February 2013 NARFE Magazine

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Thrift savings plan

Social Security

COVER STORY

Whittling Away at FERS Retirement P.22 FERS DefinedBenefit Pension

P.28

Marriage & Divorce Federal Style

P.42

$10 Million for Alzheimer’s research

Volume 89 • Number 02

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Thrift savings plan

Social Security

FERS DefinedBenefit Pension

22

Cover Story

Washington Watch

6

Fiscal Cliff Crisis Averted; Sequestration Still Looms Large

7

NARFE Put Pressure on Postal Reform Negotiations

8

2013 Legislative Training Conference Registration Form

9

Last Call for Legislative Training Conference Registration

10

‘Protect America’s Heartbeat’ Revitalized

12

Debt Limit 2013: Feds to the Rescue

Columns

Whittling Away at FERS Retirement. Proposals to scrap the FERS Annuity Supplement and make other changes in federal retirement are sure to resurface in Congress.

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From the President

34

Managing Money

38

The Informed Citizen

DEPARTMENTS

28

Marriage & Divorce Federal Style. Valentine’s Day should remind feds to think ahead to avoid benefit blunders when changing marital status.

14

Questions & Answers

40

For the Record: TSP Investments, COLA Chart

42

NARFE News

52

The Way We Worked

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On the Web follow us on twitter:

THRIFT SAVINGS PLAN

COVER STORY

WHITTLING

SOCIAL SECURITY

@narfehq

AT

By Steve BaAWAY tesFERS RETIREMENT

P.22 FERS DEFINEDBENEFIT PENSION

like us on facebook:

NARFE National Headquarters visit us online at:

www.narfe.org

P.28

MARRIAGE & DIVORCE FEDERAL STYLE

Volume 89 • Number 02

P.42

$10 MILLION FOR ALZHEIMER’S RESEARCH

NARFE_CoverFEB_P4.indd 1

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ON THE C OVER

Illustration by Gretchen Braun of Bates Creative Group

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FEBRUARY 2013 | Volume 89 | Number 02

Editor Margaret M. Carter

Editorial Administrator Toni Vallario Graphic Design Bates Creative Group Editorial Board Joseph A. Beaudoin, Paul H. Carew, Elaine C. Hughes, Richard G. Thissen Editorial Office: narfe magazine, 606 North Washington St., Alexandria, VA 22314-1914; Phone: 703-838-7760; Fax: 703-838-7781; Email: communications@narfe.org Advertising Sales: Warren Berger, Media People Inc., 122 East 42nd St., Suite 725, New York, NY 10168; 212-779-7172, ext. 223; Email: wberger@mediapeople.com NARFE for the Visually Impaired On the Telephone: This publication can be heard on the telephone by persons who have trouble seeing or reading the print edition. For more information, contact the National Federation of the Blind NFB-NEWSLINE® service at 866-504-7300 or go to www.nfbnewsline.org.

On Tape: Issues of narfe magazine are also available on cassette through the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped. To find out about availability in your area, call 800-424-8567 and ask for the Reference Section.

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.

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ARF

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Assistant Editor Donna J. St. John

Est

. 1921

NATIONAL OFFICERS JOSEPH A. BEAUDOIN, President; natpres@narfe.org PAUL H. CAREW, Vice President; natvp@narfe.org ELAINE C. HUGHES, Secretary; natsec@narfe.org RICHARD G. THISSEN, Treasurer; nattreas@narfe.org

REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENTS

REGION I Arthur Pike (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont) Tel: 207-764-4468 Email: artpike1937@aol.com REGION II Evelyn Kirby (Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey and Pennsylvania) Tel: 410-604-1141 Email: ekirby@atlanticbb.net REGION III Donald Stewart (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, Puerto Rico, South Carolina and Virgin Islands) Tel: 305-442-6388 Email: dejs33149@aol.com REGION IV Paul E. Johnson (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin) Tel: 812-306-5137 Email: pejohnson@tds.net REGION V Carol R. Ek (Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota) Tel: 620-241-1131 Email: ek617@att.net

Here’s How to Contact Us...

If you want to:

Join NARFE Call (toll-free): 800-627-3394 or go to: www.narfe.org Change or update your membership record Call (toll-free): 800-456-8410 Email: memberrecords@narfe.org

REGION VI Jerome S. Smith (Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Republic of Panama and Texas) Tel: 903-534-5849 Email: retiredjer@aol.com REGION VII Frank Impinna (Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming) Tel: 303-482-1747 Email: impinna@gmail.com REGION VIII Helen L. Zajac (California, Guam, Hawaii, Nevada and Republic of Philippines) Tel: 707-644-7565 Email: hlz17@aol.com REGION IX Lanny G. Ross (Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington) Tel: 360-692-9741 Email: lannyjean@comcast.net REGION X William F. Martin (Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia) Tel: 540-872-3345 Email: narfe2065@hughes.net

For any other NARFE matter:

Call NARFE Headquarters: 703-838-7760 Email: hq@narfe.org Fax: 703-838-7785 Write: NARFE 606 N. Washington St. Alexandria, VA 22314

www.narfe.org

narfe (ISSN 1948-4453) is published monthly by the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE), 606 N. Washington St., Alexandria, VA 22314. Periodicals postage paid at Alexandria, VA, and additional mailing offices. Members: Annual dues includes subscription. Nonmember subscription rate $45. 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 © 2013, 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, but at the same time we will not undertake to guarantee the reliability of our advertisers.

