ tsp-funds.

MISS A WEBINAR?

Catch up on past NARFE Federal Benefits Institute presentations in NARFE’s webinar archive, where you’ll find videos, slides and transcripts of question-and-answer sessions for webinars dating back to January 2019. View them at www.narfe. org/webinar-archive.

CONNECT ON FEDHUB If you haven’t checked out NARFE’s new online community yet, what are you waiting for? NARFE designed FEDHub to support your federal journey, leveraging the knowledge and value of our entire community—all that’s missing is you. Join the conversation at fedhub.narfe.org/ quick-start-guide.

6

NARFE MAGAZINE MAY 2022

READ NARFE MAGAZINE ONLINE

NARFE’s website now offers a digital flipbook of this and previous issues at www.narfe.org/ magazine-issues. You can read the magazine online on your computer, phone or tablet, or download it to peruse later.

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Washington Watch

Postal Service Reform Act of 2022 Passes Congress With Bipartisan Support

O

n March 8, the Senate voted 79-19 in favor of longsought-after postal reform, passing a NARFE-supported version of the Postal Service Reform Act of 2022, H.R.

3076, and sending the bill to President Biden for his signature.

The legislation previously passed the House on February 8 with strong bipartisan support, 342-92.

The legislation gained NARFE’s support after it was amended to address our concerns. Specifically, changes were made to prevent unintended increases to Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program premiums for federal employees and retirees. And unlike past iterations of postal reform, this bill preserves choice for current postal retirees and Medicare-eligible postal employees regarding whether or not to enroll in Medicare Part B. Should they wish to join, this version of postal reform allows eligible postal retirees to opt in to Medicare Part B without late enrollment penalties during 8

NARFE MAGAZINE MAY 2022

a special enrollment period beginning April 1, 2024.

NARFE President Ken Thomas sent a letter in support of the bill to the House and Senate before the votes, stating, “Previous iterations of leading postal bills in this and past Congresses, while well-intentioned reform

efforts, did not adequately protect the earned benefits of both postal retirees (due to a new requirement to enroll in Medicare after retirement) and nonpostal federal employees and retirees (as an altered health insurance risk pool threatened unintended increases in health insurance premiums in the FEHB program).

But the version before the House and Senate has addressed these issues, protecting the interests of postal retirees and nonpostal federal employees and retirees while also providing substantial financial relief to the Postal Service.”

MAY ACTION ALERT: The first week of May is Public Service Recognition Week (PSRW), when our nation honors civil servants. Join NARFE in recognizing the invaluable service Feds provide by sending letters to the editors of your local news outlets. Share your public service experience or highlight others in your community. Visit NARFE’s Legislative Action Center at www. narfe.org to access a sample letter that you can edit and send directly to editors.

MYTH VS. REALITY MYTH: The Postal Service Reform Act of 2022 will force current postal retirees into Medicare Part B. REALITY: Per the law’s language, anyone who is a postal annuitant as of January 1, 2025, is not required to add Medicare Part B as a condition of being in the Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) program. Postal employees who are at least age 64 as of January 1, 2025, are also not required to enroll in Medicare Part B to be in PSHB. For those eligible, the legislation would offer a special enrollment period to enroll in Part B, but taking the coverage would remain a choice, not a requirement.

NARFE is also pleased with included provisions to repeal the burdensome mandate to prefund future postal retiree health benefits and the bill’s codification of mail delivery at six days per week.

H.R. 3076 will bring financial relief to the Postal Service, improving the agency’s ability to remain a public entity providing a crucial service to the American people while simultaneously protecting the earned health benefits of postal and federal workers and retirees.

The bill creates a new Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) program within FEHB beginning in January 2025.

Just like FEHB, the PSHB will be operated by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and plans will be required to provide “equivalent . . . benefits and cost-sharing requirements” as provided by each carrier’s FEHB plans, except as needed to integrate with Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage.

Part D integration will allow PSHB plans to offer similar or better prescription drug coverage

while providing a source of cost savings for the PSHB plans that will help reduce premiums, all else equal.

Actuarial analysis of the new PSHB program found that it should lower average costs of coverage, and therefore plan premiums, for both PSHB and FEHB program plans, benefitting postal and nonpostal enrollees.

As such, PSHB plans should provide the same coverage to postal employees and retirees, but with lower premiums.

—BY JOHN ROBERT AYERS, POLICY AND PROGRAMS ASSISTANT

Senate Committee Advances NARFE-Supported Bipartisan Legislation

O

n February 2, the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs (HSGAC) favorably reported two NARFE-endorsed bills to the full Senate—the Honoring Civil Servants Killed in the Line of Duty Act, S. 3487, and the Chance to Compete Act, S.3423. Both bills were authored by Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, D-AZ, and introduced with bipartisan support.

The Honoring Civil Servants Killed in the Line of Duty Act was introduced in the Senate

on January 12, 2022. The bill would increase compensation paid to survivors of federal employees who have died in the line of duty from $10,000 to $100,000, bringing it more in line with benefits for federal civilian employees killed abroad. It would also increase the government’s payment for funeral expenses from $800 to $8,800, updating the figure for the first time since the 1960s.

The bill specifies that benefit amounts will be adjusted annually to keep pace with increases in the cost of living.

The Chance to Compete Act was introduced in the Senate on December 16, 2021. This bill would change how federal agencies evaluate job applicants and make the federal hiring process more efficient. It would improve the ability of agencies to share assessments, allow subject matter experts to serve as interviewers, and focus assessments on candidates’ ability to perform the actual job rather than self-ratings and college degrees.

—BY JOHN ROBERT AYERS, POLICY AND PROGRAMS ASSISTANT NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

9

Washington Watch

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.narfe.org/advocacy.

Why Doesn’t a Bill Become a Law?

E

ach year, NARFE compiles a list of its legislative accomplishments—the successes stemming from an incredible amount of work by its lobbying staff and a collaborative effort by federation and chapter leaders, advocacy leaders and the entire membership. Some legislative wins take years and can leave members feeling hopeless and defeated as they wait. But the reality is NARFE legislative wins are achievable.

So, the occasional “Why is it taking so long for Congress to pass this bill?” that we sometimes hear is expected. Members new to advocacy may not understand the complex nature of the legislative process and the politics that can lead to a stalemate.

One way of addressing members’ concerns is with data.

According to www.Congress. gov, more than 12,000 bills and resolutions were introduced in the 117th Congress as of February 22, 2022. A little more than 900 of those became law. That means more than 11,000 bills and resolutions are sitting in their jurisdictional committees. Most will never receive even committee consideration.

Do you remember “I’m Just a Bill,” the 1970s Schoolhouse Rock video that taught children how a bill becomes law? This simple explanation was once an excellent resource for describing the legislative process. But its linear description doesn’t accurately

10

NARFE MAGAZINE MAY 2022

illustrate a process frequently obstructed by partisanship.

In 2021, Politico Magazine made its own version of the video to try to reflect the more realistic, convoluted legislative process.

It highlights some of the major

SOME LEGISLATIVE WINS TAKE YEARS AND CAN LEAVE MEMBERS FEELING HOPELESS AND DEFEATED AS THEY WAIT. BUT THE REALITY IS NARFE LEGISLATIVE WINS ARE ACHIEVABLE. roadblocks that prevent bill passage, from the filibuster in the Senate, which allows the minority to block consideration of bills unless three-fifths of senators vote to end debate, to the lack of leadership or majority support in either chamber or committees.

Single-party control of Congress and the White House usually spurs action, but it doesn’t open floodgates. Different political makeups may make things more difficult, for instance, if one party controls Congress while another controls the White House. In this scenario, a bill can make it out of Congress and get sent to the president,

where it gets vetoed and sent back to Congress. Or if each party controls a chamber, a bill sometimes never makes it to the president’s desk.

While the path is difficult, it’s not impossible. It just takes numbers, collaboration and persistence. That’s why member engagement in grassroots activities is an essential component of NARFE’s long-term advocacy strategy to influence Congress’ decision-making. When NARFE members communicate with their lawmakers—through meetings, letters and phone calls—about an issue relating to federal and postal employees’ and retirees’ earned pay and benefits, they humanize the problem and spur legislators to act in their constituents’ best interest.

NARFE’s success with postal reform legislation is one example of triumph through collaboration and persistence. After years of tireless lobbying and member grassroots activities, Congress passed an amended version of H.R. 3076, the Postal Service Reform Act of 2022, earlier this year. This bill provides financial relief to the agency and preservation of the mail service we all rely on. It also addresses the key NARFE concerns advocates have been fighting for (for more, see article on p. 8).

NARFE thanks its members for their commitment to longterm advocacy goals.

—BY MARSHA PADILLA-GOAD, DIRECTOR, GRASSROOTS

NARFE Celebrates Public Service Recognition Week

E

ach year, NARFE members come together during the first week of May to celebrate Public Service Recognition Week (PSRW), a week to honor those who serve our nation as federal, state, county, local and tribal government employees. Please join us May 1-7, 2022, to participate in NARFE’s PSRW activities, including a letterto-editor campaign and other events available on NARFE’s website at www.narfe.org and on the PSRW website at https:// psrw.ourpublicservice.org.

PSRW has been celebrated since 1985, when the president and Congress first established the week to recognize public servants.

It is organized by the Public Employees Roundtable, of which NARFE is a member,

and the Partnership for Public Service. Throughout the country, mayors, federal agency leaders, communities, city and town councils, and public service

achievements in public service.

They include awards for federal employee of the year, management excellence and career achievement.

organizations participate by issuing proclamations, hosting award ceremonies and delivering messages about the value of public service.

Also connected to PSRW are the Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medals, commonly known as the Sammies, which celebrate extraordinary

NARFE hopes you will get involved in PSRW this year to educate your family, friends and community about the importance of public service.

NARFE celebrates America’s civil servants and thanks all of you for your service to this country.

—BY SETH ICKES, POLITICAL ASSOCIATE

MSPB and FLRA Board Nominees Renominated

T

he Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs (HSGAC) advanced nominees to the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) and the Federal Labor Relations Authority (FLRA) on February 2.

HSGAC approved several nominees, some of which were renominated by President Biden after being referred to the floor last year. Per Senate rules, if a nominee has not been approved by the full Senate by the end of the calendar year, the nomination expires. Therefore, unless Senators reach an agreement to suspend those rules for a particular nominee, the president must renominate the candidate.

That was the case for Cathy Harris, who was renominated to serve as chair of the MSPB,

as well as all the nominees for the FLRA—Ernest DuBester, Susan T. Grundmann and Kurt Rumsfeld.

MSPB, which adjudicates appeals of personnel actions, among other duties, has been without a quorum for more than five years, leaving cases in limbo and undermining its functions.

If all of the MSPB nominees are eventually confirmed, they will have to act on thousands of backlogged appeals.

The FLRA is an independent federal agency that administers the labor management relations program for federal employees.

DuBester is currently serving on an expired term as the FLRA chairman and was nominated for his same position. Kurt Rumsfeld, currently the chief counsel to DuBester, was nominated for the position of general counsel.

—BY JOHN ROBERT AYERS, POLICY AND PROGRAMS ASSISTANT

Clarification on MD income tax from the State Tax Roundup in the April 2022 issue: In Maryland, SS income is exempt, and there is an exemption of up to $34,300 for pension income. However, taxpayers must first subtract the full value (not just the taxable amount) of their Social Security benefits from the $34,300 exemption amount before applying the exemption to their pension income.

NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

11

NARFE BILL TRACKER

THE NARFE BILL TRACKER IS YOUR MONTHLY GUIDE TO LEGISLATION NARFE IS FOLLOWING. CHECK BACK EACH ISSUE FOR UPDATES. ISSUE

BILL NUMBER / NAME / SPONSOR

WHAT BILL WOULD DO Repeals both the Government Pension Offset (GPO) and Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP).

Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means (H.R. 82) / Referred to Senate Committee on Finance (S. 1302)

Reforms the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) by providing a monthly rebate of $150 to current beneficiaries (age 62 or older before 2023) and creating a new formula to calculate benefits for future WEP-affected individuals (turning 62 in or after 2023).

Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means

Fully repeals the Windfall Elimination H.R. 4788: Well-Being for Every Public Servant Act of 2021 / Rep. Provision for individuals whose combined monthly income from Julia Letlow, R-LA their non-Social Security covered government annuity and Social Security Cosponsors: benefits is $5,500 or lower, with H.R. 4788: 0 graduated implementation on benefits above that amount.

Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means

H.R. 82/S. 1302: The Social Security Fairness Act / Rep. Rodney Davis, R-IL / Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-OH Cosponsors: H.R. 82: 195 (D) 69 (R) S. 1302: 31 (D) 4 (R) 2 (I) H.R. 2337: The Public Servants Protection and Fairness Act / Rep. Richard Neal, D-MA Cosponsors: H.R. 2337: 187 (D) 0 (R)

SOCIAL SECURITY

H.R. 5723: Social Security 2100: A Sacred Trust / Rep. John Larson, D-CT Cosponsors: H.R. 5723: 201 (D) 0 (R) H.R. 5834: Equal Treatment of Public Servants Act of 2021/ Rep. Kevin Brady, R-TX Cosponsors: H.R. 5834: 3 (D) 47 (R)

NARFE CENTENNIAL

H.Res. 131/S.Res. 76: Resolution Celebrating NARFE’s Centennial / Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-VA / Sen. Ben Cardin, D-MD Cosponsors: H.Res. 131: 15 (D) 4 (R) S.Res. 76: 3 (D) 2 (R) H.R. 51/S. 51 Washington D.C. Admission Act / Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton, D-DC / Sen. Thomas Carper, D-DE

DC STATEHOOD

Expands and strengthens Social Security benefits, improves the solvency of the Social Security trust fund, repeals the Windfall Elimination Provision and Government Pension Offset, and provides for numerous other Social Security related improvements.

