December 2024 NARFE Magazine

A NARFE PUBLICATION FOR FEDERAL EMPLOYEES AND RETIREES

DECEMBER 2024 VOLUME 100 ★ NUMBER 10

P. 28

Receiving Your Earned Retirement Benefits

P. 38 Understanding Artificial Intelligence

P. 48 Open Season Report

MEMBERSHIP HAS ITS PERKS 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.

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Contents DECEMBER 2024 COVER STORY PAGE 28

FEATURE PAGE 38

RECEIVING YOUR EARNED RETIREMENT BENEFITS Federal benefits expert Tammy Flanagan shares several stories from retirees who misunderstood how their benefits work.

UNDERSTANDING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE What is AI and how is it being used in every day life, and in the government? We examine some expert insights.

Special Feature

Columns

48 Open Season Report

4 From the President

Washington Watch

26 Benefits Brief

8 Discharge Petition Success

60 Managing Money

Brings Progress on WEP/GPO Repeal

9 Congress Averts Shutdown,

Approves Funding Until After Election

10 NARFE’s Grassroots Advocacy Progress: A Q3 Report

11 Senate Committee Highlights Risks of Schedule F and Advances Legislation to Improve Civil Service

12 House Committee Advances Bill to Survey Managers on Employee Discipline

14 Bill Tracker

A NARFE PUBLICATION FOR FEDERAL EMPLOYEES AND RETIREES

DECEMBER 2024 VOLUME 100 ★ NUMBER 10

P. 28

Receiving Your Earned Retirement Benefits

P. 38 Understanding Artificial Intelligence

P. 48 Open Season Report

62 Alzheimer’s Update Departments

6 NARFE Online

ON THE COVER Illustration by TGD

20 Questions & Answers 22 Countdown to COLA 64 NARFE News 70 NARFE Perks 72 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

DECEMBER 2024 VOLUME 100 ★ NUMBER 10

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.

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@yahoo.com

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 DECEMBER 2024

Welcome a healthier new year with the Benefit of Blue ®

We’re honored to stand with the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE) in supporting federal employees.

Through our quality coverage, nationwide network and easy-to-use tools, along with helpful resources, we’re dedicated to empowering active and retired federal employees and their families to stay healthy.

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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.

A New Beginning

A

s my first term as your National President comes to an end, I want to thank each NARFE member for your

support. In my January 2023 column, I said, “NARFE is facing a big challenge in membership recruitment. As an organization, we must put a renewed emphasis on recruiting, retention, and reinstatement. If NARFE is going to attract more active federal employees into the organization, a change in the way we do business is vital.”

Our new beginning began with the implementation of two major initiatives. I believe that our organization is positioned to meet the membership challenge to better serve our members and to attract new members.

The first initiative, which has been long overdue, is the upgrade of the Association Management Software (AMS), which is our membership database. This upgrade occurred in October. It has always been understood that access to membership records is necessary. The implementation will provide more accurate information to NARFE officers at the chapter, federation, and regional levels and allow the NARFE headquarters staff to make changes to our system. The upgrade allows NARFE staff to have greater customization options to better serve our members.

Despite our longstanding commitment to their welfare, many federal employees and annuitants remain unaware of NARFE’s existence and the invaluable work it does on their behalf. The second initiative addressed the need for a robust membership marketing plan to reverse the downward membership loss trend. The National Executive Board (NEB), federation presidents, and headquarters staff agreed that a plan needed to be developed by professionals who possess knowledge of the federal workforce arena.

4

NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

Following a thorough evaluation of the vendor proposals, the NEB selected Street Level Studio, Inc. to assist NARFE with its membership objectives, which include: • Improve NARFE’s brand/name within the federal community, making it a household name.

• Build on enhanced name/brand recognition to identify and obtain new members regardless of geography.

The “kick-off” of this initiative began at FEDcon24 in St. Louis. Through one-on-one interviews, representatives of Street Level Studios gained insight into NARFE members’ needs directly. Video recordings of some of these one-onone interviews will be used in future marketing campaigns.

The success of these two initiatives will ensure that NARFE is growing and maintaining its status as the preeminent “resource” for information beneficial to all NARFE members and potential members, and the success must be credited to the dedicated headquarters staff, especially those individuals in the membership engagement department as well as the communications and marketing department. The latter department has ensured that NARFE’s social media presence on such sites as Facebook, LinkedIn, and Reddit is growing through more engagement and staffcreated content, including more videos designed to inform members and attract individuals who may not yet know NARFE. From the staff and officers at NARFE, thank you for your membership. Please take a moment during the upcoming holidays to give thanks for all that we have in our lives and the ability to share it with family and friends. Stay safe.

WILLIAM SHACKELFORD NARFE NATIONAL PRESIDENT natpres@narfe.org

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Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract and a Medicare approved Part D sponsor. Enrollment in these plans depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. Benefits, features and/ or devices may vary by plan/area. Limitations, exclusions and/or network restrictions may apply. *Out-of-network/non-contracted providers are under no obligation to treat Plan members, except in emergency situations. Please call our Customer Service number or see your Evidence of Coverage for more information.

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NARFE Online SAVE MONEY WITH NARFE PERKS WHETHER you are planning your next vacation or move, buying a gift or planning for retirement, members can save money on every purchases with special discounts from our affinity partners. Visit www.narfe.org/perks or see page 70.

Stay Informed About News That Matters to You

W

ant to stay on top of key federal news and benefits information?

Subscribe to NARFE Daily News Clips.

The newsletter features breaking news and informative articles from various outlets curated just for NARFE members, as well as NARFE

media statements, op-eds and more. NARFE Daily News Clips is delivered to inboxes weekday mornings. To join the mailing list, visit www.narfe.org/clips.

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

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

CONNECT ON FEDHUB If you haven’t checked out NARFE’s online community yet, what are you waiting for?

NARFE designed FEDHub to support your federal journey, leveraging the knowledge and value of our entire community. All that’s missing is you! Join the conversation at fedhub.narfe.org/quick-start-guide.

6

NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

TRACKING RETIREMENT CLAIMS

Find out how many retirement claims the Office of Personnel Management Retirement Services receives and processes each month, with average processing times and total inventory, at www.narfe.org/opmprocessing.

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Washington Watch Washington Watch

Discharge Petition Success Brings Progress on WEP/GPO Repeal

W

ith frustration mounting over the failure to bring the Social Security Fairness Act to a vote, bill sponsors Representatives Garret Graves, R-LA, and Abigail

Spanberger, D-VA, took decisive action by filing a discharge petition to prompt a floor vote. This legislative maneuver, while somewhat arcane, is a powerful tool that allows a majority of members in the House of Representatives to bypass traditional leadership obstacles and force a vote on a bill.

The discharge petition was filed on September 10. In just about one week, by September 19, 218 members of Congress signed the petition. With the 218 number reached, the petition closed, and Graves can now bypass the House Ways and Means and Rules Committees to bring the bill to the floor for a vote.

The urgency surrounding this petition is a stark reflection of the pressing issues of the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO), which have been longstanding issues impacting many retirees. The Social Security Fairness Act stands as the most co-sponsored bill in all of

8

NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

Congress, with 329 cosponsors in the House, and 62 cosponsors in the Senate. This level of support underscores the critical need for the House to urgently address the WEP and GPO issues.

However, it’s essential to recognize that the journey from introduction to the president’s desk is fraught with challenges, particularly in a Congress as divided and polarized as the 118th. Despite these hurdles, filing the discharge petition signifies a serious commitment among members of Congress to address the injustices caused

by WEP and GPO. At NARFE, we wholeheartedly applaud the representatives who have already signed and are urging those who didn’t to support the bill regarding the floor. At press time, Congress has not yet returned from the elections.

DECEMBER ACTION ALERT: PROTECT MERIT BASED CIVIL SERVICE SYSTEM Visit NARFE’s Legislative Action Center at www.narfe.org to send a message to your lawmakers urging them to cosponsor the Saving Civil Service Act, H.R. 1002/ S. 399. This act would prevent the return of Schedule F, ensuring the public’s expectations of a system that is efficient, fair, protected against undue political interference in the execution of laws.

Merit-based civil service rules are integral to preserving professionalism, institutional knowledge and expertise within the federal government.

MYTH VS. REALITY MYTH: Schedule F would only affect a small group of senior employees.

REALITY: Schedule F could potentially affect hundreds of thousands of federal employees. The broad language used would allow for the reclassification of employees in policy-making or policy-influencing roles into the new Schedule F category, which could encompass many civil servants, as much or more than 50,000. This reclassification could strip employees of protections and make them more vulnerable to politically motivated hiring and firing, extending far beyond senior leadership positions.

To emphasize the significance of this movement, consider that the discharge petition was made available for signatures starting September 10, 2024. The pace at which this petition has gained support is nothing short of remarkable, especially given the often slowmoving nature of congressional procedures. Yet, while our team at NARFE is engaged in around-the-clock outreach efforts to mobilize support, we recognize that the voices of constituents like you are the

decisive factor in persuading hesitant representatives to sign the discharge petition. Your input is not just important, it’s vital in encouraging those who might be reluctant to cast their votes in favor of the bill once it reaches the floor.

If our previous calls to action have not convinced you, I hope this message serves as a compelling reason to contact your House and Senate representatives. This moment represents the closest we have come to repealing WEP and GPO,

making it our best opportunity to address the theft of the Social Security benefits you have worked for over the years.

We must not allow this chance to slip through our fingers, especially amidst the chaos often accompanying an election season. It is crucial to advocate for this bill now rather than allowing it to be relegated to the back burner, reserved for some future legislative session that may never manifest.

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

Congress Averts Shutdown, Approves Funding Until After Election

C

ongress passed a continuing resolution on Wednesday, September 25, to extend government funding through December 20, avoiding a government shutdown. The House passed the bill with a 341-82 vote, followed by the Senate via a 78-18 vote. It was then sent to President Joe Biden’s desk to be signed into law. The president applauded Congress for its efforts, expressing his gratitude for “avoiding a costly government shutdown” and stating that this gives Members “more time to pass full-year funding bills by the end of the year.”

Amidst the relief of averting a shutdown, both sides have expressed strong opinions on how the stopgap crossed the

finish line. While the resolution passed by a wide margin in the lower chamber, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, R-LA, relied on Democrat support to reach the two-thirds requirement needed under the “suspension of the rules” process used to bring the bill to the floor, opening himself up to both praise and criticism from his own conference.

Rep. Don Bacon, R-NE, supported Johnson’s decision, arguing, “A shutdown is bad governance, and it’s bad politics,” and expressed he thinks the speaker is “doing right” by moving forward with the bipartisan effort. On the other hand, Rep. Scott Perry, R-PA, former chairman of the Freedom Caucus, said “It’s all

the same thing over and over again,” after voting “no” on the funding bill. But even Rep. Perry conceded, “Nobody loves it. But, you don’t have many options,” acknowledging Democrat control in the Senate. In the upper chamber, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-NY, said ahead of the Senate vote, “This bipartisanship is a good outcome for America,” said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-NY, ahead of the Senate vote. “I hope it sets the tone for more constructive, bipartisan work when we return in the fall.”

Following the vote, lawmakers returned to their districts and states to campaign.

SEE SHUTDOWN ON P. 12 NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

9

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.

NARFE’s Grassroots Advocacy Progress: A Q3 Report

A

t the beginning of 2024, NARFE’s Advocacy Department rolled out an ambitious initiative: grassroots benchmarks. This effort aimed to set clear goals for various advocacy activities, fostering greater engagement and motivating members to take more action. Benchmarks were tracked quarterly at the federation/state level, considering federation size, with specific tiers—platinum, gold, silver, and bronze—created to reward different levels of participation.

Members could earn points for their federation in various ways, including sending action letters through our Legislative Action Center, participating in social media campaigns, writing letters to the editor (LTEs), and directly interacting with lawmakers or their staff.

Points were also attributed to various ways members engaged/ interacted with legislators, including hosting a member of Congress or their staff at federation or chapter meetings, sharing educational materials like issue briefs or fact sheets, or urging lawmakers to take specific actions on behalf of the federal community.

The benchmarks were designed to highlight the grassroots activities we value and encourage most. These activities are crucial for amplifying our advocacy priorities, and our members enthusiastically took on the challenge.

In the first quarter, we saw members easing into the

10

NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

benchmark system, particularly focusing on increasing the number of action letters sent.

The campaign to repeal the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO) through the Social Security Fairness Act, H.R. 82/S. 597, was the centerpiece of grassroots efforts. From January to March, members worked tirelessly to urge their representatives and senators to support the bill and, at the time, push for a committee mark-up.

Before March, members were also actively advocating to prevent a government shutdown and ensure continued federal funding. Members took up other causes, such as safeguarding the merit-based civil service system, advocating for equal cost-ofliving adjustments (COLAs) amidst rising inflation, lowering long-term care insurance premiums, and ensuring federal pay parity. Many federations reached platinum status by the end of Q1, laying the foundation for even greater advocacy.

The second quarter saw a continued surge in advocacy.

By the end of Q2, 17 federations had jumped to platinum status, reflecting the tremendous engagement from members. The focus remained on the WEP/GPO repeal, and as we approached July, members began calling on their legislators to support a discharge petition to bring H.R. 82 to the House floor for a vote.

They brought recordbreaking advocacy efforts in the third quarter, especially during

Grassroots Advocacy Month.

In August alone, nearly 6,000 action letters were sent—more than double the amount from the previous year. LTEs tripled, with 437 letters published, and members recorded dozens of meetings with lawmakers and their staff. By September 19, thanks to members’ hard work, we secured the 218 signatures needed to bring H.R. 82 to the floor for a vote!

Across all campaigns, approximately 33,000 action letters were sent during Q3, encompassing outreach through X (formerly known as Twitter), LTEs, and other advocacy methods. This represents a significant increase of 10,000 letters compared to 2023, and nearly all federations, 51, jumped to platinum status, showing a surge in advocacy actions through the end of the third quarter!

NARFE members have demonstrated unparalleled dedication to grassroots advocacy, surpassing expectations and breaking records in 2024. As we look ahead to 2025, we are confident that NARFE’s passionate and tireless advocates will continue to soar to even greater heights.

Your advocacy is invaluable to our incredible members.

NARFE’s Advocacy Team thanks you for your relentless efforts and looks forward to seeing what you accomplish next!

—BY IVANA SARA, GRASSROOTS ADVOCACY AND LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS MANAGER

Senate Committee Highlights Risks of Schedule F and Advances Legislation to Improve Civil Service

T

he Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs (HSGAC) Committee convened a September hearing to examine the roles of nonpartisan civil servants and political appointees in national security and federal operations.

Central to the discussion was Schedule F, a statutory loophole that would reclassify thousands of federal employees, removing critical civil service protections.

The hearing explored how such a proposal could severely undermine the federal workforce’s efficiency and pose significant risks to national security.

During the hearing, Chairman Gary Peters, D-MI, expressed deep concern about the potential reimplementation of Schedule F, describing it as a threat to

the stability and integrity of the federal government. He noted that the previous administration had sought to replace at least 50,000 nonpartisan civil servants with political appointees. Peters warned that this would “drain the federal government of institutional knowledge, expertise, and continuity,” leading to inefficiency, delayed services, and a significant loss of public trust.