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From the President

A Rousing Start

N

ARFE ended 2012 on a positive note, with news that we have reached the $10 million mark in

fundraising for Alzheimer’s research. Read more about this achievement on p. 42.

As this issue of narfe magazine goes to press, the 113th Congress will be in session, and President Obama will soon be taking the oath of office to begin his second term. The president’s 2014 budget submission is due to Congress in February, and the continuing resolution funding the government for the first half of 2013 expires at the end of March.

Before adjourning on January 2, the 112th Congress passed a bill avoiding the “fiscal cliff.” Although it dealt with tax issues, the bill merely put off, by two months, a showdown on the across-the-board spending cuts known as sequestration. Congress will have to deal with

that, and the need to raise the debt ceiling, in the weeks ahead and will be looking for ways to cut spending. Proposals to reduce the pay and benefits of federal employees and retirees are sure to be on the table. In addition, look for a move to change the index used to calculate costof-living adjustments in Social Security benefits and federal annuities to the chained CPI, something NARFE opposes.

The cover story in this issue of narfe magazine examines some proposals intended to whittle away at federal retirement benefits. A law enacted last year requires new federal hires to pay more toward their retirement, with no increase in benefits. Proposals to eliminate the Federal Employees Retirement System Annuity Supplement and require all federal employees to contribute even more toward their retirement are likely to resurface in the new Congress.

As NARFE enters its 92nd year, I am reminded that not very much has changed.

The threat to cut the benefits of federal workers and retirees has become an all-too-familiar refrain, and we are still fighting on your behalf to prevent the erosion of your earned benefits.

Please help us in our efforts. Stay informed and stay involved.

Joseph A. Beaudoin NARFE national President natpres@narfe.org

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House Oversight and Government Reform Committee

Washington Watch

fiscal cliff crisis averted; sequestration still looms large

T

good news is that the bill resolving the “fiscal cliff” newheleadership for key crisis for the short-term did not include any reductions congressional committees

in pay or benefits for federal employees and retirees. The

bad news is that the legislation passed by the 112th Congress addressed only some of the fiscal cliff issues. Proposals that would put federal pay and benefits on the chopping block are sure to resurface in the new 113th Congress.

There was plenty of drama leading up to enactment of the legislation, and NARFE was involved in the fight until the end. Here is how events played out on Capitol Hill: In the early hours of New Year’s Day, Senate leaders, in conjunction with the White House, were able to compromise on legislation that avoided sending the country over the fiscal cliff. Passed easily by a vote of 89-8, the legislation tackled tough issues, such as tax rates, unemployment insurance, the farm bill, Medicare reimbursement rates and the automatic across-the-board cuts to federal budgets known as sequestration.

Things did not go as smoothly in the House, however. Many Republicans objected to the compromise 6

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relating to sequestration and the tax rates, and the House took its time on January 1, trying to figure out how to address the bill.

Ultimately, after several internal caucus meetings, the House voted on the Senate legislation, passing it by a vote of 257-167.

Here is a rundown of key provisions of the bill: • Income taxes rise to Clintonera levels (39.6 percent) for individuals making more than $400,000 a year and families making more than $450,000.

The previous rate for those earners was 35 percent. Those with incomes below this level are permanently taxed at the decreased levels initially

© istockphoto/ MCCAIG

passed under the Bush administration and extended by President Obama in 2010.

• The tax on capital gains and dividends is permanently set at 20 percent for those with income above the $400,000/$450,000 threshold. It remains at 15 percent for those making less. The Clintonera rates were 20 percent for capital gains, and dividends were taxed as ordinary income, with a top rate of 39.6 percent. The estate tax is now 40 percent for those above the $400,000/$450,000 level.

• The Alternative Minimum Tax is permanently indexed to inflation to prevent more Americans, an estimated 30 million taxpayers, from being subject to the increased tax level.

• The 2 percent payroll-tax holiday, which had been in effect for the last two years, was allowed to expire. Americans paying into Social Security will return to the 6.2 percent tax rate.

narfe put pressure on postal reform negotiations • Federal unemployment insurance is extended for another year, benefiting those unemployed for longer than 26 weeks.

• A scheduled 27 percent reduction in payments to Medicare providers (the “doc fix”) is prevented for another year.