Referred to the House Committees on Ways and Means, Education and Labor, and Energy and Commerce

Reforms the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) by providing a monthly payment of $100 to current WEPaffected beneficiaries (age 62 or older before 2023) and $50 for an affected spouse or child. Creates a new formula to calculate benefits for future WEPaffected individuals (turning 62 in or after 2023).

Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means

Congratulates NARFE on the celebration of its 100th anniversary on February 19, 2021, and recognizes the vital contributions its members have made to the United States during the past 100 years.

Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Reform (H.Res. 131) / Agreed to in the Senate by unanimous consent on February 25, 2021 (S.Res. 76)

Provides for the admission of the State of Washington, DC, into the Union.

Passed the House on April 22, 2021, by a vote of 216-208 / Referred to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs (S. 51)

Cosponsors: H.R. 51: 216 (D) 0 (R) S. 51: 44 (D) 0 (R) 1 (I)

NARFE’s Position: 12

LATEST ACTION(S)

NARFE MAGAZINE MAY 2022

Support

Oppose

No position

NARFE BILL TRACKER

THE NARFE BILL TRACKER IS YOUR MONTHLY GUIDE TO LEGISLATION NARFE IS FOLLOWING. CHECK BACK EACH ISSUE FOR UPDATES. ISSUE

BILL NUMBER / NAME / SPONSOR

WHAT BILL WOULD DO

H.R. 302: Preventing a Patronage Requires presidential administrations to obtain the agreement of Congress to System Act / Rep. Gerry reclassify competitive service positions Connolly, D-VA outside of merit system principles.

Cosponsors: H.R. 302: 9 (D) 3 (R) H.R. 6066: Strengthening the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Act / Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-VA FEDERAL PERSONNEL POLICY

Cosponsors: H.R. 6066: 2 (D) 1 (R) H.R. 6104: Building the Next Generation of Federal Employees Act / Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-VA Cosponsors: H.R. 6104: 1 (D) 0 (R)

H.R. 6398/S. 3518: The Federal Adjustment of Income Rates (FAIR) Act / Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-VA / Sen. Brian Schatz, D-HI

FEDERAL COMPENSATION

Advanced from the House Committee on Oversight and Reform by a vote of 25-14

Establishes a comprehensive Federal Internship and Fellowship Center within the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to administer, manage and promote all federal internship and fellowship programs. The bill also credits fellows and interns who meet all qualifications with an additional five points in the competitive service examination.

Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Reform

Provides federal employees with a 5.1 percent average pay raise in 2023.

Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Reform (H.R. 6398) / Referred to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs (S. 3518)

Extends paid leave to federal and postal employees for all conditions covered by the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).

Approved by the House Committee on Oversight and Reform (H.R. 564) / Referred to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs (S. 1158)

An amended version of the bill addresses previous NARFE concerns and includes provisions that would prevent unintended increases to Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) plan premiums for all federal employees and retirees, preserve choice for current postal retirees regarding whether to enroll in Medicare Part B, repeal the mandate to prefund future postal retiree health benefits, and codify the standard six-day mail delivery schedule.

Amended version of H.R. 3076 passed the House by a vote of 342-92 and the Senate by 79-19.

Cosponsors: H.R. 564: 34 (D) 0 (R) S. 1158: 6 (D) 0 (R) H.R. 3076: The Postal Service Reform Act / Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-NY Cosponsors: H.R. 3076: 58 (D) 44 (R)

POSTAL REFORM

H.R. 695/S. 145: USPS Fairness Repeals the U.S. Postal Service’s Act / Rep. Peter DeFazio, D-OR / prefunding requirement.

Sen. Steve Daines, R-MT Cosponsors: H.R. 695: 218 (D) 59 (R) S. 145: 5 (D) 5 (R)

Advanced from the House Committee on Oversight and Reform in a 22-18 vote

Codifies several recommendations for OPM by the National Academy of Public Administration (NAPA), such as clarifying that OPM stands at the center of federal civilian human resource management and ensuring the director of OPM possesses human capital and leadership expertise.

Cosponsors: H.R. 6398: 17 (D) 0 (R) S. 3518: 11 (D) 0 (R) 1 (I) H.R. 564/S. 1158: Comprehensive Paid Leave for Federal Employees Act / Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-NY / Sen. Brian Schatz, D-HI

LATEST ACTION(S)

Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Reform (H.R. 695) / Referred to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs (S. 145)

NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

13

NARFE BILL TRACKER

THE NARFE BILL TRACKER IS YOUR MONTHLY GUIDE TO LEGISLATION NARFE IS FOLLOWING. CHECK BACK EACH ISSUE FOR UPDATES. BILL NUMBER / NAME / SPONSOR

ISSUE

H.R. 304: The Equal COLA Act / Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-VA Cosponsors: H.R. 304: 27 (D) 3 (R) H.R. 4315: The Fair COLA for Seniors Act / Rep. John Garamendi, D-CA FEDERAL ANNUITIES

Cosponsors: H.R. 4315: 49 (D) 1 (R) H.R. 4268: Federal Retirement Fairness Act / Rep. Derek Kilmer, D-WA Cosponsors: H.R. 4268: 22 (D) 13 (R)

WHAT BILL WOULD DO

Provides Federal Employees Retirement Referred to the House System (FERS) retirees with the same Committee on Oversight annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) and Reform as Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) retirees.

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

Allows federal employees who started their careers in temporary positions before transitioning into permanent roles to retroactively contribute toward their retirement for the years they held a temporary position.

Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Reform

NARFE’s Position:

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To comply with federal law, we must use our best efforts to obtain, maintain and submit the name, mailing address, occupation and name of employer of individuals whose contributions exceed $200 each calendar year. NARFE-PAC is for the benefit of political candidates and activities on a national level. NARFE members have the right to refuse to contribute without reprisal, and NARFE will neither favor nor disadvantage anyone based on the amount of a contribution or failure to make a voluntary contribution. The suggested amounts are only suggestions and not enforceable. Only members of NARFE may contribute to the PAC. Contributions from non-members will be returned. NARFE-PAC contributions are not deductible for federal income tax purposes.

THERAPY, SAFETY AND INDEPENDENCE

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More Than Just Hearing Aids Blue Cross and Blue Shield Service Benefit Plan members get a full hearing care package when they use their allowance through TruHearing®

The TruHearing Program Includes: Personalized Care Guidance and assistance from a TruHearing Hearing Consultant Professional exam from a local, licensed provider 1 year of follow-up visits for fitting and adjustments to ensure you’re completely satisfied with your hearing aids

1

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The Service Benefit Plan will pay a hearing aid benefit for Standard and Basic Options up to $2,500 total every 5 calendar years for adults age 22 and over, and up to $2,500 total per calendar year for members up to age 22. FEP Blue Focus does not have a hearing aid benefit. Do not rely on this communication piece alone for complete benefit information.

All benefits are subject to the definitions, limitations, and exclusions in the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Service Benefit Plan brochure. The Blue365® Discount Program offers access to savings on items that you may purchase directly from independent vendors, which may be different from items covered under the Service Benefit Plan or any other applicable federal healthcare program. For hearing aids, acupuncture, chiropractic and vision services, you must exhaust your Service Benefit Plan benefit first before accessing the savings of the Blue365®

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Discount Program. To find out what is covered under your policy, contact the customer service number on the back of your member ID card. The products and services described herein are neither offered nor guaranteed under any local Blue company’s contract with the Medicare program. These items are not subject to the Medicare appeal process. Any disputes regarding these products and services are not subject to the Disputed Claims process. Blue Cross Blue Shield Association (BCBSA) may receive payments from Blue365 vendors. Neither the Service Benefit Plan, nor any local Blue company recommends, endorses, warrants or guarantees any specific Blue365 vendor or item. The Service Benefit Plan reserves the right to change, modify, or terminate any item and vendors made available through Blue365, at any time.

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3

4

Smartphone compatible hearing aids connect directly to iPhone®, iPad®, and iPod® Touch devices. Connectivity also available to many Android® phones with use of an accessory.

Rechargeable features may not be available in all models and styles.

All content ©2021 TruHearing, Inc. All Rights Reserved. TruHearing® is a registered trademark of TruHearing, Inc. All other trademarks, product names, and company names are the property of their respective owners. Listed benefit amount may differ from customer's actual benefit. Actual customer payment will vary. Follow-up provider visits included for one year following hearing aid purchase. Hearing aid repairs, and replacements subject to provider and manufacturer fees. For questions regarding fees, contact TruHearing customer service.

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Questions & Answers

Q&A

THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS & ANSWERS were compiled by NARFE’s Federal Benefits Institute experts. NARFE does not provide legal, financial planning or tax advice or assistance.

EMPLOYMENT FEHB COVERAGE

Q

Now that the pandemic appears to be waning, I want to travel to see family, friends, nature, etc. What if I get sick? Does my Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) provide coverage when I am away?

A

All FEHB plans include emergency care.

Section 5(d) of the plan brochure provides details on coverage for a medical emergency. Many plans have extensive in-network providers throughout the country. Also, check the details in Section 7 of your plan brochure for submitting overseas claims.

In some cases, you will be required to pay for the services up front and then submit a form for reimbursement. Some plans require that the bill be translated into English and the currency converted to dollars.

To find your plan brochure, visit www.opm.gov/healthcareinsurance/healthcare/ plan-information/plans/.

18

NARFE MAGAZINE MAY 2022

TSP CONTRIBUTIONS

Q

I plan to retire at the end of September 2022. Can I have my lump sum annual leave payment go into the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)?

A

TSP contributions can only be made from basic pay. Basic pay for TSP purposes is the same as basic pay for federal civilian retirement purposes and is the same amount used to determine the mandatory Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) or Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) retirement deductions. Basic pay does not include the lump sum annual leave payment, overtime pay, bonuses, allowances, foreign

and domestic post differential for General Schedule employees and foreign post differential for prevailing rate employees, severance pay, retroactive pay granted to a retired or deceased employee pursuant to a wage survey, voluntary separation incentive payments (buyouts), or payments made by the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP benefits).

Q A

Can I contribute the annual limitation of TSP contributions if I retire before the end of the year?

Yes, you can contribute the maximum allowed through payroll deductions. Employees may contribute up to 100 percent of their biweekly basic pay or a specific dollar amount.

The annual contribution limit for 2022 is $20,500, with an additional $6,500 allowed in catch-up contributions for anyone age 50 or older in 2022.

Q A

How do I know if I am on track for contributing the maximum amount allowable into the TSP?

The TSP has several calculators on their website at www.tsp.gov/ calculators/. The “How much can I contribute?” calculator can help you determine the specific dollar amount to be deducted each pay period to maximize your contributions and ensure that you do not miss out on government matching contributions.

The annual contribution limit does not include matching contributions that you receive from your agency or service, so you’re saving more. To compute how much you can contribute for the remainder of the year, subtract the year-to-date amount that you’ve contributed from the annual limitation (be sure to include the amount that you will contribute during the pay period(s) before the change could take place).

Then, divide the remaining amount of contributions by the number of remaining pay periods to determine your new contribution amount for each pay period going forward.

Most agencies require that you elect changes to your TSP contributions on your agency online system, such as Employee Express, myPay, Direct Access, EBIS, LiteBlue, and NFC EPP.

Q

I want to contribute more to the TSP, but I’m not sure how it would impact my net paycheck amount.

Is there an easy way to determine the impact of increasing my contributions?

A

The TSP has a calculator that helps you estimate what your take-home pay is based on the amount you want to contribute to

the TSP. It will help to have a current pay statement when using this calculator: www.tsp.gov/calculators/ paycheck-estimator/#top.

NOTIFICATION OF PERSONNEL ACTION

Q

As a federal employee, I have been receiving emails from my agency informing me of a “personnel action.” Should I do anything when I receive these notices?

A

Yes. Documents such as SF-50 - “Notification of Personnel Action” statements in your electronic Official Personnel Folder (eOPF) serve as an official record of your federal employment. Your eOPF should include documentation of all your civilian service as well as any military service. There are a few agencies that maintain your Official Personnel Folder in an actual cardboard folder; however, in most cases these records are

maintained electronically. A few agencies, such as the CIA or TVA as well as congressional staff, use a “transcript of service.” Be sure to keep a personal record of any changes in your work schedule and retirement system and the beginning/ending dates of your federal appointments.

Employees should review their eOPF to ensure it contains all your civilian federal service.

Notify your human resources office if anything is missing—the staff can request missing records from your prior agency or from the National Personnel Records Center. This process can take months, so it is best to start early.