Expert witnesses, including Elaine Duke, former Deputy Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, and Peter Levine, former Acting Under Secretary for Personnel and Readiness at the Department of Defense, emphasized the potential consequences of Schedule F returning. They raised concerns about the ambiguity in how

employees would be classified under the executive order, with terms such as “confidential, policy determining, policymaking or policy advocating” broadly interpreted. This could lead to the reclassification of many federal employees, stripping them of job protections and leaving them vulnerable to politically motivated dismissal.

The hearing also highlighted concerns that Schedule F would deter whistleblowers, increase agency vacancies, and lead to the removal of nonpartisan civil servants for political reasons. Witnesses stressed the importance of retaining an apolitical workforce to ensure continuity across presidential transitions and protect the nation from threats.

NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

11

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.

HIRING REFORM The committee also held a mark-up session to advance legislation to improve the meritbased civil service system.

The Chance to Compete Act, S. 59, which seeks to improve the federal hiring process by increasing transparency and providing more opportunities for qualified candidates to compete for federal jobs, was passed by the

Committee. The bill would help streamline the hiring process, reduce bureaucracy, and ensure that the best-qualified individuals are selected for federal service.

In stark contrast to Schedule F, efforts like the Chance to Compete Act would reform the merit system so it works as intended rather than eliminating it.

NARFE remains committed to ensuring that federal employees

are hired and retained based on their skills and expertise, not political connections. Proposals like Schedule F pose a severe threat to this system, and we continue to advocate for the Saving the Civil Service Act, which aims to protect the civil service from Schedule F and strengthen its nonpartisan foundations.

—BY IVANA SARA, GRASSROOTS ADVOCACY AND LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS MANAGER

House Committee Advances Bill to Survey Managers on Employee Discipline The House Committee on Oversight and Accountability advanced the “Manager Attitudes and Notions According to Government Employee Responses Act,” or the MANAGER Act, on September 18. The legislation would require an annual survey specifically targeting federal managers to gauge leadership sentiments, assess the overall culture within various federal agencies, and ultimately enhance management effectiveness across the board.

By collecting tangible data, the MANAGER Act provides a more precise and detailed picture of

how well managers feel supported and how equipped they are to lead their respective roles effectively.

While the intent behind the MANAGER Act is understandable, Congressman Jamie Raskin, D-MD, raised concerns that the required survey questions— specifically, six out of ten—focus primarily on punitive disciplinary measures, rather than other aspects of management, such as leading, coaching, motivating, training, and retaining employees.

The heavy emphasis on discipline may skew results, as it risks suggesting that managers should prioritize punitive measures over

creating a supportive and positive work environment. This focus could inadvertently encourage a culture of excessive discipline rather than collaboration, encouragement, and trust, which are vital for enhancing productivity and boosting employee morale.

With committee approval, the bill awaits consideration by the full House of Representatives. However, with time running out in the session and no Senate movement, it’s unlikely to become law.

SHUTDOWN FROM P.9

committee, providing a basis for negotiation with the Senate.

The Senate had not passed any bills on the floor. Still, the Senate Appropriations Committee passed 11 of the 12 bills on a bipartisan basis, providing the beginnings of a framework for a final bicameral, bipartisan compromise. Exactly

how the negotiations will unfold and the bills passed remain uncertain. However, Speaker Johnson stated that there would not be a “Christmas omnibus “ and expressed his hope that Congress would also not have to pass minibusses.

Upon their return to DC, Congress will need to work on reaching a compromise on spending bills for the remainder of the fiscal year. Upon their departure, the House passed five of the 12 bills on a partisan basis and moved all 12 out of 12

NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

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

—BY NICOLE BLACKSTONE, POLICY AND PROGRAMS MANAGER

E ENGAG OUR W I T H Y TO R S A LEGISL

NARFE’S 2025 LEGISLATIVE VIRTUAL TRAINING CONFERENCE Join NARFE members across the country to: • Improve your advocacy skills • Make your voices heard by engaging with lawmakers • Build and strengthen relationships with your legislators and congressional staff • Make an impact on NARFE’s key issues with online advocacy training Don't miss NARFE's premier virtual grassroots training conference!

Attend grassroots advocacy training sessions and “lobby day” where you join your fellow NARFE members in bringing our message directly to lawmakers and their staff.

Coming June 2025!

Exact date will be determined based on the congressional calendar, which was not available at the time of publication.

LEARN F R O M TO EXPERTSP

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

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

D-VA / Sen. Brian Schatz, D-HI Cosponsors: H.R. 536: 78 (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: 52 (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: 3 (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: 101 (D) 25 (R)

H.R. 7127/S.3618: 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 Senate Committee a 7.4% average pay raise in 2025 on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs 1/30/2024

Cosponsors: H.R. 7127: 87 (D) 1 (R) 14

NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

NARFE’s Position:

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).

H.Res.1410, a rule providing for consideration of H.R. 82, was assigned to the Discharge Calendar, Calendar No. 2. 9/19/24

Cosponsors: H.R. 82: 210 (D) 115 (R) S. 597: 46 (D) 13 (R) 3 (I) H.R. 4260: The Public Servants Protection and Fairness Act / Rep. Richard Neal, D-MA

SOCIAL SECURITY

Cosponsors: H.R. 4260: 106 (D) 0 (R) H.R. 4583/S. 2280: Social Security 2100 Act / Rep. John Larson, D-CT / Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-CT Cosponsors: H.R. 4583: 188 (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) 35 (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: 57 (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)

Referred to the Senate Committee on Finance 3/1/2023 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 Price 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:

16

NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 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: 50 (D) 4 (R) S. 399: 17 (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: 3 (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

17

Washington Watch

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:

18

NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

Support

Oppose

No position

Here to help you smile for less NARFE has been supporting federal employees for more than 100 years. As a proud NARFE sponsor, that makes us smile because we’re committed to federal employees, too. BCBS FEP Dental offers quality dental coverage that fits your needs and budget.

Pay nothing for covered dental exams, cleanings and X-rays in-network, plus count on a network with dentists in all 50 states.

That’s the Benefit of Blue.®

bcbsfepdental.com This is a summary of the many features and benefits of BCBS FEP Dental®. For a complete description, please view the benefit brochure.

The Blue Cross Blue Shield Association is an association of independent, locally operated Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies.

The Blue Cross® and Blue Shield® words and symbols and BCBS FEP Dental® are all trademarks owned by Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.

Open Season is November 11 – midnight ET, December 9, 2024

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

MEDICARE

Q

I am currently working and will turn 65 next year. Do I need to do anything about enrollment in Medicare?

A

Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) for Medicare begins three months before you turn 65 (and ends three months after). You may enroll in Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) with no premium for Hospital Insurance because you’ve paid the 1.45% tax during your career. If you do not retire before 65, you may delay enrollment in Medicare Part B without incurring a late enrollment penalty, as long as you’re covered by “current employment” health insurance. This also applies to the spouse of a federal employee covered by “current employment” coverage. After you retire, you (and your spouse) will have an 8-month Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to enroll in Medicare Part B. Learn more in this fact sheet: https://www.ssa. gov/pubs/EN-05-10012.pdf.

If more than 12 months have passed since the end of your IEP or from the month of your retirement (if you worked past age 65 with “current employment” health insurance), you will incur a permanent 10% late enrollment penalty for each 12-month period. This penalty is based on the standard Part B premium rate. You will be automatically enrolled in Medicare Prescription Drug coverage (Part D) if your FEHB/PSHB plan offers it once you are retired and Medicare Parts A

20

NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

and B are your primary insurance. Part D is included if you have Medicare Advantage coverage (Part C).

You must have Medicare Parts A and B to enroll in Part C.

FEGLI LIVING BENEFIT PAYMENT

Q

Unfortunately, my doctor has given me a poor prognosis. I seem to recall that during a benefits briefing I attended a few years ago, I was told that you could get cash for your Federal Employees’ Group Life (FEGLI) while you were living. Is this still true?

First, we are sorry to hear about your health condition. Yes, assuming you meet the criteria for a living benefit. A living benefit payment is a lump sum payment to those who are terminally ill and have a documented medical prognosis showing a life expectancy of no more than nine months. You can elect a living benefit if you are an employee or annuitant enrolled in the FEGLI Program.

Employees can choose a full or partial (a multiple of $1,000) living benefit, while annuitants can elect only a full living benefit.

A living benefit is equal to the basic life insurance amount, plus any extra benefit for persons under age 45, that would be in effect

A

Helping you save on vision care For over 100 years, NARFE has been supporting federal employees. As a proud NARFE sponsor, BCBS FEP Vision offers quality vision coverage that fits your needs and budget. Pay nothing for comprehensive vision care exams and BCBS Exclusive Collection frames. You can also use your benefits at your favorite eye care providers nationwide, including MyEyeDr., Walmart, America’s Best, Warby Parker, 1800contacts and more.

That’s the Benefit of Blue.®

bcbsfepvision.com This is a summary of the many features and benefits of BCBS FEP Vision®. For a complete description, please view the benefit brochure.

The Blue Cross Blue Shield Association is an association of independent, locally operated Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies.

The Blue Cross® and Blue Shield® words and symbols and BCBS FEP Vision® are all trademarks owned by Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.

Open Season is November 11 – midnight ET, December 9, 2024

Questions & Answers nine months after the date the Office of Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (OFEGLI) receives a completed claim for living benefits form.

You cannot elect a living benefit if you have assigned your life insurance.

Living benefit payments are reduced by a nominal amount (4.9%) to compensate the life insurance fund for lost earnings due to early benefit payments.

The election of living benefits does not affect the amount of any optional life insurance. You will continue to pay premiums for any optional insurance you have.

You must contact OFEGLI at 1-800-6334542 to obtain the form to elect living benefits (Form FE-8). This form is unavailable from your human resources office or the Office of Personnel Management (OPM).

LEAVE WITHOUT PAY

A

We will need to look at each federal benefit individually (see chart below):

Federal Benefit

How it Works While on LWOP

Federal Employees Health Benefit (FEHB)

FEHB coverage will continue for up to 365 days of non-pay status. You have the option to terminate or continue your coverage during the period of non-pay status. If you discontinue your coverage, you will have a 60-day opportunity to re-enroll in FEHB upon return to a pay status.

Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (FEGLI)

FEGLI coverage continues for up to 12 months of non-pay status. No payment is required during this period. After 12 months, you’ll have the option to convert your policy to an individual policy.

Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance (FEDVIP) Program

FEDVIP coverage may require direct billing after two consecutive pay periods of insufficient pay. Missed payments result in policy termination.

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

FSA contributions cease during non-pay status. Options vary based on leave without pay reasons.

Q

I will be going on Leave Without Pay (LWOP) for four months with my agency. I am still unclear on how this will affect my federal benefits.

Refer to the Leave Without Pay (LWOP) (PDF) at https://www.fsafeds.gov/support/ resources or contact FSAFEDS at 1-877-FSA-FEDS for more information.

COUNTDOWN TO COLA The Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) increased 0.13% in September 2024. To calculate the 2025 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), the 2024 third-quarter indices will be averaged and compared with the 2024 third-quarter average of 301.236. The percentage increase determines the COLA. September’s index, 309.046, is up 2.48% percent 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.

MONTH

CPI-W

OCTOBER 2023

302.071

NOVEMBER DECEMBER

Monthly % Change

-0.06

0.28

301.224

-0.28

-0.004

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

JULY

308.501

0.1

2.41

Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP)

LTC policies remain unaffected by non-pay status. If premiums are salarydeducted, switch to another payment plan through a Billing Change Form or contact LTC Partners at 1-800-LTC-FEDS. The FLTCIP has been suspended, so this only pertains to current policyholders.

Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)

TSP contributions will stop when your salary stops. Agency contributions also stop. Notify the TSP service office at 1-877-968-3778 if you have a TSP loan, as payments will be suspended.

For more information, refer to the TSP Fact Sheet – Effect of Non-Pay Status on TSP Participation. https://www.tsp.gov/ publications/tspfs04.pdf

Of course, your retirement coverage continues without contributions during non-pay status.

LWOP up to six months in a calendar year is entirely creditable for retirement purposes; LWOP exceeding six months is not creditable.

AUGUST

308.640

0.04

2.45

TSP LOAN

SEPTEMBER

309.046

0.13

2.48

I am retiring and currently have a large TSP loan.

Are there any other options besides paying off the loan?

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

22

% Change from 301.236

Contact BENEFEDS at 1-877-888-FEDS or visit the BENEFEDS billing and payments website https://www.benefeds.gov/learn/ fltcip/fltcip-billing-payments.

NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

Q

Ask Yourself:

1. Am I a Postal or Federal retiree?

2. Do I have Medicare Parts A & B? 3. Am I enrolled in the High Option Plan?

Then you may be eligible to enroll in the APWU Health Plan’s MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLAN! Enroll today in the APWU Health Plan’s UnitedHealthcare Group MEDICARE ADVANTAGE (PPO) PLAN! If you are already a High Option member, you can enroll at any time. So don’t wait for Open Season, enroll today to take advantage of Medicare Advantage’s enhanced benefits! If you are not enrolled in the High Option Plan, you can enroll during Open Season.

Visit retiree.uhc.com/apwuhp to learn more about Medicare Advantage and to see if you’re eligible to enroll.

YOU’LL GET ALL THESE GREAT BENEFITS & MORE! • • • • •

No copays, deductibles or coinsurance for covered medical services $100 Medicare Part B monthly reimbursement Eyewear allowance offered every 24 months: $130 for glasses or $175 for contacts $60 quarterly credit to spend on select over-the-counter products1 Wellness programs such as a free gym membership2 and in-home preventive care visits with a licensed healthcare practitioner3

www.apwuhp.com 1-855-383-8793 CHECK US OUT ON:

Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract.

Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. Benefits, features and/or devices vary by plan/area. Limitations, exclusions and/or network restrictions may apply.

1

OTC benefits have expiration timeframes. Call your plan or review your Evidence of Coverage (EOC) for more information.

Renew Active® includes a standard fitness membership. The information provided through Renew Active is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult your doctor prior to beginning an exercise program or making changes to your lifestyle or health care routine. Gym network may vary in local market.

2

3

HouseCalls may not be available in all areas.

Questions & Answers First, you want to try to pay off your TSP loans before separation. However, there is good news for you. In the past, TSP would notify a separated employee after separation that the loan had to be paid off, or it would be declared a taxable distribution in the year they separated.

This changed a couple of years ago. The new rules from the TSP state that you can set up a monthly payment plan and pay off the loan by the required deadline. Moreover, you can pay off the loan lump sum to avoid the monthly payment. There are some additional rules (see below): Loan Rules for Separated Participants • You cannot apply for a new loan once you’ve separated.

• Since you will no longer be on a federal payroll, you must begin making payments by check, money order, or direct debit.

• You have the same options for making additional payments or fully paying off the loan as an active participant unless the loan has been foreclosed.

• If you do not pay off the loan in full or begin making payments by the deadline TSP gives you, the outstanding balance and accrued interest will be treated as taxable income. This is known as a loan foreclosure. Remember, unless you turn 55 or older in the year the loan foreclosure is declared, you may be subject to the IRS 10% early withdrawal tax. Also, unlike with a taxed loan for an active participant, separated participants may not repay a balance once it has been foreclosed.

For more information on TSP loans, visit https:// www.tsp.gov/publications/tspbk04.pdf.

A

RETIREMENT SURVIVOR ANNUITY

Q

I am retiring next month and, per our court order, must provide a survivor annuity and a portion of the annuity to my former spouse. Under what circumstances will the annuity benefits to my former spouse ever stop?