• The pay freeze on members of Congress’ salaries is extended through 2013. On New Year’s Day, the House passed a separate bill to include all federal employees, but it ultimately was not part of the final bill.

Reacting quickly, NARFE sent a message to all members of the House, opposing the pay-freeze extension for federal employees.

The provision to delay sequestration for two months was a major factor in attempts to pass the legislation. Many House Republicans objected to this “kick the can down the road” approach to sequestration, claiming the federal govern- ment needs to do a better job of reining in spending. Congress will now debate how to prevent the sequestration cuts from taking effect on March 2. NARFE members must remain vigilant during this time, as it is likely that federal employee and retiree pay and benefits will continue to be part of the deficit-reduction conversation. • —By Jessica Klement, legislative director

Despite last-minute talks, the House and Senate were unable to reach a deal on broad postal reform legislation before the 112th Congress adjourned.

During the negotiations, NARFE continued to make lawmakers aware of its concerns about the reductions in federal workers’ compensation benefits that were contained in the Senate-passed bill, S. 1789. In a letter to the House of Representatives, NARFE President Joseph A. Beaudoin highlighted a new report by the Government Accountability Office (GAO).

NARFE continued to make lawmakers aware of its concerns about the reductions in federal workers’ compensation benefits that were contained in the Senate-passed bill.

“According to the recent GAO report,” Beaudoin said, “federal workers disabled as part of their service would receive up to 35 percent less in retirement-age income than if they were not injured and retired after 30 years under the current retirement system.”

NARFE also joined in signing a Federal-Postal Coalition letter

to Congress, urging opposition to the unfair reductions in Federal Employees’ Compensation Act benefits contained in S. 1789 and highlighting the GAO report.

In addition, NARFE continued to caution lawmakers against reconsidering the inclusion of any changes to the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP) in postal reform legislation. NARFE had previously been successful in pushing for the removal of troubling FEHBP modifications for postal retirees that were part of several earlier versions of the Senatepassed postal reform bill. • —By John Hatton, deputy legislative director

Legislative Resources • Legislative Hotline: A weekly update of legislative news, compiled by the NARFE Legislative Department staff, distributed via email and available by phone (tollfree 877-217-8234) and at www.narfe.org.

• Legislative Action

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

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Washington Watch

2013 Legislative Training Conference March 9-12, 2013 Registration must be returned by February 5, 2013

REGISTRATION FORM Please write legibly

Name:

❏ Mr.

❏ Mrs.

❏ Miss

_______________________________ Last

❏ Ms.

Membership #_____________________________

________________________ First

___________________________ Middle

Name as you would like it on badge: __________________________________________________________ Federation or chapter officer title for your badge (choose only one title — Examples: President, Ohio Federation; or NARFE-PAC Chair, Chapter 192/Raleigh, NC): ___________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ Home address: ____________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________ Cell phone: _________________________________ Phone number:_______________________________ Email address: ______________________________ Notify in case of emergency: ________________________________________________________________ Name

Phone number

Address: _________________________________________________________________________________

$175 registration fee is not refundable.

Please complete registration form and return with check made payable to NARFE, or charge to your credit card.

Mail to: NARFE Conference, Budget & Finance 606 North Washington St. Alexandria, VA 22314-1914

❏ Charge to my credit card $____________ ❏ MasterCard

❏ Visa

❏ Discover

❏ AMEX

Card # ____________________________________________ Exp. Date ________ / _______ (mm)

(yy)

Name on card (print) ________________________________ Signature ________________________ Date ____________

For Internal Planning Purposes Only:

For Internal Planning of March 12 on Capitol Hill:

Are you planning on attending the Saturday night ❏ Yes ❏ No dinner?

Would you like NARFE to schedule a meeting with your member of the House of Representatives or his/her staff? ❏ Yes ❏ No (NARFE will work with federation presidents to schedule meetings with senators.)

Are you planning on attending the breakfasts on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday? ❏ Yes ❏ No Conference meals and events are for registered attendees. Registered attendees may bring guests to NARFE-provided meals for a separate $175 fee. Will you have a guest? ❏ Yes ❏ No

Do you plan to ride the NARFE-provided bus to Capitol Hill on March 12? ❏ Yes ❏ No

Name of guest(s) _______________________________

Do you plan to return to the hotel from Capitol Hill on the bus later that afternoon? ❏ Yes ❏ No

Is this your first NARFE Legislative Training Conference? ❏ Yes ❏ No

What time do you plan to leave Capitol Hill? _________

Are you an ❏ active or a ❏ retired federal employee?

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last call for legislative training conference registration The deadline to register

for the NARFE Legislative Training Conference is February 5. The biennial conference will be held Saturday, March 9, through Tuesday, March 12, at the Renaissance Arlington (VA) Capital View Hotel.