Make sure that a copy of DD 214 - “Certificate of Release or Discharge From Active Duty,” is included in your eOPF for each period of military service. These records are used to determine your retirement eligibility and the computation of your CSRS or FERS retirement benefit. The service computation date (SCD) on

COUNTDOWN TO COLA The Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) increased 0.96 percent in February 2022. To calculate the 2023 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), the 2022 thirdMonthly % % Change quarter indices will MONTH CPI-W Change from 268.421 be averaged and OCTOBER 2021 271.552 0.92 1.17 compared with the 2021 third-quarter NOVEMBER 273.042 0.55 1.72 average of 268.421.

DECEMBER 273.925 0.32 2.05 The percentage JANUARY 2022 276.296 0.87 2.93 increase determines the FEBRUARY 278.943 0.96 3.92 COLA. February’s index, MARCH 278.943 is up 3.92 percent from the base.

APRIL The CPI represents purchases of food and beverages, housing, apparel, transportation, medical care, recreation, education and communication, and other goods and services.

MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER

For the latest information and for FECA COLA updates, visit www.narfe.org/cola.

NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

19

Questions & Answers form SF-50 is used to determine your annual leave category of four, six or eight hours of annual leave accrual.

RETIREMENT BENEFITS

Q A

How do I apply for my retirement benefits?

You will need to complete the “Application for Immediate Retirement”

Form.

• CSRS: SF 2801 form www. opm.gov/forms/pdf_fill/ sf2801.pdf and pamphlet www. opm.gov/retirement-services/ publications-forms/pamphlets/ sf2801a.pdf.

• FERS: SF 3107 form www. opm.gov/forms/pdf_fill/ sf3107.pdf and pamphlet www. opm.gov/retirement-services/ publications-forms/pamphlets/ sf3113.pdf.

Be sure to note the need to submit additional documentation—such as a copy of your marriage certificate, certified copy of court order or divorce decree, records of military service—as indicated on the form.

Some agencies may require you to use the GRB Platform or FedHR Navigator to complete the forms.

You will submit them to your benefits/retirement specialist in your agency human resources office or shared service center.

Typically, the specialist will ask for your retirement application 60 to 90 days prior to separation. Some larger agencies may ask for 120 days’ notice, especially if you retire at the end of the year, because of the anticipated volume and the time it takes for your agency to prepare its part of the application process.

If you have Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (FEGLI), you will also need to complete SF 2818 - “Continuation of Life Insurance 20

NARFE MAGAZINE MAY 2022

Coverage,” to indicate how much FEGLI you wish to maintain in retirement: www.opm.gov/forms/ pdf_fill/sf2818.

The first step in planning for retirement is to determine when you are eligible to retire. Equally important is determining when you can afford to retire. Your HR/ shared service center can prepare a retirement estimate for you. In addition, you may use calculators on www.tsp.gov and www.ssa. gov to determine monthly benefits available from the TSP and Social Security. The NARFE Federal Benefits Institute has many webinars that help members prepare to apply for retirement.

To view them, visit www.narfe. org/federal-benefits-institute/ narfe-webinars/webinar-archive/.

RETIREMENT FERS ANNUITY SUPPLEMENT

Q

I retired on December 31, 2020, at age 58. Since I am too young to receive Social Security retirement benefits, I have been receiving the FERS annuity supplement. I became reemployed in the private sector after I retired. I was expecting the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to stop paying the FERS supplement, but so far, they have paid the full amount every month. I don’t want to end up in a situation where I am indebted. Can you tell me how the earnings limit for the FERS supplement works?

A

OPM will mail the Annuity Supplement Earnings Report survey to you in the spring, usually in early May, for you to report any earnings over the annual earnings limit for the prior year. The earnings limit was $18,960 for 2021 ($19,560 for 2022). The supplement will be reduced $1.00 for every $2.00

of earned income that is over the annual earnings limit. Any necessary reduction to your FERS supplement payment will be reflected in your August check (as that is the payment for the month of July).

Example: If your 2021 post-retirement earnings were $25,000, that would be $6,040 over the 2021 annual limit of $18,960. Divide the excess earnings amount by two ($6,040/2 = $3,020) to determine the reduction to your FERS supplement. In this case, the reduction is $3,020/ year or $251.66/month. This reduction will be reflected in your July 2022 retirement payment (payable on August 1). If you continue to receive the unreduced payment, notify OPM and check that the agency received your completed earnings survey.

OPM counts earnings as wages, salaries and net income from selfemployment. You will not need to report retirement income, TSP payments, the lump sum annual leave payment, investment income and other unearned income.

FEHB FOR SURVIVING SPOUSE

Q

A friend of mine married after he retired from federal service and added his spouse to his health insurance.

He recently passed away, and his surviving spouse finds herself without the benefit of FEHB. How can that happen?

A

I am sorry to learn of your friend’s passing.

Unfortunately, she would only be eligible to continue FEHB coverage after his death if he elected a survivor benefit within two years of the marriage. It is important to notify OPM of life events such as marriage, death

and divorce, which can impact the value of your CSRS or FERS retirement benefit.

FEGLI

Q

I elected to continue FEGLI, including Option B, when I retired. The premiums have gone up, and I no longer wish to continue this coverage. Can I now reduce some or all of the multiples?

A

The FEGLI Option B (multiples of your salary) premiums increase every five years until you reach age 80 if you elected the “No Reduction” option for any of the multiples of Option B (and Option C, Family coverage). You can reduce your premiums by reducing your coverage. There is no form to use if you are retired; simply write and sign a letter stating clearly the

reduction or cancellation you want to make. Be sure to include your signature, CSA number or Social Security number, and your phone number. Send the letter to: Retirement Operations Center U. S. Office of Personnel Management Post Office Box 45 Boyers, PA 16017-0045 OPM may take several months to process your request; however, it will be retroactive to the date of your election. Any reduction or cancellation of coverage after you retire is permanent.

Q&A COLUMN

Q

The Question-andAnswer column of NARFE Magazine is great. It answers questions I did not know I should have asked. Where can I find past issues?

A

Thank you. NARFE Magazine has a wide audience among federal employees and retirees. The complexity of federal insurance and retirement options generates countless questions. NARFE members can find past issues of the magazine archived on the NARFE website.

Log into www.narfe.org, place your mouse on top of “For Members” and click on “NARFE Magazine Issues” from the dropdown menu.

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.

Prepare for Retirement with NARFE UPCOMING WEBINARS:

NEW!

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2 P.M. ET Managing Your TSP in Retirement —Presented by Mark Keen WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2 P.M. ET Understanding FERS Deferred/ Postponed Retirement Options —Presented by Tammy Flanagan THURSDAY, JULY 7, 2 P.M. ET Understanding Military and Civilian Federal Service Credit —Presented by Tammy Flanagan

Online Q&A sessions follow each webinar. For details and to register, visit NARFE.org/Institute.

NARFE FEDERAL BENEFITS INSTITUTE

Questions? Members can call 800-456-8410 x2 or email NARFE’s federal benefits specialists for one-on-one help fedbenefits@narfe.org.

Not a member? Join NARFE today at NARFE.org/Join.

NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

21

Benefits Brief

Crediting Military Service Toward Your Civilian Federal Benefit

I

f you have served in the uniformed services, crediting military service toward your retirement will increase the value of your Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) or

Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) benefit and may allow you to retire earlier. This brief explains what service qualifies, when a deposit must be made and when you must waive any military retired pay to receive credit. Stay tuned for a brief on how to make the deposit.

OVERVIEW: Federal employees hired under CSRS prior to October 1, 1982: • May pay a deposit equal to 7 percent of military basic pay earned during military service, plus interest, to receive credit toward retirement.

• If no deposit is paid: ◊ If you are under age 62 at retirement, military service will be credited toward retirement. ◊ If you’re eligible for Social Security benefits at age 62 (or at retirement if already age 62), your retirement annuity will be computed (or recomputed, if retired previously) by subtracting the military service time from total service. ◊ If not eligible for Social Security at age 62, you will receive full credit for your military service with no future reduction.

Federal employees hired under CSRS on or after October 1, 1982 may pay a deposit equal to 7 percent of military basic pay earned during service, plus interest, to receive credit for military service toward

22

NARFE MAGAZINE MAY 2022

retirement (for eligibility and computation). FERS employees may pay a deposit equal to 3 percent of the military basic pay, plus interest.

Creditable Active Duty.

Military active duty performed after 1956 under honorable conditions prior to separation from civilian federal service includes service in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard; Commissioned Corps or Reserve Corps of the Public Health Service of the United States; and Commissioned Officer Corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Enlisted service performed as a cadet or midshipman at one of the following service academies is also considered creditable: • US Military Academy (USMA), West Point, NY. • US Naval Academy (USNA), Annapolis, MD. • US Coast Guard Academy (USCGA), New London, CT. • US Air Force Academy (USAFA), Colorado Springs, CO. The rules for crediting National Guard service include

service when ordered to active duty for the United States as well as service that interrupts civilian service creditable under CSRS or FERS, if the service meets certain conditions.

If your military service qualifies you for military retired pay, you need to waive your retired military pay to credit military service toward CSRS or FERS. However, a retired pay waiver is not required if: • You have military service that was not used in the computation of military retired pay, such as enlisted service performed as a cadet or midshipman by an individual who retires as an officer or has more than 30 years of service; or • You receive military retired pay awarded due to: ◊ A service-connected disability incurred in combat with an enemy of the United States or caused by an instrumentality of war and incurred in the line of duty during a period of war; or ◊ Under provisions of 10 U.S.C. 12731-12739 (retired pay under Chapter 1223 for members of the reserves).

Under FERS, you would need to waive your military retired pay at the time of your civilian retirement; however, this would not affect the receipt of your VA benefits.

—MICHELE BOLLIER IS A RETIREMENT AND BENEFITS SPECIALIST WITH RETIRE FEDERAL.

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SCAMS TARGETING SENIORS: Don’t Take the Bait HOW SCAMMERS TARGET OLDER AMERICANS, WHAT TO DO IF YOU’RE SCAMMED—AND HOW TO KEEP FROM BECOMING A VICTIM

BY EVERETT A. CHASEN

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P

atricia P.’s ordeal began with a Friday morning phone call. “This is Amazon,” a recording greeted the

retired university professor. “You have a charge here for $99. We’re just checking to see if you made this purchase. If you did not buy this, please call this number.”

Patricia (who asked that her full name not be used) had not made any such purchase, and the caller was not from Amazon. The recording had been made by a team of scammers—although she didn’t yet know that. When she called the number, an “intelligent sounding” person responded.

“We certainly can help you with this,” she was told, “but you’ve already been charged the $99.

We can refund it to you, but we’ll need to get into your email.” Then they asked if she did her banking online and if they could also get access to that account.

“I gave them access to my bank account,” Patricia recalls, wincing at the memory, “and that was a huge mistake, of course.” Using illegal technology, the scammers actually deposited $99 into her account. Patricia noticed, however, that the funds were immediately withdrawn. Then they called again and again.

“They told me, ‘We have deposited too much into your account.’ And they asked me to buy gift cards to some major stores for the amount they called the ‘overage,’ and to read the numbers to them and then destroy the cards. I can’t remember why I agreed to do that—but I did.”

For two days, Patricia ran around to stores purchasing $10,000 worth of gift cards and providing the numbers to the persistent callers. “They would not leave me alone,” she remembers. “They kept referring me back to my checking account to look at sums they had ‘deposited,’ and as they controlled my email, I couldn’t recheck my account myself.”

At Nordstrom’s, a manager called over by a suspicious clerk even warned her of scams involving gift cards before her purchase, but Patricia didn’t listen. “I was frightened by the second day,” she says, “as the calls were incessant.”

Finally, Patricia returned home, and her partner John, a retired federal employee, asked “Where have you been?” His daughter was visiting, and when Patricia explained what she was doing and why, the daughter responded, correctly, “Amazon never calls.”

John picked up the phone on the next call and told the caller he knew they were scammers and to stop calling, which they immediately did. But they still had access to Patricia’s bank account, her emails and all her credit cards.

“Everything had to be changed,” she says. “All my credit cards, my passwords, my bank account numbers. Anything that had anything to do with money.” Luckily, she has a friend with some technological savvy. “It took him four hours to clean out my computer. Now, I have to sign in every time I open the computer with a password, and I change it every month.”

“The incredible inconvenience and the terrible feeling was awful,” Patricia says. “It was almost like a death in the family.”

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The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) estimates that seniors lost nearly $1 billion in online scams in 2020, 28 percent of the total Americans lost online.

More than 100,000 people over the age of 60 were scammed, with an average loss of $9,175.

Nearly 2,000 older Americans lost more than $100,000.

The Federal Trade Commission’s Role

Patricia’s story is far from unique. More than 3.5 million older people are swindled out of more than $3 billion a year and suffer an average loss of $34,200, according to the U.S. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CPFB).

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is the nation’s primary consumer protection agency. Its mission includes trying to protect older consumers from fraud. “One of the ways in which we help older Americans is through aggressive law enforcement,” explains Kati Daffan, assistant director of FTC’s Division of Marketing Practices. “We bring cases against scammers and give money back to consumers wherever we can. But we also do a huge amount of outreach and education, because research shows that if people are informed about a particular scam, they’re likely to not give any money or personal information away in the first place, which is always the best outcome.” FTC also puts “a considerable amount of effort” into research to develop effective policy initiatives that protect seniors.

