September 2024 NARFE Magazine

A NARFE PUBLICATION FOR FEDERAL EMPLOYEES AND RETIREES

SEPTEMBER 2024 VOLUME 100 ★ NUMBER 7

P. 28

Caring for Your Spouse After Retirement P. 38 Avoiding Hatch Act Violations in an Election Year

Membership has its benefits.

As part of your membership with NARFE, you and qualifying family members have opportunities to save on senior living. You may be eligible for exclusive discounts that can help you and your family get the lifestyle and care you deserve.

SENIOR LIVING:

7.5

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IN-HOME SERVICES:

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%

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by community***

Call us at (866) 787-9775 or drop in for a visit and mention NARFE to learn more.

For more details, visit brookdale.com/NARFE. Applicable to all discounts: Residents under a Life Care Agreement are not eligible for the discounts. These discounts do not apply to any room, board or services which are paid for all or in part by any state or federally funded program. Discounts are available to members and their family members, including spouse, adult children, siblings, parents, grandparents, and corresponding in-law or step adult children. Subject to availability. Discounts cannot be combined with any other offer or discount. Further restrictions may apply. * The Senior Living discount is only applicable to new residents of a Brookdale independent living, assisted living, or memory care community admitting under an executed residency agreement. Discount applies only to the monthly fee/basic service rate, excluding care costs and other fees and is calculated based on the initial monthly fee/basic service rate. ** The In-Home Services discount is only applicable to new clients of personal assistance services by a Brookdale agency under an executed service agreement. *** A Short-Term Stay discount is only applicable to new residents of a Brookdale assisted living or memory care community admitting under an executed respite agreement. Discount applies to the daily rate.

1143950 SR

©2024 Brookdale Senior Living Inc. All rights reserved.

BROOKDALE SENIOR LIVING is a registered trademark of Brookdale Senior Living Inc.

Contents SEPTEMBER 2024 COVER STORY PAGE 28

CARING FOR YOUR SPOUSE AFTER RETIREMENT It’s not all travel in paradise, but how do you cope and find respite care for loved one and make the best of it? Tammy Flanagan dives in.

FEATURE PAGE 38

AVOIDING HATCH ACT VIOLATIONS IN AN ELECTION YEAR As the 2024 election season draws close, so does the importance of adhering to the Hatch Act’s limitations on federal employee advocacy for partisan elections.

Special Feature

Columns

4 NARFE Voting Instructions

8 From the President

Washington Watch

26 Benefits Brief

10 Senate Finance Subcommittee

48 Managing Money

Hearing Addresses WEP/GPO Repeal

11 NARFE Urges OPM to Provide

Choice for Postal Retirees on Prescription Drug Coverage

12 Advocacy for All: Why Every Member’s Voice Matters

13 Connolly, Fitzpatrick Propose Amendment to Protect Civil Service

14 House Committee Advances Bill With Appropriations for OPM

16 Bill Tracker

A NARFE PUBLICATION FOR FEDERAL EMPLOYEES AND RETIREES

SEPTEMBER 2024 VOLUME 100 ★ NUMBER 7

P. 28

Caring for Your Spouse after Retirement P. 38 Avoiding Hatch Act Violations in an Election Year

50 Alzheimer’s Update Departments

9 NARFE Online

ON THE COVER Illustration by TGD

22 Questions & Answers 23 Countdown to COLA 52 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

SEPTEMBER 2024 VOLUME 100 ★ NUMBER 7

REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENTS

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Jenn Rafael

REGION I Jeff Anliker

CREATIVE SERVICES MANAGER Beth Bedard CONTENT MANAGER Matt Sanderson ADDITIONAL GRAPHIC DESIGN TGD EDITORIAL BOARD William Shackelford, Kathryn E. Hensley, Johann De Castro 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: Francine Garner 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.

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

NATIONAL OFFICERS WILLIAM SHACKELFORD President; natpres@narfe.org KATHRYN E. HENSLEY Secretary/Treasurer; natsectreas@narfe.org

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

(Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont) Tel: 413-813-8136 Email: jeff.anliker@outlook.com

REGION II Larry Walton (Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey and Pennsylvania) Tel: 443-831-1791 Email: rvp2@narfe.org

REGION III Lynn Harper (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina and Puerto Rico) Tel: 478-951-3260 Email: lynn_harper@msn.com

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

REGION V Cindy Reneé Blythe (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 Sharon Reese (Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming) Tel: 575-649-6035 Email: rvp7@narfe.org

REGION VIII Robert H. Ruskamp

NARFE HEADQUARTERS

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

(California, Hawaii, Nevada and Republic of Philippines) Tel: 703-628-3234 Email: ruskampr@gmail.com

REGION IX Steven Roy (Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington) Tel: 425-344-3926 Email: stevenroy1@yahoo.com

REGION X Robert Allen (Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia) Tel: 757-404-3880 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 © 2024, 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.

2

NARFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024

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Health insurance plans are offered and/or underwritten by Aetna Life Insurance Company (Aetna). This is a brief description of the features of this Aetna health insurance plan. Before making a decision, please read the plan’s applicable federal brochure(s). All benefits are subject to the definitions, limitations and exclusions set forth in the federal brochure. Plan features and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Aetna does not provide care or guarantee access to health services. For more information about Aetna plans, refer to AetnaFeds.com/retireeplans ©2023 Aetna Inc. 19.12.345.1 A (9/23)

NARFE NATIONAL ELECTION

P

lease carefully review all of the instructions prior to completing your ballot for the NARFE National Election. You are eligible to vote in the election if you are a NARFE member in good standing as of June 30, 2024. You may cast your vote either online

OR by mail. Once your member ID and personal identification number are used on any ballot, they will not be valid for additional ballots. Please take time to vote today. Thank you for participating in NARFE’s election process.

REVIEW THE BALLOT CAREFULLY Preferential voting applies to candidates for national president and Region VI’s regional vice president: Article IV, Section 1.C., of the NARFE Bylaws states: “Election shall be by a majority of ballots cast except that when there are three or more candidates for the same office or position, voters shall indicate their preference in order for each candidate.” Preferential, or ranked choice, voting will apply in two races. Four candidates are running for national president, and for Region VI members, four candidates are running for RVP in your region.

In preferential voting, it is very important that you mark your candidates in order of first choice, second choice, third choice, and so on. Preferential voting is tallied by first taking into account all firstchoice votes. If one candidate receives a majority in this tally, he will be declared elected. If there is no majority of first-choice votes, the choices will be calculated according to the table below: Candidate rank National President (your vote): 1st Receives 4 points 2nd Receives 3 points 3rd Receives 2 points 4th Receives 1 point

Region VI RVP Receives 4 points Receives 3 points Receives 2 points Receives 1 point

This method is called the Borda count, and is often referred to as the consensus method because the candidate with the most following generally emerges as the winner. The preference for second choice becomes just as important as the preference first choice in determining the true outcome of the election. If your ballot does not have all preferences marked, it will only be counted for the first tally to determine a majority vote. Ballots that do not contain a mark for each candidate expressing a preference

NEED ASSISTANCE? For voting assistance, please call 1-866-720-4357 Monday – Friday between 9 a.m.-5 p.m. ET, or email narfehelp@electionservicescorp.com will not be counted for any preference on the second tally Borda count, if needed. Therefore, members are strongly encouraged to mark all choices on their ballots to ensure their full voices are heard and counted.

Candidates for national or regional office where preferential voting is not in effect: Vote for one candidate for national secretary/treasurer.

Vote for one regional vice president (RVP) candidate in your region only. Please note your region number at the top of the ballot. Do not vote for an RVP if your region is not listed on the ballot. For information, visit www.narfe.org/2024-narfe-national-election/.

Bylaws proposals: For information on the bylaws proposals, please see p. 6 of this issue. For additional details, visit www.narfe.org/2024-narfe-nationalelection/ and choose “Bylaws and Standing Rules Amendment Proposals” to read the proposals’ content and 2024 Bylaws Committee rationale and information to amend NARFE bylaws and standing rules. You may vote to adopt or reject each bylaws or standing rules amendment individually. Please review the committee’s report on p. 6.

VOTE BY MAIL • Place a Q or R or darken the box to indicate your

choices. Use dark blue or black ink.

• Do not write your name or otherwise identify yourself on the ballot.

• Place the ballot in an envelope (not provided) with

Ballots must be received at Election Services Co. by 11:59 p.m. ET on September 30, 2024.

4

NARFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024

VOTING INSTRUCTIONS appropriate postage. Mail to: NARFE Ballot Processing

c/o Election Services Co.

PO Box 9020 Ronkonkoma, NY 11779-9020 • Ballots must be received at Election Services Co. by 11:59 p.m. ET on September 30, 2024. Please mail your ballot at least 10 days before the deadline to allow sufficient time for delivery. Ballots received after the deadline will be discarded.

• Do NOT mail ballots to NARFE National Headquarters. Ballots received at NARFE will be disqualified.

• If you received a ballot that does not have your member ID number or PIN, please send an email to communications@narfe.org.

• If you do not have a ballot in this issue and expected to get one, please send an email to narfehelp@electionservicescorp.com and include your member number for assistance.

You can find your member number printed on the label of this magazine. If you need further

assistance locating it, please send an email to memberrecords@narfe.org.

VOTE ONLINE

• Please go to https://vote.escvote.com/narfe/ to log in with your member ID number and your unique PIN. These can be found at the top of the printed ballot. These numbers will serve as your unique identifier for voting. Please do not share them with others. (If you received a ballot that does not have your member ID number or PIN, please send an email to communications@narfe. org.)

• For ease of voting online, Election Services Co. will email members who have an email on file with NARFE. Click on the link in the email to vote on the ESC website. You will use the member ID number and PIN included in the email to log in.

• Once you are logged in, follow the online voting instructions. Members will see only those candidates for whom they may cast a vote.

• Online voting begins August 21, 2024, and ends at 11:59 p.m. ET on September 30, 2024.

WEL C OM E

HP.com Association Member Store

Discounts • Save up to an additional 10% on Desktops, Laptops, Printers, and Accessories.

• Save an additional 5% on Care Packs and Services • Access to exclusive member only promotions.

• Buy more, save more

We are excited to announce HP’s new partnership with NARFE. You now have access to a private store built for members of NARFE where we provide exclusive discounts on HP equipment. From back to school to building your business, HP is here to save you money and provide a world class shopping experience.

•Dedicate US Sales Support teams •Business Account Managers based in Boise, ID and Rio Rancho, NM •Monday - Friday 7am 7:30pm CST •Phone #:1-888-678-9620

NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

5

BYLAWS COMMITTEE REPORT 2024 Bylaws and Standing Rule Amendments Recommended for Adoption NUMBER

SUBJECT

EFFECT

RECOMMENDATION

BNEB-02-2024

National Executive Board

Clarifies NEB governance authority.

ADOPT

SRLC-04-2024

Remove NARFE Safe Deposit Box

Updates National Secretary/Treasurer duties.

ADOPT

SRLC-05-2024

NARFE Dedicated Funds

Updates National Secretary/Treasurer duties.

ADOPT

SRMAC-07-2024

End Active Federal Employees (AFEs) Renewal Dues Category

Deletes Reference to this multi-year special program.

ADOPT

BMAC-17-2024

Closure of Life Membership Dues Category

Updates Dues Category List. Current life members will be grandfathered.

ADOPT

Bylaws and Standing Rule Amendments Recommended for Rejection NUMBER

SUBJECT

EFFECT

RECOMMENDATION

BNEB-01-2024

NEB/Federation Elections

No member can run as a National and Federation officer candidate simultaneously in the same year.

REJECT

BCH-03-2024

Chapter Mergers

Merge chapters without formally closing respective chapters.

REJECT

BFED-06-2024

Federation Bylaws Approval Process

National Secretary/Treasurer has final Federation Bylaws approval.

REJECT

B10-08-2024

Regional Vice Presidents (RVPs) Compensation

Update Regional Vice President minimum compensation.

REJECT

B10-13-2024

Vetting NARFE Members For Office Positions

Candidates for office required to have minimum qualifications.

REJECT

B10-14-2024

National President Appointing Members to Only NEB Chartered Committees

All committees would by chartered by NEB.

REJECT

BFED-16-2024

AMS Database Training for Officers and Members

Federation and Chapter officers training requirements for AMS database access and management.

REJECT

BCC-18-2024

National President residency requirement

Require National President to reside in the DC area.

REJECT

BCC-19-2024

National Secretary/Treasurer nonresidency status

Allow National Secretary/Treasurer to reside outside the DC area.

REJECT

B10: Bylaw Submitted by 10 members; BCC: Bylaw Submitted by Compensation Committee: BCH: Bylaw Submitted by Chapter; BFED: Bylaw Submitted by Federation; BLC: Bylaw Submitted by Bylaws Committee: BNEB: Bylaw Submitted by NEB; BMAC: Bylaw Submitted by Membership Advisory Committee; SR10: Standing Rule Submitted by 10 members; SRCH: Standing Rule Submitted by Chapter; SRFED: Standing Rule Submitted by Federation; SRLC: Standing Rule Submitted by Bylaws Committee; SRNEB: Standing Rule Submitted by NEB; SRMAC: Standing Rule Submitted by Membership Advisory Committee.