The conference begins with registration and dinner on Saturday. Sunday and Monday are filled with training sessions, briefings and presentations by nationally renowned guest speakers. On Tuesday, attendees will be on Capitol Hill meeting with legislators and their staff.

New this year: interactive training providing tips on how to communicate effectively with Congress.

Also new in 2013 will be training on how to use social media and an opportunity to share best practices.

The NARFE Legislative Department staff also will work with attendees to schedule Capitol Hill appointments.

The registration fee of $175 includes all materials, three full breakfasts, two full lunches, one full dinner, and transportation to and from Capitol Hill on Tuesday.

The special room rate at the hotel is $169, plus 10.25 percent state and local occupancy tax, for a total of $186.32 per day. Complete the online registration form on the NARFE website, www.narfe.org, or fill out and mail the form on the facing page.

Hotel reservations must be made separately by calling the Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel at 800-228-9290 by February 5.

Mention the NARFE Legislative Training Conference when you call.

There are only 300 spots, so do not wait until the last minute to register. The last conference was sold out! •

MYTH vs.

REALITY Myth: Federal employees cannot be fired and, therefore, enjoy more job security than their private-sector peers.

Reality: In fiscal year 2009, 11,275 federal employees were fired for poor performance or misconduct. In addition, a sizable number of employees voluntarily leave after being counseled that their performance is unacceptable.

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Washington Watch

protect america’s heartbeat Revitalized

N

early two years ago, NARFE undertook an unprecedented national campaign – “Protect America’s Heartbeat” – to fight against efforts to cut the pay, health and

retirement benefits of federal employees and retirees, and to show-

case the contributions of the federal family across the country.

The message of the Protect America’s Heartbeat (PAH) campaign: Some 3.5 million active and 1.2 million retired federal employees have dedicated their lives to protecting America’s heartbeat. Federal employees ensure our most basic needs as a society are met and have sacrificed to help solve our nation’s budgetary prob-

The Protect America’s Heartbeat campaign continues with new vigor, and NARFE members will keep delivering that message until lawmakers stop targeting federal employees and retirees for deficit reduction. The two main components of the revitalized PAH campaign are: • Advocacy – Grass-roots efforts played a crucial role in

Your grass-roots efforts to put a local face on federal employees could make the difference. lems. Yet, some politicians are trying to turn federal workers into scapegoats, and are seeking to cut not only their earned retirement and benefits, but also essential services that millions of Americans rely on every day. The smart path forward through tough economic times will require a strong federal workforce. America’s federal employees are part of the solution – not the problem.

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the success of the campaign over the last two years and will continue to do so. Once again, NARFE members will be asked to meet with their members of Congress, as well as to email and phone their offices when necessary. In states where key members of Congress reside, local organizers will assist federations and chapters to rally members and make the impact even greater. The current PAH Tool-

kit has been updated to assist NARFE activists in every state.

• Communications – Over the last two years, NARFE has seen a sharp increase in its media presence. NARFE was successful by being proactive in its refutation of erroneous reports about federal employee pay and benefits. NARFE members also increased their use of op-eds and letters to the editor, allowing for a local point of view and dispelling the myth that all federal employees and retirees live in the Washington, DC, area. These efforts will continue across the country, and NARFE will provide the necessary tools to federations and chapters for their own communications. Just as with advocacy, communications will be more focused in key states.

To get started, visit the Protect America’s Heartbeat website at www.narfe.org/heartbeat/ or www.protectamericasheartbeat.org. Now is not the time to sit idly by and assume other NARFE members will act on your behalf. Your grass-roots efforts to put a local face on federal employees could make the difference. Visit the website today, tell us your story and start organizing! • —By Jessica Klement, legislative director

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Washington Watch

debt limit 2013: feds to the rescue

A

s the 113th Congress convenes, there is one issue lawmakers will have to address immediately: the need to increase the statutory limit on the public debt.

On December 31, 2012, the outstanding debt reached the debt ceiling of $16.4 trillion, and the 112th Congress failed to raise the ceiling before adjourning.

As a result, the Treasury Department is resorting to a series of “extraordinary measures,” as it has in the past, to keep the United States from defaulting on its obligations.

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These measures include declaring a “debt-issuance suspension period” under the statute governing the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund (CSRDF).

To avoid default, that law allows the United States to redeem existing Treasury securities held by the CSRDF as investments. Federal retirees should not be alarmed, however. The law also includes

a “make-whole” provision that would restore the securities and investment returns to the CSRDF once the suspension period ends.

The current debt suspension period lasts through February 28.

Congress must raise the debt ceiling before then.

A debt-limit crisis in 1985 prompted the adoption of the make-whole provision in the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1986, which NARFE fully supported, as an amendment to the retirement law.

11/16/12 5:11:22 PM

Questions & Answers

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

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

active employees Buy Additional Annuity?