In October 2021, FTC issued a report to Congress, “Protecting Older Consumers, 20202021,” available on its website, www.ftc.gov. The report noted that online shopping fraud had increased sharply among adults age 60 and older in the second quarter of 2020. Many online marketers, for example, failed to deliver face masks and other scarce items ordered during the initial phases of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Shopping scams were the most frequent type of fraud reported by older adults in the past two years.

Overall, reports of losses from these scams more than doubled in 2020, and the numbers continued to be far higher than pre-pandemic levels in the first half of 2021.

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Surprisingly, FTC’s analysis of fraud reports the agency received in 2020 showed that adults age 60 or above are substantially less likely to report losing money to fraud than adults age 20 to 59.

When the older adults do report losing money, however, they tend to have more substantial losses than younger adults.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) estimates that seniors lost nearly $1 billion in online scams in 2020, 28 percent of the total Americans lost online. More than 100,000 people over the age of 60 were scammed, with an average loss of $9,175. Nearly 2,000 older Americans lost more than $100,000.

Types of Scams

How did these older adults lose their money?

Besides shopping fraud, here are some other types of common scams listed on the FBI’s website (www.f bi.gov): • Romance scam: Criminals pose as interested romantic partners on social media or dating websites to capitalize on their elderly victims’ desire to find companions. The scammers often ask for loans for emergencies and promise to pay their victims back—but never do.

• Tech support scam: Criminals pose as technology support representatives and offer to fix nonexistent computer issues. The imposters gain remote access to victims’ devices and sensitive information. (NARFE Magazine discussed cybersecurity safety in the August 2019 issue.)

• Grandparent scam: Criminals pose as a relative—usually a child or grandchild—claiming to be in immediate financial need.

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• Government impersonation scam: Criminals pose as government employees and threaten to arrest or prosecute victims unless they agree to provide funds or other payments.

(More information about this scam can be found in the April 2015 issue of NARFE Magazine.)

• Sweepstakes/charity/lottery scam: Criminals claim to work for legitimate charitable organizations to gain victims’ trust. Or they claim their targets have won a foreign lottery or sweepstake, which they can collect for a fee.

• Home repair scam: Criminals appear in person and charge homeowners in advance for home improvement services they never provide.

• TV/radio scam: Criminals target potential victims using illegitimate advertisements about sometimes legitimate services, such as reverse mortgages or credit repair.

• Family/caregiver scam: Relatives or acquaintances of elderly victims take advantage of them or otherwise get access to their money.

Romance scams are the most prevalent way in which older people lose their money, followed by prize sweepstakes and lottery scams, and then by business impersonator scams like the one that victimized Patricia. Older adults, Daffan says, are “much more likely than younger Americans to report losing money on technical support scams, sweepstakes scams, and family and friend impersonation, like the grandparent scam.”

What to Do if You’ve Been Scammed If you’ve been scammed, Daffan says, “the first step we recommend is to go to www.reportfraud. ftc.gov. When you enter information about what happened to you, you get advice about what to do next. For example, contact your credit card company right away. And don’t forget to save all your receipts. The website gives you personalized steps about what to do.

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“We get tens of thousands of complaints from the public every week, so we can’t follow up on each one. But what we do is use this data every single day as we do our law enforcement and other work. And the data is not only used by FTC’s attorneys, but by all our law enforcement partners across the nation.

“It’s a huge public service for people to report what happened to them,” she continues, “or even what they are seeing in the marketplace.” The FTC and the FBI sometimes contact people who have filed complaints with them to obtain evidence, and people do sometimes get money back as a result of that contact. “But it’s not something we’re able to do in every single case,” Daffan notes. In fiscal year 2021, FTC enforcement actions returned more than $403 million to consumers of all ages.

The FBI suggests that if you or someone you know may have been a victim of elder fraud, contact your local FBI field office or submit a tip online to https:// tips.fbi.gov. If you’ve been a victim of internet crime, you can also file a complaint to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.

Patricia reported her theft to her county’s Office of Consumer Affairs. “I made three or four calls. The first person I talked to said, ‘I just dread Mondays, because I know how many of these reports I’m going to get.’ ”

How to Keep From Being Scammed

The FTC has learned that “if people are forewarned about a particular scam, and they’ve heard of it before, they are more likely to be able to avoid it,” Daffan says. She recommends that consumers sign up for email updates from the agency’s Consumer Information Blog at www. consumer.ftc.gov/blog. Whenever the FTC hears about a new scam that’s going on, the agency sends out a short, readable alert about it. “People who sign up for these can not only be aware of new scams, but also spread the word to others in their community.”

While many tips are available on their website, Daffan offers a few she believes are especially important. Because a lot of scams begin on the telephone, “don’t trust your caller ID. Scammers can easily fake any name or number to show up on your caller ID, and, unfortunately, some people don’t know that. It seems very convincing when your caller ID shows the name of a well-known company or federal agency.

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Disconnect from the internet and shut down your device if you see a pop-up message or a locked screen. Pop-ups are regularly used by perpetrators to spread malicious software. Enable pop-up blockers to avoid accidentally clicking on a pop-up.

“A second piece of advice is to consider callblocking services, if your phone service offers them,” she continues. FTC’s website provides information on call-blocking services for different types of phones at www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/ how-block-unwanted-calls.

“Another suggestion is just to hang up,” Daffan explains. “If you’re on the national Do Not Call registry and a company calls to try to sell you something and you haven’t given your express written consent, that’s an illegal call; so, you can just assume you don’t want to do business with that company—and it’s not rude to just hang up.”

(Sign up for the registry, which the FTC manages, at www.donotcall.gov.)

Patricia no longer answers calls from anyone she does not know. Callers can leave a message on her answering machine, and she calls back if she feels it is warranted. And Patricia is very careful about email messages. “You need to be sure, for instance, if it is really Amazon who is communicating with you.”

The FBI has some additional tips, including: • Search online for the contact information (name, email, phone number, address) and the proposed offer you receive. Other people have likely posted information online about individuals and businesses trying to run scams.

• Resist the pressure to act quickly. Scammers create a sense of urgency to produce fear and lure victims into taking prompt action. Call the police immediately if you feel there is a danger to yourself or a loved one.

• Never give or send any personally identifiable information, money, jewelry, gift cards, checks, or wire information to unverified people or businesses.

• Make sure your computer antivirus and security software and malware protections are up to date.

Use reputable antivirus software and firewalls.

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• Disconnect from the internet and shut down your device if you see a pop-up message or a locked screen. Pop-ups are regularly used by perpetrators to spread malicious software. Enable pop-up blockers to avoid accidentally clicking on a pop-up.

• Be careful what you download. Never open an email attachment from someone you don’t know, and be wary of email attachments forwarded to you.

• Take precautions to protect your identity if a criminal gains access to your device or account.

Immediately contact your financial institutions to place protections on your accounts, and monitor your accounts and personal information for suspicious activity.

“We have great consumer education information and materials [on our website],” says Daffan. “And there are some really great videos, graphics, to-do lists, and all kinds of different things that are very easy to use and easy for people to understand.

We’re always so happy when people help spread the word.” The agency’s Pass It On education campaign for older adults (www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/ feature-0030-pass-it) offers resources to read and share with family, friends and community message boards to start conversations about fraud.

“I’m so lucky,” says Patricia, “because I’m okay without the money I lost. I heard about a woman who gave all of her money—an older lady like me.

I’m glad that there’s been so much publicity on this sort of thing happening, so there are fewer successful attempts.”

—EVERETT A. (EV) CHASEN IS A WRITER AND COMMUNICATIONS CONSULTANT IN THE WASHINGTON, DC, AREA. HE IS RETIRED FROM THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AFTER 35 YEARS OF SERVICE.

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KIRAN AHUJA MEETING CHALLENGES, EXPANDING CAPABILITIES Kiran Ahuja was confirmed as director of the Office of Personnel Management in June 2021. Previously she served as OPM chief of staff from 2015 to 2017.

In February, NARFE asked the director about her vision for OPM and her expectations for the future of the agency. The following written answers were minimally edited for clarity.

Prior to assuming the role of director, you served as chief of staff of the agency from 2015 to 2017. How did that experience shape your views of the agency coming into the role of director?

M

y tenure as chief of staff gave me the opportunity to witness the commitment, hard work, and dedication of the OPM staff and the federal workforce firsthand. I worked alongside individuals who take their oath of public office very seriously and work every day to fulfill their agency’s mission. So coming in as director, I had a very clear understanding of how federal employees are in the business of achieving the unachievable, whether they are curing disease, combatting climate change, or landing a rover on the surface of Mars. I also understood that the team at OPM works as hard for the federal workforce as that workforce does for the American people. Additionally, a major part of my work as director is uplifting the incredible work that

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takes place at OPM and expanding the many ways we are already honoring federal employees across the government.

Given your past role and interest in federal human capital issues, you may have continued to follow OPM’s activity in the interim, and likely paid even closer attention as you prepared for confirmation hearings. Did you expect OPM to be different than when you left it? Why?

H

aving served on President Biden’s transition team, I had a sense of the challenges that lay ahead. I also had a sense of the challenges the team overcame while I was gone. The previous administration had undermined the hard work that OPM had been delivering for decades, and eroded morale of civil servants. A large reason for why OPM is back and regaining strength with each passing day, is the sheer dedication of the entire team here.

NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

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K I R A N A H UJA

MEETING CHALLENGES, EXPANDING CAPABILITIES What did you view as the biggest challenges facing the agency as you entered the role? The biggest opportunities? How did your views change, if at all, now that you’ve been on the job for more than six months? Has anything surprised you in your first six months?

O

PM has played a key role on many of President Biden’s most important initiatives – we’re helping to lead on implementation of his Diversity Equity Inclusion and Accessibility Executive Order; we’re working to write a new chapter in labor relations as a member of the White House Task Force on Worker Organizing and Empowerment; we’re helping to lead the Administration’s workforce safety efforts as a member of the White House Safer Federal workforce Task Force; we have crucial responsibilities in the President’s Management Agenda and an active role on the President’s Management Council, just to name a few. Each one of these is a challenge that our team proves itself worthy of every single day, and each one offers opportunities for us to further our own affirmative agenda to position the federal government as a model employer, help define the future of work, and solidify OPM’s role as a key strategic human capital partner for the federal government.

If one thing stands out as surprising, it’s how fast the professionals at OPM transitioned from fighting to ensure the agency endured, to proactively delivering vital support across the federal government. This is no longer the agency of the previous four years – we’re back and we’re delivering in decisive ways.

What are the biggest challenges and opportunities facing OPM’s Retirement Services (RS) division in terms of serving federal retirees and their survivors?

A

fter a career serving the American Public, civil servants and their families deserve the best when they choose to retire. Strong retirement benefits have long been central part of the federal employee experience—they are critical to recruiting and retaining a world-class federal 34

NARFE MAGAZINE MAY 2022

workforce. OPM has proudly administered this program for years.

The federal government has experienced an increase of retirements in recent months. This has put a real strain on our operations, and we do have a backlog of cases. But we are working very hard to reduce that backlog and provide the quality of service that federal retirees and their survivors deserve. We have increased our processing capacity and digital capabilities, and we are working to modernize the retirement experience and ease retirees into operating in the digital world rather than in the physical world alone.

Surveys indicate that federal employees and retirees, including our members, highly value the health benefits provided through the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program. What do you envision for the FEHB program?

T

he FEHB program is highly valued by federal employees and retirees; in fact, more than two thirds of federal employees have stated that the FEHB influenced or greatly influenced their decision to take their federal job and four in five federal employees report that FEHB coverage influenced or greatly influenced their remaining in federal service. My goal is to both continue and improve upon the availability of modern health benefits to assist in recruiting and retaining a modern workforce. To do so, the FEHB must be responsive to medical science and to the evolving expectations of employees for health benefits that anticipate and respond to their health needs and those of their families.

Telehealth, which rose to prominence during the pandemic, has proven to be an important element in the modern health benefit portfolio by enabling easy access to many aspects of care and, by affording additional privacy, reducing the stigma associated with seeking vital mental health and addiction treatment services. Additionally, OPM aims to improve the way that employees and retirees select health plans by applying the latest choice architecture to the tools used to select health plans, enabling more complete information on plan benefits, quality, and cost to drive employee decision-making. Improving the quality

and timeliness of health plan benefit information also assists in addressing this Administration’s health equity goals; for example, LGBTQ+ employees will have the information they need to select a health plan that provides specific services, such as comprehensive gender affirming care, they may be seeking.

When Congress blocked the previous administration’s plan to eliminate and reorganize the functions of OPM, it mandated a study by the National Academy of Public Administration (NAPA) to analyze the challenges facing OPM and provide recommendations for reform. NAPA issued its report in March 2021, and OPM provided its response in September 2021, accepting most of the recommendations. What steps has OPM taken since then to implement the report’s recommendations?

T

he NAPA report affirms the need for a strong, independent, and well-resourced OPM. Our response demonstrates our broad agreement and deep engagement with the study’s findings, as well as our commitment to many of the policy changes and financial investments it lays out. We coordinated our draft FY2022-26 Strategic Plan and our planning budget with our response to the report as the first steps to achieving that leadership.

