PARTNERSHIP HAS ITS PERKS
OCTOBER 2025
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Jenn Rafael
CREATIVE SERVICES MANAGER
Beth Bedard
SENIOR CONTENT MANAGER
Matt Sanderson
ADDITIONAL GRAPHIC DESIGN
TGD
EDITORIAL BOARD
William Shackelford, Cindy Reneé Blythe
CONTACT US
NARFE Magazine
606 North Washington St. Alexandria, VA 22314-1914
Phone: 703-838-7760 Fax: 703-838-7781
Editorial: communications@narfe.org
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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
CINDY RENEÉ BLYTHE 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
NARFE HEADQUARTERS
606 N. Washington St. Alexandria, VA 22314
703-838-7760
Hours of operation: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. ET
REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENTS
REGION I Jeff Anliker (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont)
Tel: 413-813-8136
Email: jeff.anliker@outlook.com
REGION II Paul Schwartz (Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey and Pennsylvania) Tel: 240-838-2200
Email: schwartzpaul02@gmail.com
REGION III Lynn Harper (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina and Puerto Rico) Tel: 478-951-3260
Email: Lynn_harper@msn.com
REGION IV Ed Konys (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin) Tel: 937-207-6087
Email: rvpkonys@outlook.com
REGION V Linda Sawvell (Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota) Tel: 563-340-4823
Email: Lsawvell262@gmail.com
REGION VI Patsy Ashton (Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Republic of Panama and Texas) Tel: 504-452-3870
Email: rvp6@narfe.org
REGION VII Sharon Reese (Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming) Tel: 575-649-6035
Email: sreese346@gmail.com
REGION VIII John Almquist (California, Hawaii, Nevada and Republic of Philippines) Tel: 949-246-4378
Email: almquistjw@yahoo.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 © 2025, 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.
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.
Members: Thank You For Your Feedback
By the time you are reading this column, you will have learned about what occurred at the NARFE Federation Presidents’/ National Executive Board Meeting, from August 12-14, in Indianapolis. I wish I could provide you with full details of the meeting, but this column needs to be completed by the last week of July to ensure the October issue is distributed to you by mid-September. I want to sincerely thank Indiana Federation President John Triplett for stepping up to serve as the coordinator of the Federation Presidents portion of the meeting.
GREAT IDEAS!
I always enjoy attending federation conferences across the country. Most of these conferences are held from March through June each year. During each conference that I attend, I receive new ideas from members. After returning to headquarters, I discuss the idea with senior staff at NARFE headquarters to determine if it is viable. Many times, the idea may be good, but it can also be cost-prohibitive. At the California Federation conference in June, a member suggested that NARFE staff members be profiled in the NARFE Magazine. Everyone knows the national president, national secretary/treasurer, and their regional vice president, but most of you do not know the exceptional staff members who respond to your daily requests and address your many problems. Some members also post their ideas on FEDHub. A recent suggestion was that headquarters create PowerPoint slide shows on key NARFE Advocacy/News topics, as well as other issues of interest to members that fit into a 40-minute talk at a chapter meeting. These presentations can be posted on the NARFE website in a member-only area and possibly FEDHub. Chapters could download them for a chapter meeting. Everyone knows that putting a chapter meeting together can be hard work that newbies
shy away from and is part of the reason that it is hard to get new officers to join the chapter ranks. Stay tuned, and keep these great ideas coming to me and your headquarters staff for consideration.
HEADQUARTERS BUILDING
NARFE continues to operate out of its Alexandria, Virginia headquarters building, which the organization owns. While efforts to sell the building continue, based on a review of properties that have sold over the last 24 months in the area, the office market remains very depressed. Pricing has continued to fall as demand has remained anemic. NARFE has had numerous groups tour the building, but no acceptable offers have been made. I have decided to explore the possibility of leasing a portion of our building to another advocacy organization with a mission similar to NARFE.
NARFE/FEEA SCHOLARSHIPS
As we prepare to move into 2026, remember to look for the information and an entry form for the annual NARFE-FEEA Scholarship Program in a future issue of the NARFE Magazine. This program awards $2,000 scholarships to children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren or stepchildren of NARFE members in each of our 10 regions. While the money for the scholarships comes from NARFE members, FEEA (Federal Employee Education & Assistance Fund) in Littleton, CO, administers the program for NARFE.
Thank you for your commitment to NARFE, your engagement and your leadership. With your help, we will continue to be a strong, growing, and impactful organization serving public servants across this great country.
WILLIAM SHACKELFORD NARFE NATIONAL PRESIDENT natpres@narfe.org
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TRACKING RETIREMENT CLAIMS
FIND OUT How many retirement claims OPM Retirement Services receives and processes each month, with average processing times, totals and inventory, at www.narfe.org/ opm-processing
NARFE Members Save on Office Supplies With ODP Business Solutions
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VISIT NARFE’S LEGISLATIVE ACTION CENTER
NARFE’s team of professional lobbyists continues to work tirelessly on behalf of the federal community. Send your lawmaker a letter easily through our Legislative Action Center at www. narfe.org//advocacy/legislative-action-center.
IT’S ALL IN NARFE NEWSLINE
NARFE NewsLine delivers weekly breaking and key federal benefits news and information from NARFE and media sources around the country. You also receive key updates about federal benefits and advocacy efforts, as well as lifestyle topics. Members receive NARFE NewsLine in their email inbox every Tuesday. Mark narfe.org as a safe sender to ensure you are receiving Newsline.
of just one NARFE Perks offer could more than pay for your annual membership. For more information, visit www.narfe. org/narfe-perks-for-members .
FIND YOUR LOCAL CHAPTER
Visit www.narfe.org/chapters to find an interactive map to help find your local NARFE chapter and meet fellow active and retired feds!
TACKLE OPEN SEASON WITH NARFE WEBINARS ON DEMAND
While every Open Season will present new information, like with your premium, our Federal Benefit Institute’s Webinars on Demand dating back to 2019 contains a wealth of helpful, broad benefits topics. These expert-moderated training videos arm members with benefits knowledge to not only keep you informed during Open Season, but year round. Visit www.narfe.org/webinar-archive.
NARFE Recruiter Rewards
Help NARFE Grow AND Win Cool Stuff!
Did you know that NARFE rewards our members for recruiting new members? Think of it as a special thank you from Headquarters for increasing our numbers and voices.
Enrollment Submission Requirements:
• Recruiter’s Membership ID must be included on each application.
• To receive the Fall Membership Recruitment Drive credit, all envelopes must be postmarked on or before December 31.
HOW DOES THIS AWESOME INCENTIVE WORK?
January-August
• Recruiter receives $8 for any new (never joined) active federal employee enrollment only
September-December Fall Membership Recruitment Drive
• Recruiter receives $10 for new enrollment (any member type—active or retired federal employee)
Recognition:
• Top Performers from the Fall Membership Recruitment Drive will be announced in the NARFE Magazine (March Edition) with prizes to be announced.
New members can join by:
• Mailing in the application from the F-135 brochure
• Going online to narfe.org/join
• Calling us at 800-456-8410 Ext 1, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST.
• Mailing in the application that appears in every issue of NARFE Magazine
Agency RIF Plans Continue As Part of Large-Scale Downsizing Effort
Federal agencies have continued efforts to reduce headcount throughout the year, with more than 51,000 federal employees separated via reduction-in-force (RIF) actions as of July 14, per a CNN analysis, on top of more than 77,000 incentivized to leave via the deferred resignation program (DRP), and additional reductions via attrition. Court challenges have delayed actions and remain ongoing. Some agencies have moved aggressively, while others have scaled back initial efforts and relied more on attrition and separation incentives rather than involuntary terminations.
Agency actions have been ongoing, responsive to Executive Order 14210, issued February 11, 2025, directing agency RIF and reorganization plans. Guidance from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), issued on February 26, 2025, provided a timeline for the submission and execution of plans, with a September 30, 2025 (end of fiscal year) goal for completion, leading to agencyby-agency implementation on a rolling basis.
After several agencies began administering the layoffs, a lower federal judge blocked the
implementation of the executive order, and the RIFs halted for four months. However, many federal employees remained in
limbo as their job status remained uncertain. On July 8, Supreme Court Justice Elena Kagan lifted this injunction, paving the way for RIFs to resume. Between July 8 and July 16, the Departments of State (DOS), Education (ED), and Health and Human Services (HHS) laid off approximately 10,000 employees.
Involuntary separations via RIFs have come on the heels of the Deferred Resignation Program (DRP), first introduced in January 2025. This voluntary program encouraged employees to resign or retire while receiving paid administrative leave until the end of September 2025.
OCTOBER ACTION ALERT: PROTECT THE FREEDOMS OF AMERICA’S WORKFORCE!
Visit NARFE’s Legislative Action Center at www.narfe.org to send a message to your lawmakers urging them to cosponsor the Protect America’s Workforce Act, H.R. 2550. This act would nullify President Trump’s executive order earlier this year to end collective bargaining by federal employees across several federal agencies under the pretense of national security. The executive order specifically targets unions that have filed lawsuits and publicly opposed administrative action, a retaliatory act that undermines federal employees’ right to association.
Initially, more than 77,000 employees took the offer. Subsequently, agencies have provided additional DRP offers before engaging in RIFs.
Before the DRP and RIFs, the Return to Office Mandate (RTO) required all federal employees with telework or remote work contracts to report back to their duty stations for in-person work, with very few exceptions. For many remote federal workers, the nearest in-person duty station could be out of state or even across the country. Not wanting to uproot their families, many individuals decided to take the DRP to avoid relocation and/ or the prospect of an agency RIF. This resulted in significant staffing losses, leaving agencies with unsupervised teams and discouraged junior employees. These staffing shortages have been made even more difficult with the continuous extensions of the hiring freeze issued by
MYTH VS. REALITY
MYTH: Health coverage plans do not change much year to year, so if I am pleased with my coverage, I don’t need to review my plan during Open Season.
REALITY: Every year, there are changes to the health coverage options available to the federal community, and potential opportunities to save money and/or improve coverage. If you fail to review your options, you could be leaving money on the table. That’s why it is critical to assess plan options to select a plan that still works for their needs and their family. NARFE is here to help, and you can learn more about our Open Season resources at https:// www.narfe.org/open-season/
President Trump. As of July 17, the staffing freeze remains in effect until October 2025.
Some agencies, such as the Veterans Administration (VA), have lowered their staff reduction goals and scaled back their plans to conduct RIFs in favor of attrition methods. However, other agencies such as the Department of Defense (DOD) have not changed their plans to conduct RIFs. Massive layoffs can lead to a decrease in the quality of public services that many people rely on. With fewer employees managing the same volume of work, many agencies are experiencing longer wait times, difficulty with providing overall customer care, and loss of institutional knowledge. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has fewer staff to process benefits, which hinders income distribution. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association Network, cuts at the
National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) could impact disease prevention efforts, disrupt investigations into health crises, and compromise food inspections and medical research. Find more information at https://jamanetwork.com/ journals/jama-health-forum/ fullarticle/2834686
While agency plans have become clearer as they announce actions, legal battles over agency-specific RIFs are likely to continue, and the congressional appropriations process is expected to impact the outcome. Meanwhile, the impact on government effectiveness may be revealed over time as pain points emerge, and as the efficacy of operations degrades.
—BY ABBY MILLER, POLICY AND PROGRAMS ASSISTANT AND ELLIE DORSEY, FEDERAL BENEFITS INSTITUTE MANAGER
Government Funding Outcome Uncertain Ahead of September 30 Deadline
Both the House of Representatives and Senate adjourned for the August recess with substantial unfinished work ahead of a September 30 deadline to extend government funding into fiscal
year 2026 to avoid a lapse in appropriations and a subsequent government shutdown.
The House left town having passed two of the 12 appropriations bills through the full chamber, and another
seven through committee. But it adjourned early for the summer as bipartisan pressure mounted to require the release of the “Epstein files.” Unwilling to
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
Leveraging Resources to Support NARFE
While the term “grassroots” is primarily associated with advocacy and political engagement, the word is defined by Merriam Webster as “the very foundation or source.”
For NARFE, that is exemplified by our membership. The active employees and annuitants who comprise our organization are at the forefront of our advocacy efforts, educational programming, and coalition building, serving as both the blueprint and catalyst in every decision being made. NARFE depends on you to guide our content development so we can provide relevant information to the federal community, to serve as ambassadors of our mission to potential members, and to be the voices we uplift when engaging with decision-makers. With these principles in mind, NARFE is encouraging our membership to explore all the facets of grassroots as we enter Open Season (and throughout the year) to recruit new feds and retain the valuable members we currently have.