For the complete text of each bylaws proposal and accompanying recommendation, as well as a link to discuss proposals on FEDHub, visit www.narfe.org/2024-narfe-national-election/.

6

NARFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024

Quality benefits for federal employees At the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Federal Employee Program, we’re grateful to stand with NARFE to support the health of federal employees and their families with comprehensive coverage, a nationwide network and helpful resources.

Discover the Benefit of Blue.

®

Visit fepblue.org today

This is a summary of the features of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Service Benefit Plan. Before making a final decision, please read the Plan’s Federal brochure (RI 71-005).

All benefits are subject to the definitions, limitations and exclusions set forth in the Federal brochure.

Open Season is November 11 – December 9

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.

Become the Leader NARFE Needs Now

A

s you read my message, summer is drawing to a close, and many of us have returned to our homes following

an exciting and fulfilling FEDcon24. It is my hope that those who attended our premier conference gained some insight from our various tracks and speakers that will enable you to help NARFE grow by becoming a leader in your chapter or federation.

With our NARFE chapters as the backbone of our organization, we must rely on involved and interested members to become leaders to ensure the survival of NARFE. As a leader in 2024, you are in the perfect position to recruit and prepare the next set of leaders to take the helm of our local communities of NARFE.

NARFE ELECTIONS

In this issue of NARFE Magazine, you are receiving the mail-in ballot for the 2024 NARFE elections. In addition to the names of the individuals seeking a national or regional position on the National Executive Board, the ballot includes several bylaws amendments for your consideration. These amendments, if approved, could have a major impact on the future of the NARFE organization. Please read the Bylaws Committee report in this issue, ask questions and become an “educated elector.” In this election, your vote will provide leadership with the best chances for success and determine the direction that NARFE will be moving in the future.

The SPC has developed additional plans to build our membership, and, when implemented, will enhance our influence to new levels. Coupled with our new Membership Marketing initiative, besides attracting new members, the strategy will define specifically how NARFE can take the lead in joining with other organizations of common cause. This will allow NARFE to lead a united front when dealing with issues of advocacy in Congress and the administration. We must actively pursue relationships where NARFE is the leader, not the follower. With the right leadership, we can forge relationships that expand the value of NARFE. During my opportunities to speak to NARFE members at your Federation conferences/ conventions, I have mentioned one aspect of the plan, which involves changing NARFE’s status with the Internal Revenue Service. This move will save the organization money, make NARFE a candidate for possible grants, and create certain categories of tax-free donations for NARFE members.

NARFE HEADQUARTERS BUILDING

The sale of the NARFE building remains in a pending status. The main problem that we are facing is the current commercial real estate market in the Alexandria, VA, area. I recently learned that of the total square footage of space in the area, approximately 24% is empty and available. The normal average of available space is 10% to 12%.

While sale and relocation would be ideal, it is now obvious that we must explore other options and become creative with our approach.

Thank you for your support. REMEMBER: An interested member is an involved member!

STRATEGIC PLANNING

Early in my tenure, as National President, I established the Strategic Planning Committee (SPC) to identify the most critical and troublesome problem areas within NARFE and propose solutions to these problems.

8

NARFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024

WILLIAM SHACKELFORD NARFE NATIONAL PRESIDENT natpres@narfe.org

NARFE Online 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.

NARFE Members Get a Discount from 1-800-GOT-JUNK?

W

hen junk starts to pile up in your home, it can become overwhelming to remove it alone. Instead of stressing

about it, bring in some outside help! NARFE members receive an exclusive 10% discount from its affinity partner 1-800-GOTJUNK?, which handles junk

NARFE Daily News Clips STAY AHEAD OF THE NEWS THAT MATTERS

NARFE Daily News Clips features breaking news and informative articles from a variety of news outlets, curated just for NARFE members. To join the mailing list, visit www.narfe.org/clips.

removal services. Use code NARFE10.

For more information on this and other NARFE Perks, turn to the top of page 55.

TSP

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.

TRACKING RETIREMENT CLAIMS

Find out how many retirement claims OPM Retirement Services receives and processes each month, with average processing times and total inventory, at www.narfe.org/opm-processing.

READ NARFE MAGAZINE ONLINE NARFE’s website offers a digital flipbook of this and previous issues. You can read the magazine online on your computer, phone or tablet, or download the issue to browse later. Visit www.narfe.org/ magazine-issues.

NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

9

Washington Watch Washington Watch

Senate Finance Subcommittee Hearing Addresses WEP/GPO Repeal

O

n June 7, the Senate Finance Subcommittee on Social Security, chaired by Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-OH, held a crucial field hearing in Columbus, OH, focusing

on the repeal of the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO). This field hearing marks a significant stride for the repeal bill, S. 597, which aims to restore full Social Security benefits to nearly 3 million Americans, including approximately 250,000 Ohioans. The hearing also follows considerable progress made with the companion House bill, H.R. 82, which had 322 cosponsors as of June 7, and a second House Ways and Means Committee hearing in April.

Brown, the lead sponsor of S. 597, emphasized the importance of the bill during the hearing,

stating, “These public servants dedicate their lives to keeping us safe, educating our children,

and serving our communities, and they pay into Social Security just like everyone else. … Social Security is the cornerstone of middle-class retirement security and should be available to everyone, including those who serve our communities. … They should not be penalized for their service.”

The subcommittee heard compelling testimony from two panels of witnesses, including a retired teacher, a special-needs bus driver, and others. These witnesses shared powerful stories about the harm caused by WEP and GPO and highlighted the urgent need for repeal. Their

SEPTEMBER ACTION ALERT—TAKE ACTION NOW: ADVANCE THE SOCIAL SECURITY FAIRNESS ACT, H.R. 82, BY URGING THE HOUSE WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE TO MARK-UP THE BILL Visit NARFE’s Legislative Action Center at www.narfe.org to send a message to your lawmakers requesting they push the House Ways and Means Committee to advance the Social Security Fairness Act, H.R. 82, with a favorable recommendation, to the House floor! As the second most co-sponsored legislation in the 118th Congress, with more than 320 cosponsors, two House hearings, and a Senate hearing, this bill is building momentum toward achieving legislative progress in repealing the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO)−two longstanding provisions that unfairly reduce the retirement benefits of hardworking public servants.

10

NARFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024

MYTH VS. REALITY MYTH: NARFE only advocates on behalf of Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) retirees, not Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) retirees.

REALITY: NARFE advocates to advance and defend the retirement benefits of both CSRS and FERS retirees. Our legislative priorities are designed to protect and enhance the benefits of all federal employees and retirees, and promote changes to laws if they would benefit either CSRS and FERS retirees, or both.

testimony underscored the call for repeal, not only evidenced by the substantial bipartisan support but also by the widespread demand from millions of Americans for Congress to act now.

NARFE National President William “Bill” Shackelford submitted testimony for the record, reinforcing the critical need for legislative action. In his testimony, Shackelford stated, “The American people have entrusted Congress to champion fairness and equality of opportunity. However, the WEP and the GPO clearly undermine

this trust. Now is the time to take action to address these two unjust penalties.”

Shackelford continued, “Federal workers dedicate their working lives to the betterment of our country, and in return, they expect that Congress and the administration hold up their end of the bargain—the promises made to them when they were hired, including their compensation package. NARFE is here to honor their service and ensure they have a secure future.”

NARFE remains a leading voice in Washington and

across the country, advocating tirelessly on behalf of the federal community. As we await further action, it is crucial for all our members to continue advocating for the repeal of WEP and GPO by contacting your senators in addition to your representative and urging them to support and advance S. 597 alongside H.R. 82.

Thank you to all our members who submitted testimony for the record and to all for your continued support and advocacy.

—BY IVANA SARA, MANAGER, GRASSROOTS ADVOCACY AND LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS

NARFE Urges OPM to Provide Choice for Postal Retirees on Prescription Drug Coverage

T

he Office of Personnel Management issued a proposed rule titled “Postal Service Health Benefits Program: Additional Requirements and Clarifications,” calling for comments on the implications the rule would have on those affected by Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) program. NARFE President William Shackelford submitted a letter in June expressing the organization’s views on three aspects of the proposed rule.

First, Shackelford called for the removal of provisions that would eliminate prescription drug benefits for individuals who decline Medicare Part D coverage under the PSHB

plan. Shackelford noted that the Postal Service Reform Act of 2022 (PSRA), which created the PSHB plan, does not impose requirements on Medicare-eligible PSHB enrollees to enroll in Part D prescription drug coverage, nor does it include language about eliminating the PSHB plan’s prescription drug coverage for such enrollees if they decline enrollment in the additional Medicare Part D drug coverage. The Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program has always prioritized choice in its offerings, and NARFE believes this should extend to PSHB enrollees.

Secondly, the letter called for changes to the language aimed to “ensure that the prescription drug benefit offered under [a PSHB plan’s] Medicare Part D EGWP is equal to or better than the PSHB plan’s prescription drug benefit,” to provide annuitants with the best coverage possible. Similar language was used in the FEHB plan’s rollout of Part D options but did not deliver as advertised for many enrollees, as changes in tier classifications often led to higher out-of-pocket costs.

Therefore, NARFE requested that OPM clarify and strengthen the language to require “in all SEE OPM ON P. 14 NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

11

Washington Watch 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.

Advocacy for All: Why Every Member’s Voice Matters

W

ithin the diverse community of NARFE, our members reflect a wide array of experiences, backgrounds, and service histories.

From active federal employees to retirees under both the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) and the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), each member brings a unique perspective. This diversity is our strength, but it can also lead to misconceptions about how and why we advocate for certain issues. It’s crucial to understand that NARFE’s advocacy efforts are designed to benefit the federal community as a whole, and every member’s voice and participation are vital.

INCLUSIVE ADVOCACY

At NARFE, we advocate for legislative priorities that impact our members collectively, regardless of their individual circumstances.

While it might seem that some issues gain more traction than others, it’s essential to recognize that this dynamic is often influenced by broader factors, including the level of support across the federal community and the external environment in which we operate.

WHY ADVOCACY MATTERS TO EVERYONE Holistic Representation: NARFE’s mission is to protect and enhance the earned pay, retirement, and health care benefits of federal employees and retirees. This mission encompasses everyone, from those early in their careers to those enjoying retirement. Even 12

NARFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024

if a particular piece of legislation doesn’t directly impact you, supporting it strengthens the overall well-being and security of the federal workforce.

Interconnected Benefits: Legislation that benefits one group within the federal community often sets precedents or provides benefits that indirectly affect others. For instance, improvements in retirement benefits for FERS employees can influence broader policy changes that may eventually benefit CSRS retirees as well.

Unified Strength: Our power lies in our unity. When we advocate together, our message is stronger and more compelling.

ADDRESSING MISCONCEPTIONS

It’s important to address the misconception that NARFE advocacy favors one type of member over another. Our advocacy agenda is guided by the needs and priorities of the entire federal community. Decisions on which issues to prioritize are based on comprehensive member feedback, legislative feasibility, and the potential impact on our collective membership. While some issues might appear to receive more attention, this is often a result of the broader support they garner.

EXTERNAL FACTORS

It’s also worth noting that NARFE operates within a larger ecosystem of advocacy organizations. Sometimes, issues gain traction due to the combined efforts of groups advocating for

similar causes. The popularity of certain issues can also stem from the number of people they affect.

For example, legislation addressing retirement benefits might receive widespread attention because it affects a large population.

CONTINUOUS ADVOCACY

Despite these dynamics, NARFE remains steadfast in advocating for all legislative priorities that affect our members. Whether it’s fighting for fair cost-of-living adjustments/ equitable treatment in retirement systems, repeal of the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO), support for a merit-based civil service system, or preserving annuitant choice and feasibility with the Federal Employees Health Benefits program (FEHB), every issue is pursued with the same dedication and vigor. Our commitment is to represent and fight for the interests of all our members, regardless of their retirement system or current employment status.

Advocacy is a shared effort, and every member’s involvement is crucial. By participating in grassroots initiatives for all legislative priorities, you contribute to the strength and effectiveness of NARFE’s mission.

Remember, the issues we fight for today lay the groundwork for future victories. Your voice, your actions, and your support are what make our advocacy powerful, and help us achieve progress across the board.

—BY IVANA SARA, MANAGER, GRASSROOTS ADVOCACY AND LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS

Connolly, Fitzpatrick Propose Amendment to Protect Civil Service

R

eps. Gerry Connolly, D-VA, and Brian Fitzpatrick, R-PA, submitted an amendment to H.R. 8070, The Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025, to incorporate the language of the Saving the Civil Service Act, H.R. 1002..

The amendment represented another attempt to advance their legislation, but the effort was rebutted by the House Rules Committee, which did not permit a floor vote on the issue.