Taken together, all this work demonstrates a clear path for OPM to deliver on its charge, now and well into the future. And as we turn those plans into action, we’re focused on specific policy priorities to guide our actions in this pivotal moment - from a talent surge to meet our infrastructure needs, to rebuilding the federal workforce in the wake of sustained attrition, to working to recruit a diverse and talented federal workforce to meet the needs of the moment. We are helping agencies rebuild and retain the federal workforce by hiring people with the right skills in the right jobs. We are ensuring they draw from the broad diversity of the American people and attracting early career talent who can build a career in public service. We are helping ensure every federal job is a good job, including by setting a $15 minimum wage for US federal employees, and much more.

Nearly 28 percent of federal employees are eligible to retire in the next five years, and only 8 percent of the workforce is under 30.

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) has identified “mission-critical skills gaps” as

Office of Personnel Management Director Kiran Ahuja’s swearing-in ceremony in June 2021 was virtual.

impeding the government from effectively serving the government. Congress also just passed a major infrastructure bill that may require agencies to quickly hire qualified employees to swiftly implement the bill’s provisions. What is OPM doing to ensure the federal government is able to recruit and retain the workforce the government needs to serve the American public?

I

like to say that the federal government wins on mission. If you are someone who wants to see the positive impact of your work, there is no better place to build a career. Tackling ambitious challenges requires fresh perspectives, so we’re eager to bring in early-career talent. We administer the Presidential Management Fellows Program, https://www.pmf.gov/the-opportunity/pmf-asa-pathway/, the premier leadership development program in the federal government. This year alone we selected 1100 finalists - a marked increase from last year - to be placed at numerous agencies as our future government leaders. This past year we developed two hiring authorities for agencies to bring in up-and-coming talent who are either post-secondary students or recent college graduates—and to do it quickly and easily. These authorities provide early-career professionals with additional avenues into the federal workforce, and they provide access to federal job opportunities for people who may otherwise face financial barriers with an unpaid internship.

What can you tell us about the President’s Management Agenda, and OPM’s role in implementing it?

NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

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K I R A N A H UJA

MEETING CHALLENGES, EXPANDING CAPABILITIES

T

he President’s Management Agenda is a plan to create an effective, equitable, and accountable government that delivers results for all Americans. The first priority of the PMA is to ensure the Federal workforce is strong, empowered, and well-equipped to deliver for the American people. OPM has key responsibilities to enact this vision, and our team could not be prouder.

As the President often says, a job is about more than a paycheck – it’s about dignity.

That’s why we’re working to ensure every federal job is a good job, where all employees are engaged, supported, heard, and empowered, with opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive throughout their careers.

We recently set a $15 per hour minimum wage for all US federal employees, and we’re

working to eliminate barriers to collective bargaining in the federal workforce. We’re also leading efforts to make Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) central to all aspects of the federal employment cycle, from onboarding to growth opportunities, to upward mobility. We want every serviceminded American to feel welcome contributing their talents to the civil service. By drawing on the broad range of backgrounds, perspectives, and lived experiences of the American people, we become better equipped to meet America’s every need in the process. And as the largest employer in the country, to stay competitive we must improve the competitive hiring process as well as adapt federal hiring overall to the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.

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CONTROL WHAT YOU CAN. INSURE WHAT YOU CAN’T. You can control many things in your life — diet, exercise, even on-demand TV — but life has its own plans.

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NARFE Hospital Indemnity and Short Term Recovery Insurance Plan This plan can help you manage how life’s surprises affect what you’ve worked so hard for. It pays cash benefits to you, or anyone you choose, to use the money as you see fit. Use the cash benefits to stay more in control of your health care choices, maintain your self reliance, and receive the level of care you’ve earned and deserve.

Benefits include: Guaranteed Acceptance to NARFE Members and Spouses Age 65–99.*

• In-Hospital cash benefits paid to you starting the first day you’re hospitalized for a covered injury or illness.

• At-Home cash benefits paid to you after your physician prescribes home recovery treatments.

• Cash benefits paid in addition to any other coverage you may have.

• Coverage cannot be canceled because of your health or your age.

• Economical group rates specifically negotiated by NARFE for our members.

To learn more or enroll in the NARFE Hospital Indemnity and Short Term Recovery Insurance Plan, call 1-800-233-5764 or visit us at www.narfeinsurance.com *This policy is guaranteed acceptance, but it does contain a Pre-Existing Conditions Limitation. All benefits are subject to the terms and conditions of the policy. Policies underwritten by Hartford Life and Accident Insurance Company detail exclusions, limitations, reduction of benefits and terms under which the policies may be continued in full or discontinued.

Plans may vary by state.

The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc., (NYSE: HIG) operates through its subsidiaries, including Hartford Life and Accident Insurance Company under the brand name, The Hartford®, and is headquartered at One Hartford Plaza, Hartford, CT 06155. For additional details, please read The Hartford’s legal notice at www. thehartford.com.

Hospital Indemnity Form Series includes GBD-2800, GBD-2900 or state equivalent.

Program Administered by Mercer Health & Benefits Administration LLC

AR Insurance License #100102691 CA Insurance License #OG39709 In CA d/b/a Mercer Health & Benefits Insurance Services LLC 96071 (5/22), 96400 (10/22) Copyright 2022 Mercer LLC. All rights reserved.

Managing Money

Consider a QCD to Maximize the Tax Benefits of a Charitable Contribution

W

ith the 2021 tax season ending, most taxpayers have shifted from 2021 tax preparation to 2022 tax planning. While there’s no silver bullet

to avoiding taxes, charitably inclined taxpayers who are subject to required minimum distributions (RMDs) may be able to use qualified charitable distributions (QCDs) to save thousands in taxes.

In 2018, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) doubled the standard deduction and capped the so-called SALT (state, local and real estate taxes) deduction at $10,000. As a result, only one out of 10 taxpayers now itemize.

In other words, many charitably minded taxpayers who once itemized deductions now claim the standard deduction and receive no tax benefit from their charitable contributions. [The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, allowed taxpayers to deduct up to $300 ($600 for married couples) in charitable contributions when claiming the standard deduction. This, however, was a temporary benefit applying only to the 2020 and 2021 tax years.]

While the TCJA had a negative impact on many charitably inclined taxpayers, a QCD strategy may help reduce the taxes of those who are subject to RMDs. By simply changing how they donate—through QCDs instead of cash—it’s possible for individuals to realize tax benefits on the full value of

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NARFE MAGAZINE MAY 2022

BY SIMPLY CHANGING HOW THEY DONATE— THROUGH QCDS INSTEAD OF CASH— IT’S POSSIBLE FOR INDIVIDUALS TO REALIZE TAX BENEFITS ON THE FULL VALUE OF THEIR CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS.

their charitable contributions.

In fact, the QCD provides two benefits: first, the amount of the QCD will be excluded from taxable income; second, the value of the QCD counts towards satisfying RMDs. In many cases, even taxpayers who itemize may benefit from a QCD. For example, consider spouses, both age 72, who are subject to a $20,000 RMD and who have $30,000 in itemized

deductions, consisting of $10,000 in taxes and $20,000 in charitable contributions.

In 2022, the standard deduction for a single taxpayer is $12,950 and $25,900 for married couples filing jointly.

In addition, taxpayers 65 and older receive an extra deduction of $1,700 for single individuals and $1,400 for married individuals.

Including the additional deduction for those 65 and older, this 72-year-old couple is entitled to a standard deduction of $28,700, which means they are realizing a tax benefit on only $1,300 (the amount their itemized deductions exceed the standard deduction) of their $20,000 in charitable contributions. If they donated the $20,000 via a QCD instead, and then took the standard deduction, they would reduce their taxable income by an additional $18,700 compared to the cash contribution strategy.

There are several rules relating to QCDs to be aware of. For starters, taxpayers must be at least age 70½ when performing a QCD, and the maximum allowable QCD is $100,000 per year. For married couples, each spouse may make a $100,000 QCD from his or her own IRA. For the QCD to count towards an RMD, the taxpayer must be subject to an RMD in the year of the QCD (the

BENEFITS RESOURCES NARFE OFFERS MEMBERS a wide range of information on federal benefits. Visit www.narfe.org/federal-benefits-institute.

SECURE Act increased the RMD age to 72 but left the QCD age at 70½).

The funds must be transferred directly from the taxpayer’s IRA to the qualified charity, which can be accomplished by requesting that the IRA custodian issue a check payable to the charity.

The check may be mailed directly to the charity or mailed to the IRA owner to forward to the charity.

Finally, only IRAs, including inherited ones, are eligible for QCDs (Roth IRAs are eligible, too, but it rarely makes sense to do a QCD from a Roth IRA).

Note that employer-based retirement plans, such as the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), are not eligible for QCDs.

To use TSP money to make a QCD, you must transfer the money to an IRA first.

It’s also worth noting that certain charities, such as donor-advised funds and private foundations, are not considered qualified charities for QCD purposes.

For taxpayers charitably inclined and subject to RMDs, consider a QCD if you’re not receiving a tax benefit on the full value of your charitable contributions.

MARK A. KEEN, CFP®, 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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39

NARFE News 2022 FEDERATION CONFERENCES

Learn From the Best at FEDcon22

O

h my, how we have missed seeing you. Are you ready for a return to in-person events? We are. FEDcon22 will be live and in person this August 21-23 at the

Westin Kierland Resort & Spa in Scottsdale, AZ. Get ready for a lively program overflowing with thoughtprovoking speakers, leadership training, intensive education on federal benefits and financial planning, and opportunities to connect with fellow NARFE members and federal colleagues.

Throughout more than 20 sessions, NARFE’s experts will provide you with vital information on multiple topics: • Federal Benefits: Tammy Flanagan and Mark Keen, CFP, will deliver practical, easy-to-understand information to ensure that you capitalize on your federal benefits and leave nothing on the table at retirement and beyond.

• Advocacy: Our advocacy staff will provide an update on legislation and policies threatening the security of current and retired Feds— and discuss what you can do to help.

• Leadership: We will share best practices in leadership development to enhance the federal community’s

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NARFE MAGAZINE MAY 2022

contribution at the local level.

• Lifestyle: Attend sessions about how to unearth your family tree, tips for keeping memories when downsizing, and how to recognize and avoid online scams.

The program will also feature three inspirational keynote speakers. Acclaimed author Kevin Brown will share how the heroes who transformed his life are people just like you. Peggy Grande, former civil servant and executive assistant to former President Ronald Reagan, will regale us with stories of a life well lived and a lasting legacy.

And our amazingly fun “Nerdy Best Friend,” Beth Z, will share tips for taking care of yourself and others using technology.

We can’t wait to see you in person in Scottsdale this August.

Visit fedcon.narfe.org for more details about the program, housing and registration. Early bird registration rates end May 13, 2022, so register today.

—BY ERIN CARTER, DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMS

This information was correct as of press time in late March; please contact your federation to make sure details are current.

ALASKA: September 24, 2022, online: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/89098661119; contact Paul McIntosh, pjmac@gci.net CONNECTICUT: October 12, 2022, in Cromwell FLORIDA: October 13-16, 2022, in Jacksonville IDAHO: May 13, 2022, in Boise ILLINOIS: September 20-22, 2022, in Effingham MASSACHUSETTS: May 5, 2022, in Devens MICHIGAN: May 24-27, 2022, in Clare MINNESOTA: May 17-18, 2022, in Alexandria MISSOURI: May 4-5, 2022, in Springfield MONTANA: June 7, 2022, online: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/5472873904; contact Leland Walbruch, walbruchsofmt@ centurylink.net NEW HAMPSHIRE: May 18-19, 2022, in Rochester (if in person) NEW YORK: May 23-27, 2022, in Albany NEBRASKA: May 25-26, 2022, online; contact Harold Kaege, hlklaege@gmail.com NORTH CAROLINA: May 15, 2022, online OREGON: May 15-17, 2022, in Newport PENNSYLVANIA: May 2-3, 2022, in York SOUTH DAKOTA: May 16-18, 2022, in Pierre WASHINGTON: October 9-12, 2022, online; contact Steven Roy, stevenroy1@comcast.net WEST VIRGINIA: May 18-19, 2022, in Martinsburg

Donate

to NARFE programs

Join the Silver Circle

Enclosed is my NARFE Silver Circle Contribution: $ ________

MAKE CHECK PAYABLE TO: NARFE (write Silver Circle on memo line)

Name: ___________________________________________________________

All donations go to the NARFE General Fund to support NARFE Programs and operations.

PLEASE MAIL COUPON AND CHECK TO: NARFE / 606 N. Washington St. / Alexandria, VA 22314 or donate online at www.narfe.org/ silvercircle With NARFE’s thanks, you will receive: • A Silver Circle pin and recognition on narfe.org with a donation of $100 or more.

• A Silver Circle pin, your name plate placed on the Silver Circle plaque at NARFE Headquarters, recognition on narfe.org and recognition at the NARFE yearly conference with a donation of $1,000 or more.

Address: _________________________________________________________

Silver Circle contributions are NOT tax-deductible.

Name: (please print) _______________________________________________

City:_____________________________________________________________ State:______________________________ ZIP: _________________________

Credit Card Information: q M/C q VISA q Discover q AMEX Card Number: ____________________________________________________ Expiration Date: ______ (mm)/ _____ (yy)

Security Code: ______________

Signature: ___________________________________ Date: ____ / ___/____

Support Alzheimer’s Research NARFE members contributed for Alzheimer’s research: $15 Million Fund $14,321,479.83* *Total as of February 28, 2022. 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 OR EMAIL: oeashf3@gmail.com MAKE CHECK PAYABLE TO: NARFE-Alzheimer’s Research (write your chapter number on memo line)

Enclosed is my NARFE-Alzheimer’s contribution: $ ________ Every cent that is contributed is used for research.