A former spouse’s survivor annuity terminates for one of the following reasons:.

• By the terms of the court order.

• Upon remarriage before age 55, unless the employee or annuitant were married at least 30 years; or • Death of the former spouse (unless the court order directs the benefit is paid to the estate or surviving children).

A

24

NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

A former spouse’s court-ordered apportionment of a retiree’s annuity stops at the earliest of the following: • The date specified in a court order requires the apportionment’s termination.

• The last day of the first month before OPM receives a court order that invalidates, vacates, or sets aside the court order submitted by the former spouse.

• The first day of the second month after OPM receives an amended court order.

• The last day of the first month before the death of the retiree or • The last day of the month before the former spouse’s death, unless the order directs OPM to pay, after the former spouse’s death, the former spouse’s share of the employee annuity. A court order may direct OPM to continue payment of a former spouse’s apportionment to the court, an officer of the court acting as fiduciary, the estate of the former spouse, or one or more of the retiree’s children.

SOCIAL SECURITY FOR DEPENDENTS

Q A

I am receiving a monthly Social Security check.

Can my child receive a Social Security check?

Yes, if they meet the criteria. When a parent receives Social Security retirement or disability benefits or dies, their child may also receive benefits.

Under certain circumstances, a stepchild, adopted child, dependent grandchild, or step-grandchild may also qualify.

To receive benefits, the child must be unmarried and: • Younger than age 18.

• Between ages 18 and 19 and a full-time student at an elementary or secondary school (grade 12 or below).

• Age 18 or older with a disability that began before age 22.

Remember that there is a limit to how much social security can pay your family. The total depends on your benefit amount and the number of family members who qualify on your record. The total varies, but you and your family can get 150 to 180% of your full retirement benefit.

Social Security benefits payments to a divorced spouse do not affect the benefits payable to you or any other family member.

Fun Fact: Parents can receive social security benefits as well. How does this work? If you are a parent who receives most of your support from your adult child, and your child dies, Social Security also

pays monthly benefits to you under the following conditions: • You must be at least 62 years old and must not have remarried since the worker (your child)’s death.

• You cannot be entitled to your own higher Social Security benefits; and • You must show that you received one-half of your financial support from the worker at their death.

You must submit this proof of support to Social Security within two years of the worker’s (child’s) death. For more information, visit https://www. ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10085.pdf.

FEHB COVERAGE

Q A

How do I make sure that my adult disabled daughter remains on my FEHB?

OPM states, “Your disabled child over the age of 26 who is incapable of working at a selfsupporting job because of a physical or mental disability is eligible for FEHB coverage if your:

• Child’s physical or mental disability existed before the age of 26; and • Your child’s disability is expected to continue for at least a year.”

You must provide a medical certificate stating that your child is incapable of self-support because of a physical or mental disability that existed before they became age 26 and that the disability is expected to continue for more than one year.

You can find additional information about the certification process in the FEHB Handbook. Your human resources department will determine if you are an active employee. If you are retired, OPM will make the determination. For more information, visit https://www.opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/ healthcare/reference-materials/fehb-handbook/.

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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NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

25

Benefits Brief

W

Managing Benefits for Others hen a loved one requires assistance managing their daily affairs, it can be a challenging and emotional experience for everyone involved. As a caregiver,

your role in managing finances, healthcare, and other important matters is crucial. The job can be overwhelming, but your efforts are invaluable.

It is important to be aware that a power of attorney (POA), a legal document that gives you the authority to make decisions on behalf of another, may not be accepted to take over for someone who has lost the capacity to make decisions on his or her behalf when it comes to federal benefits.

However, here is what you need to know when handling the affairs of another when you need to contact the federal agencies responsible for retirement and insurance benefits for federal employees and annuitants. Understanding this process will give you the confidence to manage these responsibilities.

OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT (OPM)

OPM is responsible for administering federal retirement and insurance benefits on behalf of current employees and employee or survivor annuitants.

It is crucial that you immediately contact OPM at 1-888-767-6738 if you are assisting someone who becomes mentally or physically unable to handle their own financial and federal benefit decisions. Your prompt action can make a significant difference in the situation.

Rather than a POA, OPM honors a court-appointed fiduciary, or a person selected by 26

NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

OPM to represent the annuitant.

This role is crucial as it ensures that payments are made with the clear understanding that the funds will be used or saved for the annuitant’s benefit. If part or all of the annuitant’s monthly payment is not required to meet his or her current needs, the representative must conserve the unused amount for the annuitant’s future needs.

The representative will be held accountable for the funds and must provide written reports, as OPM may require showing that the annuitant’s payments are being properly used. This accountability is a testament to the responsibility that comes with the role. Further, the representative must notify OPM immediately when he or she is no longer acting for the annuitant. The representative will be liable for any payments received after the annuitant dies. Such payments must be immediately returned to the U.S. Treasury Department. To learn more, visit https://www. opm.gov/retirement-center/ my-annuity-and-benefits/ representative-payees/ Children incapable of selfsupport may continue to receive benefits after becoming adults.

Check out the Benefits Brief in the December 2021 NARFE

Magazine that addressed “Federal Benefits Available to Adult Children Incapable of Self Support” at https://www.narfe. org/magazine-issues/narfemagazine-december-2021/ and also the article in the December 2022 NARFE Magazine titled, “Supporting Children with Special Needs” at https://www. narfe.org/magazine-issues/ narfe-magazine-december-2022/.

SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION (SSA)

Like OPM, the SSA’s Representative Payment Program provides benefit payment management for beneficiaries incapable of managing their Social Security payments. A suitable representative payee who manages the payments on behalf of the beneficiaries can be appointed. Generally, this is a family member or friend. When friends or family members cannot serve as payees, SSA will look for a qualified organization.

Beneficiaries may also “advance designate” up to three individuals who could serve as payees for you if needed. Contact SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to request an appointment to discuss your concerns. Representatives must report that they performed the following duties: • Managed funds so the beneficiary(ies) have no unmet current needs • Accounted for all funds received and spent • Appropriately conserved any unspent funds, and

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

• Complied with representative payee accounting and reporting responsibilities.

For details on the Representative Payment Program, visit https://www.ssa.gov/payee/.

THRIFT SAVINGS PLAN (TSP)

The TSP allows for a POA, guardian, or conservator with court-ordered authority to act for a participant or beneficiary. There is specific language that the TSP must find in documents that grant a POA—or in a guardianship or conservatorship order—that empowers someone other than a TSP participant to transact business with the TSP. The TSP must also honor all qualifying federal tax levies and criminal restitution orders under the Mandatory Victims Restitution Act (MVRA).

• For detailed information on these two actions, see the TSP booklet Tax Rules about TSP Payments https://www.tsp.gov/publications/tspbk26.pdf.

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

• You can find the TSP booklet titled “Court Orders and Powers of Attorney” at https://www.tsp.gov/ publications/tspbk11.pdf.

• You may contact the ThriftLine Service Center at 1-877-968-3778 (United States, toll-free) or +1-404-233-4400 (Outside the United States, not toll-free) from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Eastern time, Monday through Friday.

NARFE has prepared a document you can use to learn and organize information to assist others, titled “Affairs-in-Order: Benefits Guidance for Survivors of Federal Annuitants,” which can be accessed at https://www.narfe.org/wp-content/ uploads/2022/03/0222-Affairs-in-Order-BenefitsGuidance.pdf —MICHELE BOLLIER IS A RETIREMENT AND BENEFITS SPECIALIST WITH RETIRE FEDERAL.

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NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

Receiving Your Earned Retirement Benefits

BY TAMMY FLANAGAN

T

homas was a federal employee hired in 2016 and diagnosed with cancer only seven years later at age 64. He had planned to work for at least another six years until this devastating diagnosis. After requesting my assistance with his retirement, I asked him if he had any federal service before being hired in 2016. He confirmed that he didn’t, although he said he worked for a few years on Capitol Hill after graduating from college.

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He assumed this service didn’t count since it wasn’t previously included in his service computation date. To be sure, I contacted the Senate Disbursing Office, which maintains records of former congressional employees.

Not only did he have prior federal service, but he also had seven years of creditable service under the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS)!

This discovery required his agency to award him all the additional hours of annual leave he was owed since he should have been in the six-hour leave accrual category when he was hired in 2016. In addition, he was due a refund of over $25,000 in excess retirement contributions as he was placed in the wrong retirement system. He was placed under the FERS-FRAE (Federal Employees Retirement System-Further Revised Annuity Employee) version of FERS when he was hired in 2016. This newer version of FERS requires a 4.4% employee contribution rather than the lower 0.8% used for those hired before 2013. He also was given the option of CSRS Offset or remaining under FERS (not FERS-FRAE). He chose FERS since he wasn’t married and wanted to leave a larger TSP balance for 30

NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

his children. Thomas stayed on the payroll at full salary and delayed his retirement decision. Although Thomas ultimately passed away, his last days were filled with less worry about his finances, thanks to correcting this issue.

Here’s another story with a different outcome. The retiree received more than his earned annuity but didn’t realize it until well after his retirement date.

John retired at the end of 2005 under the CSRS Offset retirement plan. His retirement was to be “offset” (reduced) by a little over $700/month because he had paid Federal Insurance Contribution Act (FICA, also known as Social Security) taxes during his CSRS Offset service and was qualified for Social Security retirement that was partially based on his 20 years of federal service performed under the CSRS Offset program.

This reduction to his CSRS benefit didn’t happen in 2006 as it should have. Earlier in 2024, John reported the death of his spouse to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) 18.5 years after turning 62. John was now over 80 years old. The error with John’s retirement was discovered when he wrote to OPM to request that his CSRS benefit be restored to the unreduced amount since he no longer needed a survivor annuity reduction. As OPM prepared to restore John’s reduced retirement to eliminate the survivor benefit reduction, the specialist noticed that his retirement was never offset in 2006.

John was overpaid by nearly $200,000 through no fault of his own! OPM informed him of his right to ask for reconsideration of the amount due.

The last story involves the MRA+10 type of retirement under FERS. Several retirees were left without health insurance or had their retirement subject to a significant reduction because they did not fully understand the directions in the Application for a FERS Deferred or Postponed Retirement, Form RI 92-19.

These cases all involve employees who had separated from federal service at their FERS minimum retirement age (MRA), which is 57 for those born in 1970 or later or a little younger for those born earlier.

They also had more than 10 years of service and, in some cases, over 20 years, but all had less than 30 years and were not eligible for unreduced retirement benefits at their MRA. If they had applied to receive the benefit at their MRA, it would have been reduced by 5% for every year they were under age 62 (prorated by the month). So, instead, they chose to resign and postpone applying for retirement to avoid the age reduction. They didn’t know they were required to apply for the benefit well before they wanted it to begin.

Here are two rules that caused some big problems:

Postponed MRA+10 Retirement Rule #1: You may choose to have your annuity begin on the first day of the month, at least 31 days after OPM receives your application for retirement if you have reached your MRA. Problem: Susan resigned on February 1, 2020, at age 58, with 24 years of federal service.

She reached age 60 on November 3, 2022. She was mistakenly told to wait until age 62 to apply for an unreduced benefit. She mailed her application earlier this year and requested retirement benefits be paid retroactively back to November 2022 because she was eligible to receive an unreduced benefit at age 60 (she had more than 20 years of service). She received a notice from OPM that this benefit cannot be paid retroactively to her 60th birthday. Her application was received at OPM on May 2, 2024.

She now must decide if she wants to begin her benefit on the first of the month after she separated from federal employment (and have the benefit reduced by 20% for being four years under age 62) or any date between June 3, 2024, through November 29, 2024, dates that are more than 31 days after OPM received her request.

Choosing the later date would avoid the age reduction, but she forfeits the unreduced benefit she could have received since 2022 because she did not apply before age 60. She lost the right to receive two years of unreduced benefits because she didn’t understand the rules.

Postponed MRA+10 Retirement Rule #2: People who leave federal service after reaching their MRA with at least 10 years of creditable federal service are eligible to reenroll in the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) and Federal Employee Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) programs. Also, the RI 92-19 application states that you can avoid the age reduction if you choose the first day of the month you reach age 62 as your annuity commencing date or the first day after your 60th birthday if you have at least 20 years of service.

Problem: Sharon left federal employment at age 59½ with more than 10 years of service, intending to postpone her annuity and FEHB coverage until she was eligible for unreduced benefits at age 62. Her human resources specialist told her all she had to do was fill out the RI 92-19 form three months before she turned 62. She submitted the form using certified mail four months before her 62nd birthday. She elected to have her retirement commence on the first day of the month after her 62nd birthday. Because she elected a starting date “after” turning 62, her retirement is deemed deferred rather than postponed, immediate retirement.

OPM denied reinstatement of her health insurance. She is filing an appeal to allow her to change the date to the first of the month OF her 62nd birthday.

“Every federal employee is entitled to receive a retirement benefit that reflects an accurate computation of their service history used to determine their CSRS or FERS annuity as of their final separation from federal employment.”

— Tammy Flanagan

Stories like these appear in my email box more frequently than I would like.

Benjamin Franklin once said, “The only thing more expensive than education is ignorance.” It could have made a difference in all three situations if these individuals had better understood the retirement rules.

It shouldn’t be this complicated, but: • It pays to understand how your retirement benefits work.

• Double-check the retirement estimates that your agency prepares for you before you decide to retire.

• It is essential for federal employees to be educated regarding retirement early in their careers.

• Employees should be encouraged to keep “personal” personnel records. This means when there is a change in salary, retirement coverage, or work schedule, the personnel record that is filed in your electronic Official Personnel Folder (eOPF) should also be maintained in the records you keep at home.

I can still remember that during my orientation when I was hired in 1980, a woman from the personnel office stressed the importance of keeping the “employee copies” of our personnel action statements, beginning with the one that showed the effective date of our first appointment. Today’s employees receive an email rather than a paper form notifying them of these changes.

It is also critical to understand that your “leave” service computation date (SCD), which determines when your annual leave accrual increases from four to six to eight hours, is not necessarily the same date as your “retirement” SCD. There are several reasons why these dates could be different, such as:

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• Military service is credited for the leave SCD if it is documented as honorable active duty. This service is only creditable for retirement if the military service credit deposit is paid and adequate documentation of the service period is provided. Be sure to keep a record of this payment showing a zero balance owed.

• With a few exceptions, if military retirement is received, the military service may not be credited towards the FERS (or CSRS) retirement benefit unless the retired pay is waived and the military deposit is paid.

• Civilian federal employment not covered by FERS retirement deductions performed after 1988 is not creditable for retirement, although this time counts for leave accrual.

• Oversight may have occurred when past service was not adequately documented, or changes in work schedule or retirement coverage were not accounted for in your leave SCD. Since retirement usually occurs many years after being hired, employees should double-check to be sure their past service is documented in their eOPF with their current agency.

• You may have previously resigned from federal service and were later rehired. If you request a refund of your retirement contributions, your agency may not be aware of this refund when you leave. They

32

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may not know whether you’ve paid to redeposit the refund unless you provide documentation. Having an outstanding refund of retirement contributions will affect your retirement benefit.

If you have trouble finding someone to talk with about your retirement benefits, many resources are available to help you research the rules and compute your earned retirement benefits. Websites such as www.opm.gov, www.tsp.gov, and www.ssa.gov can provide a wealth of information, including various pamphlets, publications, forms, and FAQs that can answer many questions that will lead to a better understanding of your retirement benefits. There are opportunities to attend online or in-person training events that will help you “know what you don’t know.”