GRASSROOTS AS RECRUITMENT
Every year, NARFE executes a tailored Open Season strategy that delivers critical, timely information and provides an outlet for inquiry regarding the best options for you and
your family. As the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and health coverage carriers struggle to staff their customer service teams to address the increased volume of calls and emails during Open Season, NARFE is providing resources on the most pressing changes for the year and monitoring our federal benefits inbox with our team of experts to ensure everyone can feel confident in their decisions. Outside of Open Season, our staff remains available to answer questions about legislation working its way through Congress relevant to our issue areas, explain the process of retiring and how to prepare for it, and more, and now is the time for our members to highlight these services to their fellow public servants who are not yet taking advantage of NARFE. You can attend federal-focused events, such as career fairs, or simply outreach to your network, and NARFE’s library of resources is at your disposal in your recruiting pursuits.
GRASSROOTS AS RETENTION
NARFE does not stop its commitment to the federal community after we secure your membership. We encourage our regional, federation, and chapter leaders to serve their members continually and to
utilize NARFE resources and staff in that effort. As Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) and Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) plans are released ahead of Open Season, NARFE leaders are welcome to request a member of the Federal Benefits Institute team to present to their constituents on what to consider from November 11 to December 9. As bills are introduced in each Congress, our Advocacy team is here to break down the legislative writing and help you target your advocacy engagements. Our community’s greatest strength lies in the value each individual brings to the greater group, and we encourage everyone to lean on their village throughout their membership. You can view our Advocacy resources on the NARFE website at https://www.narfe. org/advocacy/issue-briefs-andfact-sheets/ and the Federal Benefits Institute resources at https://www.narfe.org/ federal-benefits-institute/ resource-library/. If you look through these and we are missing an important topic, or wish to request a presentation/ additional assistance, please reach out to advocacy@narfe.org or fedbenefits@narfe.org to let us know!
—BY NICOLE BLACKSTONE, GRASSROOTS AND POLICY MANAGER
Unclear Messaging: The Social Security Administration’s Taxation Email
In an atypically political communication, the Social Security Administration (SSA) emailed millions of Americans to applaud the passage of H.R. 1, the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” signed into law on July 4, 2025, for the tax relief for seniors receiving Social Security (SS) benefits. While H.R. 1 did provide significant additional tax relief to many seniors, the email unfortunately gave the impression that Social Security benefits would no longer be taxed. That’s not true. Instead, H.R. 1 includes a new, additional $6,000 per person standard tax deduction for
individuals aged 65 and older (by the end of the tax year). The deduction applies to those claiming a standard deduction and starts phasing out for individuals who earn $75,000 ($150,000 for couples), phasing out entirely at $175,000 for individuals and $250,000 for couples. It applies to tax years 2025 through 2028. While the increased standard deduction will reduce, and even eliminate, federal income taxation of SS benefits for many, H.R. 1 did not change how SS benefits are taxed directly. Furthermore, whether receiving income via SS
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benefits or federal pensions, the tax deduction applies equitably to each.
Increasing tax deductions on SS benefits could enhance the quality of life for millions of seniors who rely on these payments and may increase their disposable income. Still, it does not affect beneficiaries younger than 65, including those with disabilities, and does not provide additional relief for low-income seniors whose taxable income is already below the standard deduction threshold.
—BY ELLIE DORSEY, FEDERAL BENEFITS INSTITUTE MANAGER
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To comply with federal law, we must use our best efforts to obtain, maintain and submit the name, mailing address, occupation and name of employer of individuals whose contributions exceed $200 each calendar year. NARFE-PAC is for the benefit of political candidates and activities on a national level. NARFE members have the right to refuse to contribute without reprisal, and NARFE will neither favor nor disadvantage anyone based on the amount of a contribution or failure to make a voluntary contribution. The suggested amounts are only suggestions and not enforceable. Only members of NARFE may contribute to the PAC. Contributions from non-members will be returned. NARFE-PAC contributions are not deductible for federal income tax purposes.
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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
Appeals Court Removes Hold on Trump Order to End Collective Bargaining for Many Federal Employees
In August, a federal appeals court paused a lower court injunction against implementation of President Trump’s executive order to end collective bargaining by federal unions in numerous federal agencies based on national security concerns. The district court had issued the preliminary injunction in late June based on a finding that the unions had raised serious First Amendment concerns and faced likely irreparable harm if the order were enforced.
A few days later, the Trump Administration moved forward with its plan to end collective
bargaining, despite arguing in court that it would not do so until the legal battle over the order was over. Notably, the Department of Veterans Affairs moved to strip collective bargaining rights for more than 400,000 of its workers, who are mostly represented by the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE).
The order from a panel of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals stayed the district court’s preliminary injunction pending its consideration of the appeal. The court must still rule on the merits of the
injunction, and plaintiffs may consider a rehearing by the full Ninth Circuit or an appeal to the Supreme Court. This is not the end of the line. But it represents a significant setback for the federal unions challenging Trump’s executive order.
NARFE opposes the executive order as infringing on federal employees rights to association. As the district court found, based on statements and White House fact sheets, the executive order targeted unions for opposing administration policies.
—BY JOHN HATTON, STAFF VICE PRESIDENT, POLICY AND PROGRAMS
Executive Order Creates New Non-Career Employment Classification, Schedule G
On July 17, President Donald Trump issued an executive order directing the creation of a new non-career employment classification in the excepted service, Schedule G. The White House fact sheet says the new classification fills a gap for political appointees performing policy-making or policyadvocating work.
“Schedule G employees will be hired to help faithfully implement the President’s policy agenda,” states the White House fact sheet.
While the new authority is available for government-wide use, the Department of Veterans Affairs is called out specifically with guidance that appointees should be “suitable exponents of the president’s policies,” but that political affiliation or political activity should not be considered hiring factors.
“The President can already make lots of appointments via the Schedule C route,” Donald Moynihan, a professor at the University of Michigan’s Ford School of Public Policy
and co-director of its Better Government Lab, told FedScoop. “This may be a way of pushing more appointments to the most senior levels of government, with a higher pay category beyond what Schedule Cs are typically paid.”
The new schedule may be to sidestep statutory caps on the number of non-career Senior Executive Service (SES) governmentwide, creating a Schedule C analog for the
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allow a vote on an amendment to do so, and unable to gain enough support within his conference to bring bills to the floor under regular order without one, Speaker Johnson started the August recess early. Political pressure to vote to force the release of the files will complicate an already thorny negotiation process for government funding.
Before leaving, the House Appropriations Committee approved the topline figures for each of the twelve bills, with flat spending for defense (at $892.5 billion), and a $15 billion decrease in non-defense expenditures (from $720.5 to $705.6 billion). These figures exclude additional funding already authorized for defense and homeland security passed as part of H.R. 1. The House’s plan for defense spending matches the White House’s budget request. At the same time, its non-defense total exceeds the White House request by $148 billion.
The Senate had not yet agreed to topline figures for all of its 12 bills but was moving forward in a bipartisan fashion to advance individual bills one by one.
EXECUTIVE ORDER FROM P.12
SES. In tandem with the administration’s efforts to strip merit-based civil service protections for as many as 50,000 or more federal employees via the creation of Schedule Policy/Career, this new move further aims to exercise additional political influence over the execution of and adherence to laws.
—BY JASON BRIEFEL, CONSULTANT
Before adjourning on August 1, the Senate passed three of the 12 appropriations bills (covering Agriculture, Military Construction, Veterans’ Affairs, and Legislative Branch) with bipartisan support and approved five others out of committee. Senate totals are expected to exceed the House totals for both defense and non-defense spending, setting up multi-party negotiations heading into the end-of-fiscal-year deadline.
Those negotiations will be complicated by the Trump Administration’s refusal to spend all previously appropriated funds based on ideological opposition to the programs, such as Head Start, which provides funding for childcare and preschool for low-income children. While Republicans in Congress greenlit $9 billion of rescissions, providing legislative approval for a rollback of previous congressional directives on foreign aid and public broadcasting, the administration is unilaterally attempting to withhold funds in other cases, per findings by the Government Accountability Office (GAO). Court challenges may resolve some such disputes, but the
outcome of such court challenges may not be determined by the end of the fiscal year. That has left congressional Democrats wary, at best, of signing onto an agreement if the White House could later unilaterally withhold funding for their priorities. While they may push for more specific legislative language to enhance the ability to enforce the directives in court, the White House may object. Without a deal, a lapse in appropriations could leave millions of federal workers without a reliable paycheck and cede significant decision-making power to the president regarding what activities may continue and which will be paused. As the Senate recessed for the remainder of the summer, little clarity had emerged on the path forward.
With limited time in September to strike a deal, many in DC expect a short-term continuing resolution to avoid a shutdown on October 1. But that would merely delay the prospect of a government shutdown, rather than prevent it. Stay tuned to NARFE’s NewsLine for the latest.
—BY JOHN HATTON, STAFF VICE PRESIDENT, POLICY AND PROGRAMS
HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT THE SOCIAL SECURITY FAIRNESS ACT?
Visit NARFE’s Federal Benefits Institute to find frequently asked questions our staff is compiling at https://www.narfe.org/advocacy/ social-security-fairness-act-frequently-askedquestions/.
Members may also call 1-800-456-8410, and press 2 for federal benefits experts, or email fedbenefits@narfe.org.
Dues Withholding is for retired members and is only $42 annually ($3.50/monthly annuity withholding). To apply, see NARFE’s Dues Witholding application on pg. 51 of this issue of NARFE Magazine or on the back of your next renewal notice. It takes about 4-5 months to get members onto dues withholding.
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
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THE NARFE BILL TRACKER IS YOUR MONTHLY GUIDE TO LEGISLATION NARFE IS FOLLOWING. CHECK BACK EACH ISSUE FOR UPDATES.
SPONSOR
H.R. 1: One Big Beautiful Bill Act / Rep. Jodey Arrington, R-TX-19
FEDERAL ANNUITIES
H.Con.Res.14:
Establishing the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2025 and setting forth the appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2026 through 2034 / Rep. Jodey Arrington, R-TX
The Senate-amended, final version of the bill that passed both chambers and was signed into law by the president did not contain any of the objectionable federal workforce provisions NARFE opposed throughout the process.
The House-passed version of this budget reconciliation bill, passed pursuant to the instructions of H.Con. Res.14, would (i) eliminate the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) annuity supplement as of January 1, 2028, cutting back vested benefits earned based on past service for individuals at or approaching retirement eligibility age; (ii) require new federal employees to choose between retaining merit systems protections or accepting a 5% pay cut via increased contributions toward retirement without any additional benefit; and (iii) instituting a fee to appeal adverse actions to the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB).
The original version of the bill would have also (i) increased employee contributions toward retirement by up to 3.6% without any added FERS benefit, and (ii) calculated federal annuities under FERS and the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) based on the highest five years of salary rather than the highest three years of salary. Those provisions were eliminated via amendment prior to House floor consideration.
Sets federal government spending levels and instructs committees to reduce or increase deficits via changes in taxes and spending under their jurisdictions. Instructs the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, which has jurisdiction over federal employment benefits, to reduce deficits by $50 billion.
Senate-amended version (without objectionable federal workforce provisions passed the Senate on 7/1/25, passed the House on 7/3/25, and was signed into law by the president on 7/4/25.
H.R. 491 /S.624: Equal
COLA Act/ Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-VA-11 / Sen. Alex Padilla, D-CA
Cosponsors:
H.R. 491: 52 (D) 1 (R)
S. 624: 9 (D) 2 (I)
Provides full cost-of-living adjustments, based on the relevant change in consumer prices, to Federal Employees Retirement System annuities.
Passed by the House of Representatives by a 217215 vote. 2/25/25
Senate-amended version (retaining relevant provisions that could impact federal benefits) passed by the Senate by a 51-48 vote. 4/5/25.
Senate-amended version (retaining relevant provisions that could impact federal benefits) passed by the House of Representatives by a 216214 vote. 4/10/25
Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform 1/16/2025
Read twice and referred to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. 02/18/2025
NARFE BILL TRACKER
ISSUE BILL NUMBER / NAME / SPONSOR
H.R. 2550: Protect America’s Workforce Act / Rep. Jared Golden, D-ME-02
Cosponsors:
H.R. 2550: 215(D), 7(R)
H.R. 1989/S.918, Protecting Our Probationary Employees Act / Rep. Sarah Elfreth, D-MD-03 / Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-MD
FEDERAL PERSONNEL POLICY
Overturns a recent executive order that targeted certain unions due to opposition to administrative actions via public statements and lawsuits, ending collective bargaining for covered federal employees.
Proposes that probationary employees involuntarily separated from their government positions continue their probationary period upon reinstatement.
Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. 4/01/2025
FEDERAL COMPENSATION
Cosponsors:
H.R. 1989: 64(D), 5(R) S. 918: 4(D)
H.R.492/S.134: Saving the Civil Service Act of 2025 / Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-VA-11 / Sen. Tim Kaine, D-VA
Cosponsors:
H.R. 492: 73 (D) 2 (R) S. 134: 19 (D) 2 (I)
H.R. 493/ S. 126: The Federal Adjustment of Income Rates (FAIR) Act / Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-VA-11 / Sen. Brian Schatz, D-HI
Cosponsors:
HR 493: 31 (D) 1 (R) S. 126: 12 (D) 1 (I)
H.Res. 70 / S.Res.147
Rep. Stephen Lynch, D-MA-8 / Sen. Gary Peters, D-MI
Prohibits the establishment of Schedule F of the excepted service, to ensure merit-based hiring and firing of civil servants.
Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. 3/10/2025
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. 3/10/2025
Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform 1/16/2025
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. 1/16/2025
Provides federal employees with a 3.3% across-the-board pay raise in 2026, plus a 1% average increase to locality pay rates.
Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform 1/16/2025
Read twice and referred to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs 1/16/2025
POSTAL SERVICE
Expressing the sense that Congress should take all appropriate measures to ensure that the United States Postal Service remains an independent establishment of the federal government and is not subject to privatization.
Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. 01/28/2025
Referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. 03/27/2025
NARFE’s Position: Support Oppose No position
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SPECIAL RETIREMENT SUPPLEMENT
QTHE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS & ANSWERS were compiled by NARFE’s Federal Benefits Institute experts. NARFE does not provide legal, financial planning or tax advice or assistance.
Regarding the Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS) Special Retirement Supplement, does my spouse receive any of this if I elect the maximum FERS Survivor Annuity Benefit at retirement and I pass before 62, or will she receive only the 50% FERS Survivor Annuity Benefit?
AA surviving spouse of a FERS retiree (but not an employee) may also be eligible for the FERS Spousal Annuity Supplement in addition to the lifetime FERS monthly survivor annuity, if they meet the following requirements:
• Entitled to a current FERS spouse survivor annuity;
• Under age 60;
• Entitled to Social Security survivor benefits (based on the deceased annuitant’s employment under Social Security) at age 60; and
• Not presently eligible for Social Security mother, father, or disability benefits based on the deceased’s account.
The FERS Spousal Annuity Supplement terminates at the beginning of the month in which the surviving spouse attains age 60.
The calculation of the FERS Spousal Annuity Supplement is a little complicated. The FERS Spousal Annuity Supplement requires determination of the amount of an “assumed” CSRS survivor annuity and a hypothetical Social Security calculation. The supplementary annuity payable is the lesser of:
• The amount by which the “assumed” CSRS survivor annuity exceeds the FERS survivor annuity; or
• The amount of the hypothetical Social Security spousal survivor benefit.
Two fun facts about the FERS Spousal Annuity Supplement payable to a surviving spouse:
1. FERS Spousal Annuity Supplement is not subject to an earnings test.
2. The FERS Spousal Annuity Supplement does receive annual COLA, equivalent to that of FERS. Source: https://www.opm.gov/retirement-center/ publications-forms/csrsfers-handbook/c071.pdf
MINIMUM RETIREMENT AGE AND DEFERRED FERS ANNUITY
QI have a question that I need a straight answer to. My minimum retirement age (MRA) is 57. If I’m involuntarily separated from service due to a reduction in force (RIF) at age 50 years old with 19 years of service, when could I apply for my deferred FERS annuity? Would I wait to apply for deferred retirement until 60 days before I start getting payouts at my MRA?
AYou have two options since you are not at your MRA at separation:
A. With 19 years of service at separation, you could receive an unreduced deferred FERS annuity at age 62. Please note that if you have 20 years of service at separation, you could apply for your unreduced FERS annuity at age 60, or
B. Receive a “reduced” deferred annuity at your MRA (age 57 if born in 1970 or later).
The reduction is 5% per year if you are under age 62, or 5/12 of 1% per month. You can avoid or reduce this reduction by postponing the start of your annuity to a later date. You should apply to OPM 2-3 months before you want the benefit to begin. Source: https://www. opm.gov/retirement-center/fers-information/ eligibility/.
VERA AND REEMPLOYED ANNUITANT
QI retired under the Voluntary Early Retirement Authority (VERA) in May 2022, under the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) at age 48 (born 1974) with 25 years of service. I came back to the federal government as a reemployed annuitant in July 2023. I plan to retire in 2028 after completing five years of reemployment so that I qualify for a “redetermined annuity.” I will be 54 years old at that time. Will I be eligible for retirement at that time, or will I need to delay my retirement further?
AThis is a good question and timely since we have so many federal employees retiring this year under the Voluntary Early Retirement Authority (VERA) who might come back to the federal government at a later date.
A reemployed annuitant who completes at least five years of actual continuous fulltime service and/or part-time service that is equivalent to at least five years full-time service may elect to have their annuity redetermined under the law in effect at the time of separation from reemployment. NOTE: In addition to having performed the required five years of continuous service, the reemployed annuitant must also meet the minimum requirements for a new retirement.
In 2028, you will have 30 years of service; however, you will not have reached your Minimum Retirement Age (MRA). You would only be eligible for a supplement annuity, but not a redetermined annuity.
Unless you meet the requirement for an immediate retirement, you will only be eligible for a supplemental annuity added to your original election choices. OPM will mail an election letter that outlines the benefits you are entitled to receive. If eligible for a redetermined annuity, OPM will provide a comparison with a supplemental annuity. If eligible for a redetermined annuity, your retirement will be computed as if you were retiring for the first time.
NOTE: For a redetermined annuity, unused sick leave will include the sick leave used in the original computation plus the sick leave earned during the period of reemployment. Part-time and intermittent service is credited in a redetermined annuity in the same manner as in a regular computation.
Source: https://www.opm. gov/retirement-center/ publications-forms/csrsfershandbook/c100.pdf
EMPLOYEMENT & RETIREMENT
SOCIAL SECURITY
QIs it correct that my ex-spouse can receive a Social Security benefit based on my work history? We were married for 14 years, but now I am happily remarried to someone else and want to
COUNTDOWN TO COLA
The Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) increased 0.13% in July 2025. To calculate the 2026 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), the 2025 third-quarter indices will be averaged and compared with the 2024 third-quarter average of 308.729. The percentage increase determines the next COLA. June’s index, 316.349, is up 2.47% from the base. As a reminder, CSRS annuities received a 2.5% COLA for 2025, while FERS annuities received a 2.0% COLA.
The CPI represents purchases of food and beverages, housing, apparel, transportation, medical care, recreation, education and communication, and other goods and services.
ensure my current spouse has financial security.
AY es, your former spouse could be entitled to a Social Security benefit based on your work record, even if you are still living and have remarried. If qualified, they may receive a monthly payment of up to one-half of your Social Security retirement benefit, and it will not affect the benefits you or your family may receive. It is required that:
• Your marriage lasted 10 years or longer.
• Your ex-spouse has not remarried.
• Your ex-spouse is 62 or older.
• Your former spouse hasn’t earned a higher benefit based on their work history (the higher benefit would be payable).
• You are entitled to Social Security retirement, even if you have not applied. There are also survivor benefits payable if you predecease your spouse, eligible former spouse, and eligible children. If your spouse or eligible former spouse cares for your child younger than 16 (or who has a disability), they don’t have to meet the age or length-of-marriage rule. A surviving spouse (and eligible former spouse), at full retirement age
or older, generally gets 100% of the worker’s basic benefit amount. A surviving spouse (and eligible former spouse), age 60 or older, but younger than full retirement age, gets between 71% and 99% of the worker’s basic benefit amount. A surviving spouse (and eligible former spouse), any age, with a child younger than age 16, gets 75% of the worker’s benefit amount. An eligible child gets 75% of the worker’s benefit amount. For more information, see the Survivors’ Benefit pamphlet at https://www.ssa.gov/ pubs/EN-05-10084.pdf
RETIREMENT
MEDICARE PART B
QI have already retired and am getting ready to turn 65 in December. I plan to enroll in Medicare Part A, but I am undecided about enrolling in Medicare Part B. I have a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) under the Federal Employees Health Benefit (FEHB) program that I like and want to remain enrolled in. My current out-ofpocket expenses are very reasonable. Is it worth enrolling in Medicare Part B?
Committed
AM edicare Part A has a $0 premium for most people (because they or a spouse paid Medicare taxes long enough while working— generally at least 10 years). Medicare Part B, however, has a monthly premium starting at $185.00 per month. This premium could be higher depending on your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) from two years ago. The Medicare Part B Premium chart showing the Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amounts (IRMAA) can be found here: https://www. medicare.gov/publications/11579-medicarecosts.pdf.
Medicare Parts A and B are not meant to stand alone, which means you will continue to pay your monthly FEHB premiums. Since you are retired and carry your FEHB coverage through your retirement benefit, Medicare will be the primary payer, and the FEHB coverage pays second. In many FEHB plans, you will have $0 out-of-pocket expense between Medicare and FEHB since some plans waive the cost sharing (deductible, copays, and coinsurance) when Medicare is the primary payer. In addition, some FEHB plans offer a partial reimbursement for the Part B premium. When comparing plans, consider coordination with Medicare to learn the full value of the coverage.
You can find FEHB plan brochures and information about Medicare coordination in Section 9: https://www.opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/ healthcare/plan-information/plans/.
While FEHB plans cover most of the same types of expenses that Medicare covers, FEHB plans’ coverage may be more limited than Medicare Part B when it comes to orthopedic and prosthetic devices, durable medical equipment, home healthcare, medical supplies, and chiropractic care.
Suppose you decide to stay in your current plan. In that case, you may find that the plan offers a Medicare Advantage option that can provide additional benefits and potentially larger reductions in the Part B premium at no extra charge. Enrollment in Part B allows you to go to Medicare providers outside of your HMO’s network. Although it is not always a clear decision, there are advantages to combining Medicare and FEHB coverage to enhance your health insurance benefits and coverage.
Be sure to contact your FEHB plan to notify them of your Medicare enrollment. Source: https://www.opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/ healthcare/medicare/annuitant/
SURVIVOR BENEFITS
QI separated from the federal government this year at age 45 with 12 years of service. I understand that I am not eligible for an Immediate Annuity and will be applying for a Deferred FERS annuity in the future at my Minimum Retirement Age (MRA) or later. My question concerns survivor benefits. Will my spouse be able to receive a monthly survivor benefit if I pass away before applying for the Deferred FERS annuity?
AThe requirement for a survivor annuity to be payable to a former employee who is not yet receiving a retirement benefit if the former employee dies with at least 10 years of creditable service (5 years of which must be creditable civilian service), and if the spouse was married to the deceased at the time of their separation from federal civilian service, and was married to the deceased:
• For a total period of at least nine months (ninemonth requirement does not apply if the death was accidental); or
• Was the parent of a child born of the marriage (including one born posthumously or out of wedlock if the parties later married)
The survivor annuity benefit begins on the date the deceased former employee would have been eligible for an unreduced annuity, unless the survivor chooses to have it start at a lower rate on the day after the employee’s death. The former employee would have been eligible for an unreduced annuity at age 62 with a minimum of 10 years of creditable service and less than 20 years of service, at age 60 with 20 or more years of service, or the deceased employee’s minimum retirement age (MRA) with 30 or more years of service.”
Source: https://www.opm.gov/retirement-center/ survivor-benefits/#url=Former-Employee
FEGLI
QI have a question concerning my Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) coverage. Unfortunately, I have been given a grim prognosis by my doctors. Is it true that I can access some of the money from my FEGLI coverage while I’m still alive? If so, how do I find out more about this?
AFirst, we want to say that we are very sorry to hear this news and appreciate you reaching out to us for guidance on the Living Benefit feature of your FEGLI coverage. 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. Employees, annuitants, and compensationers are eligible to elect a Living Benefit. Compensationers refer to individuals receiving monthly compensation payments from the Department of Labor’s Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP).
Employees can choose a full or partial (in multiples of $1,000) Living Benefit. Annuitants and compensationers 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 nine months after the date the Office of Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (OFEGLI) receives a completed claim for the Living Benefits form. Living Benefit payments are reduced by a nominal amount (4.9%) to offset lost earnings to the Life Insurance Fund due to early benefit payments.
If you elect a full Living Benefit, you stop paying premiums, and the government no longer pays its contributions for your basic life coverage. If you elect a partial Living Benefit, your agency will adjust
the withholdings and contributions for your postelection Basic Insurance Amount.
The amount of the post-election basic does not change. Subsequent salary changes do not affect the Basic amount. However, if you have Option B coverage, it will continue to change with salary changes. A Living Benefit election does not affect your optional insurance.
NOTE: If you have been assigned your life insurance, you cannot elect a Living Benefit.
You must contact OFEGLI at 1-800-633-4542 to obtain the form to choose Living Benefits (Form FE-8). This form is not available from your human resources office or the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). Source: https://www.opm. gov/frequently-asked-questions/insure-faq/life/ what-do-i-need-to-know-about-living-benefits/
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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OThe Intersection of Open Season and Retirement
pen Season is around the corner for the 2026 plan year, starting November 10 and running through December 8. It’s time for employees and eligible annuitants to review their insurance needs. There are special considerations for the annual benefits Open Season for employees planning to retire near the end of the year.
For those employees who are retiring at the end of 2025, remember that your Open Season elections are likely to take effect after retirement begins. Health insurance Open Season changes take effect on January 1, 2026, for postal employees and all federal and postal annuitants. Other federal employees will see their Open Season elections processed during the first pay period of 2026. For most federal workers, this will be effective on January 11, 2026.