Name: ___________________________________________________________ Address: _________________________________________________________ City:_____________________________________________________________ State:______________________________ ZIP: _________________________ Chapter number: __________________________________________________

PLEASE MAIL COUPON AND CHECK TO: Alzheimer’s Association 225 N. Michigan Ave., 17th Floor Chicago, IL 60601-7633

Credit Card Information: q M/C q VISA q Discover q AMEX

Your charitable contribution is tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.

Signature: ___________________________________ Date: ____ / ___ / ______

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

Your charitable contribution is tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.

Card Number: ____________________________________________________ Expiration Date: ______ (mm)/ ____(yy)

Security Code: _______________

Name: (please print) _______________________________________________

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:_____________________________________________________________ State:______________________________ ZIP: _________________________ Email: ___________________________________________________________

To make credit card or e-check contributions, visit www.feea.org/givenarfe.

NARFE’S PREMIER NATIONAL CONFERENCE

AUGUST 21-23, 2022 WESTIN KIERLAND RESORT AND SPA | SCOTTSDALE, AZ

5 REASONS TO ATTEND LEARN With more than 20 sessions designed to benefit the federal community, FEDcon22 attendees have many opportunities to learn from the best! Nationally recognized experts help you take full advantage of your federal benefits, master the retirement process, stay financially fit, and much, much more!

LEAD Protecting and preserving your federal benefits starts at the local level. Workshops on advocacy and local leadership help you develop skills that will help you strengthen the voice of the federal community where you live and work.

CONNECT This one-of-a-kind conference gives attendees, speakers and vendors the opportunity to lean in and learn from one another.

DEVELOP Professionally and personally, FEDcon22 offers tools and training to enrich your health, wealth and lifestyle.

CELEBRATE FEDcon22 celebrates NARFE’s 101 years of continued service to the federal community.

MAKE PLANS TODAY TO BE AT FEDcon22!

AUGUST 21-23, 2022, SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA NARFE ANNUAL BUSINESS MEETING, AUGUST 21

REGISTER Register today at fedcon.narfe.org Registration by phone is also available by calling 800-456-8410, ext 261 Member Registration Fee: $190 Early Bird through May 13, then $215

CHOOSE YOUR SESSIONS Everyone has access to the General Sessions and two lunches. You will have the opportunity to customize your experience by choosing sessions and workshops you would like to attend.

ADD A DAY TO VISIT SCOTTSDALE There’s so much to do and see in Scottsdale, Arizona! Technicolor sunsets. Majestic mountains. Towering saguaro cacti. Scottsdale invites you to witness the wonders of the Sonoran Desert and experience the unique blend of luxury, relaxation and adventure!

Scottsdale is bursting at the seams with the makings of a memorable getaway. Call the hotel to ask about tours in the local area.

BOOK YOUR HOTEL ROOM Westin Kierland Resort and Spa 6902 E Greenway Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ 85254 Conference rate for accommodations is $115 plus tax per night. To make your reservation, visit fedcon.narfe.org and click on Hotel and Travel or call 800-354-5892.

CANDIDATE STATEMENTS NARFE members will elect national officers and regional vice presidents for two-year terms. NARFE members who announced their candidacy by the deadline submitted the following statements for publication in NARFE Magazine. They have not been edited in any way. Please note that as of press time, NARFE received no candidate submissions for regions I, II, VI and VIII. All candidate statements, including those received since February 15, are published at www.narfe.org/2022election. The August issue of NARFE Magazine will include instructions for voting online or by mail.

Candidates for National President BILL R. AUSTIN I seek your vote to elect me NARFE National President. From humble beginnings, I developed a burning desire to work hard and create a better life. There were no resources to attend college. So, I did the next best thing. I enlisted in the school of hard knocks - the US Army. I served three years and reached the rank of Specialist fourth class. I later earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science.

My greatest ambition was to become a Postal Service letter carrier. I did, but that old mail bag got heavy, and I accepted the fact that carrying mail was a hard physical job. I turned my attention to the union and then to the management ranks. I progressed up the ladder to regional manager positions with ever increasing levels of responsibilities. I retired as a District Manager in Greensboro NC. A friend introduced me to NARFE. I signed up.

I enjoyed NARFE so much that I was compelled to explore every role that NARFE had to offer. I held positions from Chapter VP to National Vice-President.

While serving as NVP, my maker called me home to care for a deeply troubled youth. I found joy beyond description in that endeavor.

I am now inspired to return to NARFE as your National President. NARFE is facing tremendous pressures: 1. to perform politically 2. to find/retain members and 3. to right size financially. My success has always come from the people I lead. Fixing Operations 44

NARFE MAGAZINE MAY 2022

is what I do. I am ready with your permission to fix NARFE. It will not cost you a dime. I will not accept a salary. NARFE can use a measure of financial relief.

I will leave the day-to-day operations of NARFE to a competent CEO. I will function as President/ Chairman of the Board.

I have and will continue to share my vision for NARFE. It can become your vision too. I talk with members who share opinions. I incorporate their ideas into my vision and build upon them. So, you can count on me to listen to you. If you want to help me fix NARFE, VOTE BILL R. AUSTIN. Note: If you would like more information about my vision/plan/leadership experience, I can send you a more detailed explanation. Send request to: billaustin@carolina.rr.com. For those of you who have no e-mail access, call 704-846-1945.

JON WILLIAM DOWIE I am a candidate for NARFE National President. As former Chapter Officer & National Secretary/Treasurer (20142018) my experience will enable NARFE to succeed.

During those terms we instituted Webinars which enhanced retention and recruiting. We instituted governance documents enhancing Board accountability. We insured that TSP (Thrift Advisory Plan) call centers were not reduced in size or number and that more flexible withdrawal options for participants were instituted. As the

committee chairperson for the Strategic Planning Committee, we authored both previous Strategic Plans for NARFE. I was able to participate in marketing studies, including focus groups, that contributed to increasing our membership retention rate.

My current credentials include CPA, Certified Information Technology Professional, Chartered Global Management Accountant and formerly Certified Government Financial Manager. In addition, I am a member of non-profit section of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

I am the President of Sister Cities of St. Augustine sponsoring student exchanges with Spain as well as coordinating with the Mayors and City Councils in Spain, Columbia, and Florida. I am presently employed by a firm that developed a proprietary software as well as systems for the US Government, Boeing, Lockheed, and others.

As a former Chief Financial Officer for a publicly traded international firm and several privately owned firms, I have insight into complicated domestic as well as international arrangements. Serving on the faculty of Clemson University and later as the Technical Director of the National CPA Group provided me a unique ability to contribute to consensuses of differing constituencies.

My Pentagon background in maintaining Congressional relationships is something that will be valuable to NARFE. Being Retired Navy Special Operations and a member of the Military Officers Association of America, when I speak for you on the hill, on many topics, I can speak for 500,000 voters!

The “Washington” environment is chaotic in normal times, but we have to continue to think strategically and act tactically.

NARFE has a loyal membership, an excellent governing Board, a dedicated staff, an award-winning magazine, and is admired for its effectiveness on “the Hill,” but we still have challenges. We have to make administration of Federations and Chapters more efficient and easier. Our members that are not in chapters have to be given opportunities to participate.

Those members still working should be encouraged to enjoy the benefits of membership.

Please permit me to contribute toward resolution of our challenges by voting for me.

GARY ROUNDTREE SR. I have a dream for NARFE: The membership decline will be slowed down thru actively engaging our current members and attracting younger feds to our association.

As the old saying goes, “the devil is in the details.” Thru a

collaborative effort of NARFE leaders and our members, positive change will ensure. I promise to be a continues source of encouragement of initiative, responsibility, and energy in serving the best interest of our members.

As your National President, a person rank and reputation in this organization will not be decided by his/her position title, the size of the job he does, and nor by the size of his staff, his office, or his budget.

Let it be clear that as your National President, I will recognize the value of dissent and daring healthy controversy, will be greeted as the hallmark of healthy change.

My NARFE Goals: NARFE is at a crossroad where critical decisions must be made. However, like many other organizations, membership is declining, unlike the “baby boomers” the current generations are not “joiners.” My goal is to put in place an effective Recruiting, Retention, and Reinstatement (3R’s) Plan.

Input will be asked for from our members because they are our most value asset and are “where the rubber meets the road.” Members will have a valuable seat behind the wheel of NARFE. For one true measure of an organization is its success in fulfilling the promise of a better life for its members. Let this be the measure of our organization.

Our goal is not the victory of might, but the vindication of right…not peace at the expense of freedom, but both peace and freedom, here in this hemisphere, and we hope, around the world. God willing, that our goals will be achieved.”

I will strive to continue to celebrate NARFE legacy and for NARFE to continue to supply tireless advocacy and trusted advice.

NARFE National Experience 2014-2016 – National Bylaws Committee 2019 – Federation President’s Meeting – Host Chair 2021 – Strategic Planning Committee 2021 – 2023 – Audit Committee Chair 2021 – 2023 – Compliance Officer 2021 – Present Regional II Vice President Maryland Federation President 1st Vice President Legislative Director Acting Federal Legislative Chair State Legislative Committee Chapter Legislative Officer Service Officer Other I am a U.S. Marine Corps and Army Reserve Veteran Green Belt in Lean Six Sigma Ordained minister and a member of Department of Veteran Affairs National Black Chaplains Association

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45

WILLIAM “BILL” SHACKELFORD It is impossible to lead and serve if you are not willing to listen. Members require someone who will listen and address their concerns.

My decision to run for National President is to ensure continuance of our history of success as an advocacy group by adjusting its direction with emphasis on including Chapter members and National-only members (NOMs) in recruitment and legislative events. Chapters have played an important role in NARFE’s history by helping members connect and get involved in local and national activities.

Organizations must build on such traditions to evolve, survive, and thrive. After 100 years, it is appropriate for NARFE to move to a new model.

Approximately 51% of membership are NOMs. These individuals believe that lobbying of elected state and national officials should be the primary focus at all levels of NARFE to advance the goals of members and their spouses.

We must exercise appropriate advancements to make NARFE viable and stronger. The Future of NARFE Committee report provided a blueprint for reorganization. As Co-Chair, I helped develop the Committee recommendations which could solve many of NARFE’s current challenges coupled with the Strategic Plan.

NARFE should restructure current Chapter format into Congressional District Chapters (CDC) by redrawing Chapter boundaries to coincide with

Congressional Districts. The position of Chapter President would evolve into a position of Congressional District Leader (CDL) with overall responsibility of CDC activities. Every NARFE member would fall into the boundaries of a CDC. Members would have a choice to actively participate in CDC activities or not. Regardless of their choice, everyone would be receiving all communications, considerations, and benefits. The CDL would be the Point of Contact to interface with Congressional staff as well as Members of Congress.

I appreciate all members and their work for NARFE over the years. We must work together to address the challenges that OUR organization faces. I am confident that the many leadership positions that I have held equip me with a broad and deep understanding of NARFE’s strengths and challenges.

• National 2013-2014 – Chair of National Bylaws Committee 2014 – Co-Chair of “Future Of NARFE” Committee 2016-2017 – Executive Director Search Committee 2021 Strategic Planning Team 2021 – Chair Membership Advisory Committee • Regional Vice President 2014-present • Federation President 1st Vice President 2nd Vice President • Chapter President Vice President Service Officer I respectfully ask for your vote and support by electing me as your NARFE National President.

Candidates for National Secretary/Treasurer KATHRYN HENSLEY During 25 plus years as a NARFE member, I have served in most chapter and federation positions including president, and as a national officer.

My education at three universities and my experience in administration, finance, planning, technology, legislative, contracting, and program management positions in a 27-year career with the Defense Department and NOAA, eight years in state government, with two years at the Medical University of South

46

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Carolina, and many years as a community volunteer in key positions, prepared me for this position.

Non-profit experience was gained at local, state, regional and national levels where I had board and president responsibilities.

Upon arrival at NARFE headquarters, it was evident that basic guidelines were out of date or non-existent and the financial base was shaky. Working with our membership and asking a lot of hard questions of staff, we are finally seeing some of the change we have talked about for over a decade.

We have learned how to handle disruptions.

We’ve accepted postponement for proper

functioning of an updated Association Management System (AMS) with the CAB now taking the lead on improvements. The regional vice presidents and national secretary/treasurer endured position reviews which helped us realize the necessity for an updated policy manual.

Again, we will look at selling the headquarters building without plans or a financial review for staff returning full time and the impact loss of a large asset will have on NARFE’s future.

For two years straight in this decade, our yearend financial reports are showing a surplus and the investment portfolio has grown significantly. The annual budget is now prepared with a scaled down travel plan,

adjusted staff positions, and a careful approach to new contracts. After passing a required balanced budget, we have new policies that ensure future executive boards and managers have guidelines to follow.

While I am proud of what we accomplished, we have more work ahead. With a new membership plan and hard work from each of us, we should set the goal to break even recruiting new members by the end of 2022 and start 2023 with a net increase of new members.