Q

I read about voluntary contributions accounts in the January issue of narfe magazine (“A Mega Roth IRA Opportunity”). Can you tell me more about them?

I’m still working and am under the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS).

A

Voluntary contributions are optional payments a CSRS employee can make in order to purchase an additional annuity at retirement. (Only CSRS employees can apply for voluntary contributions accounts.) You can contribute up to 10 percent of your total basic pay received during all of your federal service. Each $100 in the voluntary contributions account provides an additional annual annuity of $7, plus $0.20 for each full year the retiree is over age 55 at the time the annuity begins. As long as you are eligible, you can make contributions at regular intervals or whenever you want to make them.

They cannot be deducted from your salary. Contributions cannot

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be made based on anticipated future earnings.

Once the annuity begins, the additional annuity purchased by voluntary contributions is not increased by any cost-ofliving adjustments.

When your application is accepted, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) will provide you with an account number and information on how to have payments deducted from your account at a bank or credit union, or you can send them directly to OPM. Each payment must be in multiples of $25. OPM will compute your limitation when you retire or close out your account.

At retirement, you can elect a reduction in your additional annu-

ity to purchase a survivor annuity (or additional survivor benefits that would be in addition to what the survivor would get from the regular annuity election). Any person, related or unrelated to the retiree, may be designated and need not be the same person for whom regular survivor annuity benefits are elected.

CSRS employees need to submit form SF 2804, “Application to Make Voluntary Contributions,” to their human resources office. That office will forward applications to OPM. The form also includes detailed information on filing your application, limits on contributions, refunds, interest accrual, federal taxation and other information.

You can download the form by going to www.opm.gov and clicking on “Find Forms” under “Most Requested Tasks” on the OPM Main Home Page. •

Divorce Handbook

Q

A family member is beginning divorce proceedings against her husband, a career, activeduty military officer. Would the handbook for attorneys published by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) be applicable in her situation or does it apply only to federal civilian employees?

A

The handbook for attorneys (see story, p.

32) only deals with Title 5 and federal civilian employment/retirement. It would not be appropriate for cases involving military benefits. •

Vested in TSP?

Q

I am under the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS). Is there a required amount of time you must be in government service before you are vested in your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) account, including the matching funds placed in the account?

A

You are immediately vested in your own contributions and in any earnings they accrue. If you are receiving matching contributions, you become vested in Agency Automatic (1 percent) Contributions and any earnings accrued generally after you have completed three years of service as a FERS employee. •

retirees Medicare & Nursing Homes

Q

I have Medicare as well as health insurance coverage under the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP). I had to be placed in a nursing home for a few weeks after some surgery. I have now been told that I owe a large amount of money for my nursing home care. I thought Medicare and the FEHBP would cover my bills.

A

Medicare and the FEHBP will pay only for very limited nursing home and home health care while you are recovering from an illness or accident. This is why some people enroll in long-term care insurance, which generally picks up where health insurance and Medicare leave off. However, you must submit an application containing medical documentation, which will be reviewed before a decision is made to grant or deny your request for this insurance. • Change TSP Distributions?

Q

It is my understanding that Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) participants have no control over how they receive distributions from their TSP accounts, other than specifying the amount of the distribution, and distributions are made in proportion to existing balances.

For example, if you had your TSP monies equally divided into three funds, you would have the same

percentage distributed from each fund, even if you wanted to specify different amounts from each of the funds. Have there been any efforts to correct this deficiency in the way you want to handle your own funds? Perhaps this is an issue that NARFE could address. Combining accounts to manage withdrawals likely results in losses and stifles the ability to manage retirement funds. This is an important issue for retirees, seems a reasonable request of a retirement program and should be easily manageable with today’s technology.

A

There have been no changes to the rules used by the TSP on withdrawals from accounts; they are still in proportion, as you have described. As far as we know, there are no changes planned in the current TSP procedures regarding distributions. NARFE has a seat on the TSP’s Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board, and a NARFE representative will bring up your suggestion at a future board meeting. •

No Designated Beneficiaries?

Q

I am a retired federal employee and receive a monthly annuity check.

In June 2010, my wife of 39 years passed away. What happens to my annuity upon my death? Does it go to a second beneficiary, or does it stop completely? I attempted to obtain an answer from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) w w w. n a r fe . o r g

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Questions & Answers

after my wife’s death and upon establishing an irrevocable trust, but I have not received an answer. I would appreciate your help with this question.

A

After your death, unless you have eligible children under age 18 or you had remarried, your annuity payments will end, and no further monthly payments will be made to any family members. Any retirement money payable from your contributions, or for the part of the month you survived before death, and federal group life insurance proceeds will be paid in accordance with your designations of beneficiaries, if you have these forms on file with OPM. • Beneficiary Designations

Q

I recently divorced and would like to change my designation of beneficiary forms. How do I do this?