If you are planning to retire between October 2025 and January 3, 2026, the annual Open Season will occur, and Open Season changes will need to be processed during your transition to retirement. If you wish to make a change to your health benefits, your HR office will instruct you to attach a Federal Employee Health Benefit (FEHB) Open Season election to your retirement application package. You will need to complete a paper version of form SF 2809, rather than submitting a FEHB Open Season enrollment change through your agency’s electronic enrollment system. Your agency will certify your SF 2809 Health Benefits Election form and submit this to the health insurance carrier. Your agency will also include this form with a cover sheet indicating there is an FEHB enrollment change when submitting your
retirement application to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). If you are retiring under the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS), you may retire on January 1, 2, or 3 with your annuity commencement on the following day, which means that Open Season changes are also effective on the annuity commencement date.
Employees, both CSRS and the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), who are involuntarily separated and eligible for Discontinued Service Retirement (DSR) will have their annuity commence the day after their separation from federal employment. Employees who retire under DSR before the Open Season change takes effect as a current employee will see their Open Season changes effective on the annuity commencement date.
The above information does not affect U.S. Postal Service employees, annuitants, or compensationers who are covered under the new Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) system. If you are in this group, refer to the following web page www. opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/ pshb. You may make a change to your current enrollment during the federal benefits Open Season through the PSHB. To confirm coverage, you must contact your health plan directly.
FEDERAL EMPLOYEES DENTAL AND VISION INSURANCE PROGRAM (FEDVIP)
FEDVIP does not require five years of coverage before retirement, and retirees may enroll even if they are not enrolled during employment. You can find eligibility information at https:// www.benefeds.gov/eligibility and plan information at https://www. benefeds.gov/
If you are enrolled in retirement, BENEFEDS will work with OPM to set up premium deductions from your annuity. BENEFEDS will send you direct bills for your premiums while your annuity is being processed, and you must pay them to keep your coverage active; otherwise, your coverage will be canceled. Once your annuity is finalized, premium deductions will begin. Keep in mind, retirement is not a qualifying life event. You cannot enroll, cancel, or change your FEDVIP coverage outside of the Open Season because you have retired.
FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNTS (FSA)
The balances in your Health Care FSA (HCFSA), Limited Expense Health Care FSA (LEX HCFSA), and Dependent Care FSA (DCFSA) are treated differently if you separate or retire before the end of the calendar year. Your HCFSA or LEX HCFSA will terminate as of the date of your separation or retirement. There are no extensions. If you used your entire elected amount before the Federal Flexible Spending
BENEFITS RESOURCES
NARFE OFFERS MEMBERS a wide range of information on federal benefits. Visit www.narfe.org/federal-benefits-institute
Accounts Program (FSAFEDS) deducted from your pay, you will not be responsible for the remaining allotments. Your DCFSA remaining balance can continue to be used to pay for eligible dependent care expenses until your account balance is depleted or at the end of the calendar year, whichever comes first.
If you plan to continue working in 2026, now is a good time to review your out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, including over-the-counter items, dental, orthodontic, vision, prescription glasses, etc., so you are prepared to elect an allotment for your HCFSA. For a list of eligible expenses, visit https://www. fsafeds.gov/support/eligibleexpenses.
FEHB AND PSHB
The FEHB and PSHB plan 2026 brochures, which provide the official details of the various insurance benefits, will be available close to the start of the Open Season. Check https://www.opm.gov/healthcare-
The September NARFE Magazine Benefits Brief provided the incorrect phone number for the Office of Personnel Management on page 21. The correct number is 1-888-767-6738. NARFE apologizes for the error.
insurance/open-season/ as Open Season approaches for additional information. Stay in touch with NARFE during the open season for webinars and additional Open Season resources. At the NARFE Federal Benefits Institute https://www.narfe.org/federalbenefits-institute/, you will find specific information regarding Medicare and FEHB/PSHB coverage.
Most agencies use an electronic enrollment system (Employee Express, MyPay, Employee Personal Page, etc.) to initiate or change FEHB plans. A few agencies may still process the paper version of form SF 2809, Health Benefits Election https://www.opm.gov/ forms/pdf_fill/sf2809.pdf.
NOTE: Federal Employees Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) and Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP) do not participate in the annual Open Season.
THE ARMY RESIDENCE COMMUNITY
Explore what’s on the horizon.
—MICHELE BOLLIER IS A RETIREMENT AND BENEFITS SPECIALIST WITH RETIRE FEDERAL.
BY DAVID TOBENKIN
This NARFE Magazine story and another to be published in a few months will examine how U.S. citizens considering long-term residency abroad can evaluate options for doing so. This story describes the types of long-term residency and citizenship in foreign countries, how to obtain them, and the pros and cons of each. The second story, to be published later this year, will describe other considerations in whether to move abroad, including financial, social, lifestyle, and cultural ones.
Next autumn, Kurt, a retired U.S. Foreign Service Officer, and his husband will become eligible to begin the process of requesting Portuguese citizenship. Kurt, whose name has been changed in the story at his request, and his husband applied for and received legal residency in 2021 and retired there in 2023. Kurt says the rights that come with Portuguese citizenship will provide an improved sense of security that they feel they lacked in the United States, especially given federal and state retrenchments in recognizing LGBTQI+ rights and, in their view, overarching trends that the U.S. is becoming steadily more autocratic, intolerant, and lawless.
“We’re fairly pessimistic about the future in general, but we think that hopefully the [European Union’s] standards will hold fascism at bay a little longer,” Kurt says. “We applied for residency in 2021, and all our concerns about the U.S. are coming to pass, and it’s not just gay rights: Can you, for example, trust your pills anymore when there’s nobody at the FDA to inspect your medicines after layoffs there? We also wanted to be in a place where community is important, where shops are owned by people who work there and not by some distant corporation, where you can walk through town and see the same people and spend 20 minutes talking to the lady at the laundromat. This is a very caring, nice place to be.”
Gallup polling in 2024 found that 21%
of
Americans
(U.S. citizens) wanted to leave the
United States permanently, more than double the 10% who had said so in 2011. The Association of Americans Resident Overseas (AARO) in 2024 estimated that there were 5.6 million U.S. citizens living abroad.
Many federal employees and retirees have decided to move abroad. Gallup polling in 2024 found that 21% of Americans (U.S. citizens) wanted to leave the United States permanently, more than double the 10% who had said so in 2011. The Association of Americans Resident Overseas (AARO) in 2024 estimated that there were 5.6 million U.S. citizens living abroad. Factors driving that expatriation include making retirement dollars stretch farther in lower-cost countries, a desire to take advantage of work opportunities, political disenchantment with the U.S., and reuniting with familial connections, among others.
For those considering moving abroad, the first question is whether they can legally reside there on a long-term basis, which is the topic of this story. The form of residency one obtains also has financial, mobility, social, and legal implications.
Gaining Legal Residency
There are often several different types of paths to legal residency offered by destination countries, which are discussed below. All are governed by each nation’s immigration laws, leading to a wide variety of visa types, residency pathways, and citizenship rights across different states, which means that those interested in relocation will need to engage in further, country-specific research.
Passive income visas (called Pensionado Visas in many Latin American countries): These visas are targeted at retirees and require
demonstrated proof of monthly income from an annuity or pension, or other steady flow of guaranteed income. They generally grant the legal right to live in a country for one or two years and are often renewable for the same period, with, in most countries, expats eligible to apply for citizenship after five years of residency, says Laura Madrid, research lead at Global Citizen Solutions, an international consultancy that helps individuals seeking to gain residency and passports abroad through the application process. They also generally allow access to public services, to open a bank account, and, in some cases, use the healthcare system, Madrid adds. More than 40 countries currently offer passive income visas. Programs like Portugal’s D7 visa, Panama’s Pensionado Visa, Thailand’s O-A Retirement Visa, and Costa Rica’s Pensionado Visa are among the most prominent for countries that are key destinations for U.S. expats. Costa Rica’s, for example, is designed specifically for retirees with a minimum pension of $1,000 per month, while Portugal requires income of 870 Euros a month, such as from an annuity or pension, Madrid notes.
Under this visa program, work in the destination country is generally not allowed, but sometimes, favored tax treatment on foreign pensions is extended. Most federal employees would qualify for this type of income based on their federal annuities, Madrid notes. Digital nomad visas: This visa form allows legal residency and permits grantees to work remotely for employers or clients outside the destination country. Countries like Spain, Canada, Estonia, Costa Rica, and Portugal have introduced specific visa categories for remote workers employed by foreign companies or clients, Madrid notes. While these visas are typically limited in duration, some will lead to permanent residency and citizenship (Portugal and Spain), and they represent a growing intersection between labor mobility and national immigration policy, Madrid
“Can you, for example, trust your pills anymore when there's nobody at the FDA to inspect your medicines after layoffs there?”
— Kurt, a retired U.S. Foreign Service Officer
notes. More than 50 countries offer remote working visas, including Anguilla, the Bahamas, Colombia, Croatia, Norway, and Spain, among others, according to an analysis by Investopia.
Residency and citizenship by investment schemes (RCBIs): Another option targeting more affluent immigrants is residency and citizenship by investment schemes. Citizenship by investment programs offer the full rights of a national, including voting and often visa-free travel, similar to those of EU citizens. These programs require investing in real estate, maintaining funds in an account, donating money to the nation, or bringing or investing in businesses. Countries such
• Passive income
• Digital nomad visas
• Residency and citizenship by investment schemes
• Favored professions or skills
• Student visas
• Ethnic, genealogical or familial ties
• Political asylum
as Portugal and Greece offer residency permits (often called Golden Visas) in exchange for qualifying real estate or fund investments or donations to the destination country. These programs typically lead to permanent residency and potentially citizenship after five to ten years, Madrid notes. Many Caribbean Islands, like Saint Kitts, Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda (one state), Dominica, Grenada, and Saint Lucia, offer citizenship by investment programs. However, the required investment can be steep, indeed, with, typically, a minimum threshold of $200,000, though there are no residence requirements and applicants get full citizenship rights. Of late, in some countries, schemes allowing the purchase of real estate have become less
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“We didn’t want the window to close on obtaining residency in Europe while we waited to hit our retirement age…with immigration rules around the world tightening, it’s a good thing we didn’t.”
— Kurt
favored compared to investing in or starting businesses, as countries increasingly prefer attracting active investment that will create jobs and boost local economies, Madrid notes. These programs are often favored by those who want tax optimization and access to a second passport, Madrid says.
Some countries, however, concerned about the impact of too many immigrants and/or for security reasons, have eliminated or reduced this pathway, particularly concerning gaining citizenship. In April 2025, Malta became the final European state to phase out this program as an option for obtaining citizenship.
Kurt and his husband came to Portugal under this residency form, investing more than 350,000 euros ($409,000) of their combined life savings in a venture capital fund that helps Portuguese businesses and the Portuguese economy grow. “We didn’t want the window to close on obtaining residency in Europe while we waited to hit our retirement age,” Kurt added, noting that “with immigration rules around the world tightening, it’s a good thing we didn’t.”
Favored professions or skills: Some residency avenues, particularly in developing countries, do not require investments, but
rather relate to schemes to encourage residency or immigration of individuals who bring valuable skills, such as advanced degrees, science, IT, and medicine/health employees. In contrast to digital nomad visas, these visa forms are specifically to enable foreign workers to work within the destination country in a particular profession. These are sometimes limited to visas for a specific duration, particularly for less skilled professions, but sometimes can be open-ended or permanent. This may require sponsorship by an employer with a showing that it cannot source employees domestically.
Student visas: Student visas to pursue higher education in the destination country can be a bargain that can lead to more extended residency and even citizenship, Madrid notes.
“We see many young people who come with a student visa because European universities are much cheaper; in many European countries, education is free and offered in English,” said Madrid. She notes that in some countries, recipients can use these visas and time studying to build toward longer-term residency forms.
Ethnic, genealogical, or familial ties: Sometimes demonstrating ethnic identity, ancestry, or close relatives or spousal partners tied to the destination country can help establish legal residency and/or citizenship. Residency eligibility based upon marrying a foreign country’s citizen and/or for those with foreign citizen children is common. Another pathway is based upon familial relationships or genealogy, which many countries allow legal residency and/or even citizenship for individuals who can demonstrate genealogical backgrounds, such as a grandparent who was a citizen of the destination country. Given that the U.S. is a nation of immigrants, many millions of U.S. citizens are eligible for residency under this form. Countries like Ireland, Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Poland grant citizenship to foreign nationals with proven familial ties, sometimes as far back as great-grandparents, and without requiring residency in the country, Madrid notes. These programs remove many of the showings of regular residency programs discussed above,
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and many allow full citizenship for those who qualify, Madrid says.
Ken Moskowitz, like Kurt, a retired foreign service officer, became a resident of Japan in 2016, a year after retiring, under a spousal visa granted in consideration of his marriage to a Japanese national. He must renew his residency every three years, but could now apply for permanent residency, though he has not done so yet due to additional required documentation. Japanese spousal visas allow employment within the country, he notes.