Check out the YouTube channels of the three agencies just mentioned for recorded training events.

If you are still employed, it is essential to educate yourself how military and civilian service you have performed is credited in the computation of your retirement benefit. Consider it your responsibility to ensure that your eOPF contains records that show the beginning and ending dates of each period of federal civilian and military service, along with any changes in your retirement coverage and any work schedule other than full-time. If you notice that records are missing or don’t understand what is needed, contact a retirement

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According to the Congressional Research Service: FERS covered 98.5% (2,788,000) of the federal workforce, and the CSRS covered the remaining 1.6% (44,000) • On the retirement rolls, there were 2,226,760 employee annuitants and

475,562 survivor annuitants receiving benefits. Of the total, 56% were receiving benefits under CSRS. • In FY 2022, OPM processed 11,119 CSRS retirements and 114,505 FERS retirements.

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NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

specialist in human resources who can review your service history.

Before deciding to retire, you should request an updated retirement estimate. Carefully review the data used to prepare the estimate. This information can be found within the estimate printout, usually at the bottom of the first page. However, it could be located elsewhere depending on the software used to prepare the estimate. Check to see that your retirement service computation date looks accurate. Ensure the estimate was prepared for your retirement date and includes credit for the balance of your unused sick leave. Also, be aware of the possible reductions and withholdings that will impact the retirement computation. Reductions for survivor benefit elections, age reduction for an MRA+10 FERS retirement, and a part-time pro-ration are shown, as applicable to your situation. Your retirement benefit is subject to withholding for insurance (FEHB, FEGLI, FLTCIP, and FEDVIP) and taxes (federal and state income tax if you live in a state that taxes your retirement benefits).

Remember that court orders can significantly impact your retirement if they require OPM to provide your former spouse a portion of your retirement and/or survivor benefits. If you’ve been divorced, your agency retirement specialist is not equipped or authorized to compute the marital share of your retirement and survivor’s annuity that might be payable to your former spouse. That’s up to you, your attorney, and OPM. You should call OPM at (202) 606-0222 to check to be sure a copy of your court order is on file. OPM needs a certified copy of the court order and other supporting documents when an apportionment or survivor annuity is involved.

According to a report summarizing trends of the Federal Employees Retirement System that the Congressional Research Service published in December 2023: • FERS covered 98.5% (2,788,000) of the federal workforce, and the CSRS covered the remaining 1.6% (44,000) • On the retirement rolls, there were 2,226,760 employee annuitants and 475,562 survivor annuitants receiving benefits. Of the total, 56% were receiving benefits under CSRS. • In FY 2022, OPM processed 11,119 CSRS retirements and 114,505 FERS retirements.

Every federal employee is entitled to receive a retirement benefit that reflects an accurate computation of their service history used to determine their CSRS or FERS annuity as of their final separation from federal employment. It is vital to prepare for retirement carefully. This begins with ensuring that your documented service history supports your eligibility for retirement and the computation of your benefits as shown on your retirement estimate. It is ultimately your

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IT PAYS TO KNOW THESE RETIREMENT RULES: • Double-check the retirement estimates that your agency prepares for you before you decide to retire.

• It is essential for federal employees to be educated regarding retirement early in their careers.

• Employees should be encouraged to keep their own “personal” personnel records.

responsibility to speak up if something is missing or if you don’t understand what counts and what doesn’t.

To start the retirement process, prepare your application for retirement, either an SF 3107 (FERS) or SF 2801 (CSRS).

The application requires retiring employees to make several critical choices before retirement. You must decide whether you want OPM to provide you with a retirement payable only during your lifetime or whether you will receive a reduced retirement to provide a survivor benefit. An election also must be made expressing your desire to continue insurance benefits into retirement under the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program, the Federal Employees Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) Program, the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP), and the Federal Employees Long Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP).

Unless you are going to postpone an MRA+10 retirement or you are resigning with the entitlement to apply for a deferred retirement later, your agency will complete your retirement package and submit the paperwork to the payroll provider. At this point, the payroll office issues the final paycheck and lump-sum payment for any unused annual leave. Once this is complete, the payroll office will assemble the retirement records and send them to OPM. According to OPM, the average time it takes to process a CSRS or FERS retirement benefit is three to five months. This is after OPM receives the claim from your agency payroll provider and human resources office.

Your education doesn’t end when your retirement is finalized. There are changes that you will need to report to OPM after retirement. These include: • Change of address • Change tax withholding and add or remove state tax withholding • Report marriage, death, or divorce » Change health insurance » Elect or cancel survivor benefit elections » File copy of divorce decree and property settlement • Election of a new health benefit plan To qualify for an MRA+10 retirement, you must separate from federal service with at least 10 years but less than 30 years of creditable service. To qualify for an immediate MRA+10 retirement benefit, you must have reached your MRA and be younger than age 62 when you are separated from federal service. You may be entitled to a deferred retirement if you did not reach your MRA upon separation from federal service.

If you haven’t attended a webinar produced by the NARFE Federal Benefits Institute, please consider adding training to your calendar. You can find out what is coming up on page 59 of this magazine or visit www.narfe.org/webinars. There, you will find an extensive library of on-demand webinars and many other valuable resources to expand your knowledge and understanding of federal benefits.

—TAMMY FLANAGAN IS THE PRINCIPAL OF TAMMY FLANAGAN LLC (RETIREFEDERAL.COM).

SHE IS A FEATURED PRESENTER ON NARFE’S FEDERAL BENEFITS INSTITUTE WEBINARS.

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NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

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BY EVERETT A. CHASEN

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE: FRIEND OR FOE? the past, present and future of the technology that’s changing the way we live and work.

NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

39

A

rtificial Intelligence (AI) refers to the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer systems. These processes include learning, reasoning, problem-solving, perception and language understanding. AI is used in applications including natural language processing, computer vision, robotics and machine learning.

One question, however, is often discussed by those who work on AI products, use new technologies incorporating AI, or are just generally concerned about the future of our world. As the New Yorker magazine asked in March 2024, “Will artificial intelligence elevate or exterminate humanity?”

Before attempting to answer that question, let’s explain what AI is, how the technique was developed, and how it’s being used today. Tom Manteuffel, an instructor at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at George Mason University in Virginia who has graduate degrees in philosophy and computer science and a background in cybersecurity, has been interested in AI for 40 or 50 years.

He explains that “ever since computers have been around, people have been talking about AI. The term was invented in 1956,” when a conference at Dartmouth College brought together researchers to discuss the possibility of creating machines that could simulate aspects of human intelligence.

Even before that, famed British mathematician Alan Turing, who led the team that broke German military codes during World War II, created the Turing Test (which he called the imitation game) to evaluate a machine’s ability to exhibit intelligent behavior indistinguishable from that of a human.

“So, AI is not new,” Manteuffel says. “What is new is that in the last ten years or so, there has been a really amazing new approach that has been so effective and so productive that it took everyone

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NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

by surprise, including people who have been following this subject for years and years.”

“Around 2010 or so,” he continues, “a small group of people basically decided to no longer try to program computers the way you would normally do.” The old way was to tell a computer exactly what it needs to do, step by step. A computer scientist and cognitive psychologist named Geoffrey Hinton pushed very hard on the idea that instead of programming computers, experts should get them to learn in the same way a human being does.

Manteuffel explains what Hinton and his group were thinking. “Instead of trying to program instruction by instruction, let’s just let the computer try to do things and then improve

on their attempts. This is the way infants’ minds work. When small children are starting to walk, what they do is fall and then get up and stand for a little bit. But what’s happening in their brains is that every time they fall, they adjust the neurons that the electrical circuits in their brain follow, so that after a few weeks or months they’re able to control all the muscles that are required to walk.

That’s how we learn everything.”

An approach to programming called Deep Learning tries to model what happens in the nerve paths in the brain. Manteuffel calls our brains “the most complicated structure in the universe.”

“It’s key that the computer is adjusting itself.

Programmers are not having to reprogram— computers are basically adjusting themselves.

“AI is not new. What is new is that in the last 10 years or so, there has been a really amazing new approach that has been so effective and productive that it took everyone by surprise, including people who have been following this subject for years and years.”

– Tom Manteuffel, instructor at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at George Mason University in Virginia.

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“You can write a description of a short video you want to see, and it’s amazing what you’ll get back."

– Manteuffel on the uses of AI to create detailed pictures, artwork, and even video.

That’s really what AI is: computers learning without having humans teach them.”

Manteuffel cites an experiment using the ancient Chinese game of Go, a strategy board game for two players in which the aim is to capture more territory than your opponent by fencing off empty space. “After having been programmed only with the basic rules, within five hours a Google computer was able to defeat the greatest living human player of the game. This was done in a televised match in 2017, which 200 million people watched around the world.”

Uses of AI

Today, programs like Google Translate and Chat GPT use AI to benefit millions of people.

Google Translate allows users to translate text, handwriting, photos and speech in more than 100 languages through an app downloaded to your phone. In the near future, phone apps will be able to simultaneously translate people’s speech—a tremendous boon when you’re in a foreign country hoping to communicate with someone who does not speak your language.

ChatGPT (www.chat.openai.com) “is basically a program that takes a text cue and generates whatever text you ask it to,” Manteuffel explains.

It uses deep learning techniques to generate human-like responses to text-based prompts.

You can ask ChatGPT to write thank-you notes to interviewers or friends; summarize articles into three or four key points; plan a trip or suggest fun 42

NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

activities for a weekend; pick appropriate gifts for friends or relatives; and do a virtually unlimited number of other tasks. ChatGPT even wrote the first paragraph of this article.

There are both free and paid versions of the program: the paid version has eliminated most of the misinformation and incorrect responses the free version was criticized for. Alternatives to ChatGPT (more than a dozen at this writing) include GoogleBard, recently renamed Gemini; Perplexity AI; Stability AI; and LlamaChat.

Other AI programs can create beautiful pictures, artwork, and even video. “You can write a description of a short video you want to see, and it’s amazing what you’ll get back. And then, if you don’t like the video in some way, you can tweak

the cue you sent to produce it—and you’re learning to better communicate with the program at the same time. It’s already phenomenal now, and the things people are going to do soon will be just amazing,” says Manteuffel.

“I really hope people will go and use the new AI tools,” he adds, “particularly the ones that produce creative outputs like pictures. They are such a joy. They’re the greatest toys in the world, and they’re almost free and instantaneous. People just need to be curious enough to find out about the tools, and I think they’ll be hooked on them.

They’re that powerful, and they release creativity in humans.”

Dr. Stephen R. Ruth, Professor of Public Policy and Director of the International Center

for Applied Studies in Information Technology at George Mason, believes the way people work will be changed forever by AI. “Knowledge workers (people whose jobs involve handling or using information) will be especially vulnerable,” he tells us. “Because the memos they write, the drafts they prepare, and the interpretations of large bodies of material they sometimes have to do is very easy for chatbots to do. I think it can lead to drastic efficiencies at work—I don’t like to use the word reductions— once people are willing to accept this.”

Some companies, Ruth points out, are hiring people whose job is to train the new AI tools to deliver better responses to the questions their employers need answers to. They’re called AI

NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

43

“I think everyone who talks about this subject agrees there has to be some government or super-government organization to manage this, or things could get very, very difficult.”

– Dr. Stephen R. Ruth, professor of public policy and director of the International Center for Applied Studies in Information Technology at George Mason.

prompt engineers, and don’t need degrees in computer science or even advanced coding skills.

“I think everybody ought to question what their job is going to look like in the next few years, because they are going to change a lot. Almost all office jobs are going to change, in some cases radically, and certain occupations are going to be very seriously affected in the long term.”

The future of AI

“Computers are very good, to the point of being better than humans, at individual things like speech processing, game play, even writing text sometimes. But what’s called Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), as opposed to AI, is not yet there,” says Manteuffel.

AGI software will enable computers to perform versatile tasks without human intervention, not just create specific types of output, more like a human being is able to solve general problems.

They will be able to solve problems in different areas, like human beings, without human intervention. They’ll be able to self-teach and solve problems they were never trained to work on.

“We’re a few years away from that,” he continues, “and then beyond that there is what’s referred to as super intelligence, a mental capacity well beyond what humans can do, even as a group.”

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NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

Super intelligence, Manteuffel believes, is what people are really afraid of when they worry about the effects of computers on their lives, and those of their descendants. In 2014, Professor Stephen Hawking told BBC News that “the development of full artificial intelligence could spell the end of the human race,” and later said AI will eventually reach a level where it will essentially be a “new form of life that will outperform humans.”

Ruth cites the cautionary tale of The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, an 18th-century poem by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe memorably animated in the 1939 Walt Disney studios film Fantasia.

In both the poem and the movie, the apprentice to a sorcerer is temporarily put in charge of the castle in which they both live. He needs to fetch water to mop the floors of the castle, and enchants a broom to carry the water for him, using a magic spell he is not fully trained to apply. The floor of the castle is soon filled with brooms fetching water, and then the building floods. Finally, the sorcerer returns and restores order, explaining that only a master should invoke powerful spirits.

Ruth sees the story as analogous to AI’s future— we are unleashing a powerful tool whose limits we don’t yet understand, with results that can quickly become catastrophic. He cites a number of problems improper use of AI has already caused, including the use of artificial speech technology to create the impression over the phone that a family member has been kidnapped in order to extort a ransom from others. Using AI to tamper with elections is another concern.

And he worries about lethal autonomous weapons systems (LAWS), also referred to as “killer robots,” that use AI to identify and select targets and engage and destroy those targets without any human control of the system. “The autonomous part of LAWS is the part a lot of people find very distressing. They’re already being used in many parts of the world,” Ruth tells us.

Every federal agency, especially the Department of Defense (DoD), is developing regulations to deal with AI, and “our government would be very wise

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to do something like the European Union (EU) has just about already done,” says Ruth.

According to the EU’s website, member nations “aim to address the risks generated by specific uses of AI through a set of complementary, proportionate and flexible rules.” Their approach is based on four different levels of risk: minimal, high, unacceptable and specific transparency risk. AI developers and deployers will be given clear requirements and obligations regarding specific uses of AI to ensure AI systems respect fundamental rights, safety and ethical principles.

“Our government has the power to write regulations like the EU has done, and should put a very high priority on this. The Europeans are way ahead of us, and they’re moving in a direction they’ve thought about longer. We’re not nearly as close in the United States,” Ruth explains.

“I think everyone who talks about this subject agrees there has to be some government or supergovernment organization to manage this, or things could get very, very difficult,” he continues.

Leaders in the AI field like Geoffrey Hinton have told Congress “again and again—you’ve got to regulate us.”

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NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

While some thinkers like Hawking are pessimistic about our future, others are more optimistic. Manteuffel, for example, is in the “elevate, not exterminate” camp. He cites a tacit agreement among nations that AI should not be part of the “decision tree” for using nuclear weapons. “They want (nuclear weapons use) to only be in some human’s control to decide when to let go of the trigger,” he says.

“We’re not at the point,” he believes, “where the mass destruction of humans will be a computer’s decision. But that’s a scary possibility, and people certainly have to be aware it could happen.”

However, he concludes optimistically, “we still have our own unmatchable, adaptable brains that will, I think, keep us alive and afloat.”