The amendment’s language would have limited the ability of the executive branch to bypass the entire framework of the merit-based civil service through the creation of broad new exceptions to the application of merit-based rules. Specifically, the amendment would prohibit the reclassification of any position in the competitive service to an excepted

service schedule that was created after September 30, 2020, and limit federal employee reclassification to the five excepted service schedules in use prior to fiscal year 2021.

NARFE supports the Saving the Civil Service Act and supported the amendment in a letter from NARFE National President William “Bill” Shackelford. NARFE affirms that a competitive, merit-based civil service provides continuity through changing administrations, preserves institutional knowledge and expertise within the federal government, and safeguards the rule of law.

Government agencies such as the Department of Defense (DoD) rely heavily on qualified and experienced professionals in the civil service to accomplish their vital missions.

Merit-based hiring and firing for civilians ensures competent individuals, as opposed to those

CONTRIBUTE TO

with the most political connections, carry out the work of government. It also protects against abuse of power by the executive branch, providing greater assurance that laws passed by Congress will be faithfully executed.

The amendment would guard against recent attempts to utilize broad exceptions to competitive service rules to upend the merit-based system that has served this country effectively since the late 1800s. It would do so by shoring up statutory loopholes designed to provide flexibility for extenuating circumstances, which are available through existing excepted services schedules. Creation of broad new exceptions, such as Schedule F, could effectively transform tens of thousands of civil service positions into political appointments.

—BY RANDALL “RJ” THACKER, MANAGER, POLITICAL AND LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS

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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.

NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

13

Washington Watch LEGISLATIVE RESOURCES NARFE NewsLine – A weekly newsletter that goes out to NARFE members on Tuesdays and includes weekly recaps of legislative news, compiled by NARFE’s advocacy and communications teams.

LEGISLATIVE ACTION CENTER – A one-stop site to send a letter to Congress, and more, at www.narfe.org.

House Committee Advances Bill With Appropriations for OPM

T

he House Appropriations Committee in June advanced its Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) bill for fiscal year 2025 spending. The bill directed specific amounts to information technology (IT) modernization for the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and increased overall funding for the agency, but at a level below the president’s request.

Notably, the House FSGG bill would provide $439.1 million total for OPM’s operations in fiscal year 2025, more than the $412.1 million provided in fiscal year 2024, but less than the $465.8 million requested by the administration.

However, the House FSGG total includes $10.7 million requested for IT modernization.

In April, NARFE sent a letter to the Committee on Appropriations, requesting adequate funding

for OPM’s Retirement Services division, including funds for IT modernization. OPM’s congressional budget justification outlined plans to decrease inventory of retirement claims through increased staff, the transition from paper-based processes to more efficient digital case management, and maintenance of the Online Retirement Application and Digit File System initiative.

The additional funds for IT modernization and retirement services operations should aid OPM in fulfilling those plans.

House committee approval represents another step in the process. Next up is consideration by the full House, followed by negotiations with the Senate and President on any final bill that would be signed into law.

Another provision included in the bill is language to

prohibit any Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) investment in a mutual fund that makes “investment decisions based primarily on environmental, social or governance (ESG) criteria.”

NARFE opposes this provision, and successfully advocated for its removal from last year’s final bill, as it threatens to force the TSP to close its entire mutual fund window due to the administrative burden of enforcing the requirement, as well as limiting investment choice by TSP participants.

Given the vast majority of TSP investments remain in the core TSP funds, which are adopted based on fiduciary standards and do not utilize ESG criteria, the provision represents a solution in search of (nonexistent) problem.

the Postal Service annuitant was alive.

For PSHB-eligible annuitants, the Special Enrollment Period for Medicare Part B ends September 30, 2024. The NARFE webinar “Postal Service Health Benefits Program and Medicare,” which explores how PSHB will work with Medicare, can be found on NARFE’s website. The full list of conditionally approved PSHB

carriers can be found at www. narfe.org/opm-pshb-carriers.

PSHB- eligible annuitants can also expect further information from NARFE on PSHB as it becomes available, ahead of this year’s Open Season, which runs from November 11 through December 9, 2024.

—BY RANDALL “RJ” THACKER, MANAGER, POLITICAL AND LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS

OPM FROM P.11

instances” that coverage be equal or better.

Finally, NARFE expressed support for exceptions to the Part B enrollment requirement for survivor annuitants who had relied upon the Part B enrollment exception of the Postal Service annuitant while they were a covered family member to establish their own exception to the Part B enrollment requirement when 14

NARFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024

—BY NICOLE BLACKSTONE, FEDERAL BENEFITS INSTITUTE PROGRAM MANAGER

KEY INITIATIVES

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. 536/ S. 124: The Federal Provides federal employees Adjustment of Income Rates with an 8.7% average pay raise (FAIR) Act / Rep. Gerry Connolly, in 2024.

D-VA / Sen. Brian Schatz, D-HI Cosponsors: H.R. 536: 77 (D) 1 (R) S. 124: 19 (D) 0 (R) 1 (I) H.R. 856/ S. 274: Comprehensive Paid Leave for Federal Employees Act / Rep. Don Beyer, D-VA / Sen Brian Schatz, D-HI

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

Cosponsors: H.R. 856: 47 (D) 3 (R) S.274: 10 (D) 0 (R) 1 (I) H.R. 1301/ S. 640: Federal Employees Civil Relief Act / Rep. Derek Kilmer, D-WA / Sen. Brian Schatz, D-HI Cosponsors: H.R. 1301: 4 (D) 0 (R) S. 640 15 (D) 0 (R) 1 (I) FEDERAL COMPENSATION

H.R. 5883 / S. 3029: Honoring Civil Servants Killed in the Line of Duty Act of 2023 / Rep. Gerald Connolly, D-VA / Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, I-AZ Cosponsors: H.R. 5883: 1 (D) 3 (R) S. 3029: 1 (D) 2 (R) 0 (I) H.R. 5995: The Federal Retirement Fairness Act / Rep. Derek Kilmer (D-WA) Cosponsors: H.R. 5995: 89 (D) 24 (R)

H.R. 7127: Federal Adjustment of Income Rates (FAIR) Act / Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-VA) / Sen. Brian Schatz (D-HI )

LATEST ACTION(S) Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability 1/26/2023 Referred to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs 1/26/2023 Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability, Veteran’s Affairs and House Administration 2/7/2023 Referred to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs 2/7/2023

Protects federal workers and contractors from a variety of civil financial penalties during a lapse in appropriations or a breach of the debt ceiling.

Referred to the House Committees on Oversight and Accountability, Financial Services, Ways and Means, Judiciary, Education and Workforce, and House Administration 3/1/2023 Referred to the Senate Committee on Finance 3/2/2023

Aims to significantly increase death gratuities and funeral allowances for federal employees who tragically lose their lives while serving the nation. This bill would ensure that the families of dedicated civil servants receive greater financial support during their time of loss.

Referred to the House Committee on Veteran’s Affairs, and the Subcommittee on Health 11/9/23 Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders.

Calendar No. 385 05/09/2024

Referred to House Committee Allow federal employees on Oversight and Accountability who started their careers 10/25/23 as temporary workers, but transitioned to permanent work, to buy credit towards retirement for their temporary work. The FRFA enables these workers to make catch-up contributions, ensuring they receive full retirement credit for their service.

Provides federal employees with Referred to House Committee a 7.4% average pay raise in 2025 on Oversight and Accountability 1/30/2024

Cosponsors: H.R. 7127: 85 (D) 1 (R) NARFE’s Position: 16

NARFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024

Support

Oppose

No position

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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 H.R. 82/S. 597: The Social Security Fairness Act / Rep. Garret Graves, R-LA / Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-OH

WHAT BILL WOULD DO

LATEST ACTION(S)

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

The House Committee on Ways and Means held Field Hearing on 11/21/2023 Referred to the Senate Committee on Finance 3/1/2023

Cosponsors: H.R. 82: 204 (D) 106 (R) S. 597: 46 (D) 10 (R) 3 (I) H.R. 4260: The Public Servants Protection and Fairness Act / Rep. Richard Neal, D-MA Cosponsors: H.R. 4260: 103 (D) 0 (R) SOCIAL SECURITY H.R. 4583/S. 2280: Social Security 2100 Act / Rep. John Larson, D-CT / Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-CT Cosponsors: H.R. 4583: 186 (D) 0 (R) S. 2280: 4 (D) 0 (R) 0 (I) H.R. 5342: Equal Treatment of Public Servants Act of 2023 / Rep. Jodey Arrington, R-TX Cosponsors: H.R. 5342: 1 (D) 34 (R) H.R. 716: The Fair COLA for Seniors Act / Rep. John Garamendi, D-CA Cosponsors: H.R. 716: 40 (D) 0 (R) H.R. 866 / S. 3194: The Equal COLA Act / Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-VA / Sen. Alex Padilla, D-CA FEDERAL ANNUITIES

Cosponsors: H.R. 866: 55 (D) 5 (R) S. 3194: 6 (D) 0 (R) 2 (I) S. 3974: Boosting Benefits and COLAs for Seniors Act / Sen. Bob Casey (D-PA) Cosponsors: S. 3974: 5 (D) 0 (R)

Reforms the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) by providing a monthly rebate of $150 to current beneficiaries (age 62 or older before 2025) and creating a new formula to calculate benefits for future WEP-affected individuals (turning 62 in or after 2025).

Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means 6/21/2023

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

Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and Subcommittee on Health 7/14/23

Reforms the WEP by providing a monthly Referred to the House payment of $100 to current WEP-affected Committee on Ways and Means 9/5/2023 beneficiaries and $50 for an affected spouse or child. Creates a new formula to calculate benefits for future WEP-affected individuals (turning 62 in or after 2025).

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 Committee on Veteran’s Affairs, and the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs 2/28/23

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

Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability.

Action By: House of Representatives 02/08/2023 Referred to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs 11/1/23

Significantly adjust the calculation of COLA by basing it off of the Consumer Prive Index for Americans aged 62 or older (CPI-E) instead of the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners (CPI-W) to better reflect rising living expenses faced by the aging community NARFE’s Position:

18

NARFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024

Referred to the Senate Committee on Finance 7/12/2023

Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance 03/19/2024

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

LATEST ACTION(S)

H.R.159/S.59: Chance to Compete Act of 2023 / Rep. Virginia Foxx, R-NC / Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, I-AZ

Implements merit-based reforms to the civil service hiring system that replace degree-based hiring with skills- and competency-based hiring.

Passed the House under suspension of the rules 1/24/2023

Prevents any position in the federal competitive service, created after September 30, 2020, from being reclassified into the excepted service, outside the protection of merit system rules without the express consent of Congress. The bill also requires the consent of an employee to be reclassified, mandates reporting of conversions to the Office of Personnel Management, and places caps on the number of employees converted to the excepted service via Schedule C.

Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability 2/15/2023

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.

Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability 3/9/2023

Would make all federal employees at-will and enable workers to be removed for good cause, bad cause or no cause at all. The legislation would also abolish the Merit System Protections Board and limit removal appeals to claims of whistleblower retaliation and Equal Employment Opportunity Commission complaints before the US Court of Appeals.

Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability 5/5/2023

Provides free lifetime identity protection coverage to current, former and prospective federal employees and contractors whose personal information was compromised by Office of Personnel Management (OPM) data breaches in 2015.

Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability 2/5/24

Cosponsors: H.R. 159: 3 (D) 2 (R) S. 59: 1 (D) 2 (R) 0 (I) H.R. 1002/S. 399: Saving the Civil Service Act / Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-VA / Sen. Tim Kaine, D-VA Cosponsors: H.R. 1002: 37 (D) 4 (R) S. 399: 16 (D) 0 (R) 1 (I)

FEDERAL PERSONNEL POLICY

H.R. 1487: The Strengthening the Office of Personnel Management Reform Act / Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-VA Cosponsors: H.R. 1487: 2 (D) 0 (R) H.R. 3115/S. 1496: Public Service Reform Act / Rep. Chip Roy, R-TX / Sen. Rick Scott, R-FL Cosponsors: H.R. 3115: 0 (D) 15 (R) S. 1496: 0 (D) 1 (R) 0 (I)

H.R. 7236: Reducing the Effects of the Cyberattack on OPM Victims Emergency Response Act, or the RECOVER Act / Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, D-DC-at Large and Rep. Dutch Ruppersberger, D-MD Cosponsors: H.R. 7236: 1 (D) 0 (R)

NARFE’s Position:

Support

Oppose

Referred to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs 1/24/2023

Referred to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs 2/14/2023

Referred to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs 5/9/2023

No position NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

19

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 H.R. 5779: Fiscal Commission Act of 2023 / Rep. Bill Huizenga, R-MI

FEDERAL PERSONNEL POLICY

WHAT BILL WOULD DO

LATEST ACTION(S)

To establish a commission on fiscal stability and reform.