Political asylum: Though unlikely to be granted to American
citizens, this form of residency is awarded under international treaties and many nations’ laws to political victims of political persecution, refugees, and victims of war.
For those not qualifying under one of the categories listed above, residency can sometimes be achieved through a general set of standards specific to each country.
While U.S. citizens reside in a vast number of countries around the globe, the nearby neighbors, Mexico, the rest of Latin America, and Canada, are key relocation destinations for U.S. citizens. Thus far, despite diplomatic tensions with the U.S., including tariff battles, neither Canada nor Mexico have changed their residency or citizenship requirements for U.S. citizens seeking to reside in those countries, Madrid says.
Time and Details to Gain Residency
The process to gain residency varies from country to country.
For a country within the European Union, the application process can last from three months to six months (under standard conditions), with application fees of 100 to 300 euros ($117 to $351 U.S.), Madrid says. But adding related legal costs of having lawyers
translate documents, the true figure can be 2,000 to 3,000 euros [$2,340 to $3,510], Madrid says.
In contrast, in Panama or in Latin America, the residency application process may take six months to one year, depending on the country, and will cost $250. The application for many Caribbean countries that offer CBI schemes will take from one month to six months, and will require a fee of $1,000, a $100,000 donation, and applicants to either put money in a fund, or buy property, of at least $200,000.
For Canada, the process of obtaining residency lasts two or three months, while for Mexico, greater bureaucracy means the process can take three to six month, Madrid says.
Beyond legal translations, some will wish to obtain assistance with the application process.
“Some are fairly straightforward, especially retirement visas in places like Panama, Costa Rica, or Paraguay, where the
paperwork is minimal and the requirements are clearly defined, typically proof of passive income and a clean background check,” Madrid says. “But once you get into more complex programs (like citizenship-byinvestment, digital nomad visas with tax benefits, or residency programs tied to income or investment), things get more nuanced,” Madrid says. “That’s where having the right help becomes crucial. Still, I always advise individuals to seek specialist guidance even for more straightforward visa types, not only due to the complexity and bureaucracy involved, but also because people are often dealing with government authorities in a language that isn’t their own or with unfamiliar legal systems.”
Whether to Pursue Citizenship
Many Americans living abroad as residents never progress to obtaining citizenship, which usually involves additional requirements. For many, residency may be enough. Countries like Panama, Uruguay, and most European countries allow indefinite permanent residency without requiring citizenship. Legal residency often comes with benefits like access to
healthcare, education, and in some cases, local employment, Madrid notes.
“Becoming a Japanese citizen, for a foreigner, is pretty rare,” Moskowitz says. “You could just become a permanent resident.”
To progress to citizenship, many countries require a minimum duration of residency—in Portugal, five years; for Spain, 10 years for general applicants and two years for nationals from Iberoamerican countries, among other nationalities; Italy (10 years); some Latin American countries (such as Argentina and Peru) two years; Mexico (five years); and Canada three years. Such citizenship by naturalization typically involves five to ten years of residency in the country of naturalization. It also requires demonstrated integration, language proficiency, and civic knowledge, Madrid says.
Aside from access to the health care system, public education system, and other rights, citizenship grants political rights, including the right to vote and be elected, protection from extradition, and the right to travel and be repatriated. Holding more than one passport also enhances international mobility and the ability to transact business internationally, Madrid notes.
A key question is whether destination countries allow dual citizenship, such that a U.S. citizen granted citizenship abroad does not need to surrender their U.S. citizenship. Some countries preclude dual citizenship, either generally or from certain other countries. Most European countries in the EU allow dual citizenship with the United States, except Spain, according to Madrid. The U.S. allows dual citizenship, but it should be noted that U.S. citizens are required to enter and leave the United States on a valid U.S. passport, even if they hold other passports.
The strength of various passports varies. Global Citizen Solutions maintains a Global Passport Index, which ranks the strength of different countries’ passports, including as measured by mobility it allows, quality of life of the country, investment
opportunities, and other factors. See https:// www.globalcitizensolutions.com/passport-index/ global-passport-index/
Even if one feels that U.S. policies are not in alignment with one’s preferences, one should think very carefully before making the dramatic move of renouncing one’s U.S. citizenship. It could be tough to regain it, given that the earlier renunciation could cast doubt upon the applicant’s loyalties, Madrid says. In practice, very few American citizens give up their citizenship because of the value of easy access to the U.S., including the ability to access friends and family, in particular, Madrid says.
Some U.S. citizens do renounce citizenship because of double taxation issues. Still, they are few, says AARO President Doris Speer.
“You’re giving up something of who you are when you renounce,” Speer said. “My organization doesn’t want people to renounce. We want you to be able to stay American, as tricky as it can be for most of us. AARO’s mission is to try to reduce that difficulty.”
—DAVID TOBENKIN IS A FREELANCE WRITER BASED IN THE GREATER WASHINGTON, D.C. AREA.
BY EVERETT A. CHASEN
Using a smartphone effectively can improve your productivity, and increase your happiness and wellbeing. Here’s how to get started!
“Every once in a while, a revolutionary product comes along that changes everything,” said Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple, Inc., on the day in 2007 he introduced the first iPhone. “The iPhone is not just a phone: it’s a revolutionary mobile communications device.”
Less than 20 years later, the revolution is over, and the iPhone, along with its counterparts from other manufacturers, has won. According to the Pew Research Center, 91% of American adults now own a smartphone, a mobile phone that performs many of a computer’s functions. Today’s smartphones, like the original iPhone, feature a touchscreen interface, internet access, and an operating system capable of running downloaded applications, commonly referred to as apps.
While smartphones are now part of nearly everyone’s daily life, few are getting all they can out of these powerful devices. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of yours.
The Basics
Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. recently surveyed more than 60,000 smartphone users worldwide about how they use their smartphones. They found the most important
use for smartphones was not to make or receive calls, but to search or browse the internet, just as Jobs predicted. They search for news, recipes, travel information, or product reviews; compare prices, browse products, and make purchases online; stream videos, listen to music, and play games, either alone or with others.
Making calls, listening to music, and connecting to social media are the next most popular activities, followed by sharing and sending photos and videos. Rounding out Qualcomm’s list of primary uses are banking, shopping, navigation services, video calls, and paying bills. Today’s mobile devices have replaced mainly point-and-shoot cameras, compact discs, and MP3 players. They’ve even replaced many people’s keys and wallets. To use your smartphone more effectively, rearrange your home
According to the Pew Research Center, 91% of American adults now own a smartphone, a mobile phone that performs many of a computer’s functions.
screen so the apps you use every day are on your main screen. These apps can include your camera, a search engine, an email account, a music app like Spotify, a social networking platform like Facebook, a video calling app, a text messaging app, an app for managing your finances, a health and fitness app, and the Red Panic Button app for making emergency calls. Using voice-activated assistants like Google Assistant, Siri, Alexa, and Cortana makes daily tasks more straightforward and efficient. They can set reminders for appointments and taking medications; provide information like the weather, news headlines, traffic updates, or answers to general questions; “dial” your friends, family members, or emergency services; control smart home devices if you have them; play music you like; help you find local businesses; and get directions to wherever you want to go. They’re beneficial for people with mobility issues or visual impairments.
To minimize smartphone distractions, turn off non-essential notifications; use do-notdisturb mode to block calls and messages while you’re working, napping or sleeping; and keep
your phone out of reach when you’re not using it. Writer and editor Barbara Jacksier sets aside a day each week when she avoids using her phone altogether.
Set boundaries to manage your phone usage. Limiting phone use at bedtime and first thing in the morning improves sleep quality. Deleting unnecessary apps makes it easier to use your phone, and taking screen breaks allows you time to focus on other activities, like real-life interactions.
Finally, here are ways to enhance your battery life. Activate “battery saver mode” if your phone has one. Turn off Bluetooth and Wi-Fi when you’re not using them. Limit push notifications (short messages generated by apps when the app is not open, notifying you of new messages or updates). Also, reduce your screen’s brightness and intensity.
Phone Security
Every interaction you make online leaves a trail of “electronic breadcrumbs” others can track. Your data is valuable to marketers, as well as to scammers, stalkers, and others who may wish to do you harm.
“These days, everyone needs to have multi-factor authorization turned on.”
— Kevin Brasler, executive editor of Consumers’ Checkbook magazine.
Even if it’s not required, always use a personal identification number (PIN), password, face recognition or a pattern to lock your phone when you’re not using it. Apple, Android and Windows phones make it easy to do. Furthermore, more than that is often required to keep your data secure.
“These days, everyone needs to have multi-factor authorization turned on,”
To use your smartphone more effectively, rearrange your home screen so the apps you use every day are on your main screen.
said Kevin Brasler, executive editor of Consumers’ Checkbook magazine. Multi-factor authentication is a security enhancement that confirms your identity when you attempt to sign in to a system or application.
If you only use your username and password to sign in, anyone who knows those two pieces of information can sign in as you, and your data will be accessible to them. However, by enabling multifactor authorization, a second factor—such as a phone call, a code sent by the app’s administrators, or facial recognition—is required to confirm your identity before you are granted access.
According to Microsoft’s website, “almost every online service, from your bank to your email to your social media accounts, supports adding a second step of authentication, and you should go into the account settings for those services and turn that on.”
Brasler suggests that if someone calls you on your smartphone and you don’t recognize the phone number, don’t answer.
“If you do answer, and they say they’re from your bank or with your credit card company,
Phone scammers 'especially target older cell phone users these days. You have to be really careful.'
hang up and call that institution on your own. Use a number you actually know belongs to that institution.”
Phone scammers, he says, “especially target older cell phone users these days. You have to be really careful.”
Other security suggestions include choosing better passwords for your websites. Pick passwords that have length, complexity, and aren’t too hard to remember. Don’t reuse passwords on multiple sites. If you write down your passwords, keep them in a secure location—not in your phone’s Notes app. If someone calls or messages you, trying to get you to confirm your password, don’t do it!
Password manager apps store, manage and protect your online login credentials. They typically encrypt your passwords in a secure vault and allow you to log in to websites and apps automatically, while also generating strong, unique passwords. A password manager’s software creates complex, unbreakable passwords, and you only need to remember one password to access them. iPhones now come with a built-in password manager—but you have to use it for it to be effective.
Many apps these days are transitioning to passkey-based applications, which use your phone or another supported device to verify your identity before granting access to an app
“The key is, before you lose your phone, turn on the app called 'find my device' on Android and Windows phones, or just 'find my' on iPhones. If you’re not sure where your phone is, you can go in there (by signing in on another device that has the same app), and if the phone’s on, you may be able to locate it.”
– Kevin Brasler
or other account. Passkeys can’t be stolen like passwords—and there’s nothing to remember! Other suggestions to keep your data secure include downloading apps only from trusted stores, such as Apple’s App Store and Google Play. Check ratings and reviews for apps if they are available. Read the app’s privacy policy, so you know exactly what phone features an app will have access to if you download it. Keep your software and operating system up to date, and enable your phone’s auto update
function, which automatically downloads and installs software updates for you. Besides improving performance and efficiency, outdated software often contains known vulnerabilities that hackers can use to get access to your data. Updates address these vulnerabilities and protect your smartphones from malware and viruses that hackers can exploit.
Make sure to log out of the sites you’ve used on your smartphone when your transactions are complete, especially if you bank or shop from it. If you’re using an unrecognized public Wi-Fi system, don’t make payments to others online. These networks are often unsecured, meaning they don’t require a password or employ weak security measures. Hackers can steal your data, redirect you to fake websites, and install malicious software on your device, such as malware that tracks every keystroke you make.
What to Do if You Lose Your Phone
Losing your smartphone not only poses a security risk, but it can also be very stressful. According to Verizon’s website, “Every day, 200,000 devices are lost, stolen, or damaged. You might be surprised by the high out-ofcontract price of replacing a lost smartphone with an equivalent make or model.”
Brasler offers several suggestions, besides calling your number from another device to see if it rings elsewhere in the house.
“The key is, before you lose your phone, turn on the app called ‘find my device’ on Android and Windows phones, or just 'find my' on iPhones,” he said. “If you’re not sure where your phone is, you can go in there (by signing in on another device that has the same app), and if the phone’s on, you may be able to locate it.”
Brasler added that the other big advantage of the app is that if you know your phone’s been
stolen or you’re not going to get it back, you can remotely wipe out its data.
“Even if the phone’s off, the next time it connects to Wi-Fi or a cell signal, it’ll wipe,” he said. You can also lock your phone remotely using Apple, Android or Windows systems.
If you can’t get your phone back or wipe the data remotely, “call your carrier and let them know, because there are steps they can take on their end to shut the phone down. And go ahead and change the passwords to your financial accounts.”
It’s also a good idea to file a police report, which can often be done online. Some
protection plans may require a police report before you file an insurance claim.
Picking a Provider
Carriers, of course, serve many more functions than simply turning off a cellphone. Switching providers, according to Consumer Checkbook, can “save a bundle.”