A

Many people have lifechanging events and forget to make changes to their beneficiary forms, so it’s good that you remembered that you need to do this. If you divorce, remarry, or have a child or adopt a child, you want to make sure that your benefits are distributed according to your wishes. You also need to keep your designated beneficiaries’ addresses current. Failure to do so may mean that your beneficiary cannot be located; therefore, benefits would not be paid to that person. The preferred way is to file a new “Designation of Beneficiary” form when a beneficiary’s address changes. You may find the following forms on the 16

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Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) websites: • SF 2823 for Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance; • SF 2808 for Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) retirement contributions and SF 3102 for Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) retirement contributions; • TSP-3 for your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) account; and • SF 1152 for unpaid compensation for active employees. Unpaid compensation would include a lump-sum payment of your annual leave, your final paycheck and anything else the agency owes you, such as a lump-sum payment of a cash award. You must complete the proper form and have two people witness your signature.

You will need to submit these forms to your agency, the TSP or OPM. It’s important to know that your will does not take the place of a beneficiary form. However, you may use the guidance attached to each form to designate that the benefits be paid according to your will.

If you are divorced and have a court order requiring you to pay benefits to someone not appearing on the list, then the court order will be honored.

If you do not have beneficiary designation forms on file, then your benefits will be paid according to the order of precedence established by law. For CSRS, FERS, TSP and unpaid compensation benefits, here is the order of precedence for payment if there is no valid designation on file when you die: • To your widow or widower;

• If none, to your child or children in equal shares, with the share of any deceased child distributed among that child’s descendants; • If none, to your parents in equal shares or the entire amount to your surviving parent; • If none, to the executor or administrator of your estate; • If none, to your next of kin under the laws of the state where you lived at the time of your death. • Premium Refunds?

Q

I am trying to get my disability pay straightened out. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) started deducting health insurance premiums from my disability retirement, and I didn’t request this. I have been trying to put a stop to it. I am retired military and have TRICARE, so I don’t need other insurance. I have sent all of the necessary paperwork, and it still is not being corrected.

I need help to get this resolved and to recover all the money that OPM has deducted. I am on a fixed income and need that extra money.

A

OPM told us that it has processed your request to suspend your health benefits enrollment in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP) due to your coverage under TRICARE. However, the only form that OPM has from you did not indicate an effective date that you wanted your FEHBP enrollment stopped, so OPM made it effective November 1, 2012. OPM did not process your request in time to stop the premiums from

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Questions & Answers

NARFE has consistently fought to repeal or reduce the effects of the Government Pension Offset and the Windfall Elimination Provision. being withheld from your December 1 payment, but you will see the change in your January 1 payment, along with a refund of one month of premiums. After NARFE notified OPM, OPM said that someone will call you about having the effective date made earlier so that you can have additional months of premiums refunded to you. • GPO and SS Survivor Benefits

Q

I worked for the federal government and retired two years ago at age 55 after 37 years of service.

I am under the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS). My husband recently passed away unexpectedly. He had always worked, mostly with two jobs, throughout his life. When I called the local Social Security office, I found out that I will not be able to collect on his Social Security record because I receive a CSRS pension. I am told that I cannot “double-dip.” How can it be that my husband paid into Social Security all of his life, and his family gets nothing? Can you tell me if this is correct? Is there anything being done to try to reverse this rule? I still have one child in college and many bills yet to pay. When my husband died, I lost two-thirds of my income. How is this even fair when he paid into Social Security, and there are no benefits for his family?

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A

Most of what you were told is correct. The law that denies you survivor benefits from your late husband’s Social Security record is the Government Pension Offset (GPO).

Under that law, your widow’s benefits from Social Security will be reduced by two-thirds of any federal/state retirement you get that is based on work where you did not pay into Social Security.

For example, if you get a monthly annuity of $600, two-thirds of that, or $400, will be deducted from your widow’s benefits. In some cases, you may not receive any benefits based on a deceased spouse’s Social Security record.

There are some exceptions for federal retirees, such as those who were rehired after December 31, 1983, and started having Social Security withheld; those who are under the Federal Employees Retirement System; those who were eligible to receive a federal annuity before December 1982 and met all of the requirements for Social Security benefits in effect in January 1977; or those who were eligible to receive a federal annuity before July 1, 1983, and were receiving one-half support from their spouse.

NARFE has consistently fought to repeal or reduce the effects of the GPO and the Windfall Elimination Provision, both of which unfairly deny federal annuitants Social Security benefits that they have worked for or are entitled to receive. NARFE-supported legislation has been introduced in almost

every Congress since the 1980s when the laws went into effect, and NARFE will continue to push for relief on behalf of its members.

FEGLI Reductions

Q

I am age 70 and have a few questions about Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (FEGLI). I don’t understand the Basic life insurance amount based on our salary and the reduction after reaching age 65. In addition, I don’t fully understand the additional Optional life insurance if someone elects the 75% Reduction, 50% Reduction or No Reduction. I elected to take the 50% Reduction. Please help me to understand this.