Ordered to be reported in the nature of a substitute by the yeas and nays 22-12 1/18/24

S. 3262: The Fiscal Stability Act / Sen. Joe Manchin, D-WV

Referred to Senate Committee on Rules and Administration 1/8/24

Cosponsors: H.R. 5779: 13 (D) 13 (R) S. 3262: 3 (D) 5 (R) 1 (I)

Referred to Senate Committee on Rules and Administration 11/08/2023 NARFE’s Position:

Support

Oppose

No position

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NARFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024

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All content ©2024 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. Savings and retail pricing based on a survey of national average retail hearing aid prices compared to average TruHearing pricing. Listed hearing aid prices are subject to change. Confirm hearing aid pricing at your appointment with your provider.

Retail pricing of TruHearing-branded aids based on prices for comparable aids. Follow-up provider visits included for one year following hearing aid purchase. Free battery offer is not applicable to the purchase of rechargeable hearing aid models. Three-year warranty includes repairs and one-time loss and damage replacement. Hearing aid repairs and replacements are subject to provider and manufacturer fees. For questions regarding fees, contact a TruHearing Hearing Consultant. 504400_2024_BCBS_FEP

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Questions Questions&&Answers 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

LUMP-SUM PAYMENTS FOR ANNUAL LEAVE

Q A

I plan to retire at the end of the year. When will I receive my lump sum annual leave, including any possible January 2025 pay adjustment?

Congratulations on your upcoming retirement!

Most people receive unused annual leave and credit hours in a lump sum payment about two or three pay periods (four to six weeks) after separating from the federal agency. In general, the annual leave payment will equal the pay you would have received had you remained employed until the period covered by the annual leave expired.

For example, if you retire on December 31, 2024, with a balance of 300 unused annual leave hours, the first 64 hours (January 1 through January 11) will be paid at the 2024 rate. The remainder of the leave payment is paid at the 2025 pay rate that takes effect for most federal payroll systems on January 12, 2025. The total lump sum may initially be paid at the 2024 rate until the payroll systems are updated for the new salary rate. You will see a smaller direct deposit reflecting the additional money due for this payment. Withholdings for this payment include federal and state (if applicable) income tax, Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA), and Medicare payroll taxes.

For specific details about the timing of your lump sum payment, it’s best to consult with your human resources or payroll office, as they have the most accurate information from your payroll provider. You can review the Office of Personnel Management’s (OPM) “Fact Sheet:

22

NARFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024

Lump-Sum Payments For Annual Leave” here: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/ pay-leave/leave-administration/fact-sheets/ lump-sum-payments-for-annual-leave/

LIFE INSURANCE

Q

My financial planner/insurance broker says I can get a better deal for life insurance than what is available through the Federal Employees Group Life Insurance (FEGLI). Is that true?

Before replacing FEGLI with a private life insurance policy, consider the pros and cons: • Basic FEGLI has several benefits that make it worth keeping. ◊ Basic FEGLI is valued at your current basic pay rate rounded to the next $1,000 plus an additional $2,000. Whether you are 45 years old or 65 years old, all employees pay $0.16/$1,000/ biweekly for this coverage. Every time your salary increases, the Basic FEGLI value increases. ◊ You may continue 25% of your coverage that was in effect on the last day of employment at no further premium once you are 65 (and retired). You may continue 50% or 100% of your Basic FEGLI coverage by paying an additional premium.

A

◊ Finally, Basic FEGLI includes a living benefit that allows you to become “your own” beneficiary for enrollees who are terminally ill and have a life expectancy of nine months or less.

• Regardless of the cause of death, adequately documented FEGLI claims will be paid unless the beneficiary intentionally caused your death. The accidental death and dismemberment clause has exceptions, however.

• Employees may increase FEGLI without medical underwriting when they have a life event such as marriage, divorce, death of their spouse, and acquisition of an eligible child.

If you are insurable, level term life insurance could be less expensive than FEGLI Option B. Option B, valued from one to five multiples of your basic pay rate rounded up to the next $1,000, escalates in cost every five years (i.e., 50, 55, 60, etc.). Before canceling FEGLI, be sure to obtain your private insurance policy. Beware that the quoted price may sometimes differ from the price you will pay after the medical underwriting is completed.

Before purchasing a life insurance policy, buy from a reputable company. Check the following: • AM Best rating: Evaluates a company’s financial stability • J.D. Power ranking: Rates companies based on a variety of consumer-focused criteria • National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) complaint index: Provides a complaint score based on how many complaints are expected for the company’s size • Customer reviews on independent review sites: Gives insight into customers’ first-hand experience Complete details on the FEGLI benefit are found at https://www.opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/lifeinsurance/reference-materials/handbook.pdf.

RETIREMENT

instructions carefully when applying for a deferred retirement and complete Schedule C. OPM will allow the FERS benefit to commence on the first day of any month after reaching the MRA, at least 31 days after OPM receives her application. To avoid the age reduction of five-twelfths of 1% for every month under age 62 (5% per year), she may choose to have her retirement benefits begin the first day after her 60th birthday since she separated with more than 20 years of service.

For former employees who separated with more than 10 but less than 20 years of service, choose the first day of the month that you turn 62 to avoid the age reduction entirely. For example, if the former employee turns 62 on September 15, choose September 1 as the commencement date for the benefit.

MEDICARE LATE ENROLLMENT PENALTY

Q

I keep getting all this marketing mail regarding Medicare saying there will be a penalty if I delay past age 65. Is this true? I am still working and don’t plan to retire for a few years. Are there other options for avoiding this penalty?

It is not surprising that you are confused.

According to research by the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF), an independent source of health policy research, private Medicare plans are allowed to engage in a variety of Medicare marketing and

A

COUNTDOWN TO COLA The Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) decreased 0.1% in June 2024. To calculate the 2025 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), the 2024 third-quarter indices will be averaged and compared with the 2023 third-quarter average of 301.236. The percentage increase determines the COLA. June’s index, 308.054, is up 2.26% from the base.

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

DEFERRED RETIREMENT

Q

My wife is a former federal employee who resigned after working for more than 20 years under the Federal Employees’ Retirement System (FERS). How does she apply for her deferred retirement?

She can complete form RI 92-19, “Application for Deferred or Postponed FERS retirement,” and send it to OPM approximately 60 days before she wants her benefit to begin. Suppose she left the government before reaching the FERS minimum retirement age (MRA), which is 55 to 57, depending on her birth year. In that case, she should follow the

A

MONTH

CPI-W

Monthly % Change

% Change from 301.236

OCTOBER 2023

302.071

-0.06

0.28

NOVEMBER

301.224

-0.28

-0.004

DECEMBER

300.728

-0.16

-0.17

JANUARY 2024

302.201

0.49

0.32

FEBRUARY

304.284

0.7

1.0

MARCH

306.502

0.7

1.7

APRIL

307.811

0.4

2.18

MAY

308.163

0.1

2.29

JUNE

308.054

-0.1

2.26

For FECA COLA updates, visit narfe.org and search for FECA.

NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

23

Questions & Answers communication activities, including over the phone, on television, and in person, as long as they adhere to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) rules and regulations. KFF conducted a series of focus groups that found that most participants said selecting a plan was overwhelming and confusing to navigate.

You may enroll in Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) only. However, there are options for coordinating your FEHB plan with Parts B (outpatient coverage), Part C (Medicare Advantage), and Part D (prescription drug coverage). Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) for Medicare begins three months before age 65 and lasts three months after your 65th birthday. Most federal employees and retirees sign up for Medicare Part A at this time. This coverage has no premium since the 1.45% Medicare tax you paid while working helps pay for it.

Enrolling in Part B can be advantageous once you have retired, are over age 65, and are no longer covered by “current employment” health insurance.

Many FEHB plans offer a reduction in the Part B premium or a rebate and waive cost-sharing (deductible, copayments and coinsurance) when Medicare becomes the primary payer.

Part B has a standard monthly premium of $174.70/month in 2024. This can be higher if you have income above specific dollar amounts or delay enrollment past age 65. Suppose you are over 65 and covered by “current employment” health insurance because you or your spouse is still employed and covered by their employer’s health plan, such as FEHB. In that case, you can delay enrollment in Part B without incurring a late enrollment penalty.

You can enroll in a Special Enrollment Period that lasts eight months following your retirement or, if covered under a working spouse, eight months past your spouse’s retirement.

Many FEHB plans now offer the option of enrolling in a Part C plan if retirees are also enrolled in Parts A and B. Beginning in 2024, it is becoming common for many FEHB plans to offer Part D coverage to retirees enrolled in Parts A and B. Learn more in the fact sheet “How To Apply for Medicare Part B During Your Special Enrollment Period” here: https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10012.pdf and also in the publication “Enrolling in Medicare Part A & Part B” here: https://www.medicare.gov/ publications/11036-enrolling-medicare-part-apart-b.pdf.

SURVIVOR BENEFIT

Q 24

When I retired, I elected a survivor benefit for my spouse. As I get older, I don’t remember how much

NARFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024

she might receive each month. How can I find out?

Retirees and survivor annuitants receive a “Notice of Annuity Adjustment” by mail. This notice contains information about the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) and any changes that will affect the amount of your monthly annuity. As the COLA affects the survivor annuity amount, the survivor annuity payable at your death is also documented here. Although you may have direct deposit, OPM may still mail information to you. You can also find this information in your personalized annuity booklet.

There are several ways to request the booklet: 1. You can request your annuity booklet online at https://www.servicesonline.opm.gov/. Find the menu on the left side and click on the last option, “Documents.” Click on “Booklet Request” to request the current booklet sent to you.

2. Call OPM at 888-767-6738.

3. Email OPM at retire@opm.gov. Be sure to include your Civil Service Active (CSA) number.

4. Write to Office of Personnel Management, Retirement Operations Center, P. O. Box 45, Boyers, PA 16017-0045. Include your signature, annuity number (CSA#), social security number, and phone number.

Be sure to update your address with OPM to ensure you receive essential information that OPM sends to retirees by mail. To update your mailing address, sign in to your OPM Retirement Services Online account at https://www.servicesonline. opm.gov/, click “Profile” in the menu, click the “Communication” tab, and then “Change Home Address.” You can also update your phone number, email address, and communication preferences on this page.

A

FEGLI

Q

My spouse has recently passed away. How do I claim the insurance benefits payable to me under FEGLI Option C, family coverage?

I am sorry for your loss. The Federal Employees Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) “Statement of Claim for Option C,” form FE-6, is found at https://www.opm.gov/forms/pdf_fill/ fe6dep.pdf. FEGLI will need a certified copy of the death certificate. Submit the claim to your human resources office if you are still an employee, as they need to verify your coverage.

You can cancel the Option C enrollment if there is no longer an eligible family member.

Annuitants must call OPM at 1-888-767-6738 if they want a claim form mailed.

A

Upon the death of your spouse, you may also need to make other changes, including changing your FEHB enrollment to “Plus One” if there is only one eligible member or to a “Self-Only” enrollment.

If you elected a survivor benefit for your spouse, you may request your full annuity restored by notifying OPM. Send a copy of your spouse’s death certificate to OPM along with your request to: U.S. Office of Personnel Management Retirement Operations Center Post Office Box 45/Boyers, PA 16017 You can change your federal or state income tax withholding at OPM Services Online. You may also need to change your beneficiary designation for life insurance or retirement (any money in the retirement fund remaining upon your death and any unpaid annuity). You can print copies of these forms, call 1-888-767-6738, or email retire@opm.gov to ask for them. You can find these forms online at: • SF 2823, https://www.opm.gov/forms/pdf_ fill/sf2823.pdf, Designation of Beneficiary/ Federal Employees Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) Program • SF 3102 https://www.opm.gov/forms/pdf_fill/ sf3102.pdf, Designation of Beneficiary/Civil

Service & Federal Employees Retirement Systems (FERS & CSRS) • To update the beneficiary for your retirement savings in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), log in to “My Account” at http://www.tsp.gov.

The beneficiary designation must be filed with the TSP at your death to honor your wishes. The TSP cannot honor a will or any other document. If you die with a balance in your TSP account and do not designate beneficiaries, the account will be distributed according to the standard order of precedence required by law.

Additional details on the death of a spouse may be found at https://www.opm.gov/retirementcenter/my-annuity-and-benefits/life-events/death/ death-of-spouse/ and also in the “TSP Death Benefits” booklet, TSP BK 31, https://www.tsp.gov/ publications/tspbk31.pdf. ____________________________________ 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.

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A single annual $52 associate membership fee makes all MHBP plans available to you. For more information about MHBP plans, refer to MHBP.com Aetna Medicare is a PPO plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in our plans depends on contract renewal. Plan features and availability may vary by service area. SilverSneakers is a registered trademark of Tivity Health, Inc. © 2021 Tivity Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Y0001_GRP_4111_2022_M 19.22.320.1-OCT NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

25

Benefits Brief

L

Planning Ahead for Long Term Care

ife is unpredictable, and needing or becoming a caregiver can be overwhelming, especially in a crisis. While the thought of needing long-term care can be daunting, planning ahead can bring a sense of relief. It’s comforting to know that whether it’s arranging for occasional help or intensive personal assistance, there are resources available to ease the process. As the famous quote, often attributed to Benjamin Franklin, goes, “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.”