In 2017, I first ran for National Secretary/Treasurer.

As in 2020, I am respectfully asking for your vote for reelection to this final term. Join me on this journey and be a part of recruiting those new members.

Candidates for Regional Vice President Region I—Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont No candidates at press time. See www.narfe.org/2022election for updates.

Region II ­—Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania No candidates at press time. See www.narfe.org/2022election for updates.

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47

Region III— Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Virgin Islands See www.narfe.org/2022election for any additional candidates.

DONZLEIGH “DONI” DOWIE NARFE members in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, I would like to represent you as the Regional Vice President for Region III. I am Donzleigh (Doni) Dowie and my credentials qualify me to lead you. My thirty-three-year career in the Federal Government included positions at the U. S Naval Academy, U. S. Coast Guard Headquarters, the Immigration and Naturalization Service (now known as ICE) and culminating in a position on the staff of Chief of Naval Operations. Ironically, although not my normal duty station, I was in the Pentagon on September 11th.

At points in time, I was a Management/Program Analyst determining the distribution of confiscated assets, and performing Most Efficient Organizations and Commercial Activities reviews. My work resulted in significant saving to the Federal Government. Both my mother-in-law and father-in-law were career Postal employees.

While working full-time, I began classes part-time.

Ten years of dedicated study resulted in a Bachelor of Science in Business (Magna Cum Laude) from the University of Maryland. I later pursued a joint certification from the American Society of Appraisers and George Washington University in Appraisal Studies. Several of my instructors are seen on the Antiques Road Show.

After a successful career in government, I started my own business. I have been President and Facility Security Officer for my firm for more than 20 years.

My clients included various intelligence agencies and the Department of Commerce. We now are service providers to the US Air Force, US Navy, Lockheed Martin and Boeing.

The skills that I have developed would certainly allow me to contribute to the National Executive Board. In the past I have been a NARFE chapter officer, President of the Guild of the Emil Maestre Music Association, President of a local Garden circle, on the Advisory Board of Romanza (local performing arts organization) and Docent at the Saint Augustine Art Association.

NARFE is at a critical stage of existence and I believe that I have the business skills and experience that is needed to work toward a more robust organization that is capable of meeting the challenges of the future. A broad view of the environment that we are currently

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facing with the ability to make decisions that will put the organization first is what is needed now.

Your vote would be gratefully appreciated.

PLEASE VOTE!

HUELYN (LYNN) HARPER During my 18 years as a NARFE member, the landscape has changed dramatically. Some changes have been extraordinary, i.e., the loss of over 14,000 members in 2021. Even with challenges, it’s an exciting time to be a NARFE member. Challenges are opportunities to implement change. We cannot keep doing the same things we have always done; otherwise, we’ll get the same results. We must step outside of our comfort zone and try things that we have never done before My NARFE experience has been filled with numerous challenges and with personal growth and satisfaction.

I was the 2008 GA Federation Chapter Member of the Year and the 2012 and 2020 GA Federation Executive of the Year; developed and published a District Vice President Handbook, Recruiting SMART Book, Membership (3R’s) Handbook, New Member Survey, Exit Survey, etc.; developed and conducted numerous training courses, i.e., Chapter Officer Training, Leadership Training, Communications Training, NARFE 101, etc. for the Federation and for Region III. I’ve held a variety of positions at both the Federation and Chapter Levels. Since November 2016, I have served as GA Federation President. Other Federation offices held are Vice President/Membership Chair, Secretary, and Retention/Reinstatement Chair. I’m currently President of Chapter 1417 and previously served as the Chapter Secretary. At the National level, served on the 2019-2020 and 2021-2022 National Bylaws Committee, Member of 2018 NARFE Marketing and Membership Committee, Member of Membership Committee at 2016 and 2014 National Conventions, Future of NARFE Committee (FONC), Chair of SAGES (commonly referred to as Federation President’s Advisory Committee), and the AMS Accuracy Team.

Facilitator for the Nov 2021 and Jan 2022 Quarterly Federation President’s Meetings My Goals as Region III Vice President are: • Represent the members of Region III

• Promote the 3R’s – Recruiting New Members, Retaining Current Members, and Reinstating Former Members • Promote open lines of communications between NARFE Headquarters, the Federations, and the Chapters and keep all parties informed in a timely manner.

• Implement a Suggestion/Sharing Program within Region III

Retired after 30 years of service as Manpower Chief for the North Atlanta Regional Medical Command and Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, DC. I have a B.A. in Social Work from UGA (Go DAWGS).

I respectfully ask for your vote to elect me as your Region III Vice President. It would be an honor and pleasure to serve as your RVP. Together we can make a difference.

Region IV— Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin See www.narfe.org/2022election for any additional candidates.

BOB HELFRICH The past two years of Covid-19 have proven difficult in life as well as for the National Active and Retired Employees association (NARFE).

There was both good and bad, most in-person chapter and federation conventions were on hold for a year and then resumed in smaller groups.

NARFE HQ operated remotely for over a year and then resumed half time in-person and half time remotely.

Most chapters and federations saw their bank balances increase due to lack of in-person activity. NARFE HQ saw the same results and so calendar year 2020 and 2021 both ended in the black for the first time in two decades. The NARFE dues increase helped to bolster finances as well. As a member of the budget finance and investment committee for the past three years, we pushed for balanced budgets and more expense management, including right sizing the headquarters staff commensurate with the reduction in membership.

Our investment incomes have increased our cash assets from about five million dollars in 2018 to over nine million today. NARFE is in a better financial position today, than the day I took office in 2018. Our focus today is the same as one hundred years ago, to advocate for legislation that protects our earned benefits and to find new and innovative ways to recruit

membership. Let us each recruit one member and double our membership.

Below are the NARFE positions of experience that I have held: Region IV Vice President (3 Year), Indiana Federation President (1 Year), Indiana Federation Treasurer (6 years), Chapter President (7 years), Chapter Vice-President (1 year), Chapter Treasurer (4 years), Chapter Secretary (3 years).

During my thirty-three (32) year Postal career I held the following leadership positions: Indiana District Manager of Finance (6 years), Indiana District Manager of Budget and Financial Analysis (17 years). As a high energy individual, I received more than twenty (20) exceptional performance awards.

Private Sector experience: Have a successful accounting business of over forty (40) years, including payroll services, incorporation services and tax preparation for corporations, partnerships, nonprofit organizations, and individuals. Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, QuickBooks and ATX. In addition, I am the treasurer for four (4) non-profit organizations including my church and maintain these accounting records via QuickBooks.

I would appreciate your support and vote as my goal is to lead NARFE to reach a different generation.

Region V—Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota See www.narfe.org/2022election for any additional candidates.

CINDY RENEÉ BLYTHE The members of Region V have had faith in my leadership abilities for the past 2 terms; I’m asking them to “keep the faith” and reelect me as Region V Vice-President for my last 2-year term.

The seven states within Region V have made difficult decisions this last term due to the pandemic concerns; a couple Federations have gone

to bi-annual conferences and all have embraced the use of electronic technology.

As your Region V Vice-President, I feel it is my responsibility to handle issues at the lowest level possible before involving National staff. With that goal in mind, I will continue to listen to your concerns and address them at the region level when possible.

I will continue to aggressively bring your concerns and issues to the attention of the appropriate Headquarters staff.

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During my two terms as a member of the NEB, I have learned how to champion the issues of Region V without compromising the values of the membership as a whole. It has been a learning experience working with the other members on the NEB especially since half of the individuals were new to their positions but a great deal has been accomplished. Still, there is more important work to be done.

Membership continues to pose complex issues. We desperately need to gain new members but the perfect answer keeps eluding us. I pledge to continue to work with Region V Federations and Chapters to successfully gain new members, to explore new avenues to regenerate interest in NARFE, and continue providing benefits to existing members. It is through our existing

members that we gain insight into what potential members need from our organization.

The AMS is not a perfect system, it still requires intense intervention for our use in the field. With my knowledge of database systems, I can provide guidance towards reaching a functionable system.

Big changes are coming for NARFE; having a person with experience and the fortitude to look past personal wants and consider the needs of the entire membership is a must. I hope that members of Region V allow me the opportunity to continue serving them in this important role and continue my service to NARFE and its members. Thank you for supporting me these past four years and I look forward to continuing my service on the National Executive Board.

Region VI— Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Republic of Panama, Texas No candidates at press time. See www.narfe.org/2022election for updates.

Region VII— Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, Wyoming See www.narfe.org/2022election for any additional candidates.

SHARON REESE I am announcing candidacy for the position of NARFE Region VII Vice President in 2022. I believe if you wish to run for an office, a requirement is that you know something about the workings of the organization as well as the functions of the position. I think that my experience and knowledge of the issues affecting all federal employees and retirees makes me a viable candidate for the position of Region VII Vice President.

I joined NARFE February 28, 2007, as an active federal employee. I have held numerous positions in Chapter 182, to include current President. I served as SW District Vice President and elected in April 2018 President of the New Mexico Federation after serving as Vice President (Legislation) for 8 years.

During my 14 years with NARFE, I have participated at several levels of leadership serving on the biennial National Advocacy Advisory Committee three consecutive terms, current member of SAGES (Select Advisory Group Ensuring Success), and the Strategic Planning Committee. I currently serve as the FEEA Coordinator for Region VII. I have attended numerous NEB meetings as a guest of the Region VII Vice President as well zoom NEB meetings. I have chaired numerous New Mexico Federation Conferences and Region VII Conferences. This has afforded me a broad knowledge of NARFE and prepped me to now seek the position of Region VII Vice President.

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NARFE MAGAZINE MAY 2022

I retired from the Department of Defense, White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico in 2008 after 33 years of service. I was a Division Chief/Deputy Director for nineteen of my tenure.

Organizations I am involved with are: (1) Life member of the Federal Managers Association for over 30 years serving as Chapter President, Region 9 Vice President (3 years before reorganization) and served as Secretary to the Army Caucus; (2) I am President Emeritus of the White Sands Missile Range Historical Foundation where I have served as President for 10 years; and (3) Member of the Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce, serving on the Military Affairs Committee.

My goal for Region VII is to be an advocate to all members, chapters, and federations. I will be your voice and representative, proactive collaborator to strengthen NARFE and our future.

I respectfully ask for your vote to elect me your Region VII Vice President. I will serve with dignity and dedication. It would be my honor to serve you, the members of Region VII.

THEODORE A. (TED) VAN HINTUM NARFE Experience I joined NARFE as an active federal employee in 2006. After retirement from federal service, I became President of NARFE Billie Love chapter 2286 in 2011 and continue to serve in that position. I was appointed Colorado

Federation Vice President in 2012 and was elected Colorado Federation President in 2013, 2015 and 2021.

I also serve as Colorado’s fifth Congressional District Leader and am a NARFE Life Member.

My accomplishments as Colorado Federation President include: • L aunching the Colorado NARFE News, a quarterly newspaper delivered to all NARFE members in Colorado; • C reating the congressional district leader (CDL) program in Colorado and appointing CDL’s to serve in Colorado’s seven congressional districts; • S erving on the national NARFE Strategic Planning Committee in 2015 and 2017; and, • S erving on the national NARFE Bylaws Committee in 2016, 2018, 2019-20, and as Chairperson of the 2021-2022 Bylaws Committee.

Federal Service In 2008, I retired from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) after almost thirty-eight years of federal service. My career started as a VA claims examiner in the Des Moines, Iowa VA regional office in 1970. Later, I transferred to VA headquarters in Washington, DC joining the Veterans Benefits Administration. My last position was as a senior manager in VA’s Education Service where I was responsible for overseeing VA regional office operations in the administration of the GI Bill education program.

Education

I graduated from Iowa State University in 1970 with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science. I also pursued graduate studies in Public Administration at Drake University, Des Moines, Iowa.

Military Service From 1963 to 1966, I served in the Navy and am a Vietnam veteran.

NARFE Challenges The Association has several critical challenges that need to be addressed.

1. M embership. NARFE lost over 14,000 members in 2021. New strategies are needed to recruit and retain new members.

2. G overnance. With the continuing loss of members and the resulting loss of dues revenue, the NARFE governance structure of ten, compensated regional vice presidents should be reviewed. The NARFE policy-making process needs to be more efficient and agile.

3. A ssociation Management System. The AMS contains inaccurate membership data and corrections to the system occur slowly, if ever. Since the current contractor has been acquired by another firm, alternatives should be evaluated.

I respectfully ask Region VII members to vote for me as their Region VII Vice President.

Thank you. ted.vanhintum@gmail.com

Region VIII— California, Hawaii, Nevada, Republic of the Philippines No candidates at press time. See www.narfe.org/2022election for updates.

Region IX— Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington See www.narfe.org/2022election for any additional candidates.

STEVEN R. ROY I am announcing my candidacy to serve as the next Vice President for Region IX. As the current Washington State Federation president I have lead our federation for two years on a number of projects such as establishing a reinvention committee that updated the federation Attention/Retention post card; conducted a survey of federation/chapter officers and leaders; focusing on recruitment, retention and reinstatement by providing tools for NARFE leaders such as purchasing table runners to be used at health fair events and other events; and requesting a Proclamation from Washington’s Governor Jay Inslee that acknowledged NARFE’s Centennial.