A

When you retired, the amount of your Basic insurance was your annual salary at retirement rounded up to the nearest $1,000, plus an additional $2,000. For example: If your final salary at retirement is $55,500, the original value of your Basic life insurance would be $58,000. You also could have elected to enroll in Option A Standard, which has an original face value of $10,000. After April 1, 1981, you could elect additional coverage up to five multiples of your salary. Originally, both the Basic and the Standard life insurance reduced after age 65 to 25 percent of the original value. If you retired after December 9, 1980, you chose the amount of Basic insurance you wanted to retain at age 65 (or retirement, if later). The choices are 75% Reduction, 50% Reduction and No Reduction. Option A insurance automatically reduces when you reach age 65 (or retire, if later).

If you choose the 75% Reduction, your Basic insurance in

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Questions & Answers

force reduces by 2 percent of the original amount each month until the original amount has been reduced by 75 percent.

If you choose the 50% Reduction, your Basic insurance in force reduces by 1 percent of the original amount each month until the original amount has been reduced by 50 percent.

If you choose No Reduction, 100 percent of the Basic insurance amount is payable as a death benefit.

If you elected either the 50% Reduction or the No Reduction option, you can change to the 75% Reduction at any time, unless you have assigned your insurance. However, you can’t then go back to your original

election. The reduction starts at the beginning of the second month after your 65th birthday or the beginning of the second month after your retirement, whichever is later.

NARFE at Your Service NARFE service officers are available to answer questions and to assist in helping with a variety of benefit matters. Check your chapter newsletter for the name and phone number of your service

To obtain an answer to a federal benefits question, NARFE members should call 703838-7760 and ask for the Federal Benefits Service Department; send your question by postal mail to NARFE Headquarters, ATTN: Federal Benefits; or submit it by email to fedbenefits@narfe.org.

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federal employees retirement system

>40%

Thrift savings plan

raisING retirement contributions for newly hired employees 2.3 % will be contributing $15 billion to federal savings.

edDefin FERS it Pension Benef

2.3%

Socia l Secu rity

With more than 40 percent of federal workers eligible to retire in the next five years, the ‘brain drain’ of retirements will take its toll.

$60

THE CURRENT SALARY FREEZE IS ESTIMATED TO SAVE $60 BILLION OVER A DECADE.

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Whittling Away at FERS Retirement

$ SALARY FREEZE TO REMAIN IN EFFECT UNTIL APRIL.

By Diane Cadrain

As Congress grapples with reducing the federal

$1.9

ELIMINATING THE FERS ANNUITY SUPPLEMENT WOULD REDUCE NATIONAL SPENDING BY $1.9 BILLION DOLLARS OVER 10 YEARS.

deficit, some lawmakers are eyeing a raid on federal employee compensation as a quick fix.

Federal employees, their salaries frozen for the past two years, are saying that they are tired of being held disproportionately responsible for a fiscal crisis not of their making.

The recently adjourned 112th Congress raised retirement contributions for newly hired federal employees by 2.3 percent, a move that means that new federal hires will be contributing an additional $15 billion to federal savings.

The newly convened 113th Congress will be looking for more retirement sacrifices from the federal workforce. It is certain that proposals asking all employees to pay more for retirement will resurface.

In addition, legislation to eliminate an important annuity supplement for members of the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) is likely to be considered. And proposals may even call for the elimination of the FERS defined-benefit pension for future employees, whittling away at the “three-legged stool� that comprises FERS retirement. w w w. n a r fe . o r g

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Enough Is Enough Federal employees have had enough.

Their current salary freeze, expected to remain in place until at least April, is estimated to save the federal government $60 billion over a decade.

“Federal employees are being scapegoated,” said Jessica Klement, NARFE legislative director. “However you look at it, the federal government has a spending problem. The truth is, federal employee compensation is a very, very small part of the federal budget.”

“No other group has been asked to financially contribute the way they have,” added David Snell, NARFE’s Federal Benefits Service director, “and it is time our nation’s leaders found other ways to reduce the deficit than continually taking from those who have dedicated their lives to public service.”

Higher retirement contributions The biggest impending threat to federal employee compensation is a proposal to have current federal employees pay more for retirement. This move is equivalent to a direct pay cut. It was the subject of legislation in the last Congress from prominent legislators.

Legislation introduced by Rep. Dennis A. Ross, R-FL, for example, would have increased the employee contribution to FERS from 0.8 percent of salary to 2.3 percent of salary for current employees and to 4 percent for future employees. Ross was the chairman of the House Federal Workforce, U.S. Postal Service and Labor Policy Subcommittee.