Living a healthy life is a shared goal that we all strive for. Many of us will need assistance with everyday activities, and it’s comforting to know that family, friends, and the local community may be there to help.

What happens when we may need personal care with some of life’s essential functions, such as: • Dressing • Eating • Transferring from a bed to a chair, etc.

• Bathing • Toileting • Incontinence • Cognitive ability Understanding your Federal Employees Health Benefit (FEHB) plan is crucial. Who will help with such personal care when we are no longer able to do it ourselves? We want to think that our health insurance and/or Medicare will pay for this type of personal care, but unless we are recovering from an illness or accident, that is not the case. Many FEHB plans offer a “Medicare

26

NARFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024

Advantage” enrollment option that may include transportation to non-emergency medical appointments or meal delivery after a hospital stay, but those benefits are short-lived. It is a good idea to read your FEHB plan brochure to be familiar with what it covers in the event you need care for more than just a few weeks. For more information visit www.opm.gov/healthcareinsurance/healthcare/ plan-information/plans/.

Open Season is a crucial opportunity to compare FEHB benefits for those things you probably didn’t think about when you were younger but may become important benefits during your retirement years.

These include things like time covered for care in a skilled care facility, home health services, durable medical equipment, ambulance services, inpatient and outpatient hospital and other facility services, and speech, physical, and occupational therapies. The next open season will run from November 11 through December 9, 2024.

To learn more about longterm care planning, visit LongTermCare.gov to find out: • What Medicare does and does not cover.

• The requirements when Medicaid may be an option.

• Benefits available through the Department of Veterans Affairs, including The Housebound Aid and Attendance Allowance Program.

• Tips and resources for aging in place.

• Advance care plan considerations.

AGING IN PLACE

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) provides tips and resources and a checklist to start planning and preparing your home to make it a safe and comfortable place to maintain your independence. Visit www. nia.nih.gov/health/aging-place/ aging-place-growing-olderhome for more information. NIA offers a Caregiver’s Handbook as a practical guide provided for free. You can download or request up to five printed copies mailed by visiting https:// order.nia.nih.gov/publication/ caregivers-handbook. You could also call the NIA Information Center at 800-222-2225 or email niaic@mail.nih.gov.

Another source is the Family Caregiver Alliance www. caregiver.org.

According to a 2015 study by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) and the National Alliance on Caregiving, about 43.5 million people in the U.S. were unpaid caregivers in the last 12 months. While it can be very rewarding, this job takes an emotional, physical, and often financial toll on the caregiver. One former first lady understood this well and started the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers.

“There are only four kinds of people in the world—those who have been caregivers, those who are currently caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregivers,” she said.

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

PAYING FOR CARE The average cost of long-term care in the United States varies from $53,671 annually for assisted living facility care to $111,909 for a private room in a nursing home. To find out how the cost of care compares in your state, visit https://www.ltcnews. com/resources/states.

An increasing number of private payment options include long-term care insurance, reverse mortgages, life insurance options, and annuities. Insurance requires medical underwriting to qualify for enrollment.

Therefore, obtaining a policy is about more than the cost; some people cannot qualify based on pre-existing medical conditions. LTC insurance can be purchased from an insurance agency, financial planner, or broker.

Contact your state’s Department of Insurance for more information, and visit https://content.

naic.org/state-insurance-departments. As of this writing, the Federal Long-Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP) is not open for new applications.

Visit www.ltcfeds.com for the latest details.

To learn more, NARFE has these additional learning opportunities: • How to Prepare for Long-Term Care: Aging Gracefully While Financially Secure is a webinar archived at the NARFE Federal Benefits Institute. https://www.narfe.org/federal-benefits-institute/ narfe-webinars/webinar-archive/ • Planning for Long Term Care is the title of a feature story published in the September 2023 issue of NARFE Magazine: https://www. narfe.org/magazine-issues/narfe-magazineseptember-2023/.

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

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©2024 HearUSA. All Rights Reserved. *The Service Benefit Plan will pay a hearing aid benefit for Standard and Basic Option 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. 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. **Depending on the level of hearing loss, many individuals can be fit with their hearing aids on the first appointment and leave with them that same day.

NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

27

CARING FOR YOUR

SPOUSE

28

NARFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024

AFTER

RETIREMENT

By Tammy Flanagan

When federal employees think about their life after retirement, they often associate it with feelings of freedom, fun, and adventure. When you search Google for “retirement,” you will find images of a happy couple at the beach, a spry senior on a motorcycle, a family vacationing on a cruise ship, or a group of older friends golfing on a lush golf course. I remember when federal employees would post a retirement clock on their computer desktops so that they could count down the years, months, and days until they reached their much-anticipated retirement date.

NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

29

There are 47.9 million caregivers of adults 18 and older in the U.S. Families provided $470 billion uncompensated care in 2017, equal to 14% of all health care costs.

Caregiver statistics paint a different picture of retirement today for retirees when one spouse requires care. According to a 2020 report, 47.9 million caregivers of adults 18 and older are in the United States. Care recipients may be a parent, child, sibling, spouse/partner, or friend. This report was based on a 2019 survey of 1,392 adult caregivers, with 12% caring for a spouse or partner (5.7 million caregivers in the U.S. are spousal or partner caregivers).

About 40% of caregivers live together with their recipient, which is a proportion that has grown 34% since 2015. As in 2015, older caregivers tend to take care of similar-aged recipients, with 74% of caregivers ages 75 and older caring for a recipient age 75 or older. Family caregivers provided an estimated $470 billion in uncompensated care in 2017, equating to

30

NARFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024

More than 75% of these caregivers are women.

14% of all health care expenditures. More than 75% of these caregivers are women, and on average, they spend almost an equivalent number of hours a week providing care as people traditionally spend at a fulltime job. The number of people providing care for five years or longer has increased from 24% in 2015 to 28% in 2020. As life-extending technologies improve, this number will likely grow.

Actress Marilu Henner was a caregiver to her husband, Michael Brown, after he was diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2003. Gary Barg, editor-inchief of Today’s Caregiver magazine, interviewed her in 2017 to learn more about her experience of becoming her husband’s caregiver. She says that patient can be so frightened, and they need somebody in their corner who’s brave enough to say, “Hey, I’ll go with you,” and cares enough about you to say, “I’ll ask the questions. You can talk to me.

There’s nothing too TMI, nothing that’s out of the realm of possibilities for us to be able to discuss.”

That’s the caregiver. She also knows from experience that caregivers must take care of themselves. She encourages caregivers to be fearless.

One way for caregivers to take care of themselves is to remain socially engaged and connected. We all experienced a form of isolation during the COVID19 pandemic. Signs that you may be suffering include fatigue, depression, and anxiety. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it might be time to contact your primary care physician.

Consider meeting with a mental health or behavioral health professional. There is a mental health treatment services locator through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration by emailing findtreatment@ samhsa.gov. Reaching out to a friend, family member, or faith leader who can listen can provide needed support to a spouse who is providing care.

Life as a Caregiver There are silver linings that are important to notice when taking on the role of caregiver. My father was diagnosed with dementia around 1990 and was cared for by my mom for the first six years at home and then the last two years in a nursing home. These were most likely the most difficult years of my mom’s life; however, some happy memories were made. Due to my dad’s illness, I traveled from northern Virginia to their home near Pittsburgh, PA, many times to provide support to my mom. We were lucky to have good friends and family close by who would visit, and the simple things like sharing a meal or telling stories from years past brought her joy.

During those years, I decided to take my mom on a trip overseas so that she could have a break from caregiving. My dad’s sister stepped in to help and she came to stay with him. My mom told everyone she met about the wonderful time we had. On another occasion, against my brother’s better judgment, my mom and I flew with my dad to California to visit his brother. I still smile when I remember how my father, deep into his journey with dementia, cried with happiness when he hugged his brother. He seemed to remember more than we gave him credit for.

We lived for those moments, and although there were some good times, I also remember the toll that caregiving took; my mom passed away two years before my father. Those sweet memories, however, continued after bringing my dad to live in a nursing home near our home in Virginia, where I was able to spend time visiting with him several times every week. I enjoyed taking him for walks on the beautiful facility grounds, helping feed him, and taking him to the activities and entertainment arranged for the residents. I can still remember how his face lit up when I entered his room, even though he could no longer remember my name.

My life as a caregiver was much easier than my mom's. I wish she could have had the courage to move my dad into a long-term care facility sooner so she could have enjoyed more of the special moments as his wife and to not have been so burdened with his daily care. Life as a caregiver is hard, but it can also have moments of joy and accomplishment.

Sometimes, you must create them.

It can be incredibly challenging when life after retirement revolves around caregiving for a spouse. Caregiving for a spouse comes at the cost of time, energy, and money. The results can be anger, loneliness, frustration, and resentment. An important part of the legacy left behind by former First Lady Rosalynn Carter was to establish the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers.

“Caregiving is hard, even on the good days when it brings joy and fulfillment,” she once said.

Indeed, it requires dedication, determination, and time.

You can find ways to cope with the stresses of caregiving and find happiness. Community resources may vary depending on where you live.

However, many online and virtual resources can also help the spouse who has taken on the role of

NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

31

caregiver. As Mrs. Carter often reminded us, there are four kinds of people: those who have been caregivers, those who are currently caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregivers. Everyone is touched in some way by a care experience, which means that support systems are needed to help family caregivers who are the backbone of our health care system.

Organizations Providing Support and Advocacy The Alzheimer’s Association provides support groups, safety tips, and a 24/7 help line to support caregivers caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease. As Alzheimer’s progresses, the caregiver’s role changes. Visit https://www.alz.org/ to learn what to expect and how to prepare.

As honored donors to this valuable organization, in 2020, the Alzheimer’s Association created an exclusive web portal that gives NARFE members streamlined access to world-class care and support resources. These include help for caregivers, information about Alzheimer's and all other types of dementia, and help making local connections.

Find it at https://www.alz.org/get-involved-now/ our-partners-sponsors/honored-donors/narfe/ narfe-members The mission of Family Caregiver Alliance is to improve the quality of life for family caregivers and the people who receive their care. Learn about clinical trials and other research being conducted to help family caregivers. You will find information on how to handle and treat stress from caregiving and ways to relieve stress through relaxation and meditation techniques. This organization also

As First Lady Rosalynn Carter often reminded us, there are four kinds of people: those who have been caregivers, those who are currently caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregivers.

32

NARFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024

provides a locator tool for finding state-specific public, nonprofit, and private programs and resources. Visit https://www.caregiver.org/ for more information.

The Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers was established in 1987 by Mrs. Carter to promote the health, strength, and resilience of America’s 53 million family caregivers. According to its website, RCI fulfills its promise to champion the family caregiver by building cross-sector partnerships, leading research projects and strategic initiatives, developing and implementing evidencebased programs, and advocating for public policy.

Recognizing the need for better support systems for caregivers, Mrs. Carter proposed establishing a new Office of Caregiver Health within the federal government in a 2021 article published in The Hill. Establishing this new office within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) would help address these needs of the family caregiver and build on the growing momentum. An Office of Caregiver Health would ensure that family caregivers are represented in discussions of health policy, legislation and budget negotiations. It also would help break down the silos that can obstruct progress by creating ways to help caregivers, regardless of payer or condition.

For more information, visit https:// rosalynncarter.org/about-us/.

The Well Spouse® Association, which can be found at https://wellspouse.org/, is a nonprofit organization that advocates for and addresses the needs of individuals caring for a chronically ill and/ or disabled spouse or partner. It offers peer support and educates health care professionals and the general public about the particular challenges and unique issues "well" spouses face every day.

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USES: The Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrator provides a high concentration of supplemental oxygen to patients requiring respiratory therapy on a prescriptive basis. It may be used in home, institution, vehicle, and various mobile environments. DO NOT USE IF: This device is not intended to be used in any way other than described in the indications for use. Do not use in parallel or series with other oxygen concentrators or oxygen therapy devices. This device is to be used as an oxygen supplement and is not intended to be life sustaining or life supporting. ONLY use this product if the patient is capable of spontaneous breath, able to inhale and exhale without the use of a machine. The conserving, or pulse dose, oxygen delivery technique used by this device is contraindicated in persons whose breathing during normal resting would be unable to trigger the device. Proper device triggering, setup and operation must be confirmed by an experienced clinician or other respiratory professional. Not for pediatric use. Not for use by tracheotomized patients. WARNINGS: The device produces enriched oxygen gas, which accelerates combustion. Do not allow smoking or open flames within 2m (6.56ft) of this device while in use. If you feel ill or uncomfortable, or if the concentrator does not signal an oxygen pulse and you are unable to hear and/or feel the oxygen pulse, consult your equipment provider and/or your physician immediately. If you are unable to communicate discomfort, you may require additional monitoring and or a distributed alarm system to convey the information about the discomfort and or the medical urgency to your responsible caregiver to avoid harm. Use only spare parts recommended by the manufacturer to ensure proper function and to avoid the risk of fire and burns. To avoid danger of choking or strangulation hazard, keep cords away from children and pets. TALK TO YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER: The oxygen flow setting must be determined and recorded for each patient individually by the prescriber, including the configuration of the device, its parts, and the accessories. It is the responsibility of the patient to periodically reassess the setting(s) of the therapy for effectiveness. The proper placement and positioning of the prongs of the nasal cannula in the nose is critical for oxygen to be delivered.