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

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PEN SEASON

REPORT

2024 OPEN SEASON: NOVEMBER 11 – DECEMBER 9 COMPARE YOUR OPTIONS AND ENROLL

T

he 2025 federal benefits Open Season for changes to your Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) and Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) program enrollment ends Monday, December 9. There is still time to review health plans and make an informed decision.

FEHB participants can pick from 130 health plan choices during this Open Season, while PSHB participants can pick from 69 plan options, representing a mix of seven feefor-service carriers and 23 health maintenance organizations, for its inaugural 2025 plan year.

Suppose you are a federal or postal service employee not presently enrolled in the respective FEHB and PSHB programs. In that case, you may enroll during Open Season if you are not otherwise excluded from coverage because of the nature of your appointment.

NARFE’s Open Season website, located at www.narfe. org/open-season, has the latest updates and is a one-stop shop for

48

NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

all federal health, dental, vision, and flexible spending account

EVEN MORE RESOURCES ARE AVAILABLE ONLINE AT NARFE.ORG/ OPEN-SEASON. benefits. Have you got questions?

Members can log into FEDHub’s Open Season community at www. narfe.org/fedhub-open-season to ask feds and retirees about their experiences with coverage providers.

Even better, members can register for free to watch the NARFE Federal Benefit Institute’s Open Season webinars live with our experts. Can’t attend? Those Open Season webinars will be available on demand at www. narfe.org/webinar-archive/, giving you plenty of time to make informed decisions about your benefits for 2025.

By the time you’re reading this magazine, you’ll be able to watch these webinars on demand: • “FEHB Prescription Drug Plans” • “Choosing the Best FEHB Without Medicare” • “Choosing the Best FEHB With Medicare” • “Postal Service Health Benefits Program” • “Medicare Advantage Plans (In FEHB and Out of It)” • “2024 Open Season Roundup: FEHB, Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program, and Flexible Spending Account” • “Medicare: To Part B or Not to B?” Keep reading to see our charts covering: • PSHB fee-for-service premiums, page 50 • FEHB fee-for-service premiums, page 51 • FEHB restricted fee-forservice premiums, page 52 • FEDVIP dental plans, pages 53 and 54 SEE OPEN SEASON ON P. 52

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OPEN SEASON REPORT

2025 PSHB PREMIUMS — FEE FOR SERVICE Plan Option

Code

Total Premium biweekly monthly

APWU HEALTH PLAN High Self 23A 395.95 High Self & Family 23B 950.23 High Self Plus One 23C 831.45 CDHP Self 23D 322.49 CDHP Self & Family 23E 764.63 CDHP Self Plus One 23F 700.91 BLUECROSS BLUESHIELD SERVICE BENEFIT PLAN Standard Self 33D 460.22 Standard Self & Family 33E 1108.38 Standard Self Plus One 33F 1006.44 Basic Self 33A 400.21 Basic Self & Family 33B 990.57 Basic Self Plus One 33C 899.39 FEP Blue Focus Self 35A 236.70 FEP Blue Focus Self & Family 35B 559.70 FEP Blue Focus Self Plus One 35C 508.86 GEHA BENEFIT PLAN High Self 37A 414.28 High Self & Family 37B 1038.17 High Self Plus one 37C 911.44 Standard Self 37D 297.44 Standard Self & Family 37E 790.13 Standard Self Plus One 37F 639.52 HDHP Self 39A 314.39 HDHP Self & Family 39B 830.63 HDHP Self Plus One 39C 675.94 GEHA INDEMNITY BENEFIT PLAN Elevate Plus Self 58A 448.78 Elevate Plus Self & Family 58B 1079.11 Elevate Plus Self Plus One 58C 983.07 Elevate Self 58D 272.55 Elevate Self & Family 58E 800.49 Elevate Self Plus One 58F 657.54 MHBP Value Self 73A 251.45 Value Self & Family 73B 607.67 Value Self Plus One 73C 595.77 Standard Self 73D 328.88 Standard Self & Family 73E 764.30 Standard Self Plus One 73F 757.03 Consumer Self 74A 377.73 Consumer Self & Family 74B 877.67 Consumer Self Plus One 74C 835.89 NALC High Self 77A 396.07 High Self & Family 77B 911.37 High Self Plus One 77C 884.48 CDHP Self 77D 236.51 CDHP Self & Family 77E 579.70 CDHP Self Plus One 77F 535.54 RURAL CARRIER BENEFIT PLAN High Self 79A 432.60 High Self & Family 79B 946.32 High Self Plus One 79C 900.93

50

NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

Govt Pays biweekly monthly

KEY: Employees pay biweekly Annuitants pay monthly Enrollee Pays biweekly monthly

857.89 2058.83 1801.48 698.73 1656.70 1518.64

286.09 619.86 672.95 1458.06 618.40 1339.87 241.87 524.05 573.47 1242.53 525.68 1138.98

109.86 277.28 213.05 80.62 191.16 175.23

238.03 600.77 461.61 174.68 414.17 379.66

997.14 2401.49 2180.62 867.12 2146.24 1948.68 512.85 1212.68 1102.53

286.09 672.95 618.40 286.09 672.95 618.40 177.53 419.78 381.65

619.86 1458.06 1339.87 619.86 1458.06 1339.87 384.64 909.51 826.90

174.13 435.43 388.04 114.12 317.62 280.99 59.17 139.92 127.21

377.28 943.43 840.75 247.26 688.18 608.81 128.21 303.17 275.63

897.61 2249.37 1974.79 644.45 1711.95 1385.63 681.18 1799.70 1464.54

286.09 672.95 618.40 223.08 592.60 479.64 235.79 622.97 506.96

619.86 1458.06 1339.87 483.34 1283.96 1039.22 510.89 1349.78 1098.41

128.19 365.22 293.04 74.36 197.53 159.88 78.60 207.66 168.98

277.75 791.31 634.92 161.11 427.99 346.41 170.29 449.92 366.13

972.36 2338.07 2129.99 590.53 1734.40 1424.67

286.09 672.95 618.40 204.41 600.37 493.16

619.86 1458.06 1339.87 442.90 1300.80 1068.50

162.69 406.16 364.67 68.14 200.12 164.38

352.50 880.01 790.12 147.63 433.60 356.17

544.81 1316.62 1290.84 712.57 1655.98 1640.23 818.42 1901.62 1811.10

188.59 455.75 446.83 246.66 573.23 567.77 283.30 658.25 618.40

408.61 987.47 968.13 534.43 1241.99 1230.17 613.82 1426.22 1339.87

62.86 151.92 148.94 82.22 191.07 189.26 94.43 219.42 217.49

136.20 329.15 322.71 178.14 413.99 410.06 204.60 475.40 471.23

858.15 1974.64 1916.37 512.44 1256.02 1160.34

286.09 672.95 618.40 177.38 434.78 401.66

619.86 1458.06 1339.87 384.33 942.02 870.26

109.98 238.42 266.08 59.13 144.92 133.88

238.29 516.58 576.50 128.11 314.00 290.08

937.30 2050.36 1952.02

286.09 619.86 672.95 1458.06 618.40 1339.87

146.51 317.44 273.37 592.30 282.53 612.15

KEY: Employees pay biweekly Annuitants pay monthly

2025 FEHB PREMIUMS — FEE FOR SERVICE Plan Option

Code

Total Premium biweekly monthly

APWU HEALTH PLAN High Self 471 407.83 High Self & Family 472 978.73 High Self Plus One 473 856.39 CDHP Self 474 343.99 CDHP Self & Family 475 815.61 CDHP Self Plus One 476 747.64 BLUECROSS BLUESHIELD SERVICE BENEFIT PLAN Standard Self 104 472.89 Standard Self & Family 105 1138.88 Standard Self Plus One 106 1034.14 Basic Self 111 411.24 Basic Self & Family 112 1017.84 Basic Self Plus One 113 924.14 FEP Blue Focus Self 131 236.70 FEP Blue Focus Self & Family 132 559.70 FEP Blue Focus Self Plus One 133 508.86 GEHA BENEFIT PLAN High Self 311 435.19 High Self & Family 312 1090.55 High Self Plus one 313 957.42 Standard Self 314 321.29 Standard Self & Family 315 857.21 Standard Self Plus One 316 690.80 HDHP Self 341 305.10 HDHP Self & Family 342 806.08 HDHP Self Plus One 343 655.96 GEHA INDEMNITY BENEFIT PLAN Elevate Plus Self 251 441.57 Elevate Plus Self & Family 252 1061.79 Elevate Plus Self Plus One 253 967.29 Elevate Self 254 231.31 Elevate Self & Family 255 679.35 Elevate Self Plus One 256 558.03 MHBP Value Self 414 242.13 Value Self & Family 415 585.17 Value Self Plus One 416 573.72 Standard Self 454 335.33 Standard Self & Family 455 779.28 Standard Self Plus One 456 771.87 HDHP Self 481 336.80 HDHP Self & Family 482 782.59 HDHP Self Plus One 483 745.34 NALC High Self 321 434.16 High Self & Family 322 998.17 High Self Plus One 323 968.71 CDHP Self 324 238.71 CDHP Self & Family 325 585.06 CDHP Self Plus One 326 540.49 SAMBA High Self 441 459.05 High Self & Family 442 1101.73 High Self Plus One 443 1009.92 Standard Self 444 382.57 Standard Self & Family 445 872.83 Standard Self Plus One 446 823.43

Govt Pays biweekly monthly

Enrollee Pays biweekly monthly

Enrollee Increase/Decrease biweekly monthly

883.63 2120.58 1855.51 745.31 1767.16 1619.89

298.08 714.23 642.29 257.99 611.71 560.73

645.84 1547.50 1391.63 558.98 1325.37 1214.92

109.75 264.50 214.10 86.00 203.90 186.91

237.79 573.08 463.88 186.33 441.79 404.97

-14.77 -32.00 -39.55 -85.69 -30.85 -66.85 9.22 19.97 21.85 47.34 20.03 43.39

1024.60 2467.57 2240.64 891.02 2205.32 2002.30 512.85 1212.68 1102.53

298.08 714.23 650.00 298.08 714.23 650.00 177.53 419.78 381.65

645.84 1547.50 1408.33 645.84 1547.50 1408.33 384.64 909.51 826.90

174.81 424.65 384.14 113.16 303.61 274.14 59.17 139.92 127.21

378.76 920.07 832.31 245.18 657.82 593.97 128.21 303.17 275.63

24.02 53.97 47.30 17.42 41.01 35.51 3.87 9.16 8.33

52.05 116.93 102.49 37.74 88.86 76.94 8.38 19.85 18.05

942.91 2362.86 2074.41 696.13 1857.29 1496.73 661.05 1746.51 1421.25

298.08 714.23 650.00 240.97 642.91 518.10 228.83 604.56 491.97

645.84 1547.50 1408.33 522.10 1392.97 1122.55 495.79 1309.88 1065.94

137.11 376.32 307.42 80.32 214.30 172.70 76.27 201.52 163.99

297.07 815.36 666.08 174.03 464.32 374.18 165.26 436.63 355.31

28.46 70.06 57.75 10.17 27.95 21.87 4.82 12.74 10.37

61.66 151.80 125.13 22.04 60.56 47.39 10.45 27.61 22.47

956.74 2300.55 2095.80 501.17 1471.93 1209.07

298.08 714.23 650.00 173.48 509.51 418.52

645.84 1547.50 1408.33 375.88 1103.95 906.80

143.49 310.90 347.56 753.05 317.29 687.47 57.83 125.29 169.84 367.98 139.51 302.27

40.94 94.48 84.56 5.62 16.49 13.54

88.71 204.71 183.22 12.16 35.72 29.34

524.62 1267.87 1243.06 726.55 1688.44 1672.39 729.73 1695.61 1614.90

181.60 438.88 430.29 251.50 584.46 578.90 252.60 586.94 559.01

393.47 950.90 932.30 544.91 1266.33 1254.29 547.30 1271.71 1211.18

60.53 146.29 143.43 83.83 194.82 192.97 84.20 195.65 186.33

131.15 316.97 310.76 181.64 422.11 418.10 182.43 423.90 403.72

2.33 5.63 5.52 3.22 7.49 7.43 5.51 12.80 12.19

5.04 12.20 11.95 6.99 16.23 16.09 11.93 27.73 26.41

940.68 2162.70 2098.87 517.21 1267.63 1171.06

298.08 714.23 650.00 179.03 438.80 405.37

645.84 1547.50 1408.33 387.91 950.72 878.30

136.08 283.94 318.71 59.68 146.26 135.12

294.84 615.20 690.54 129.30 316.91 292.76

26.67 57.79 62.15 134.66 62.85 136.18 4.42 9.58 12.07 26.17 11.16 24.17

994.61 2387.08 2188.16 828.90 1891.13 1784.10

298.08 714.23 650.00 286.93 654.62 617.57

645.84 1547.50 1408.33 621.68 1418.35 1338.08

160.97 387.50 359.92 95.64 218.21 205.86

348.77 839.58 779.83 207.22 472.78 446.02

33.23 75.65 68.22 10.24 23.38 22.06

72.00 163.91 147.81 22.19 50.65 47.78

NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

51

For restricted fee-for-service FEHB plans, see page 52.

OPEN SEASON REPORT OPEN SEASON FROM P.48

• FEHB Self plus one vs. self and family cost plans, pages 56 and 57 • FEDVIP nationwide vision plans, page 57 • PSHB self plus one vs. self and family costs, page 58 Of note: If you are a federal annuitant and are not presently covered by the FEHB program as an enrollee or a family member, you cannot enroll in the FEHB program during Open Season unless you previously suspended your FEHB enrollment in favor of coverage under TRICARE, TRICARE For Life, a Medicare Advantage HMO plan, CHAMPVA or Medicaid, or as a Peace Corps volunteer.

Open Season changes for employees are effective at the beginning of the first pay period after January 1, 2025.

Open Season changes made by annuitants and survivor annuitants are effective on January 1, 2025, and the premium changes will be reflected in the February 1, 2025, annuity payments.

PLAN BROCHURES

When deciding which plan is best for you, review your current plan’s 2024 brochure and the brochures for other plans you are considering.

The 2025 plan brochures for all FEHB and PSHB plans can be viewed online and downloaded at https:// www.narfe.org/open-season/ fehb-pshb-plan-informationfor-2025/. Many brochures became available after press time for this December issue; they will be linked and updated on NARFE’s Open Season page as they become available.

• Each brochure is formatted the same way, with sections on specific topics, such as “Your Costs for Covered Services” and “Coordinating Benefits With Other Coverage.”

• All plan brochures have an index that provides page numbers to find the plan’s changes for the new year.

• All plans provide a Summary of Benefits and Coverage with easy-to-understand information about out-ofpocket costs, coverage, and enrollees’ rights.