“Fifteen years ago, cell phones were just for calls, and talk was cheap,” wrote Brasler and co-author Jeff Blyscal in 2021. “But as the capabilities of mobile devices and our reliance on them skyrocketed, so did costs. Many mobile users now pay $70 and up
Make sure to log out of the sites you’ve used on your smartphone when your transactions are complete, especially if you bank or shop from it. If you’re using an unrecognized public Wi-Fi system, don’t make payments to others online.
per month just for service. Families with multiple lines can easily shell out more than $200 per month.”
The overwhelming majority of U.S. mobile phone customers use AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon for service. Checkbook explained that “there are also dozens of smaller companies that buy access to bulk at a discount from one or more carriers and then resell it under their brand names,” like Boost, Consumer Cellular, Cricket Wireless, and Pulse Cellular.
Among the big three, Checkbook reported, “T-Mobile usually won for price,” and the company’s “Essentials” plan offers steep discounts to people aged 55 and older. Some carriers offer free or discounted smartphones or special financing arrangements that reduce the price of a new phone to get you to switch. Usually, however, you must then commit to staying with the carrier for two or three years.
Brasler added another qualification for choosing a carrier: travel abroad.
“Fifteen years ago, cell phones were just for calls, and talk was cheap. But as the capabilities of mobile devices and our reliance on them skyrocketed, so did costs.”
— Brasler and co-author Jeff Blyscal in 2021.
“The good news is that if you’re with one of the three big carriers, your phone’s going to work when you travel abroad,” he said. It’s not necessarily the need to make phone calls that’s important, however: it’s cellular data: the internet connection you use on your smartphone or tablet when you’re not connected to a Wi-Fi network. Most often,
What is dues withholding?
NARFE’s Dues Withholding Program
It is a dues-payment method available to retired NARFE members, their spouses and annuitant survivors giving them the option to have their annual NARFE membership dues deducted from their annuities each month.
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One-twelfth of your total dues is automatically deducted from your monthly annuity. Your monthly deduction is determined by the following formula: ($42 NARFE dues ÷ 12) + (Chapter dues - if applicable ÷ 12) = total monthly deduction
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Complete the Dues Withholding Application below. Send no payment. It may take 60 to 90 days before auto-deduction starts. Your membership starts as soon as your application is received. To learn more about dues withholding, call 800-456-8410
NARFE Dues Withholding Application for NARFE Members who are Retirees, Spouses of Retirees or Annuitant Survivors
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this form
Today’s smartphones have fulfilled Steve Jobs’ original vision for them— to reinvent the phone as a communications device.
Using yours properly will help transform your experience with them from a source of distraction to a revolutionary tool for productivity and improved well-being.
this data is used up in one of three ways: emails, texts, and direct messages; web browsing; and apps, which are usually the biggest data users on your phone.
“When I’m in Europe, I pretty quickly blow past five megabytes of data within three or four hours,” said Brasler. “The problem isn’t that you’re sitting and chatting on the phone all day long when you’re abroad—it’s that you’re using it to download data, to navigate around an unfamiliar place, to find museum tickets, and to post stuff on Facebook.”
He suggests using public Wi-Fi whenever possible.
“When we’re in a restaurant or a hotel, there’s usually Wi-Fi,” said Brasler. “In some places, like South Korea, public Wi-Fi nearly blankets the country.”
If you don’t want to use public Wi-Fi, the big three carriers all offer plans to reduce the high costs of data abroad. Outside of the U.S., Canada and Mexico, most T-Mobile customers get free data when traveling internationally. Currently, AT&T charges $10 per day for the first line and $5 for each additional line, while
Verizon charges $12 per day per line. Because these fees can vary depending on your calling plan, ask your carrier what you’ll pay before you depart.
Most resellers offer only limited overseas coverage, and some don’t offer overseas service at all—another factor to consider when choosing a carrier.
If you’re going to be abroad for a month or more, consider purchasing a SIM card, a small detachable chip in your phone that stores information about your mobile phone account, including your phone number and network subscription. Temporarily replacing your SIM card allows your phone to connect with a carrier from the country you are traveling to, thereby eliminating your usual carrier. It also gives you a new phone number, so it’s probably not a good idea for short trips. Newer phones have electronic SIM cards (eSIMs), which means you no longer need to replace a physical card in your phone.
Finally, you can purchase a portable Wi-Fi hotspot for use overseas. This small, standalone device allows you to create a network for yourself and your family using a cellular data connection. Their security features make them safer and more reliable than public Wi-Fi. “They’re not good for phone calls, but for data, they’re really cheap and really reliable,” said Brasler.
Today’s smartphones have fulfilled Steve Jobs’ original vision for them—to reinvent the phone as a communications device. Using yours properly will help transform your experience with them from a source of distraction to a revolutionary tool for productivity and improved well-being.
—EVERETT A. CHASEN IS A FREELANCE REPORTER BASED IN THE GREATER WASHINGTON, D.C. D
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PEN SEASON REPORT
2025 OPEN SEASON: NOVEMBER 10 – DECEMBER 8
FEHB PLAN CHANGES
The 2025 federal benefits Open Season will run from Monday, November 10, to Monday, December 8.
During Open Season, federal employees may enroll in or change their current enrollments in several federal insurance benefit programs: the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program, the Federal Employee Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP), and the Federal Flexible Spending Account Program (FSAFEDS).
Federal retirees and survivors may change their current enrollment in FEHB and FEDVIP. Open Season is the only time of the year when enrollees in FEDVIP can cancel their registration.
Postal Service employees, annuitants and their eligible family members will enroll in the Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) Program. Postal employees may enroll in or change their current enrollments in FEDVIP and FSAFEDS, and postal retirees may change their current enrollment in FEDVIP.
In early October, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) will release information regarding the 2025 premiums and benefit changes for the numerous insurance plans participating in these federal programs. This occurs well before open season’s start date to give everyone enough time to study the options and decide whether to change.
NARFE will publish selected information in the November and December issues of NARFE Magazine. Resources also will be posted on NARFE’s website at www.narfe.org/open-season
POSTAL SERVICE HEALTH BENEFITS (PSHB)
U.S. Postal Service employees, annuitants, and their family members who are currently eligible for coverage under FEHB will be eligible for coverage under PSHB.
USPS employees and annuitants currently enrolled in FEHB plans who do not enroll in a new PSHB plan during Open Season will automatically be enrolled in a PSHB plan.
It is important to note that postal annuitants will not be required to enroll in Medicare Part B if they have not already done so. Anyone who is a postal annuitant as of January 1, 2026, and not already enrolled in Medicare Part B, will not be required to enroll in Part B as a condition of receiving health benefits through the PSHB program.
Any family members of such a postal annuitant are also exempt from the Part B enrollment requirement. Further, postal employees who are at least age 64 as of January 1, 2026, will not be required to enroll in Medicare Part B when they retire (as a postal annuitant) as a condition of receiving health benefits through the PSHB program. Any family members of such a postal
employee are also exempt from the Part B enrollment requirement.
As a reminder, enrollment in a PSHB plan will not disrupt enrollment in other insurance and benefits programs, including:
• Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP)
• Federal Flexible Spending Account Program (FSAFEDS)
• Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (FEGLI), or
• Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP)
2025 PRIORITIES
In its annual call for carriers this year, OPM highlighted specific areas of concern:
• Easing Administrative Burden on Enrollees
• Preventative Care
• Fertility Benefits
• Mental Health Parity and Network Adequacy and
• Prevention and Treatment of Obesity
Additionally, OPM’s goal for both the FEHB and PSHB Programs is to provide quality, affordable, and equitable health benefits for Federal and Postal Service employees, Federal and Postal Service annuitants, their family members, and other eligible
OPEN SEASON REPORT
persons and groups. Continuous open and effective communication between OPM contracting staff and Carriers should occur to ensure a smooth and successful negotiation cycle. Carriers should discuss all proposed benefit changes with their FEHB and PSHB Health Insurance Specialists.
OPM issued two addenda following President Donald Trump’s executive orders on January 20, 2025 to comply with Plan Year 2026. First, all federal agencies are tasked with ensuring all federal policies and documents that require an individual’s sex list two options, male and female, and shall not make available third options or request “gender identity.” Pursuant to the second EO, all Carriers for Plan Year 2026 will exclude coverage for pediatric transgender surgeries or hormone treatments for the purpose of gender transition. OPM recognizes that there are some bona fide medical conditions, such as precocious puberty or therapy after a traumatic injury, where carriers may lawfully cover hormone treatments for individuals under the age of 19. On August 15, OPM issued a third addendum stating this exclusion expands to anyone regardless of age.
• Medicare Coordination: Carriers were directed to implement a multi-pronged educational outreach effort to inform eligible enrollees about Medicare coordination,
IMPORTANT REMINDERS FOR ALL PLAN PARTICIPANTS
• Research Preferred Providers. Fee-for-service (FFS) plans use preferred provider organizations (PPOs) and doctors to help contain program costs and keep premiums at a reasonable rate. Usually, you will save a lot on out-of-pocket costs if you use your plan’s preferred hospitals or doctors. However, PPO arrangements are business contracts that are not always renewed. PPO arrangements can be made and also can be discontinued from one year to the next. In addition, there may not be PPO arrangements in all parts of the country. If you are enrolled in an FFS plan or thinking of enrolling in one, you should check with the hospitals and doctors you use and ask them if they are PPO providers in your plan. You also can review your plan’s PPO
directory to see if your doctor or hospital is a PPO provider for your plan.
• Ask Questions. Make sure to confirm information in your plan’s brochure by speaking with a plan representative. Do not assume anything. For example, plans may describe benefits in terms of “annual” or “annually.” This would seem to mean “each year,” when, in fact, it may mean that a year must have elapsed before it will cover you again.
• ID Cards. New plan identification cards showing your enrollment are issued by the health plan. If you do not change to another plan or option during Open Season, you don’t necessarily get a new ID card from the plan.
OPEN SEASON REPORT
including the potential effects of the Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA).
OPM stressed the need for carriers to customer service via telephone, online chat, and email, particularly related to members enrolled in Medicare Employer Group Waiver Plans (EGWPs).
FEHB and PSHB Program members for whom Medicare is primary must receive medical and drug coverage equal to or greater than the medical and drug coverage they would have received without a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plan (MA-PD) EGWP or Prescription Drug Plan (PDP) EGWP, according to the call letter.
• Prescription Drug Coverage: OPM will continue to receive proposals to allow FEHB program members to benefit from Medicare Part D coverage by enrolling in carriers’ or their affiliated sponsors’ MA-PD EGWPs or PDP EGWPs.
Related to EGWPs, the letter stated that “pharmacy claims must be adjudicated at the point of sale using processes seamless to the member. Neither the member nor the pharmacy should have to determine which benefit adjudicates at the lowest cost-share.”
• Fraud, Waste and Abuse: OPM stated carriers are responsible for prventing, detecting, investigating, and reporting instances of fraud, waste, and abuse within the FEHB and PSHB programs. FEHB and PSHB carriers were urged to follow guidance on removing ineligible family members from Self Plus One and Self and Family enrollments.
OPEN SEASON FAQS
Will my current health plan continue to participate in the FEHB program?
The FEHB program adds new plans and drops others each year, and plans can change from year to year. For instance, you may find that your premium stays the same, but certain medical procedures are not covered the way they have been in the past. The best way to stay on top of upcoming changes is to read the information available from your health plan and from OPM. To ensure you do not miss any critical communication, make sure your current address is on file with both OPM and your FEHB plan.
How do I get a plan brochure for Open Season? I didn’t get one in the mail. Health insurance carriers are no longer required to send plan brochures through the mail. You can view the brochures online at OPM’s website (www. opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/healthcare/planinformation/plans/) or call your carrier using the contact information on your health plan ID card.
In my agency, who can I go to for assistance or answers to my Open Season questions?
For help with or questions about your Open Season options, contact your human resources office or your agency’s shared service center. Your agency should have provided you with its contact information.
If you still need assistance after speaking with those sources, try contacting your agency’s headquarters’ level agency Benefit Officer using the following link for contact details: https://apps.opm. gov/abo/index.cfm#list.
If you have remaining questions that your agency can’t address, contact NARFE’s Federal Benefits Institute at fedbenefits@narfe.org.
If I make a change during Open Season, when will it be effective?
Open Season changes for annuitants are effective January 1. Changes for most current employees are effective the first day of the first full pay period in January. If you need medical services before the effective date of your Open Season enrollment, you should contact your old plan.
What are the parameters used to determine the dates for the annual Open Seasons for health, dental and vision insurances as well as for flexible spending accounts?
Each year, Open Season runs from the Monday of the second full workweek in November through the Monday of the second full workweek in December. This year’s Open Season begins Monday, November 10, and ends Monday, December 8.
This is the time of year to ensure that you have the right health, dental and vision insurance coverage for you and your family.
It is also the time for current employees to consider how much money to put aside in flexible spending accounts for out-of-pocket medical and dependent care expenses for the upcoming year.