Government Support The Older Americans Act (OAA; P.L. 89-73, as amended), was enacted in 1965, and it is the primary federal statute for the delivery of social and nutrition services for older persons. Learn more about the OAA in the Congressional Research Service 2024 report on “Older Americans Act: Overview and Funding” at https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/ pdf/R/R43414.

The Administration for Community Living, which is found at acl.gov, was created around the fundamental principle that all people, regardless of age or disability, should be able to live independently and participate fully in their communities. ACL advocates across the federal government for older adults, people with disabilities, and families and caregivers; funds services and supports provided primarily by states and networks of community-based programs; and invests in training, education, research, and innovation.

The Administration on Aging (AOA)—a program office under the Administration for Community Living (ACL) within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)—administers most OAA programs.

Area Agencies on Aging: The ACL has an eldercare locator called “Local Area Agencies on Aging,” which coordinates and offers services that help older adults remain in their homes aided by services such as Meals-on-Wheels, homemaker assistance, and whatever else it may take to make independent living a viable option. For more information, visit https://eldercare.acl.gov/Public/ About/Aging_Network/AAA.aspx Home- and Community-Based Supportive Services (HCBS) According to the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF), there are

34

NARFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024

an estimated 4 million people using Medicaid HCBS, which includes medical and supportive services that assist people with the activities of daily living (such as eating, bathing, and dressing) and instrumental activities of daily living (such as preparing meals, managing medications, and housekeeping). They are provided to people who need these services because of aging, chronic illness, or disability. It may include personal care, adult daycare, home health aide services, transportation, and supported employment. To be eligible for Medicaid HCBS, individuals must have limited financial resources and significant functional impairments. For more information, visit www.cms.gov and search for HCBS. The Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) can be found at https:// www.npaonline.org/find-a-pace-program. PACE is a type of HCBS that provides medical services and supports everyday living needs for specific elderly individuals. To be eligible, you must be at least 55 years old, live in the service area of a PACE organization, be eligible for nursing home care, and live safely in the community with help from PACE. PACE is permanently available to beneficiaries under Medicare and provided to Medicaid beneficiaries if the state chooses to provide PACE as a Medicaid benefit. As of August 2023, there were 154 PACE programs in 32 states and Washington, D.C. Learn about additional support services on the ACL’s eldercare website at https://eldercare. acl.gov/. Here you will find both in-home services and community resources for hiring in-home health aides, comparing home health agencies, tips for continuing to live independently, information about adult day care centers, and programs and assistance in locating respite care programs.

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The Veterans Affairs Department’s Caregiver Support Program can be found at https://www.caregiver.va.gov/. There are 5.5 million caregivers who look after former or current U.S. service members. Of those caregivers, 70% care for their spouse or partner, and 30% provide care for 10 years or more. Some 96%of those caregivers are female. The program offers clinical services to caregivers of eligible and covered veterans enrolled in the VA health care system. Its mission is to promote the health and well-being of family caregivers who care for our nation’s veterans through education, resources, support, and services.

Family and Support Groups

Caregiving is often a 24/7 job, and doing it alone usually results in unfortunate side effects. A caregiver can develop illnesses of their own associated with the stress of caregiving. Family and close friends can help the spouse who has taken on the role of caregiver. In a 2023 survey it was found that among spouses who received support, their children helped by two-thirds, 40% received paid help, and 11% received support from other family or friends. Of the 1,205 surveyed, 55% were caregiving with no outside help.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.

Enlisting the help of siblings, other family members, and friends is one of the best ways to avoid becoming overstressed.

In the September 2023 issue of NARFE Magazine, I wrote a feature story titled “Planning for Long-Term Care” and introduced my brother, currently the fulltime caregiver for his wife of over 55 years. His son’s

family lives nearby, and they provide some help by visiting and providing respite for my brother’s role as a full-time caregiver. My brother will consult with his son when decisions regarding his wife’s care need to be made. These visits help the emotional well-being of my brother and his wife. More recently, my brother hired a caregiver to visit to their home several times a week to take over the supervision and daily caregiving chores. This has made an enormous difference in his mood and his ability to cope with his decision to keep his wife at home for now.

It is no surprise that caregiving for a spouse can be emotionally draining. Support and resources can be found in various forms, including family (adult children and siblings) and friends, some of whom may be in similar situations and able to relate to your feelings.

However, family and friends are not always available, or you may be more comfortable seeking support outside of your personal connections. In this case, support groups of other spousal caregivers can be a place to find comfort and understanding, as well as inspiration and tips from others’ experiences.

When you need a break, spousal caregivers can find respite care from home care services, adult day programs, or willing family members. Respite care can provide caregivers and their spouses with time away from one another, which is just as important now as at any other time during marriage.

Will you still need me, will you still feed me, when I’m sixty-four? These words probably made us smile when we first heard the Beatles' 1967 classic song, but for some, the reality is much more sobering when the strain of being your spouse’s caregiver becomes a reality.

—TAMMY FLANAGAN IS THE PRINCIPAL OF TAMMY FLANAGAN LLC (RETIREFEDERAL.COM). SHE IS A FEATURED PRESENTER IN NARFE’S FEDERAL BENEFITS INSTITUTE.

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39

T

he election season is heating up, and federal employees need to take care to avoid statements and actions that could run afoul of the Hatch Act, a federal law passed in 1939 that limits certain political communications and activities of federal employees, as well as some state, D.C., and local government employees who work in connection with federally funded programs.

All it takes is an inadvertent social media “like” or comment regarding a federal candidate at the wrong time or in the wrong circumstance to lead to an investigation that can culminate in a fine, suspension or even termination.

Hatch Act-related actions by the U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC), which investigates Hatch Act violations, often spike in presidential election years.

In addition, in May, the OSC issued some new Hatch Act guidance that will be discussed below.

HATCH ACT BASICS

There are two levels of scrutiny and limitations applied by the statute, a general rule for most federal employees, and more restrictive provisions that limit the activities of employees at certain agencies, and offices within agencies, clustered in enforcement, intelligence, elections, as well as certain federal worker categories, such as Senior Executive Service members and administrative law judges. (See 5 U.S.C. § 7323(b)(2)(B)). Those groups are subject to additional restrictions.

Unless otherwise indicated, the analysis that follows refers to the less restricted category of employees. (Information on compliance for those in the more restricted categories is available here: https://osc.gov/Services/Pages/HatchAct-Federal. aspx#tabGroup31).

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NARFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024

Much of the Hatch Act scrutinizes “political activity” by federal employees. The Hatch Act’s regulations define “political activity” examined for compliance very broadly. This includes activity directed toward the success or failure of a political party, candidate for partisan political office or partisan political group, even after a particular campaign concludes. (See 5 C.F.R. § 734.101.)

Penalties for Hatch Act violations range from terminations, demotions, suspensions and fines, to, on the lenient end, warning letters. In assessing penalties, the OSC tends to take into account factors such as how willful, severe, impactful upon elections conduct is, and evidence of repeated prohibited behavior, says Ward Morrow, assistant general counsel at the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), a union representing roughly 300,000 federal employees.

Perhaps the best way to understand the law’s reach and requirements is to examine individual actions of a federal employee that will or may raise concerns under the Act:

RUNNING FOR CONTESTED POLITICAL OFFICE Federal employees who become candidates in partisan political elections are generally in violation of the Act, with a few narrow exceptions. As for state and local employees, on December 19, 2012, Congress passed the Hatch Act Modernization Act of 2012, which the OSC notes “allows most state and local government employees to run for partisan political office.”

RAISING MONEY FOR PARTISAN POLITICAL RACES Raising money for partisan political races, encouraging others to give to partisan political candidates or parties, or inviting them to partisan political fundraisers is another area that generally constitutes an absolute violation. This includes liking or retweeting solicitations or fundraiser invitations from others. Federal employees may not solicit, accept or receive a donation or contribution for a partisan political party or candidate for partisan political office or partisan political group, according to 5 U.S.C. § 7323(a)(2). This rule applies on or off duty, at home or at the office. There is a very narrow exception to some forms of solicitations for partisan political contributions between members of federal labor unions. Giving money to partisan political races is acceptable if done on one’s

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Penalties for Hatch Act violations range from terminations, demotions, suspensions and fines to, on the lenient end, warning letters. In assessing penalties, the OSC tends to take into account factors such as how willful, severe, and election conduct impact is, as well as evidence of repeated prohibited behavior, according to Ward Morrow, assistant general counsel at the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE).

own time, outside a government office or vehicle, and not using government equipment.

INFLUENCING THOSE WITH BUSINESS BEFORE AN AGENCY Federal employees may not knowingly solicit or discourage the participation in any political activity of anyone who has business pending before their employing office or that are subjects of an enforcement action, investigation, or audit by the agency. Thus, an otherwise acceptable partisan political email sent by a federal employee on their own time might be objectionable if the recipient works for a company seeking action by the employee’s agency.

USE OF OFFICIAL AUTHORITY OR INFLUENCE

In a similar vein, another absolutely prohibited activity is federal employees using their official authority or influence to interfere with or affect the result of an election, by, for example, using their official titles or positions while engaged in political activity. (5 U.S.C. § 7323(a)(1)). This rule applies on 42

NARFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024

or off duty, in or out of the workplace. Thus, sending an email supporting a candidate in a partisan election from a federal employee’s own computer from home after work hours but signed, “Jane Doe, United States Department of Agriculture Analyst” would violate the Act.

SPEECH INSIDE THE WORKPLACE, ON GOVERNMENT EQUIPMENT, AND/OR ON GOVERNMENT TIME Speech or conduct supporting a political candidate or party while either in the workplace, and/or on government time (such as while teleworking) constitutes a Hatch Act violation.

Employees who wish to engage in political speech or activity that is not absolutely prohibited (such as, for example, involving someone seeking business before their agency) should do so only during a designated lunch break consistent with designed duty hours, be off government property and outside a government vehicle, and not using a government telephone or computer, as engaging in partisan political communications in any of those locations and manners would violate the Hatch Act.

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“The line between when you are on duty and off duty is so much more blurred than in the past.”

— Stephanie Rapp-Tully, a partner at employment law firm Tully Rinckey PLLC

A little reflection shows how difficult that would be. The much safer course of action is to limit such communications and conduct to before or after their government duty hours, says Stephanie Rapp-Tully, a partner at employment law firm Tully Rinckey PLLC. There are no prohibitions on discussing controversial issues of the day but a danger is that while discussing such issues generally would not trigger the Hatch Act, adding to that discussion a statement advocating for a candidate or party would cross the line into a potential Hatch Act violation.

On November 29, 2023, for example, the OSC provided an advisory opinion on discussions about the Israel and Hamas conflict, linked here: www. narfe.org/hatch-act-israel-conflict. It noted that “it is not political activity under the Hatch Act for federal employees to express support for, or opposition to, the issues underlying the conflict or a cease fire or humanitarian pause. It is similarly not political activity to express support for, or opposition to, foreign political parties or candidates in foreign elections. However, if any such expressions also include statements of support for, or opposition to, domestic political parties, partisan political groups, or candidates for partisan political office, then those expressions are political activity for purposes of the Hatch Act.”

SPEECH OUTSIDE THE WORKPLACE, AND OFF GOVERNMENT EQUIPMENT AND OFF GOVERNMENT TIME Restrictions on partisan speech outside the workplace, and off government equipment, and not on government time face far fewer restrictions.

Employees may, for example, place on their front 44

NARFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024

yards a sign or banner supporting a partisan political candidate. But it is important to remember federal employees who are teleworking may be on-duty at home. Use of government equipment, particularly government computers, is a danger area given that while some federal agencies allow employees to use government computers for incidental personal activities, their use for partisan political activities is never acceptable.

SOCIAL MEDIA

Another minefield for Hatch Act compliance for many federal employees is social media. Social media posts are often crafted with little forethought, are often widely disseminated, and last forever. The last is important because Hatch Act violations have no statute of limitations and can be enforced forever.

In February 2018, OSC issued an exhaustive, nine-page social media guide that provided examples of how federal employees can best navigate this minefield: https://osc.gov/Resources/ HA%20Social%20Media%20FINAL%20r.pdf

RISKS FOR MANAGERS

Managers face particular risks of Hatch Act violations. They are often in a position to commit other types of Hatch Act violations and are likely to be held to a higher standard than rank-and-file employees in OSC investigations, Morrow says.

Even off-duty-hours partisan political conversations with subordinates, such as inviting subordinate employees to political events, could be deemed coercive and therefore a violation, Rapp-Tully notes.