—FEDERAL BENEFITS INSTITUTE

2025 FEHB PREMIUMS — RESTRICTED FEE FOR SERVICE Enrollee Increase/ Total Premium Govt Pays Enrollee Pays Decrease biweekly monthly biweekly monthly biweekly monthly biweekly monthly COMPASS ROSE HEALTH PLAN (members of the intelligence community, employees of the Departments of Defense and State High Self 422.56 915.55 298.08 645.84 124.48 269.71 19.96 43.25 421 1014.18 2197.39 714.23 1547.50 299.95 649.89 43.84 94.99 High Self & Family 422 929.65 2014.24 650.00 1408.33 279.65 605.91 39.06 84.63 High Self Plus One 423 232.61 503.99 174.46 377.99 58.15 126.00 5.29 11.46 Standard Self 424 558.27 1209.59 418.70 907.19 139.57 302.40 12.69 27.49 Standard Self & Family 425 511.75 1108.79 383.81 831.59 127.94 277.20 11.63 25.20 Standard Self Plus One 426 FOREIGN SERVICE BENEFIT PLAN (American Foreign Service personnel, Departments of State and Defense, USAID, Foreign Agricultural and Commercial services, other executive branch employees assigned overseas; Foreign Service retirees) 373.44 809.12 280.08 606.84 93.36 202.28 10.74 23.27 High Self 401 923.81 2001.59 692.86 1501.19 230.95 500.40 26.57 57.57 High Self & Family 402 901.52 1953.29 650.00 1408.33 251.52 544.96 40.22 87.14 High Self Plus One 403 PANAMA CANAL AREA BENEFIT PLAN 425.91 922.81 298.08 645.84 127.83 276.97 12.07 26.16 High Self 431 897.35 1944.26 673.01 1458.20 224.34 486.06 20.40 44.18 High Self & Family 432 858.01 1859.02 643.51 1394.27 214.50 464.75 19.50 42.25 High Self Plus One 433 Plan Option

52

Code

NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

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 $16,347,655.54* *Total as of September, 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.

OPEN SEASON REPORT 2025 PREMIUMS - NATIONWIDE DENTAL PLANS PLAN NAME

SELF ONLY biweekly monthly

SELF PLUS ONE biweekly monthly

SELF AND FAMILY biweekly monthly

1

$17.62 $19.41 $20.64 $22.78 $24.75

$38.18 $42.06 $44.72 $49.36 $53.63

$35.23 $38.81 $41.28 $45.57 $49.47

$76.33 $84.09 $89.44 $98.74 $107.19

$52.85 $58.22 $61.92 $68.35 $74.21

$114.51 $126.14 $134.16 $148.09 $160.79

1

$10.57 $11.63 $12.36 $13.61 $14.78

$22.90 $25.20 $26.78 $29.49 $32.02

$21.13 $23.25 $24.71 $27.22 $29.55

$45.78 $50.38 $53.54 $58.98 $64.03

$31.70 $34.86 $37.06 $40.83 $44.34

$68.68 $75.53 $80.30 $88.47 $96.07

$18.95 $21.23 $23.10 $25.03 $28.01

$41.06 $46.00 $50.05 $54.23 $60.69

$37.90 $42.46 $46.21 $50.05 $56.02

$82.12 $92.00 $100.12 $108.44 $121.38

$56.84 $63.69 $69.31 $75.08 $84.03

$123.15 $138.00 $150.17 $162.67 $182.07

1 $10.19 $22.08 2 $11.17 $24.20 3 $12.69 $27.50 4 $13.70 $29.68 5 $15.12 $32.76 DELTA DENTAL’S FEDERAL EMPLOYEES DENTAL PROGRAM High 1 $18.20 $39.43 2 $19.95 $43.23 3 $21.89 $47.43 4 $23.29 $50.46 5 $27.14 $58.80

$20.39 $22.33 $25.38 $27.40 $30.24

$44.18 $48.38 $54.99 $59.37 $65.52

$30.58 $33.50 $38.07 $41.10 $45.37

$66.26 $72.58 $82.49 $89.05 $98.30

$36.39 $39.90 $43.78 $46.59 $54.28

$78.85 $86.45 $94.86 $100.95 $117.61

$54.59 $59.85 $65.68 $69.88 $81.42

$118.28 $129.68 $142.31 $151.41 $176.41

AETNA DENTAL High

RATING REGION*

Standard

2 3 4 5

2 3 4 5 BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD FEP DENTAL High 1 2 3 4 5

Standard

Standard

1

$9.94 $10.83 $11.67 $12.31 $14.10

$21.54 $23.47 $25.29 $26.67 $30.55

$19.89 $21.65 $23.33 $24.62 $28.20

$43.10 $46.91 $50.55 $53.34 $61.10

$29.83 $32.48 $35.00 $36.92 $42.30

$64.63 $70.37 $75.83 $79.99 $91.65

$17.93 $20.15 $21.98 $24.61 $26.67

$38.85 $43.66 $47.62 $53.32 $57.79

$35.84 $40.28 $43.96 $49.20 $53.34

$77.65 $87.27 $95.25 $106.60 $115.57

$53.77 $60.44 $65.95 $73.81 $79.95

$116.50 $130.95 $142.89 $159.92 $173.23

1

$10.14 $11.36 $12.44 $13.88 $14.99

$21.97 $24.61 $26.95 $30.07 $32.48

$20.28 $22.71 $24.83 $27.74 $29.98

$43.94 $49.21 $53.80 $60.10 $64.96

$30.40 $33.99 $37.26 $41.60 $44.98

$65.87 $73.65 $80.73 $90.13 $97.46

1

$21.11 $23.20 $24.34 $26.03 $31.30

$45.74 $50.27 $52.74 $56.40 $67.82

$42.22 $46.40 $48.68 $52.05 $62.61

$91.48 $100.53 $105.47 $112.78 $135.66

$63.34 $69.60 $73.03 $78.08 $93.91

$137.24 $150.80 $158.23 $169.17 $203.47

1

$11.19 $12.06 $13.01 $14.28 $16.38

$24.25 $26.13 $28.19 $30.94 $35.49

$22.39 $24.11 $26.02 $28.56 $32.76

$48.51 $52.24 $56.38 $61.88 $70.98

$33.58 $36.17 $39.02 $42.85 $49.13

$72.76 $78.37 $84.54 $92.84 $106.45

$18.45 $19.46 $21.61 $23.50 $25.90

$39.98 $42.16 $46.82 $50.92 $56.12

$36.89 $38.92 $43.22 $47.01 $51.80

$79.93 $84.33 $93.64 $101.86 $112.23

$55.34 $58.38 $64.84 $70.51 $77.69

$119.90 $126.49 $140.49 $152.77 $168.33

2 3 4 5 GEHA CONNECTION DENTAL FEDERAL High 1 2 3 4 5

Standard

HUMANA DENTAL PLAN High

Standard

2 3 4 5 2 3 4 5

2 3 4 5 THE METLIFE FEDERAL DENTAL PLAN High 1 2 3 4 5

54

KEY: Employees pay biweekly Annuitants pay monthly

NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

PLAN NAME

RATING REGION* THE METLIFE FEDERAL DENTAL PLAN

Standard

SELF ONLY biweekly monthly

1

SELF PLUS ONE biweekly monthly

SELF AND FAMILY biweekly monthly

$10.48 $11.13 $12.16 $13.41 $14.07

$22.71 $24.12 $26.35 $29.06 $30.49

$20.95 $22.25 $24.32 $26.82 $28.14

$45.39 $48.21 $52.69 $58.11 $60.97

$31.43 $33.38 $36.47 $40.23 $42.21

$68.10 $72.32 $79.02 $87.17 $91.46

$17.62 $19.77 $21.95 $24.11 $26.27

$38.18 $42.84 $47.56 $52.24 $56.92

$35.23 $39.53 $43.87 $48.20 $52.53

$76.33 $85.65 $95.05 $104.43 $113.82

$52.83 $59.30 $65.83 $72.31 $78.78

$114.47 $128.48 $142.63 $156.67 $170.69

$10.14 $11.39 $12.61 $13.83 $15.05

$21.97 $24.68 $27.32 $29.97 $32.61

$20.28 $22.74 $25.22 $27.66 $30.09

$43.94 $49.27 $54.64 $59.93 $65.20

$30.42 $34.12 $37.82 $41.49 $45.15

$65.91 $73.93 $81.94 $89.90 $97.83

$20.60 $21.63 $22.71 $26.14 $30.72

$44.63 $46.87 $49.21 $56.64 $66.56

$41.20 $43.26 $45.43 $52.28 $61.43

$89.27 $93.73 $98.43 $113.27 $133.10

$61.80 $64.90 $68.14 $78.42 $92.15

$133.90 $140.62 $147.64 $169.91 $199.66

1 $11.42 $24.74 2 $12.91 $27.97 3 $13.88 $30.07 4 $14.60 $31.63 5 $16.96 $36.75 * Rating regions for each carrier are not the same for all plans

$22.83 $25.82 $27.76 $29.20 $33.93

$49.47 $55.94 $60.15 $63.27 $73.52

$34.25 $38.73 $41.64 $43.80 $50.89

$74.21 $83.92 $90.22 $94.90 $110.26

2 3 4 5 UNITED CONCORDIA DENTAL PLAN High 1 2 3 4 5

Standard

1

2 3 4 5 UNITEDHEALTHCARE DENTAL PLAN High 1 2 3 4 5

Standard

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Members have access to the latest hearing aid models, styles and technology, including the New Signia Styletto IX. Signia Styletto IX

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We’ve been offering custom-fit hearing aid devices for over 35 years. Here’s what makes us unique:

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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

55

OPEN SEASON REPORT SELF PLUS ONE VS. SELF & FAMILY COSTS The Office of Personnel Management provided a table highlighting plans offering a lower cost for Self & Family when compared with Self Plus One selections for 2025.

FEHB PLANS

56

Plan Name

Plan Option

Code

Service Area

NALC Health Benefit Plan Foreign Service Benefit Plan Aetna HealthFund CDHP and Aetna Value Plan

High High CDHP

32 40 F5

Aetna HealthFund CDHP and Aetna Value Plan

Value

F5

Aetna HealthFund CDHP and Aetna Value Plan

CDHP

EP

Aetna HealthFund CDHP and Aetna Value Plan

Value

EP

Aetna HealthFund CDHP and Aetna Value Plan

CDHP

H4

Aetna HealthFund CDHP and Aetna Value Plan

Value

H4

Aetna HealthFund CDHP and Aetna Value Plan

CDHP

G5

Aetna HealthFund CDHP and Aetna Value Plan

Value

G5

Aetna HealthFund CDHP and Aetna Value Plan

CDHP

JS

Aetna HealthFund CDHP and Aetna Value Plan

Value

JS

Aetna HealthFund HDHP

HDHP

22

Aetna Open Access Aetna Open Access Aetna Open Access Aetna Open Access Aetna Open Access Aetna Open Access Aetna Open Access

High High High High High Basic High

WQ 2X YE 2U JR JR P3

Aetna Open Access

Basic

P3

Aetna Open Access Aetna Open Access Aetna Open Access

High Basic High

JC JC JN

Aetna Health of Utah Inc.

Standard

DK

Nationwide Nationwide All of Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina and Washington, DC. Most of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Tennessee, Virgina, West Virginia.

All of Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina and Washington, DC. Most of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Tennessee, Virgina, West Virginia.

All of Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Vermont. Most of Massachusetts and New York.

All of Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Vermont. Most of Massachusetts and New York.

All of Iowa, Nebraska, Pennsylvania and Wyoming. South/Southeast/Western Montana Areas. Most of Idaho, Illinois, Kentucky, Minnesota, Mississippi, North Dakota and Oregon.

All of Iowa, Nebraska, Pennsylvania and Wyoming. South/Southeast/Western Montana Areas. Most of Idaho, Illinois, Kentucky, Minnesota, Mississippi, North Dakota and Oregon.

All of Arizona, Colorado, and Michigan.

Albuquerque/Dona Ana/Hobbs Area, Las Vegas Area, and Rapid City/Sioux Falls Area. Most of Kansas, Missouri, Utah, and Washington.

All of Arizona, Colorado, and Michigan.

Albuquerque/Dona Ana/Hobbs Area, Las Vegas Area, and Rapid City/Sioux Falls Area. Most of Kansas, Missouri, Utah, and Washington.

All of Hawaii, Indiana, Oklahoma, Ohio, South Carolina, Texas and Wisconsin. Most of Alaska and California.

All of Hawaii, Indiana, Oklahoma, Ohio, South Carolina, Texas and Wisconsin. Most of Alaska and California.

In all 50 states and the District of Columbia Phoenix and Tucson Areas Los Angeles and San Diego Areas Pittsburgh and Western PA Areas Atlanta and Athens Areas Northern New Jersey Northern New Jersey Southern NJ, Philadelphia and Kent/New Castle/Sussex areas.

Southern NJ, Philadelphia and Kent/New Castle/Sussex areas.

NYC Area/Upstate NY NYC Area/Upstate NY Northern/Central/Southern Maryland Areas, Northern Virginia AreaNorthern Virginia Area and Washington, DC Area.

Most of Utah, Lincoln, Sweetwater and Uinta Counties and Southern Region.

NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

Self Plus One $318.71 $251.52 $564.09

Self & Family $283.94 $230.95 $512.01

$563.28

$523.35

$782.97

$733.08

$867.27

$833.41

$541.07

$488.49

$808.95

$773.90

$419.97

$377.11

$454.05

$455.65

$811.47

$761.86

$756.63

$706.42

$287.01

$241.49

$938.29 $805.76 $1,297.05 $1,308.18 $1,787.06 $1,330.05 $1,373.61

$889.95 $770.62 $1,252.27 $1,263.54 $1,747.21 $1,285.63 $1,329.61

$1,253.64

$1,208.47

$1,520.66 $1,234.66 $861.90

$1,478.13 $1,189.26 $812.81

$469.79

$416.76

SELF PLUS ONE VS. SELF & FAMILY COSTS The Office of Personnel Management provided a table highlighting plans offering a lower cost for Self & Family when compared with Self Plus One selections for 2025.

FEHB PLANS Self Plus One $736.50

Self & Family $686.11

$257.12

$231.33

$303.15

$294.74

Central, North and West Texas

$435.78

$435.14

$358.82

$354.74

$361.99 $300.15

$357.29 $237.54

$404.93 $366.93

$340.70 $302.70

$371.51

$307.28

59

Northeastern/ Central/ South Central areas Western New York Denver/Boulder metropolitan area, Northern and Southern Colorado areas Northern California: Fresno service area Atlanta metropolitan area, Athens, Columbus, Macon, Savannah Metropolitan Baltimore Maryland area, Northern Virginia and Washington, DC Northern California

$526.34

$462.11

Standard

59

Northern California

$301.17

$237.79

High

57

$322.55

$258.32

Kaiser Permanente - Northwest

Standard

57

$236.45

$221.61

Kaiser Permanente - Southern California Kaiser Permanente - Washington Core Kaiser Permanente - Washington Core Optima Health Presbyterian Health Plan Presbyterian Health Plan Western Health Advantage, Inc.

High

62

Portland metropolitan, Salem and Eugene areas, Vancouver and Longview Portland metropolitan, Salem and Eugene areas, Vancouver and Longview Southern California

$336.07

$271.84

High

54

$464.99

$400.76

Standard

54

$235.61

$221.40

High High Standard High

PG P2 PS W5

$378.80 $489.81 $305.25 $320.50

$314.64 $465.69 $274.64 $256.27

Plan Name

Plan Option

Code

Service Area

Aetna Health of Utah Inc.

High

9K

Aetna Health of Utah Inc.

HDHP

9K

Baylor Scott and White Health Plan Baylor Scott and White Health Plan Geisinger Health Plan

Standard

A8

Most of Utah, Lincoln, Sweetwater and Uinta Counties and Southern Region.

Most of Utah, Lincoln, Sweetwater and Uinta Counties and Southern Region.