NOVEMBER
NOVEMBER 6 FEHB/PSHB without Medicare (Active Feds)
NOVEMBER
NOVEMBER 20
OPEN SEASON REPORT
I have had the same health insurance plan since the day I first joined the federal government years ago. Why is it important to have a federal Open Season every year?
Most Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) plans will see benefit and rate changes for the upcoming year. Some plans might drop out of the program, and others may change their service areas or coverage options. Also, postal employees and retirees will enroll for the first time in plans that are part of the Postal Service Health Benefits program.
There are many different types of plans available in just about any ZIP code. It is wise to review your coverage during this period each year to decide what coverage and premium best suits your needs for the upcoming year.
Another program to consider during Open Season is the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP). Through this program, you have the option to supplement your health insurance plan with separate dental and/ or vision insurance coverage that could potentially reduce your out-of-pocket costs for these types of care. You may also cancel your participation in these programs during this period.
A flexible spending account through FSAFEDS can save employees money through lower tax withholding. You can fund your account through pretax contributions from your salary and use the account to pay for health care out-of-pocket or dependent care costs.
Typically, you cannot enroll, change your enrollment or cancel your coverage in these programs outside of an Open Season unless you experience a qualifying life event.
Why are the enrollee shares for some Self Plus One enrollments the same or higher than Self and Family enrollee shares for the same plan?
The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) provided the following answer to that question:
“For most enrollees, the enrollee share for Self Plus One will be lower than the enrollee share for Self and Family. However, it is possible that some plans will have higher enrollee shares for self-plus-one enrollments than for self-and-family enrollments.
“The statutory formula that is used to calculate the government contribution is based on the average of all plan premiums and requires that OPM calculate a maximum contribution for each enrollment type.
“In other words, there is a limit to how much the government will contribute toward the cost of a Self Only, Self Plus One or Self and Family enrollment. The government contributes the lesser of the maximum contribution or 75% of the total premium. The remaining amount is the enrollee share (how much the enrollee must pay).
“In some cases, such as plans with a premium cost that is above the program average, this calculation may result in a higher enrollee share for a Self Plus One enrollment than a Self and Family enrollment.”
Which benefit is the most important to consider?
The answer to that question can vary depending upon your medical needs in the upcoming year.
For those not enrolled in Medicare Part B, the catastrophic protection benefit is very important. It puts a dollar limit on what you must pay out of pocket in terms of co-payments and coinsurance for the expenses that the plan covers.
If a federal employee is married to another federal employee and they don’t have any eligible children under their FEHB plan, then it’s usually less expensive to maintain a separate Self Only FEHB plan versus a shared Self Plus One plan.
However, you should consider using OPM’s online plan comparison tools and/or the Consumers’ Checkbook Guide to Federal Health Plans to carefully compare your options, including physician networks and prescription drug coverage (NARFE members receive a 20% discount).
If I make an Open Season enrollment change and I have to go to the doctor after January 1, which plan do I contact to provide the insurance coverage based on my visit?
If you are an annuitant, you should contact your new plan. Your Open Season enrollment is effective January 1.
However, if you are an active employee, your new plan is not responsible for providing coverage until the effective date of your enrollment change, which for most active employees is the first day of the first full pay period in January.
As an active employee, if you need medical services before the effective date of your Open Season enrollment or change, you should contact your old plan.
Your old plan will provide coverage according to its new 2024 contract for care received in
January before the effective date of your new plan. These expenses will count toward your prior year’s deductible.
Can I enroll online in the FEDVIP without contacting the OPM?
BENEFEDS is an enrollment and premium processing system sponsored by OPM that you must use to enroll in the FEDVIP.
BENEFEDS includes a secure website and a call center. BENEFEDS also handles billing and premium administration. It’s the only place to enroll in a FEDVIP plan. You can enroll securely online at www.benefeds.com or by telephone at 1-877-8883337, TTY 1-877-889-5680.
Is it possible to make a serious mistake in choosing a plan during Open Season?
There really aren’t any bad plans in the FEHB or PSHB. It’s just that there may be a plan that is better suited for you based on how and where you want to obtain your health care in the upcoming year.
Federal employees, retirees and their survivors enjoy the widest selection of health plans in the country. You can choose from among consumerdriven and high-deductible plans that offer catastrophic risk protection with higher deductibles, health savings/reimbursable accounts and lower premiums; fee-for-service (FFS) plans and their Preferred Provider Organizations (PPO); or Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO), if you live (or sometimes if you work) within the area serviced by the plan.
Common mistakes include: enrolling in a costly plan or option when you don’t need one; a plan that doesn’t cover a specific benefit that you need; Self Only coverage when you need additional coverage or vice versa; or you enroll in a plan that requires you to use preferred providers and there are none in your area.
You might also make a mistake if you live outside the United States and Puerto Rico, and neglect to enroll in a plan that offers “overseas” benefits.
— NARFE FEDERAL BENEFITS INSTITUTE
Apply for your NARFE Visa Platinum credit card today and receive a $25 statement credit1 towards your next purchase!
More reasons to keep the NARFE Visa Platinum credit card at the top of your wallet:
» Earn six (6) points per $1.00 spent on all streaming services, and one (1) point per $1.00 spent on all other purchases2
» No annual fee, no balance transfer fees, no cash advance fees, and no foreign transaction fees3
» Credit limits up to $25,000
» Protect your card with Visa Secure and Visa Secure Remote Commerce (SRC)
1 $25 Visa statement credit applies to new applicants only. The credit expires after six months if it is not used. All loans are subject to credit approval.
2 There is a 60-point monthly cap on streaming services.
3 Other fees such as late fees, returned check fees, and an over-the-limit fee may apply. For the full list of fees SFCU charges, please visit SignatureFCU.org/FeeSchedule. Annual Percentage Rate (APR) ranges from 12.99% - 18.00%. Rates, terms, and conditions may vary based on credit worthiness and qualifications. Your actual APR will be determined at the time of application and will be based on your application and credit information. Not all applicants will qualify for the lowest rate. Rates are set by the Board of Directors and may change without notice.
Ready to get started?
Scan the QR code to your left, visit SignatureFCU.org/NARFE to apply today, or contact our Member Services Department at (800) 336.0284 ext. 684 to get started today.
Not a member of SFCU? Open your account today at SignatureFCU.org/JoinNow
Signature Federal Credit Union (800) 336.0284 newaccounts@signaturefcu.org
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AOBBBA’s New Rules: Essential Year-End Considerations for 2025
fter months of speculation, Congress officially passed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (OBBBA) on July 4, 2025, marking the most significant update to the tax code since the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017. OBBBA makes many TCJA provisions permanent while layering in new deductions, phaseouts, and rules that will shape tax planning for years to come.
For taxpayers in high-tax states, the state and local tax (SALT) deduction cap, which has been stuck at $10,000 since 2018, will increase to $40,000 starting in 2025. But this higher cap is both temporary and subject to phaseouts. For all filing statuses except married filing separately, the deduction begins to phase out at $500,000 of adjusted gross income (AGI). For those filing separately, the phaseout starts at $250,000. The increase is temporary and returns to $10,000 in 2030.
While the increased SALT cap helps many taxpayers return to itemizing, OBBBA simultaneously reduces the tax benefits of their charitable contributions. Beginning in 2026, OBBBA reduces the value of charitable deductions for itemizers by introducing a 0.5% AGI floor. Only the portion of your charitable giving that exceeds this threshold will be deductible. For example, a taxpayer with a $100,000 AGIwho makes $2,000 in charitable contributions would only deduct $1,500 under the new rules ($2,000 minus the $500 floor). For high-income households or those making modest gifts, this limits the tax value of giving.
Given these new limitations, taxpayers with high AGI may
WHILE THE INCREASED SALT CAP HELPS MANY TAXPAYERS RETURN TO ITEMIZING, OBBBA SIMULTANEOUSLY REDUCES THE TAX BENEFITS OF THEIR CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS.
want to consider bunching multiple years of charitable gifts into one tax year to maximize the tax benefits of charitable contributions. Especially in 2025, before the floor kicks in. Donoradvised funds can be beneficial, allowing taxpayers to make a large contribution in one year (and take the deduction in a single year) while distributing the money to charities over several years.
For those who take the standard deduction, OBBBA provides a different opportunity. Starting in 2026, taxpayers taking the standard deduction can claim a new charitable deduction of up to $1,000 for single filers or $2,000 for joint filers. The new deduction is available only for cash donations;
donations of property or investments are not eligible. Furthermore, the deduction is subject to phaseouts, beginning at $50,000 for single filers and $100,000 for joint filers, and fully phasing out at $100,000 and $200,000, respectively.
If you take the standard deduction, the new charitable deduction offers a simple, taxsmart way to support causes you care about. However, while the new charitable deduction reduces taxable income, it does not reduce AGI, which is the figure most of the pesky “stealth taxes,” such as Medicare income-related monthly adjustment amount (IRMAA) premiums, are based on.
If you’re over 70½, Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) may still be the most efficient option, allowing you to donate directly from your individual retirement account (IRA) to charity, thereby reducing taxable income and required minimum distributions. Importantly, QCDs reduce AGI, helping you avoid stealth taxes like IRMAA, the Net Investment Income Tax, and the taxability of Social Security benefits.
In lieu of eliminating taxes on Social Security benefits— as President Donald Trump suggested on the campaign trail—OBBBA introduces a new senior deduction for individuals age 65 and older. Beginning in 2025, retirees can deduct $6,000 if single or $12,000 if married and both spouses are 65 or older. This deduction runs through 2028 and is taken below the line, meaning it reduces taxable income but not AGI.
BENEFITS RESOURCES
NARFE OFFERS MEMBERS a wide range of information on federal benefits. Visit www.narfe.org/federal-benefits-institute
It begins to phase out at $75,000 for single filers and $150,000 for joint filers, disappearing entirely by $125,000 and $250,000, respectively. Large Roth conversions, capital gains, or other spikes in income could inadvertently erase this deduction, highlighting yet another reason why tax planning is important.
While OBBBA extends the favorable TCJA tax brackets, those performing Roth conversions need to pay special attention to OBBBA’s phaseouts. The senior deduction, SALT cap, and charitable giving rules all include income-based thresholds. Roth conversions aren’t just about filling up the rest of your tax bracket or staying under an IRMAA threshold anymore. You now have to account for the phaseouts that can quietly eliminate other valuable tax benefits.
With multiple provisions taking effect at different times and various income-based
phaseouts, coordinated tax planning becomes essential. Whether you’re managing charitable gifts, planning Roth conversions, or navigating new deductions, you’ll need to coordinate across multiple thresholds and phaseouts. OBBBA opens the door to new tax-saving strategies but also makes the landscape more complex.
MARK A. KEEN, CFP®, PARTNER, KEEN & POCOCK. SECURITIES OFFERED THROUGH THE STRATEGIC FINANCIAL ALLIANCE, INC. (SFA), MEMBER FINRA/ SIPC. ADVISORY SERVICES OFFERED THROUGH STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT, LLC AND THE STRATEGIC FINANCIAL ALLIANCE, INC. MARK KEEN IS A REGISTERED PRINCIPAL OF SFA AND AN INVESTMENT ADVISOR REPRESENTATIVE OF SFA AND STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT, LLC. SFA AND STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT ARE AFFILIATED THROUGH COMMON OWNERSHIP BUT OTHERWISE UNAFFILIATED WITH KEEN & POCOCK. NEITHER STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT NOR SFA PROVIDE TAX OR LEGAL ADVICE.
• Prepare for the future as a family decision-maker or future beneficiary.
• Get clear guidance on federal benefits, health insurance, and long-term care planning.
• Find community and connections through local events or online through FEDHub. First-year chapter dues are free for new members.
Win Cool Prizes During NARFE’s 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, 2025. 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, 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 with the script and show all the ways NARFE helps members
get more out of their federal benefits
• Plus, check out NARFE’s new FED Up? membership marketing campaign and use these new ads and videos to recruit on your Facebook, Instagram or Nextdoor accounts or whatever new social platform you are using. To view these resources visit “Member Quick Links”–“Membership Marketing Materials” – “Member marketing assets” from Street Level Studio
If you need printed supplies to support your efforts (membership brochures, 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
Administrative Assistant Joins NARFE
Catherine Serrano has started working behind the NARFE Headquarters front desk as the
new receptionist/administrative assistant for the administration department. She officially started full-time on July 28
and was already working as a temporary employee in the same role since April 28, so if you called headquarters with a
question for the majority of 2025, you likely talked to Catherine.
Catherine is the first person you’ll see when entering NARFE Headquarters in its refurbished lobby. She reports to Operations Manager Derrick Hayden.
“He’s awesome,” Catherine says of Derrick, who’s served on NARFE staff in an operations role for over 30 years. “He’s a great person to learn from. He’s very detailed in what he does and goes step by step to make sure you have all the information you need to do any task. Learning from him is very easy.”