THE HATCH ACT IS A FEDERAL RETIREE ISSUE, TOO While the Hatch Act only applies to federal, state and local employees it is important that federal

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“A federal annuitant’s partisan political email or social media post sent to a federal employee friend’s work email address during the middle of business hours is a Hatch Act disaster waiting to happen, given the risk that the receiving federal employee will reply with his or her own thoughts, forward the message or even “like” or “heart” it, all of which would violate the Hatch Act.”

WHITE HOUSE PERSONNEL FACE GREATER SCRUTINY A frustration for many federal employees is that senior White House administration advisors and other personnel under recent presidential administrations have committed clear Hatch Act violations but were not held to account by the then presidents. In May 2024, the OSC also announced that it will now bring cases alleging Hatch Act violations by White House commissioned officers or other White House staffers that warrant disciplinary action to the MSPB rather than refer such misconduct to the president.

WHEN EMPLOYEES SHOULD RETAIN COUNSEL… OR REPORT A HATCH ACT VIOLATION retirees with friends and colleagues who are still federal employees avoid conduct that could lead their friends and colleagues to commit Hatch Act violations. A federal annuitant’s partisan political email or social media post sent to a federal employee friend’s work email address during the middle of business hours is a Hatch Act disaster waiting to happen, given the danger that the receiving federal employee will reply with his or her own thoughts, forward the message or even “like” or “heart” it, all of which would violate the act. Importantly, for federal employees leaving or about to leave federal service, OSC in May 2024 announced that it will bring to the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) enforcement actions alleging Hatch Act violations by individuals who engaged in misconduct while a federal employee but who subsequently leave government service before OSC investigated and filed an enforcement action.

46

NARFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024

It is important to retain legal representation if an employee learns he or she is being investigated for a Hatch Act violation, Rapp-Tully and Morrow note. Conversely, it is nonetheless important that federal employees report some egregious Hatch Act violations, Morrow says, noting he has helped federal employees file Hatch Act complaints against managers who created politicized work environments.

—DAVID TOBENKIN IS A FREELANCE WRITER BASED IN THE GREATER WASHINGTON, D.C. AREA.

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

LOOKING TO MEET OTHERS in the federal community? Go to www.narfe.org/chapters to find a chapter near you.

Are you a new member who wants to receive a FREE one-year chapter membership? Choose one: o Chapter closest to home OR o Chapter #____________ Renewing members can call 800-456-8410 x1 to inquire about your chapter dues amount or to join a NARFE chapter today.

Spouse’s Email

THANK YOUR RECRUITER Did someone introduce you to NARFE? Please provide their name and member ID. THREE EASY WAYS TO JOIN/RENEW 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/join.

3. Call 800-456-8410 ext 1, 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. Some NARFE member benefits are provided by third parties (NARFE Perks), and not NARFE. (02/24)

Managing Money

When Transferring an IRA or Other Retirement Plan to the TSP Makes Sense

W

hen a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) participant asks about a rollover, they are typically interested in transferring money from the Thrift Savings Plan

(TSP) to an individual retirement account (IRA). However, rollovers can also work in the other direction, and there are several circumstances when transferring an IRA to the TSP may be beneficial.

In fact, as long as you have an active TSP account, participants may transfer many types of retirement plans, including 401(k) s and IRAs (but not Roth IRAs), into the TSP. For a complete list of retirement plans eligible to transfer to the TSP, visit https://www.tsp.gov/tsp-basics/ move-money-into-tsp.

A participant’s TSP account may offer certain advantages not afforded by IRAs or a previous employer’s retirement plan. While not an exhaustive list, here are a few instances when transferring an IRA or other retirement plan to the TSP may be beneficial.

overwhelming, it might be in your best interest to transfer those accounts to the TSP.

IN FACT, AS LONG AS YOU HAVE AN ACTIVE TSP ACCOUNT, PARTICIPANTS MAY TRANSFER MANY TYPES OF RETIREMENT PLANS, INCLUDING 401(K)S AND IRAS (BUT NOT ROTH IRAS), INTO THE TSP.

LOW COST AND SIMPLE

The TSP is well known for its low fees. It’s also a simple and straightforward retirement plan with only five individual investment funds and 10 lifecycle funds. If you currently have funds invested in an IRA or a previous employer’s retirement plan, like a 401(k), it’s crucial to compare the total fees and expenses associated with those accounts to the costs of the TSP. If the fees and expenses are higher in the other retirement accounts, or if you find researching and comparing thousands of mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) 48

NARFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024

STILL-WORKING EXCEPTION

Required minimum distributions (RMDs), the minimum amounts you must withdraw from your retirement accounts each year, generally begin when you turn 73. However, the “still-working exception” allows employees working past the age of 73 to delay RMDs from their current employer’s qualified retirement plan, such as 401(k) s, 403(b)s, and the TSP until the year they separate from service.

The still-working exception does not apply to IRAs

(traditional, Simplified Employee Pension Plan or SEP, and Savings Incentive Match Plan For Employees or SIMPLE) or to a previous employer’s retirement plan, so you’ll still need to take RMDs from those retirement accounts even when working past 73. However, if you work past 73, you can delay RMDs until you separate from service by transferring eligible retirement plans to your TSP account (or your current employer’s plan if you work outside the federal government).

RMDs are calculated based on the prior year’s ending balance, so you need to transfer those retirement accounts into your current employer’s retirement plan by December 31 of the year before the year you turn 73.

Otherwise, you’ll have to take an RMD from those accounts before transferring them to your current employer’s plan.

RULE OF 55

When a withdrawal is taken from an IRA or employersponsored retirement plan before age 59 ½, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) assesses a 10% early distribution penalty unless an exception applies. One of those exceptions, known as the “rule of 55,” applies when an employee leaves their job during or after the year they reach 55 (50 or older for certain qualified public safety employees). The SECURE Act 2.0 recently extended the exception to include public safety officers with at least 25 years of service, regardless of age, as well as to

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

state and local corrections officers and privatesector firefighters.

The rule of 55 only applies to employersponsored retirement plans and only to the employer’s plan you contributed to at the time of separation. It does not apply to IRAs (traditional, SEP, or SIMPLE) or a previous employer’s retirement plan.

If you are a federal employee who will meet the rule of 55, and you have money in an IRA or a previous employer’s retirement plan that you would like to access before reaching age 59 ½, you can transfer those retirement accounts into your TSP account for penalty-free access.

ACCESS TO A TSP LOAN

Loans are not permitted from IRAs or a previous employer-sponsored retirement plan. If you’re an

Do you have the NARFE Visa® Platinum credit card in your wallet?

active federal employee and need to take a TSP loan but don’t have enough money in the TSP for the loan size you are looking for, you may transfer money from an IRA or previous employer’s plan to the TSP. Rollovers from employer-sponsored retirement plans to IRAs may be more common, but under certain circumstances, it may be beneficial to go the other way.

MARK A. KEEN, CFP®, PARTNER, KEEN & POCOCK. SECURITIES OFFERED THROUGH THE STRATEGIC FINANCIAL ALLIANCE, INC. (SFA), MEMBER FINRA/SIPC. ADVISORY SERVICES OFFERED THROUGH STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT LLC AND SFA. MARK KEEN IS A REGISTERED PRINCIPAL OF SFA AND AN INVESTMENT ADVISER REPRESENTATIVE OF SFA AND STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT, LLC. SFA AND STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT ARE AFFILIATED THROUGH COMMON OWNERSHIP BUT OTHERWISE UNAFFILIATED WITH KEEN & POCOCK. NEITHER STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT NOR SFA PROVIDE TAX OR LEGAL ADVICE.

Apply for your NARFE Visa Platinum credit card today and receive a $25 statement credit1 towards your next purchase!

More reasons to keep the NARFE Visa Platinum credit card at the top of your wallet: »

Earn six (6) points per $1.00 spent on all streaming services, and one (1) point per $1.00 spent on all other purchases2

»

No annual fee, no balance transfer fees, no cash advance fees, and no foreign transaction fees3

»

Credit limits up to $25,000

»

Protect your card with Visa Secure and Visa Secure Remote Commerce (SRC)

$25 Visa statement credit applies to new applicants only. The credit expires after six months if it is not used. All loans are subject to credit approval.

1

2

There is a 60-point monthly cap on streaming services.

Other fees such as late fees, returned check fees, and an over-the-limit fee may apply.

For the full list of fees SFCU charges, please visit SignatureFCU.org/FeeSchedule. Annual Percentage Rate (APR) ranges from 12.99% - 18.00%. Rates, terms, and conditions may vary based on credit worthiness and qualifications. Your actual APR will be determined at the time of application and will be based on your application and credit information. Not all applicants will qualify for the lowest rate. Rates are set by the Board of Directors and may change without notice.

3

Ready to get started?

Scan the QR code to your left, visit SignatureFCU.org/NARFE to apply today, or contact our Member Services Department at (800) 336.0284 ext. 684 to get started today.

Not a member of SFCU? Open your account today at SignatureFCU.org/JoinNow Signature Federal Credit Union (800) 336.0284 newaccounts@signaturefcu.org FOLLOW US /SignatureFCU

NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

49

Alzheimer’s Update

Support the Cure: Set Up Your Walk to End Alzheimer’s Team

A

fter recognizing Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month in June, including The Longest Day fundraising effort, it is exciting to see that NARFE

has raised more than $100,000 in support of the Alzheimer’s Association so far this year.

Vascular health is vital to preserving brain function.

With so many people affected

by Alzheimer’s disease, and now with significant vascular pathology in their brains, we are looking forward to our upcoming Walks to End Alzheimer’s. These walks represent our commitment to improving the outlook for these patients; one day, we will proudly point to them as having contributed to the cure.

Our heartfelt thanks go out to each and every NARFE chapter and member for your unwavering dedication and hard work with your Walk to End Alzheimer’s teams. Your efforts have not only raised significant funding in the last year but have also brought us back on the national banner. This is a remarkable achievement and we are truly grateful.

As we look ahead to setting up our Walk to End Alzheimer’s teams, let’s be sure to set them up on the website https://act.alz.org through the “National Teams” menu for NARFE, under “Silver fundraising goal of $100,000.”

Visit “View Teams” and click on “NARFE.” Doing this ensures that NARFE team funds will be credited to NARFE. You can also print out information for the 2024 Walk to End Alzheimer’s National Teams and instructions to give to your chapters.

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NARFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024

You will also see options to click on buttons stating, “The End of Alzheimer’s Starts With (National Team Name),” “Join Our 2024 Walk to End Alzheimer’s National Team,” “Fundraising Tools,” and “Team Recruitment Tools.” All the necessary information to help you start your team is on the website.

Once your team is set up, you’ll see a link that prompts you to share it with family members, friends, Facebook connections, and anyone else who comes to mind.

There is a photo gallery displaying past walks. Please send your pictures to oeashf3@ gmail.com so we can update the website with the latest images. Keep scrolling; you will see a list of NARFE chapters that have already registered their teams and the amount they raised.

You can have as many teams registered as you like, even with some of your other affiliations.

Our goal is to raise more than $100,000.

Will you help register your teams for the walks in your area?

Will you help continue raising funds by asking everyone you meet to join your team and/or donate? It would make a huge difference! No amount is too small or large.

Anyone who donates $100 or more after joining a team receives a “Walk to End Alzheimer’s” T-shirt that will be sent directly to them. Even if you cannot walk, you can join a team. It’s that easy, so get started today!

Remember: It’s crucial to stay physically and mentally active, eat healthy, and watch your vascular and heart health.

Please encourage others to do the same. As we continue our journey to protect our brain health, let’s not forget the 10 health habits we reviewed in the June issue of NARFE Magazine.

Let’s take the responsibility to challenge our minds daily and take positive actions to maintain a healthy brain. Our individual efforts can make a significant difference.

Thank you for your continued financial support of the NARFE Alzheimer’s Research program and the Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

For more information about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, visit the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org or call the 24-hour helpline at 1-800-272-3900. Thanks again, NARFE members, for all your tremendous help. We can do this together!

Olivia Williams is chair of the NARFE Alzheimer’s National Committee. Email: oeashf3@ gmail.com. This column appears quarterly.

OLIVIA A. WILLIAMS IS CHAIR OF THE NARFE-ALZHEIMER’S NATIONAL COMMITTEE. EMAIL: OEASHF3@ GMAIL.COM. THIS COLUMN APPEARS QUARTERLY.

NARFE Recruiter Rewards Help NARFE Grow AND Win Cool Stuff!

Did you know that NARFE rewards our members for recruiting new members?

Think of it as a special thank you from Headquarters for increasing our numbers and voices.

HOW DOES THIS AWESOME INCENTIVE WORK? January-August • Recruiter receives $8 for any new (never joined) active federal employee enrollment only September-December —Fall Membership Recruitment Drive • Recruiter receives $10 for new enrollment (any member type—active or retired federal employee)

Enrollment Submission Requirements: • Recruiter’s Membership ID must be included on each application.

• To receive the Fall Membership Recruitment Drive credit, all envelopes must be postmarked on or before December 31.