Central, North and West Texas

Standard

P8

Basic

AJ

Independent Health Assoc.

Kaiser Permanente - Colorado

Standard High

C5 65

Kaiser Permanente - Fresno Kaiser Permanente - Georgia

High High

NZ F8

Kaiser Permanente - Mid-Atlantic States Kaiser Permanente - Northern California Kaiser Permanente - Northern California Kaiser Permanente - Northwest

High

E3

High

Northern Idaho and Western, Central and Eastern Washington Northern Idaho and Western, Central and Eastern Washington Greater Hampton Roads Region Entire State of New Mexico Entire state of New Mexico Western Pennsylvania

2025 PREMIUMS - NATIONWIDE VISION PLANS PLAN NAME AETNA VISION PREFERRED High

SELF ONLY monthly

biweekly

KEY: Employees pay biweekly Annuitants pay monthly SELF PLUS ONE monthly

SELF AND FAMILY biweekly monthly

biweekly

Standard

$5.68 $12.31 $3.17 $6.87

$11.34 $24.57 $6.33 $13.72

$17.02 $36.88 $9.50 $20.58

Standard

$5.66 $12.26 $3.56 $7.71

$11.31 $24.51 $7.12 $15.43

$16.97 $36.77 $10.68 $23.14

Standard

$5.11 $11.07 $3.34 $7.24

$10.23 $22.17 $6.68 $14.47

$15.34 $33.24 $10.02 $21.71

Standard

$5.63 $12.20 $3.63 $7.87

$11.25 $24.38 $7.26 $15.73

$16.88 $36.57 $10.89 $23.60

Standard

$6.72 $14.56 $3.58 $7.76

$13.46 $29.16 $7.16 $15.51

$20.19 $43.75 $10.75 $23.29

BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD FEP VISION High THE METLIFE FEDERAL VISION PLAN High UNITEDHEALTHCARE VISION PLAN High VSP VISION CARE High

NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

57

OPEN SEASON REPORT SELF PLUS ONE VS. SELF & FAMILY COSTS The Office of Personnel Management provided a table highlighting plans offering a lower cost for Self & Family when compared with Self Plus One selections for 2025.

PSHB PLANS

58

Plan Name

Plan Option

Code

Service Area

NALC Health Benefit Plan Rural Carrier Benefit Plan Aetna HealthFund CDHP and Aetna Value Plan

High High CDHP

77 79 GR

Aetna HealthFund CDHP and Aetna Value Plan

Value

GR

Aetna HealthFund CDHP and Aetna Value Plan

CDHP

HH

Aetna HealthFund CDHP and Aetna Value Plan

Value

HH

Aetna HealthFund CDHP and Aetna Value Plan

CDHP

JD

Aetna HealthFund CDHP and Aetna Value Plan

Value

JD

Aetna HealthFund CDHP and Aetna Value Plan

CDHP

KD

Aetna HealthFund CDHP and Aetna Value Plan

Value

KD

Aetna HealthFund CDHP and Aetna Value Plan

CDHP

L7

Aetna HealthFund CDHP and Aetna Value Plan

Value

L7

Aetna HealthFund HDHP

HDHP

G3

Aetna Open Access

High

G8

Kaiser Permanente - Fresno California Kaiser Permanente - Georgia

High

NN

Nationwide Nationwide All of Arizona, Colorado, and Michigan.

Albuquerque/Dona Ana/Hobbs Area, Las Vegas Area, and Rapid City/Sioux Falls Area. Most of Kansas, Missouri, Utah, and Washington.

All of Arizona, Colorado, and Michigan.

Albuquerque/Dona Ana/Hobbs Area, Las Vegas Area, and Rapid City/Sioux Falls Area. Most of Kansas, Missouri, Utah, and Washington.

All of Iowa, Nebraska, Pennsylvania and Wyoming. South/Southeast/Western Montana Areas. Most of Idaho, Illinois, Kentucky, Minnesota, Mississippi, North Dakota and Oregon.

All of Iowa, Nebraska, Pennsylvania and Wyoming. South/Southeast/Western Montana Areas. Most of Idaho, Illinois, Kentucky, Minnesota, Mississippi, North Dakota and Oregon.

All of Hawaii, Indiana, Oklahoma, Ohio, South Carolina, Texas and Wisconsin. Most of Alaska and California.

All of Hawaii, Indiana, Oklahoma, Ohio, South Carolina, Texas and Wisconsin. Most of Alaska and California.

All of Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Vermont. Most of Massachusetts and New York.

All of Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Vermont. Most of Massachusetts and New York.

All of Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina and Washington, DC. Most of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Tennessee, Virgina, West Virginia.

All of Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina and Washington, DC. Most of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Tennessee, Virgina, West Virginia.

In all 50 states and the District of Columbia All of Washington, D.C., All of Maryland, and Northern Virginia Areas Northern California: Fresno service area

High

PF

Kaiser Permanente Mid-Atlantic States Kaiser Permanente Northern California Kaiser Permanente Northern California Kaiser Permanente Southern California Kaiser Permanente Washington Core

High

RA

High

Self Plus One $266.08 $282.53 $1,031.14

Self & Family $238.42 $273.37 $993.07

$628.60

$598.97

$447.80

$403.68

$784.32

$757.82

$1,091.24

$1,053.79

$763.51

$722.75

$898.32

$858.93

$816.36

$790.55

$596.53

$554.15

$863.77

$838.89

$377.42

$342.76

$883.08

$843.57

$376.68

$322.13

$332.37

$277.82

$299.20

$244.65

TB

Atlanta metropolitan area, Athens, Columbus, Macon, Savannah Washington, DC, Northern Virginia, and Metropolitan Baltimore, Maryland Area Northern California

$519.91

$465.36

Standard

TB

Northern California

$281.10

$226.55

High

Y3

Southern California

$268.83

$221.81

High

PR

Northern Idaho and Western, Central and Eastern Washington

$419.66

$365.11

NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

Don’t Miss NARFE’s Estate Planning Webinar DECEMBER 12

Estate Planning for Feds

An effective estate plan deals with both incapacity and death. Creating and implementing an effective estate plan will help to avoid messy legal battles and ensure state law doesn’t dictate who takes care of you and who gets your money. Feds who understand the components of an effective estate plan, including the nuances of federal benefits, will be able to implement the proper strategies to ensure they will be taken care of during periods of incapacity and have their assets transfer to the heirs of choice in the most effective way possible. Join Mark Keen, CFP®, for this informative webinar.

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

Miss a Webinar? Watch these NARFE Webinars On Demand • Postal Service Health Benefits Program • Picking FEHB Plans for Retirees without Medicare • FEHB & Medicare Part D • Planning for Long Term Care

NARFE WEBINAR PRESENTERS

• Medicare: To Part B or Not to B? • How FEHB & Medicare Work Together • 2024 Open Season Roundup: FEHB, FEDVIP, & FSA • FEHB & Medicare Advantage

ALL WEBINARS FREE FOR NARFE MEMBERS REGISTER TODAY! Call: 800-456-8410 x1 Email: memberrecords@narfe.org Online: www.narfe.org/webinars NOT A MEMBER? Join NARFE today at NARFE.org/Join.

Kevin Moss

Tammy Flanagan

Mark Keen, CFP

Federal benefits and retirement expert

Senior Editor with Checkbook’s Financial planner helping Feds prepare for retirement Guide to Health Plans

NARFE FEDERAL BENEFITS INSTITUTE

Managing Money

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Understanding the Five-Year Requirement for Qualified Roth Distributions he main draw of Roth accounts is the potential for taxfree growth, but the earnings in a Roth account will only be tax-free with a qualified withdrawal.

As last month’s column explained, a qualified withdrawal occurs when the Roth account owner has reached age 59 ½ (or in the event of death or disability.

Additionally, for Roth IRAs, if the owner meets the definition of a first-time homebuyer) and five years have passed since the Roth account was first funded (the five-year rule).

That sounds simple enough, right? Although satisfying the five-year rule appears straightforward, Roth account owners must know several important details.

For starters, the five-year rule requires five tax years to pass from when the Roth account was first funded.

However, the countdown does not begin with the day of the first contribution. Instead, it starts on January 1 of the tax year for which the first contribution was made. For example, if a contribution is made on December 31, 2024, the clock starts on January 1, 2024.

Roth conversions must be completed by December 31, but Roth IRA contributions may be made until the applicable year’s tax filing deadline (generally April 15). Given the deadline for Roth contributions, it’s possible to satisfy the five-year rule in less than four years from the date of the first contribution.

For example, if a Roth IRA owner makes their first Roth

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IRA contribution on April 15, 2025, for the 2024 tax year, the clock starts on January 1, 2024, and the five-year period will be satisfied beginning in 2029.

ROTH CONVERSIONS MUST BE COMPLETED

BY DECEMBER 31, BUT ROTH IRA CONTRIBUTIONS MAY BE MADE UNTIL THE APPLICABLE YEAR’S TAX FILING DEADLINE (GENERALLY APRIL 15).

That’s just over three years and eight months from the date of the actual contribution.

The five-year rule necessary for a qualified withdrawal applies separately to Roth IRAs and employer-based Roth accounts, such as the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). However, there are some important differences in how the five-year rule is applied.

With Roth IRAs, once the five-year rule has been satisfied for one Roth IRA, it’s satisfied for all Roth IRAs an individual may own. This includes any new Roth IRAs an individual

may open. On the other hand, if someone has multiple employer-based Roth accounts, they must satisfy the five-year rule separately for each one.

Satisfying the five-year rule for an employer-based Roth account will not satisfy it for a Roth IRA, or vice versa. Furthermore, if a TSP participant transfers their Roth TSP (or any employer-based Roth account) to a Roth IRA, the holding period attained in the Roth TSP does not transfer over to the Roth IRA. If a TSP participant didn’t have a Roth IRA before the transfer, a fresh five-year clock will apply to the Roth IRA when the Roth TSP money transfers.

For example, let’s assume a TSP participant who recently retired began contributions to their Roth TSP seven years ago and decides to transfer her Roth TSP to a Roth IRA. On October 1, 2024, the TSP participant opens her first Roth IRA and, on the same day, instructs the TSP to transfer her Roth TSP to her new Roth IRA. Although she has satisfied the five-year rule for the Roth TSP, she’ll have to satisfy a new five-year rule for the Roth IRA, which will start on January 1, 2024 (assuming the transfer was completed before December 31, 2024).

However, if a TSP participant has an existing Roth IRA, the Roth IRA’s holding period will apply to any funds transferred from the Roth TSP to the Roth IRA. This holds even if the participant

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

opens a new Roth IRA to receive the Roth TSP money. Remember, once the five-year rule has been satisfied for one Roth IRA, it’s satisfied for any Roth IRAs a taxpayer may own. The takeaway is that if a participant is considering transferring their Roth TSP to a Roth IRA, they may want to fund a Roth IRA before the transfer to get the five-year clock started sooner rather than later.

It’s important not to confuse the five-year rule necessary for a qualified withdrawal with the five-year rule that applies to Roth conversions.

Last month’s column explained the five-year rule pertaining to Roth conversions, including the

fact that it only applies when the individual is younger than 59 ½ at the time of distribution.

However, the five-year rule for a qualified withdrawal always applies, regardless of age at the time of withdrawal.

MARK A. KEEN, CFP®, PARTNER, KEEN & POCOCK. SECURITIES AND ADVISORY SERVICES OFFERED THROUGH THE STRATEGIC FINANCIAL ALLIANCE, INC. (“SFA”) MEMBER FINRA, SIPC. ADVISORY SERVICES OFFERED THROUGH STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT, LLC., A REGISTERED INVESTMENT ADVISER. MARK KEEN IS A REGISTERED REPRESENTATIVE AND INVESTMENT ADVISER REPRESENTATIVE OF SFA AND INVESTMENT ADVISER REPRESENTATIVE OF STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT.

Join Us for The Global Day of Giving

Together we give.

DEC 3, 2024

On December 3, people all around the world are coming together to tap into the power of human connection and strengthen communities and change our world. Will you be one of them?

By joining the GivingTuesday movement, you’re proving that in times of uncertainty, generosity can bring the whole world together. It’s a great opportunity to support NARFE and a chance to share NARFE’s mission of advocacy and federal benefits education with others.

Here is how you can get ready to give: 1. MARK YOUR CALENDAR. 2. GIVE. On December 3, go to NARFE.org/GivingTuesday and donate.

3. SPREAD THE WORD. Encourage your friends and family to join you in creating real impact on December 3 by sharing what our mission means to you and why you support our organization. Let’s rally together to build stronger communities.

Learn more at NARFE.org/GivingTuesday

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Alzheimer’s Update

New Grants Awarded for Alzheimer’s Research

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ach year, the NARFE-Alzheimer’s National Committee determines which research projects will be awarded Grants from the NARFE-Alzheimer’s Research Fund.

Since the NARFE-Alzheimer partnership began in 1985, NARFE has awarded 95 research grants. In fiscal year 2024, NARFE members donated $285,954.19 to the fund. At our 2024 Virtual NARFE Alzheimer’s National Annual Training meeting on September 4 and 5, the committee awarded two new grants totaling $311,250.00.

NARFE members: Thank you for your very generous donations this past year. This year’s grants are awarded to the following: Kelly Stauch, Ph.D., University of Nebraska Medical Center (Omaha, Nebraska), was awarded $200,000, fully funded over three years for her research on “The role of APOE4 in synaptic mitochondrial dysfunction.” This study will examine how genetic variations linked to Alzheimer’s impact the energy centers in brain cell connections.

The apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene makes the APOE protein, which is thought to help carry fats throughout the body. There appear to be several APOE gene variations, including APOE-e2, APOE-e3, and APOE-e4. The studies also show that possessing the APOE-e4 variant may increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s in some populations, while possessing APOE-e2 may offer some protection against Alzheimer’s. The study will also examine how the different variations of APOE may be

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associated with one’s risk for dementia and how this remains unclear.

In her preliminary work, Stauch and her colleagues studied the connection between the brain cells in mice, called synapses.

They found that mice with the APOE-e4 gene appeared to have problems with the energy centers, known as mitochondria, in their synapses.

In the research plan, Stauch and her colleagues will use genetically engineered mice with Alzheimer’ s-like brain changes to study how the APOE-e4 gene affects fats like cholesterol in the mitochondria within synapses.

The researchers will also determine how these changes might relate to tau, a protein that clumps into “tangles” in the brain, which is one of the characteristic features of Alzheimer’s disease.

Moreover, the research team will study how the APOE-e4 gene affects the protein composition of the mitochondria within synapses. They will also examine the molecular changes within the synapses’ mitochondria that may account for the disease-specific changes. They will use special tests to measure how these energy centers work and what’s happening inside.

Stauch’s research could provide valuable insights into the role of the APOE-e4 gene in Alzheimer’s disease. It may also help understand how APOE-e4

affects the mitochondrial function in the brain cells.

Matheus Scarpatto Rodrigues, Ph.D., University of Pittsburgh (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania), was awarded $111,250 in a partial sponsorship funded over three years for his research in “The Role of cholesterol metabolism to microglia reactivity and tau spreading.”

The study will look at how the nerve cells in the brain use cholesterol as both a source of energy and how to maintain their cell structures. Studies have shown that the cholesterol in cells and its metabolism, the process by which the cholesterol is made and broken down or stored, is vital to healthy brain function, which may also play a role in the progression of Alzheimer’s and other dementia. However, the precise mechanisms linking cholesterol, metabolism and Alzheimer’s are unknown.