Catherine is involved with answering the phone and emails, and various office administrative tasks, including helping Derrick with placing orders and sorting the mail. She helped Derrick find the best fabric and price for new NARFE conference room chairs.
Catherine studied psychology for two years at Towson University and
is currently attending the University of Maryland Global Campus. She plans to graduate in December 2026 and wants to focus her career on children with behavioral differences.
Catherine has pursued administrative roles before coming to NARFE while pursuing her education, quickly demonstrating a high level of professionalism and poise.
“I love working with people in general,” Catherine said. “I like talking to members and solving their problems. I’m seeing what I’m learning and how it translates over.”
In one instance, a phone call was transferred to Catherine, where the caller said she had been transferred to another staff member and they needed an urgent answer before the end of the day. Catherine was able to track down the correct NARFE department and staff member to help the member. There have been some days where the front desk
phone has rung nonstop—whether it be a missing magazine delivery or a request for a NARFE information pamphlet in the mail—keeping Catherine on her toes as she learns an evolving role for the department.
“It felt good to know I helped her solve her problem and she was happy,” Catherine added.
She was born and raised in Washington, D.C.
—BY MATT SANDERSON, CONTENT MANAGER
Visit www.narfe.org/chapters to find the chapter that’s right for you, and then call us between 8 a.m.-5 p.m. ET at 800-456-8410. Then dial 1 for membership and we’ll get you signed up right away.
NARFE Membership Sending Reminder Emails About Renewals
Did you receive an urgent email from NARFE reminding you that your membership has expired or will expire soon? Fear not! All you have to do is sign into your account to renew your membership.
The membership department at NARFE is keeping pace by notifying every individual member with a personalized reminder that their dues will lapse as their expiration date approaches. If your expiration date is November 30, 2025, or earlier, it is time to renew! Look on the back of this magazine to check your date.
Renewing your NARFE membership is the best way to protect and maximize your federal retirement benefits.
NARFE is the only organization solely dedicated to protecting and preserving the benefits of all federal workers and annuitants. As a NARFE member, you have a dedicated professional legislative team working to protect and preserve your earned benefits
on Capitol Hill and with the administration. You also have access to many valuable resources, such as:
• NARFE Magazine
• NewsLine, our weekly e-newsletter, with the latest news and information about the issues that affect you.
• Daily Clips, our daily email snapshot of the news you need to know to start your day
• Personalized answers to your federal benefits questions from our experts.
• NARFE Perks discounts on travel, legal, and security services, and much more!
RENEWING YOUR MEMBERSHIP IS EASY!
• Renew online at https:// members.narfe.org. Go to “My Account” and click on “My Invoices.”
• While you’re logged in, sign up for AutoPay and never receive another mailed or emailed reminder again! Simply click on “My Account,” “My Settings” and then “My AutoPay Account.”
CONFERENCES AND MEETINGS
Information as of August 11, 2025.
REGION X: conference October 20-23, Staybridge Suites, Pigeon Forge, TN. Please contact Region X Vice President Robert Allen, rvp10@narfe.org, for more information.
NEW HAMPSHIRE: 54th annual conference, October 29, 2025, Governor’s Inn, 78 Wakefield St, Rochester NH 03867. Please contact Joseph J. Kowalik III, 603485-2082 or email jjkowalik3@gmail.com.
REGION III REGIONAL TRAINING CONFERENCE: conference October 10-12, Saint Simons Island, GA.
• Renew by phone by calling 800-456-8410 and select option 1, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET. Tell them your member number.
Want to find another way to avoid receiving these renewal reminders each year? If you’re retired and want to save on your annual membership, flip to page 51 to learn more about dues withholding and have your membership deducted monthly from your annuity. Simply complete the form and mail it back to 606 N Washington St, Alexandria, VA 22314.
Numbers matter. Our voice is loudest when we all stand together.
Please don’t delay! Your NARFE benefits are at risk. Renew today to keep receiving your issues of NARFE Magazine, guidance when benefits change, access to federal benefits specialists who can help you with your specific questions, and much more.
Thank you for your continued support!
—BY NORA MACDONALD, DIRECTOR, MEMBER ENGAGEMENT
Please contact Region Vice President Lynn Harper, 478-951-3260 or email lynnlarry79@outlook.com
WASHINGTON STATE ANNUAL MEETING October 28, 2025, virtual. More information to come.
WISCONSIN: The 63rd Wisconsin Federation of NARFE Convention will take place November 4-5, 2025, at the Best Western Hotel in Tomah, Wisconsin. Registration forms may be obtained by emailing the Federation Secretary at dianehedrich@ yahoo.com
For the complete list, visit https://www.narfe. org/2025-chapter-conferences-and-meetings/.
Active and Retired Federal Employees–
Join NARFE (or Renew) Today!
The only organization dedicated solely to protecting and preserving the benefits of all federal workers and retirees, NARFE informs you of any developments and proposals that affect your compensation, retirement and health benefits, AND provides clear answers to your questions.
Who Should Join NARFE?
If your future security is tied to federal retirement benefits—federal retirees, current employees, spouses and individual survivors—you should join NARFE. Membership expiring? Renew now!
NARFE MEMBER BENEFITS
• Understand benefit changes and key aspects to stay on top of with NARFE’s monthly webinars, held on a variety of topics such as Thrift Savings Plan, health insurance options and long term care insurance updates
• Direct access to Federal Benefits Institute experts who can answer your most pressing questions and help you get answers you need from OPM
• Topical and robust articles on new legislation, and topics like car buying tips and finding your path in retirement, and the ever popular Q&A section addressing your most burning benefit questions in NARFE Magazine
• Support from your peers with access to FEDHub, the only national online community for the federal community, and local chapters, where you can meet feds in a neighborhood near you
• Weekly news roundup email called Newsline, with helpful tips and updates from NARFE on the work we are doing to support you
• Discounts on popular national brands with NARFE Perks
• Powerful advocacy and alerts to take action on important legislation pending in Congress and our advocacy team that protects your benefits every day!
NARFE MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
o I want to join NARFE for the low annual dues of $48
o Mr. o Mrs. o Miss o Ms.
Full Name
Retirement date (or expected)
I am a (check all that apply)
o Active Federal Employee o Active Federal Employee Spouse
o Annuitant o Annuitant Spouse o Survivor Annuitant
o Please enroll my spouse
Spouse’s Full Name
Spouse’s Email
LOOKING TO
MEET
OTHERS in the federal community? Go to www.narfe.org/chapters to find a chapter near you.
Are you a new member who wants to receive a FREE one-year chapter membership? Choose one: o Chapter closest to home OR o Chapter #____________
1. Complete this application and mail with your payment to NARFE Member Services / 606 N Washington St / Alexandria, VA 22314-1914.
o Renew my membership
Membership ID (ID # can be found on cover of magazine)
Verify your chapter dues amount or join a NARFE chapter today by calling 800-456-8410 x1.
To view your current renewal invoice (with chapter dues if applicable), login to narfe.org, click “Member Portal,” then “My Account” and then “My Invoices.” Simply pay online or return this form with the invoice amount.
PAYMENT OPTIONS
o Check or Money Order (Payable to NARFE)
o Charge my: o MasterCard o VISA o Discover o AMEX
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Expiration Date _______/_______ (MM/YY)
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TOTAL DUES
$48 annual dues x ________=_________ per person #enrolling total dues
Dues payments are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes.
THANK YOUR RECRUITER Did someone introduce you to NARFE? Please provide their name and member ID.
Recruiter’s Name
Recruiter’s Membership ID
(Previously Office Depot/Office Max)
Use your NARFE Perks and your membership will more than pay for itself!
See how much you can save at www.NARFE.org/memberperks
PRODUCTS
ADT/Bulldog Security Services | https://bulldogsecurityservice.partnerlinks.io/urns4ejdlhns
Exclusive Offer for NARFE Members: NARFE members can enjoy discounted monthly monitoring rates, $0 installation fees, reduced activation fees, and a $500 equipment voucher for customizing their security and smart home systems with ADT monitoring. Enhance your home security with these exclusive benefits tailored just for you. Select the link for more details and fill out the contact page to speak to a security expert and place your order.
BMG Money | https://www.narfe.org/narfe-perks-for-members/bmg-money/ BMG Money is the better loan solution for federal government employees and retirees who are working on improving their credit scores. Apply in minutes regardless of credit score with instant funding available. All credit scores are encouraged to apply with higher acceptance rates.
GE Appliances Store | Use the link below to start shopping!
Save with NARFE members-only access to the GE Appliances Store! You will enjoy up to 25% off MSRP every day on the latest in high-quality appliances. *Orders can not be shipped to P.O. boxes, APOS, Canada, Puerto Rico, HI, AK or U.S. Territories. https://www.myapstore.com/GEStore/Appliances/Registration?AuthCode=MONARFE21
HP – The Association Member Store | 1-888-678-9620 | www.narfe.org/hp-perk-2024E
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 memberonly 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.
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.
Purchasing Power | https://www.purchasingpower.com/?domain=narfe
While not a discount program, Purchasing Power is an exclusive purchase program helps members buy brand-name computers, electronics, appliances and furniture via annuity allotment when cash is not an option. No credit check or down payments.
Signature FCU Visa Platinum Card | www.SignatureFCU.org/NARFE
Signature FCU is a full-service, nationwide federal credit union operating since 1970. Membership starts with just a $5 deposit into a standard savings account—no membership fees and no minimum balance requirements to enjoy all the products and services we have to offer, including the NARFE Visa® Platinum Credit Card. This special card gives back to your organization and gives you one point for every $1 you spend to redeem for cash, travel, and merchandise.
WELLNESS
Active&Fit Direct | https://www.narfe.org/narfe-perks-for-members/activefit-direct/ Stay active from anywhere for $28/mo. Active&Fit Direct includes 12,200+ Gyms, 9,300+ On-Demand Videos and 1:1 Well-Being Coaching. A fitness program with no annual fees and no long-term contracts. Switch gyms anytime. Membership options for your spouse. No Enrollment Fee With Promo Code: STAYSTRONG Brookdale Senior Living Communities | 877-713-2762 | www.brookdale.com/narfe
As the largest operator of senior living communities in the US, Brookdale has over 1,000 locations all across the country. Members are eligible for 7.5% discount at Brookdale Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care communities and 10% discounts on Brookdale Private Duty Home Care. Discounts are for new move-ins/ customers only.
Life Line Screening | 800-324-9906 | www.lifelinescreening.com/NARFE
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
MOVING SERVICES
1-800-GOT-JUNK? | 800-468-5865 | www.narfe.org/1-800-got-junk NARFE Members Save 10% with 1-800-GOT-JUNK? Do you have old furniture, appliances, electronics, construction debris, yard waste or other junk you need to make disappear? 1-800-GOT-JUNK? can take away almost any material we can fit in our trucks, without you ever lifting a finger—all you have to do is point! Use code NARFE10 when you book. To get started, give us a call or book online.
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.
Heroes Vacation Club | www.HeroesVacationClub.com
Heroes Vacation Club is your NARFE member-exclusive travel club with discounts on hotels, resorts, cruises, car rentals, airfare, and more.
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
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
Ensuring Maritime Security
This photograph shows a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Special Agent and the U.S. Coast Guard in a rigid hull inflatable boat motoring away from an inspected vessel during maritime operations in the Port of Valdez, Alaska. This was part of the 2002 exercise Northern Edge, a joint training exercise with Valdez police and fire departments, Civil Air Patrol, U.S. Coast Guard, Coast Guard Auxiliary, Alaska State Troopers, the FBI, and other local representatives. It was the first time civil authorities participated in the annual exercise to ensure maritime security.
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.
DID YOU KNOW?
The first Northern Edge exercise kicked off in 1993 and was designed to be an internal training event for the Alaska Command (ALCOM) headquarters and component headquarters staffs, emphasized by a two-tier joint task force concept by focusing on joint operations, campaign planning and logistics planning. Alaska Shield/Northern Edge is a joint training exercise designed to test military and civilian responses and coordination capabilities should multiple terrorist attacks occur throughout the state of Alaska.
Visit www.https://www. nationalguard.mil/News/ Article/573988/stressed-to-theseams-alaska-shield-still-holdsits-northern-edge/
NARFE Hospital Indemnity and Short Term Recovery Insurance Plan
This plan can help you manage how life’s surprises affect what you’ve worked so hard for. It pays cash benefits to you, or anyone you choose, to use the money as you see fit. Use the cash benefits to stay more in control of your health care choices, maintain your self reliance, and receive the level of care you’ve earned and deserve.
* The Blue Cross and Blue Shield Service Benefit Plan may pay a hearing aid benefit for FEP Blue Basic® and FEP Blue Standard® members up to $2,500 total with prior approval every 5 calendar years for adults age 22 and over, and up to $2,500 total per calendar for members up to age 22. FEP Blue Focus® does not have a hearing aid benefit.
The Blue Cross® and Blue Shield® words and symbols, Federal Employee Program®, MyBlue®, Blue365®, and FEP® are all trademarks owned by the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. 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
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