Recognition: • Top Performers from the Fall Membership Recruitment Drive will be announced in the NARFE Magazine (March Edition) with prizes to be announced.

New members can join by: • Mailing in the application from the F-135 brochure • Going online to narfe.org/join • Calling us at 800-456-8410 Ext 1, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST. • Mailing in the application that appears in every issue of NARFE Magazine

NARFE News

NARFE 2024 Fall Membership Drive: Help NARFE Grow and Win Cool Prizes!

D

id you know that NARFE rewards its members for recruiting new members? Think of it as a special “thank you” from our staff for building our

membership and voices.

NARFE kicks off our annual Fall Membership Drive on September 1, and the program will run through December 31, 2024. Current members can earn $10 for each new member they recruit, as well as other prizes.

The Member Engagement Department’s recruitment efforts this past year have been working, and we need to keep the momentum going! This is a critical time of year when we truly need ALL NARFE members to step up and help us grow by reaching out to

potential new members and converting them to actual members. Please use email, your chapter websites, local events and social media to encourage your fellow members to participate, and to promote the benefits of NARFE membership.

And be sure to provide prospects with your NARFE Recruiter ID number so you get credit when the new members join.

To assist you in your recruiting efforts, we have a wide range of resources you can use to introduce active and retired

2024 CONFERENCES & EVENTS Information as of June 1, 2024: ALASKA: virtual conference September 28, Contact Federation President Paul McIntosh, mcintoshpaul10@ gmail.com or (907) 433-9833, for more information.

CONNECTICUT: conference October 10, Marriott Courtyard, 4 Sebethe Dr, Cromwell. Contact Federation Secretary Peggy McGrath, pleisure@cox.net, for more information.

ILLINOIS: conference September 17-19, Thelma Keller Convention Center, 1202 N. Keller Drive, Effingham. Contact Convention Chair Linda Glasgow, glasgowljg43@aol.com, or visit www.narfe.net/site/IL/ for information.

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NARFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024

federal employees to NARFE. To access them, log in at www. narfe.org and click on Member Quick Links and then click on Membership Recruitment Resources. Here, you’ll final helpful tools, including: • A redesigned membership brochure, known as F-135 • The NARFE Prospect Information Card, or M2 • An “elevator speech” to help you quickly and effectively explain the benefits of NARFE membership • A plethora of informative flyers, including dates of upcoming webinars they may be interested in • A full color ad you can download, featuring a member testimonial

INDIANA: conference October 24, NALC Union Hall 2211 E 54th Street, Indianapolis. Contact Federation President John Triplett, johntriplettnarfe@gmail.com, for more information.

IOWA: conference September 17-18, Meskwake Conference Center, Tama. Contact Federation President Dorman Otte, dormanotte@gmail.com, for information.

NEW HAMPSHIRE: conference October 30, Holiday Inn Concord Downtown Hotel, 172 No. Main St, Concord.

Visit www.narfe.org/NH for information.

REGION IX SYMPOSIUM: Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington, October 24-26, Three Rivers Convention Center, Kennewick, WA. Contact Mary Alice Binder, mary_binder@msn.com, or visit http://www. narfe.org/wa/ for more information.

• A reminder that there are a myriad of recruitment activities that are available for up to 50% reimbursement through the Matching Funds program.

If you need printed supplies to support your efforts (membership flyers, applications, copies of

NARFE Magazine, etc.), you’ll find a link to the F-18 Requisition for Printed Supplies interactive online order form on the “Membership Recruitment Resources” page that you can use to place your order.

If you have questions, please email our membership development

team at membership@narfe.org or call us at 800-456-8410.

Thank you for your commitment and support as we all work to create a better future. Together, we can grow NARFE! —BY NORA MACDONALD, DIRECTOR, MEMBER ENGAGEMENT

Business Development Coordinator Joins NARFE Staff

L

aylah Donnell has joined NARFE as the business development coordinator.

An alumna of North Carolina A&T State University, Laylah earned her Bachelor of Science in business with a concentration in marketing.

Passionate about both the analytical and creative aspects of life, Laylah’s career took an exciting turn when she was accepted into a prestigious program in the entertainment industry, allowing her to apply her creativity within corporate settings for film and TV production studios. She had a short stint in the apparel industry before she was subsequently tapped on the shoulder and recruited into the emerging niche field of creative philanthropy.

Here, she gained extensive experience and diversified her skills as a coordinator, simultaneously supporting two directors within the company and working on several unique projects.

In her career, Laylah has served as a project coordinator, working on initiatives that significantly impacted client reach, revenue growth, and operational efficiency.

Demonstrating her proficiency, Laylah helped launch more than 12 national and global marketing campaigns, from inception to completion. Her expertise in project coordination, brainstorming (brand activations, webisodes, billboard ads and more), and helping with digital campaigns has driven significant

sales growth and heightened brand visibility. She’s also worked in a sub-team with brand managers, writers, and producers, handling the production timeline for three productions.

Laylah has initiated partnerships through outreach with more than 20 organizations and influencers. Her proficiency includes crafting project briefs and decks, creating end-ofyear impact reports, and creative ideas for high net-worth families, corporations, and individuals through celebrity and influencer collaborations, aligning creativity with her client’s strategic objectives.

She’s also had the pleasure of collaborating with the California Office of the Surgeon General on a national initiative. She has navigated diverse stakeholder landscapes and complex projects. She’s managed and analyzed campaign data metrics for a billion-dollar client, which is crucial for producing insightful audit reports that inform strategic decisions for the client’s stakeholders.

She also has experience managing grant portfolios and funding for high-net-worth clients and their various organizations.

She’s also managed national and international travel logistics and created itineraries for various types of clients and talents, ensuring seamless coordination and execution of engagements. She is used to working with confidential

and proprietary information and has no problem operating under nondisclosure agreements. She is used to working around lively individuals where support, honesty, good vibes, and transparency are the standard.

While Laylah has not previously worked in an association, she is ready to take on the challenge. She is committed to advancing NARFE’s organizational goals and providing support to the federal employee community. She is confident that her diverse experience can contribute to the Business Development Department, where she plans to act as a liaison, enhance communication and collaboration among federation conference stakeholders, handle ad metrics, and facilitate the monthly invoice process for our advertisers and sponsors.

Laylah loves to help people and volunteers for various things. She sees herself as multifaceted, so outside of work, she enjoys traveling abroad, hanging out with family, being outside with friends, sewing, jet skiing, ATVing, tubing, and (high on her list) staying at home doing absolutely nothing.

—BY MATT SANDERSON, CONTENT MANAGER NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

53

Use your NARFE Perks and your membership will more than pay for itself!

See how much you can save at www.NARFE.org/memberperks

PRODUCTS

ADT/Bulldog Security Services | https://bulldogsecurityservice.partnerlinks.io/urns4ejdlhns

Exclusive Offer for NARFE Members: NARFE members can enjoy discounted monthly monitoring rates, $0 installation fees, reduced activation fees, and a $500 equipment voucher for customizing their security and smart home systems with ADT monitoring. Enhance your home security with these exclusive benefits tailored just for you. Select the link for more details and fill out the contact page to speak to a security expert and place your order.

NEW

!

BMG Money | https://www.narfe.org/narfe-perks-for-members/bmg-money/

BMG Money is the better loan solution for federal government employees and retirees who are working on improving their credit scores. Apply in minutes regardless of credit score with instant funding available. All credit scores are encouraged to apply with higher acceptance rates.

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 $18.95 for families of 10 (two adults and up to 8 children) when you sign up through the website above.

ODP Business Solutions | 1-800-650-1222 | www.officediscounts.org/narfe

Because you’re a member of NARFE, you now have access to exclusive members only discounts at ODP Business Solutions (previously Office Depot/Office Max). Members save up to 75% off on ODP Business Solutions Best Value list of preferred products and can take advantage of products discounted off the officedepot.com regular prices.

Restrictions may apply so visit officediscounts.org/narfe for details. Product and service discounts may no longer be available for in-store purchases.

(Previously Office Depot/Office Max)

Purchasing Power | https://www.purchasingpower.com/?domain=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.

Signature FCU Visa Platinum Card | www.SignatureFCU.org/NARFE

Signature FCU is a full-service, nationwide federal credit union operating since 1970. Membership starts with just a $5 deposit into a standard savings account—no membership fees and no minimum balance requirements to enjoy all the products and services we have to offer, including the NARFE Visa® Platinum Credit Card. This special card gives back to your organization and gives you one point for every $1 you spend to redeem for cash, travel, and merchandise.

NEW

WELLNESS Active&Fit Direct | https://www.narfe.org/narfe-perks-for-members/activefit-direct/

Stay active from anywhere for $28/mo. Active&Fit Direct includes 12,200+ Gyms, 9,300+ On-Demand Videos and 1:1 Well-Being Coaching. A fitness program with no annual fees and no long-term contracts. Switch gyms anytime. Membership options for your spouse. No Enrollment Fee With Promo Code: STAYSTRONG

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.

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

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.

PRE-PLANNING

Neptune Society | 800-NEPTUNE (637-8863) | https://www.neptunesociety.com/NARFE

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 1-800-GOT-JUNK? | 800-468-5865 | www.narfe.org/1-800-got-junk

NARFE Members Save 10% with 1-800-GOT-JUNK? Do you have old furniture, appliances, electronics, construction debris, yard waste or other junk you need to make disappear? 1-800-GOT-JUNK? can take away almost any material we can fit in our trucks, without you ever lifting a finger—all you have to do is point! Use code NARFE10 when you book. To get started, give us a call or book online.

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, TRANSPORT & ENTERTAINMENT 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.

Collette Travel | 844-311-6563 | www.narfe.org/gocollette

With over 160 tours to all 7 continents and travel styles varying from small group to river cruising, Collette offers something for everyone. As a NARFE member, you receive an additional $50-$100 off all tours including sales and offers! Just use your member benefit code NARFESAVE or let our reservation agent know you are a NARFE Member when booking.

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 | www.hotelengine.com/join/24530f9

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

Member Deals | https://memberdeals.com/narfe/?login=1

MemberDeals is your one stop for great discounts on nationwide travel and entertainment! Find exclusive discounts, special offers, preferred seating, and tickets to top attractions, theme parks, shows, sporting events, hotels, and much more. Visit MemberDeals and find savings such as up to 40% on top theme parks nationwide and preferred access tickets to your favorite concerts, sports & more!

National Car Rental® | 800-CAR-RENT | https://partners.rentalcar.com/narfe/

NARFE members receive great rates with National Car Rental! At National, we pride ourselves on always providing you with unsurpassed convenience and choices. To make a reservation, call National Car Rental and reference Contract 5282909.

INSURANCE

AMBA

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

Designed exclusively for NARFE members, (plans administered by AMBA Administrators, Inc.) Senior Age Whole Life Insurance, Senior Term Life Insurance, Hospital Indemnity 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.

ADDITIONAL PERKS

The Way We Worked

Training American Youth The National Youth Administration (NYA) was a New Deal agency tasked with providing work and education for young adults in the U.S. during the Great Depression and World War II years. It had a Division of Negro Affairs headed

by Mary McLeod Bethune from 1936 to 1943. This 1943 photograph shows Cecil M. Coles, a foreman for the NYA, instructing Juanita E. Gray on how to operate a lathe at the NYA War Production and Training Center in Washington, DC. The NYA was discontinued in 1943, but during its existence, hundreds of African American women were trained in construction and repair work.

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

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NARFE MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024

DID YOU KNOW? Sources disagree over how much First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt had to prod her husband to establish the NYA. However, there is no question that Mrs. Roosevelt was deeply troubled over the plight of the nation’s youth—that they might become another stranded or lost generation. This fear, moreover, was the impetus for her vigorous role in the initiation, planning and daily operation of the NYA—and her high-profile role in promoting public awareness of its achievements. Significantly, FDR referred to the NYA as “the missus’s organization!”

Visit https://livingnewdeal. org/a-new-deal-for-youth/

Donate

to NARFE programs

Donate to NARFE

Enclosed is my NARFE Contribution: $ __________________

MAKE CHECK PAYABLE TO: NARFE

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/ donate With NARFE’s thanks, you will receive a NARFE Photo Calendar

Address: _________________________________________________________

NARFE safeguards the earned pay and benefits of America’s five million federal workers, retirees, their spouses, and survivors. NARFE is YOUR legislative voice and tireless advocate.

Card Number: ____________________________________________________

NARFE contributions are NOT tax-deductible.

City:_____________________________________________________________ State:______________________________ ZIP: _________________________

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

Security Code: ______________

Signature: ___________________________________ Date: ____ / ___/____ Name: (please print) _______________________________________________

Support Alzheimer’s Research NARFE members contributed for Alzheimer’s research: $17 Million Fund $16,277,464.50 *Total as of June 30, 2024. All contributions go directly to Alzheimer’s research, with the exception of funds given to the Walk to End Alzheimer’s or The Longest Day.

If you have any questions, write to: National Committee Chair Olivia Williams PO Box 2175 Columbia, SC 29202 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.

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