In the preliminary studies, Rodrigues and his colleagues have shown that changes in cholesterol metabolism can impact the activity of the microglia, the primary immune cells in the brain. Since microglia activity appears to be altered during the progression of Alzheimer’s, these findings suggest a link between cholesterol metabolism, microglia activity, and Alzheimer’s.

Rodrigues and his team will measure cholesterol levels in the brain tissue of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. They will also associate the extent

of cholesterol levels within each tissue sample with changes in proteins involved in cholesterol metabolism and the hallmark brain changes of Alzheimer’s, including the accumulation of amyloid plaque and tau tangles.

The researchers will then begin to measure the levels of microglia activity in the same brain tissue to be able to explain how the changes in cholesterolrelated proteins impact microglia activity, Lastly, once they have identified the cholesterolrelated proteins associated with both the microglia activity and the hallmark brain changes in Alzheimer’s, the team will measure the levels of those proteins in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), the biological fluid surrounding the brain, of the individuals with Alzheimer’s.

Therefore, the impact of this study will provide a deeper understanding of how changes in cholesterol metabolism may contribute to Alzheimer’s progression. The findings may support future investigation into the use of cholesterol-lowering

therapies as a potential therapeutic approach for Alzheimer’s.

Thanks to all of the NARFE members for your continued support of the Walks to End Alzheimer’s disease, the Longest Day, and your continued support in your generous giving with financial donations, along with your time and talent. One day, a cure will be found, and there will be survivors of Alzheimer’s disease.

NARFE members, I wish you and your families a Merry Christmas and a happy, prosperous, and successful New Year.

For more information about Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia, please contact 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 wonderful help. We can do this together.

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

NARFE has partnered with Heroes Vacation Club (HVC) to offer amazing travel benefits to America’s civil servants and their families.

Enjoy incredible vacations at discounted rates with exclusive travel discounts on hotels, resorts, cruises, car rentals, airfare, and more.

Heroes Vacation Club Benefits: • Resort Stays from $399: Enjoy 1, 2, or 3 bedroom suites worldwide, perfect for group travel or family getaways.

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When creating your account, Select NARFE in the Organizational dropdown Join Now at HeroesVacationClub.com

NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

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NARFE News

Enter NARFE’s Photo Calendar Contest

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apture the image that conveys your interpretation of the phrase “Spirit of America” and submit it to the 2025 NARFE Photo Contest. Winning photos will be featured

in the 2026 NARFE Calendar. Submissions will be accepted from now through February 3, 2025.

Spread the word about the contest to friends and colleagues.

If you are a NARFE federation or chapter leader, please provide a link to the guidelines, available at www.narfe.org/ photocontest, on your website and e-newsletter, and include the guidelines in your print newsletter.

All NARFE members in good standing, except for those who are professional photographers, are eligible to enter, even if they’ve already had a photo appear in past calendars.

By entering the contest, you grant NARFE a nonexclusive

license to use your photo in perpetuity in any medium, including editing, publishing, distributing and republishing

it in any form. Entrants retain the copyright to their images.

NARFE assumes no liability for any misuse of copyright.

Photos for the 2026 calendar will be selected and winners notified by the end of June 2025.

Send photos to NARFE Photo Contest, Attn: Francine Garner, NARFE, 606 N. Washington St., Alexandria, VA 22314.

CONTEST GUIDELINES • Photos must be horizontal and 8” x 10” or 8-1/2” x 11”.

• Each member is limited to five photo entries and must put the following information on a piece of paper taped to the back of each photo: title, description (up to 15 words), member name, address, chapter (if applicable), email address and phone number.

• No photos of children or pets, please.

• Photos sent by email will not be accepted. No Polaroids. Photos will not be returned.

SUBMIT YOUR 2025 FEDERATION/REGIONAL EVENT INFORMATION If your federation or region is planning to hold a 2025 event or election, please complete the form att https://www.narfe.org/submit-2025-federation-conferenceselections/ to provide location, dates and contact information. Event details will be published in NARFE Magazine at no charge as space allows throughout 2025.

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Thank you TO OUR 2024

Circle Sponsors CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE

PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE

EXECUTIVE CIRCLE

NARFE News

Shackelford Elected to a Second Term as NARFE National President

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illiam “Bill” Shackelford of Centreville, VA, has been re-elected the National President of NARFE, the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association. His second two-year term will begin January 1, 2025. In this role, he is responsible for providing general oversight of and strategic direction to the association.

“During my tenure as National President, I have been constantly reminded that together we can secure the future of NARFE,” Shackelford said. “I’m proud of the progress we have achieved together, and I remain committed to advancing the interests of

federal employees and retirees, as well as growing our association’s membership and influence.”

Before running for national president in 2022, Shackelford was regional vice president for Region X, which includes Virginia, West Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee and North Carolina.

He has served as president and first and second vice president of the Virginia Federation and as the service officer, newsletter editor, vice president and president of Fairfax Chapter 0737.

Shackelford retired in 2006 from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) after 34 years of service. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in judicial

administration from American University and an associate degree in law enforcement science from Northern Virginia Community College.

Members can access full results, including bylaws and standing rule amendments, at at www.narfe.org/2024-narfenational-election/2024-narfeelection-results/.

Also elected to the NARFE National Executive Board for 2025-26: Cindy Reneé Blythe was elected as NARFE National Secretary/Treasurer. She previously served as regional vice president of Region V, president of the Kansas Federation and president of Chapter 2009 in Osage City, Kansas. She retired from the Coast Guard with more 35 years of federal service.

Jeff Anliker, regional vice president of Region I, representing Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont (ran unopposed).

Paul K. Schwartz, regional vice president of Region II, representing Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

Huelyn “Lynn” Harper, regional vice president of Region III, representing Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

Edward J. Konys, regional vice president of Region IV, representing Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin (ran unopposed).

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Linda M. Sawvell, regional vice president of Region V, representing Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota (ran unopposed).

Patricia Abadie Ashton, regional vice president of Region VI, representing Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas and the Republic of Panama.

Sharon Reese, regional vice president of Region VII, representing Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming (ran unopposed).

John William Almquist, regional vice president of Region VIII, representing California, Hawaii, Nevada and Republic of Philippines.

Steven R. Roy, regional vice president of Region IX, representing Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington (ran unopposed).

Robert Allen, regional vice president of Region X, representing Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia.

Do you love being a member of NARFE but dislike receiving renewal notices?

GO PAPERLESS! Dues Withholding is for retired members and is only $42 annually ($3.50/monthly annuity withholding). To apply, see NARFE’s Dues Witholding application in previous issues of NARFE Magazine or on the back of your next renewal notice.

It takes about 4-5 months to get members onto dues withholding.

Or anyone can sign up for AutoPay! Sign up for AutoPay for a 1-year, 2-year or 3-year membership rate and save.

1 yr – $48 2 yr – $92 3 yr – $126

Login to our website at https://members.narfe.org/ and click on My Account and then My Settings and click on My AutoPay Account to preauthorize your card today!

Call 800-456-8410 and dial 1 for membership assistance to update your rate.

Stay in your chapter and don’t worry about forgetting to renew!

NARFE News

Last Month to Win Cool Prizes During NARFE’s Fall Membership Drive!

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t’s the final month for NARFE’s annual Fall Membership Drive! Did 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.

The drive began on September 1, and the program runs through December 31, 2024. Current members can earn $10 for each new member they recruit and other prizes.

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. Please use email, your websites, and social media to encourage your fellow members to participate and promote the benefits of NARFE membership. And be sure to provide prospects with your NARFE member 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 federal employees to NARFE. To access them, log in at www.narfe.org and click on “For Members” on the menu bar and select “Officer Resources” on the dropdown menu. On the Officer Resources page, scroll down and click on “Membership Officer Resources” to access a page with many helpful tools, including: • A recruitment email template that incorporates a testimonial • The NARFE membership brochure (F-135), with powerful talking points • An “elevator speech” to help you quickly and effectively explain the benefits of NARFE membership • The “About NARFE” video if you have an opportunity to make a short introduction to NARFE and want the impact of professional, polished media • A membership presentation script that covers NARFE’s advocacy efforts and all our key member benefits • PowerPoint slides provide visuals that sync up

NARFE Membership Brochure (F-135) with application inside 68

NARFE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024

with the script and show all the ways NARFE helps members get more out of their federal benefits • A full-color ad you can download featuring a member testimonial • Excerpts from NARFE Magazine you can download and send to prospects 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 “Officer Resources” page which 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. Together, we can help NARFE grow!

—BY NORA MACDONALD, DIRECTOR, MEMBER ENGAGEMENT

2024 NARFE Scholarship Winners Announced

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ARFE is proud to announce the 2024 NARFE Scholarship winners and their NARFE sponsors. Each student will receive a one-time award of $2,000 to put toward the 202425 school year.

In 1987, the Federal Employee Education & Assistance Fund (FEEA) established a scholarship program for children and grandchildren of federal employees. Ten years later, NARFE joined FEEA’s Board of Directors and soon after that authorized creation of a scholarship program open to the children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren of NARFE members.

The program is funded by the NARFE-FEEA Fund, supported by NARFE members and administered by FEEA. To support the program, donations to the NARFE-FEEA Fund can be made online or by check payable to NARFE-FEEA Fund mailed to: NARFE-FEEA Fund c/o FEEA, 1641 Prince St., Alexandria, VA 22314.

NARFE thanks the volunteers who served on the Scholarship Selection Committee and to the staff members of FEEA who administer the program.

2024 WINNERS BY REGION This year, a total of $20,000 was awarded to 10 high school seniors. Winners are listed by region of residence.

REGION I

REGION VI

William Dougherty Massachusetts Sponsor: Irmingard Doane

Isabel Monks Texas Sponsor: William Monks

REGION II

REGION VII

Benjamin Loller Maryland Sponsor: William Walmsley

Eva Da Silva Arizona Sponsor: Roger Corner

REGION III

REGION VIII

Felix Airhart Alabama Sponsor: Monroe Hayes

Emily Ikeda Hawaii Sponsor: George Nakashima

REGION IV

REGION IX

Lila Cohen Wisconsin Sponsor: Joanne Serdynski

Bodie Strom Washington Sponsor: Sharon Neuswanger

REGION V

REGION X

Arabelle Rohs Missouri Sponsor: Shirley Rohs

Kendall England Tennessee Sponsor: Brenda Gibson

APPLY FOR THE 2025 NARFE-FEEA SCHOLARSHIPS The 2025 NARFE-FEEA Scholarship Program is open to high school seniors only. Applicants must be children, grandchildren or great-grandchildren of NARFE members. For more information and to access the application, visit www.feea.org/our-programs/ scholarships/.

NARFE MAGAZINE www.NARFE.org

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

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

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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

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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

HP – The Association Member Store | 1-888-678-9620 | www.narfe.org/hp-perk-2024E

NEW

NARFE members enjoy exclusive discounts via a private store environment. Save up to an additional 10% on Desktops, Laptops, Printers, and Accessories; and save an additional 5% on Care Packs and Services. Access to exclusive member-only promotions. Simply log on and purchase your options with a dedicated US Sales Support team to assist you. HP has Business Account Managers based in Boise, ID, and Rio Rancho, New Mexico. Call 1-888-678-9620, Monday - Friday 7:00am -7:30pm CST.

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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 NEW ! $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.

WELLNESS

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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.

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

Life Line Screening, America’s leading provider of community-based preventive health screenings, will conduct health screenings using state-of-the-art ultrasound technology in your neighborhood. Operator code BKHN075.

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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

Adjusting Clocks in the U.S. Capitol Building This 1922 photograph shows George H. Jones, clerk at the U.S. House of Representatives, adjusting the Car of History clock in Statuary Hall. He’s lining up his feet perfectly on the narrow support below the Statue of Clio and her clockwheeled chariot. At that time there were an estimated 125 clocks in the Capitol. Today, the Architect of the Capitol is responsible for maintaining most of the estimated 8,000 clocks on Capitol Hill. The Senate and House curators assist with caring for the historic and sculptural clocks, including the 200-year-old Car of History clock, which is still on display in National Statuary Hall.

Photo Credit: Collection of the U.S. House of Representatives Photo Courtesy of Clerk of the House’s Office of Art and Archives 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 DECEMBER 2024

DID YOU KNOW? Did you know? Statuary hall has hosted 195 events since 2005. It is used for a variety of events, including memorial ceremonies and receptions for new members of Congress, award presentations and as a media space after presidential addresses. .

Visit https://crsreports. congress.gov

Find this and other great deals on fepblue.org/blue365

Made available through:

Get more with TruHearing®.

When you use your allowance through TruHearing, it goes further with discounts on top hearing aids.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield Service Benefit Plan members also get TruHearing's unmatched service on everything from obtaining prior authorization to a dedicated Hearing Consultant.

August is wearing a custom TruHearing Premium hearing aid.

Example savings (per pair) on a few of the many brands, styles, and models available.

TruHearing Advanced

Widex® SmartRIC™ 220

Signia® 5IX

Average retail price: $5,440 TruHearing price: $2,500 Allowance: Up to $2,5001 You pay2: $0

Average retail price: $4,524 TruHearing price: $2,700 Allowance: Up to $2,5001 You pay2: $200

Average retail price: $5,800 TruHearing price: $3,390 Allowance: Up to $2,5001 You pay2: $890

Rechargeable | Listed products are smartphone compatible.3 TruHearing purchases include • 60-day, risk-free trial period • 1 year of follow-up visits • 80 free batteries per non-rechargeable hearing aid • 3-year manufacturer warranty

Call TruHearing to get started.

1-855-739-7048 | TTY: 711 Learn more at TruHearing.com/Blue365 or scan the code with your smartphone camera.

The Service Benefit Plan may pay a hearing aid benefit for Basic and Standard Option of up to $2,500 total, with prior approval, every 5 calendar years for adults age 22 and up to $2,500 total per calendar year for members up to age 22.

1

Price shown does not include cost of comprehensive hearing exam. Examination and testing for prescribing of hearing aids is covered under the Service Benefit Plan. The member should confirm that the provider rendering the hearing exam is a Preferred provider. If the provider is Non-preferred, the member may be charged a maximum fee of $75 for the exam, and the member may need to submit a claim for reimbursement.

2

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

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. TruHearing is offered through Blue365 which provides exclusive health and wellness deals and is a program of Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, an association of independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies.

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

TruHearing is an independent company that provides discounts on hearing aids.

Quick and accessible loans are available to National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association members that can be put towards any expense!

AFFINITY PARTNER Sign up now at: app.bmgmoney.com/signup and submit your application today!

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BMG Money, Inc. Customer Support | Phone: (800) 316-8507 | Email: Customer.service@bmgmoney.com

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Instant Funding available within minutes of approval if you provide a valid debit card where your primary income is generally deposited in the bank account linked to this debit card. Same day ACH funding is available for applications approved and signed before 12:00 p.m. ET Monday - Saturday (not including federal holidays). For applications approved and signed by 4:30 p.m., funds are generally deposited the next business day Monday - Saturday (not including federal holidays, in which case funding will occur on the following business day).

All loans marketed by BMG Money are made by WebBank, except, as of 12/08/2023 the loans made to residents of Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Rhode Island are made by BMG LoansAtWork, LLC.