I have served as our federation’s National Legislative Chair carrying out NARFE’s primary mission of grassroots advocacy meeting with all members of

the Washington Delegation or their staffs. Regularly meeting with our elected officials is important to establish and build a relationship so that when new legislation is announced we are the go to resource for our Representatives and Senators. It takes time and patience to build this relationship which I have proven time and again pays off.

I will serve as the voice for all of Region IX members (chapter and national only) representing the membership concerns, issues and opportunities as I meet with NARFE national leaders (National Executive Board), HQ managers and staff.

I have supported the NARFE Alzheimer’s Research program to help end this terrible disease. Along those lines I have lead “Walk to End Alzheimer’s” teams to raise awareness and funds that provide Alzheimer’s care and support along with accelerating research.

I believe in taking action and lead by example.

I ask for your vote as the next Vice President for NARFE Region IX. NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

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Region X— Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia See www.narfe.org/2022election for any additional candidates.

ROBERT ALLEN I’m Robert Allen, candidate for NARFE’s Region X (Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia) Vice President on the National Executive Board (NEB). We’re 100 years strong and I want to do my part to keep us strong for the next 100 years!

The primary job of the NEB is oversight of NARFE. It sets the overall direction and goals of the organization and institutes policies to fulfill our core mission of protecting our earned pay and benefits.

I concentrated on this as the North Carolina Federation President by leading a mission-focused, comprehensive strategic planning effort. So, as your NEB representative it will be my duty to see where we are and where we need to be. I’ll be in constant communication with you to bring the best and brightest ideas to the table. NARFE members have a wealth of knowledge that the NEB should tap.

There are three primary areas we must focus on.

1. Ensuring our mission of protecting our earned pay and benefits drives everything we do. a. Non-partisan legislative advocacy regarding all aspects of federal benefits b. Policies reflecting our mission 2. Increasing our membership a. Loss of over 300,000 members since 1980, 14,000 in the last year; subsequent loss of dues revenue b. Policies and programs, including new initiatives/ technology such as FEDHub, to turn the tide 3. Reviewing (and changing, if needed) governance/ structure a. HQ role? Regions? Federations? Chapters? b. National Executive Board/Board of Directors c. Efficient, responsive national policymaking process d. Cohesive financial policies; fewer inefficient, more cost-effective measures for continued service/ value to our members. It’s your money!

I’m ready to lead NARFE into our second 100 years.

I look forward to serving you. I respectfully ask for your vote because a vote for me is a vote for NARFE! For more information, see www.robert4regionx.org.

NARFE Credentials: 2016-2018 NC Federation President; 2014 National Bylaws Committee; Committee Chair, 2016-2020; 2012-Present President, Chapter 2295; 20212022 NC Federation National Legislative Officer; NARFE Centennial Club 52

NARFE MAGAZINE MAY 2022

Federal Service: 32 years with Department of Defense and Department of Army; retired as Chief, Futures Division, Office of Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence, US Army Training and Doctrine Command Military Service: US Army 1972-1975 Education: 1972--BS in Spanish, East Carolina University; 1978--MA in Slavic Linguistics, University of North CarolinaChapel Hill; 1997--Graduate, Army Management Staff College (AMSC); winner of AMSC professional writing competition.

CHARLES TALLEY This is NARFE’s opportunity for survival by electing Charles Talley, a person who implements and executes strategic initiatives. Vote Charles Talley VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE NC Federation – Executive Vice President Chapter 105 President – Charlotte, NC Chapter 105 1st VP – Charlotte, NC Congressional District Leader – NC Federation National Legislative Officer – NC WORK EXPERIENCE POSTAL SERVICE Tactical Marketing & Sales – Washington, DC Regional Advisory Manager – Windsor, Connecticut National Accounts Manager – New York Metro NY Manager Commercial Accounts – Detroit, Michigan Training & Development - Paterson, New Jersey AARP National Coordinator WorkSearch Program – Washington, DC National Advisor Council – Washington, DC National Volunteer Engagement Advisory Council – DC State Coordinator Driver Safety - NC EDUCATION Military – New Jersey Army National Guard Winston Salem State University - Bachelor of Science VISION Implement, empower and support grassroot legislative campaigns strategically Collaborate with similar organizations’ causes to advance NARFE’s Mission Promote substantial electronic communications and meetings for budgetary reasons Oppose vehemently legislation detrimental to the federal and local communities Promote diverse leadership at all levels for NARFE’s Sustainability

NARFE MEMBER BENEFITS • Access the NARFE Federal Benefits Institute for powerful resources to help you fully understand and manage your benefits.

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 NARFE?

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

• Visit the Legislative Action Center to contact your representatives about bills affecting federal benefits.

• Get NARFE Magazine with news and insights for the federal community.

• Save time, hassle and money with NARFE Perks.

• The opportunity to get involved at the local level by joining a chapter in your area.

1Q6

NARFE MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION YES. I want to join NARFE for the low annual dues of $48.

q

q Mr. q Mrs. q Miss q Ms.

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

______________________________________________

Full Name

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______________________________________________ ______________________________________________

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______________________________________________

Email

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

q Active Federal Employee Spouse

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___________________________________________ Card No. Expiration Date _____ /________ mm

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PAYMENT OPTIONS

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___________________________________________ Name on Card ___________________________________________ Signature ___________________________________________ Date

TOTAL DUES $48 Annual Dues X ___________ = ___________ Per Person # Enrolling Total Dues Dues payments are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes.

q Survivor Annuitant

q Please enroll my spouse _________________________________________

Spouse’s Full Name

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.

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Would you like to receive a FREE one-year chapter membership? Choose one: q Chapter closest to home OR q Chapter #____________

THREE EASY WAYS TO JOIN

MAY WE THANK SOMEONE? Did someone introduce you to NARFE? Please provide their Name and Member ID.

Spouse’s Email

1. Complete this application and mail with your payment to NARFE Member Services / 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.

___________________________________________ Recruiter’s Name ___________________________________________ Recruiter’s Membership ID 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.

(01/21)

USE YOUR NARFE PERKS AND YOUR MEMBERSHIP WILL MORE THAN PAY FOR ITSELF!

PRODUCTS...........................................................................................................................................

ADT Home Security | 844-892-3513 | https://Partners.ADT.com/SSE-P1

Get your ADT-monitored home security system today for $28.99 a month with AND $100 Visa reward card from Protect Your Home ADT Authorized Premier Provider. *New customers only. Visit website for full details of offer.

GE Appliances Store | Use the link below to start shopping!

Save with NARFE members-only access to the GE Appliances Store! You will enjoy up to 25% off MSRP every day on the latest in high-quality appliances. *Orders can not be shipped to P.O. boxes, APOS, Canada, Puerto Rico, HI, AK or U.S. Territories. https://www.myapstore.com/GEStore/Appliances/ Registration?AuthCode=MONARFE21

LegalShield | 410-419-7130 | www.legalshield.com/info/narfe

Whether it’s big, small or somewhere in between, you have affordable legal help when you need it. Members receive the discounted rate of $16.95 for individuals and $18.95 for families of 10 (two adults and up to 8 children).

Office Depot | 855-337-6811 x 2897 | www.officediscounts.org/narfe

Because you’re a member of NARFE you have access to exclusive, members-only discounts at Office Depot and OfficeMax. With your NARFE membership, you can save up to 75% off regular prices (as listed on officedepot.com) on our Best Value List of preferred products. Create an account and browse through our discounts, or shop in-store by printing your FREE Store Purchasing Card. You will need to present your Store Purchasing Card at time of sale. REGISTER now at https://officediscounts.org/narfe to print your FREE card. *Tech, software and select furniture items are not part of the discount program.

Purchasing Power | www.PurchasingPower.com/NARFE

While not a discount program, Purchasing Power is an exclusive purchase program helps members buy brand-name computers, electronics, appliances and furniture via annuity allotment when cash is not an option. No credit check or down payments.

INSURANCE..........................................................................................................................................

NARFE Insurance Services | 800-233-5764 | www.narfeinsurance.com

Designed exclusively for NARFE members, (plans administered by Mercer) Senior Age Whole Life Insurance, Senior Term Life Insurance, Hospital Income and Short Term Recovery Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, AssistPlus, Discount Prescription Plan and Pet Insurance.

Member Options | 833-378-8224 | https://www.member-options.com/narfe

Member Options Auto and Home Insurance Program - Save Money with Multiple Quotes! Get quotes from top-rated insurance carriers on Auto, Home, Renters, Pet insurance and more in a matter of minutes.

Answer a few simple questions online or over the phone with our licensed insurance experts to compare multiple options that meet your specific needs. To review and choose what’s best for you, go to the link above or call 833-378-8224.

PRE-PLANNING...................................................................................................................................

Neptune Society | 800-NEPTUNE (637-8863) | www.neptunesociety.com

Our prearranged plans cover all necessary expenses for one guaranteed price even if the services are not needed for 40 or 50 years. The Neptune Society offers a $100 discount to all NARFE members. *Discounted offer is not valid for residents of Louisiana, Tennessee and Kentucky. Void Where Prohibited.

MOVING SERVICES..................................................................................................................................

Coleman Allied | 850-375-0917 | jack.jacobs@colemanallied.com

With over 300 agency partners and an entire team dedicated to a quality move experience, Coleman Allied provides customized discount levels for all NARFE members for Interstate moves. *The NARFE pricing only applies to moves that leave the state you currently reside in.

Wheaton World Wide Moving | 800-248-7960 | narfe@wvlcorp.com

At Wheaton, we know interstate relocation is much more than trucks and boxes. With a network of top-quality agents throughout the United States, Wheaton provides peace of mind with every relocation.

TRAVEL AND TRANSPORT...................................................................................................................

Choice Hotels International | 800-258-2847 | www.choicehotels.com

With 6,400 hotels throughout the world, Choice Hotels offers something for everyone. As a member, receive 20% off your next stay at participating hotels when you use Special Rate ID 00801967.

Enterprise Rent-A-Car® | Book Now! | https://partners.rentalcar.com/narfe

When you’re ready to go, Enterprise Rent-A-Car makes it easy. We offer everyday low rates on a great selection of cars, trucks and vans and customers are picked up at no extra cost*. See website for exclusions.

Hotel Engine | https://members.hotelengine.com/join/narfe175

Hotel Engine, a private booking platform, connects organizations and their members to deeply discounted hotel rates.

National Car Rental® | 800-CAR-RENT | www.nationalcarrental.com

NARFE members receive great rates with National Car Rental! At National, we pride ourselves on always providing you with unsurpassed convenience and choice. https://partners.rentalcar.com/narfe

Wyndham Hotels | 1-877-670-7088 | http://bit.ly/WYNDHAM_NARFE

NARFE members receive up to 20% off the “Best Available Rate” at participating Wyndham Hotel Group locations worldwide. To receive discount, book online or call our special member benefits hotline at 1-877-670-7088 and give the agent your special discount ID number 1000007874 at time of booking. For online bookings, your discount ID will automatically be entered and your discount displayed.

WELLNESS....................................................................................................................................................

Brookdale Senior Living Communities | 877-713-2762 | www.brookdale.com/narfe

As the largest operator of senior living communities in the US, Brookdale has over 1,000 locations all across the country. Members are eligible for 7.5% discount at Brookdale Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care communities and 10% discounts on Brookdale Private Duty Home Care.

Discounts are for new move-ins/customers only.

R

Life Line Screening | 800-324-9906 | www.lifelinescreening.com/NARFE

Life Line Screening, America’s leading provider of community-based preventive health screenings, will conduct health screenings using state-of-the-art ultrasound technology in your neighborhood.

Operator code BKHN075.

ADDITIONAL PERKS................................................................................................................................

SEE HOW MUCH YOU CAN SAVE AT

www.NARFE.ORG/memberperks

The Way We Worked

Protecting the President This 1961 photograph shows White House Police Officer Sherwood Dix Rodman standing guard on the East Wing Lawn of the White House.

The White House Police Force was formed in 1922 to protect the White House and the President of the United States. It became part of the Secret Service in 1930, was renamed the Executive Protective Service in 1970, and then in 1977 became the Uniformed Division of the Secret Service.

Today, the division is tasked with protecting the White House grounds and foreign diplomatic missions in the Washington, DC, metro area.

PHOTO from the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library, 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.

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NARFE MAGAZINE MAY 2022

DID YOU KNOW? The Secret Service was established in 1865 as a bureau in the Treasury Department to suppress widespread counterfeiting.

Visit www.secretservice.gov/ about/history.

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Do not rely on this communication piece alone for complete benefit information. All benefits are subject to the definitions, limitations, and exclusions in the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Service Benefit Plan brochure. Blue365® offers access to savings on health and wellness products and services that members may purchase from independent vendors, which are not covered benefits under the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Federal Employee Program, Blue Cross Blue Shield FEP Dental and/or Blue Cross Blue Shield FEP Vision. These products and services will be offered to you through the entire benefit year.

During the year, the independent vendors may offer additional discounts on these products and services. To find out what is covered under your policy, contact the customer service number on your member ID card. Any disputes regarding your health insurance products and services may be subject to your plan’s grievance process. BCBSA may receive payments from vendors providing products and services on or accessible through the Site. Neither BCBSA nor any Blue Company recommends, endorses, warrants, or guarantees any specific vendor, product or service available under or through the Blue365 Program or Site.