And, in last year’s budget blueprint, Rep. Paul D. Ryan, R-WI, chairman of the House Budget Committee, proposed to increase retirement contributions under the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) and FERS by 5 percent of salary over five years, without any increase in benefits or salary.

“Compensation for federal workers continues to outpace pay for their private-sector counterparts,” Ryan stated at that time. “Immune from the effects 24

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of the recession, federal workers have received regular salary bumps regardless of productivity or economic realities.

The reforms called for in this budget aim to slow the federal government’s unsustainable growth and reflect the growing frustration of workers across the country at the privileged rules enjoyed by government employees.”

NARFE’s Snell countered that view, telling Congress, “There is an erroneous belief that federal employees are overcompensated compared to their private-sector counterparts. The facts support the opposite conclusion. When comparing similar jobs, including levels of skill, experience and education, federal employees are paid less.”

In fact, data collected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics show that federal workers are paid approximately 34 percent less, on average, than their private-sector counterparts.

“It’s a pay cut just put in different terms,” observed NARFE member Lynda Bloomberg, a National Air Space Operations manager for the Federal Aviation Administration. “I’m a veteran and a fed employee,” she told narfe magazine in an email message. “I work behind the scenes to make sure everyone stays safe when flying to their destinations. I ask for nothing except for a decent retirement and benefits. But to have my pay cut because they want me to pay more for my retirement and not give me more on my retirement – then no. It’s a pay cut, just in different terms.”

Eliminate the FERS Annuity Supplement Another threatened move to chip away at federal employee retirement is the possible elimination of the FERS Annuity Supplement, a retirement payment for FERS employees who retire before they are eligible for Social Security at age 62. The supplement pays an amount equivalent to Social Security until Social Security itself is available.

The FERS Annuity Supplement originated as a result of the Social Security Reform Act in 1983, which

extended Social Security coverage to all federal employees hired after January 1, 1984. That move was motivated, in part, by a desire to shore up the Social Security Trust Fund, to which employees in the existing CSRS did not contribute. All federal employees hired after 1987 automatically became members of FERS, and they contribute to Social Security at the same rate as private-sector employees. Employees who were under the CSRS when FERS was created were given the opportunity to switch to the new system.

Under FERS, employees receive a modest defined-benefit pension, a tax-deferred Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) similar to a 401(k), and Social Security. In fact, the switch from CSRS to FERS came with a promise to employees that, in contrast to the arrangement under the CSRS, which did not deduct for Social Security or provide Social Security benefits, FERS employees would be able to collect Social Security – a promise that many feel will be broken if the FERS Annuity Supplement is eliminated.

If this retirement payment were wiped out for soon-to-retire current employees, as proposed by members of Congress, including Ross of Florida, the effect could be devastating as retirees would be denied a benefit they were promised, paid for and counted on.

Justifying the proposal, Ross said that about 7,600 new retirees each year receive the supplement, which averages just under $8,000 a year. Eliminating it would reduce national spending by $1.9 billion over 10 years. “The American people are, rightfully, outraged by the pension benefits guaranteed to a bloated federal workforce, paid for through an everincreasing tax burden on the American worker,” Ross stated.

Colleen M. Kelley, president of the National Treasury Employees Union, refuted the view that the federal workforce is bloated. “The facts just don’t support that view,” she stated. “In the ’50s, there was one federal worker for every 78 Americans. In 2009, there was one federal worker for every 143 Americans. Compared to the population, there are far fewer federal employees now than in the early days.”

A NARFE report, based on U.S. Census Bureau data, shows that the size of the federal workforce has actually decreased by more than 200,000 employees since 1990, when President George H.W. Bush was in the Oval Office.

Faced with misconceptions that their numbers are bloated, and the potential elimination of

Faced with misconceptions that their numbers are bloated, and the potential elimination of the annuity supplement, federal employees are crying foul. the annuity supplement, federal employees are crying foul.

“The supplement was supposed to be a concession to creating FERS and moving away from CSRS,” said one NARFE member who works for the Bureau of Land Management. “This is like breaking a contract that FERS employees were told they had when starting work.”

Other proposals, instead of eliminating the FERS Annuity Supplement for current employees, would do away with it only for new hires. Both Ryan and President Obama support this move.

Eliminate the defined-benefit pension of FERS Another proposal made in the last Congress, this one from Sens. Tom Coburn, R-OK, and Richard M. Burr, R-NC, would eliminate a different part of FERS employee compensation: the FERS definedbenefit pension. The defined-benefit pension, along with the TSP and Social Security, form the three legs of what has been called the FERS retirement stool.

To pay for the defined-benefit pension, employees enrolled in FERS contribute 0.8 percent of their pay to the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund (CSRDF). They also pay 6.2 percent of their wages, up to the Social Security taxable wage base, to the Social Security Trust Fund. Effective January 1, 2012, new FERS employees pay an additional 2.3 percent of salary into the CSRDF. The median payment under w w w. n a r fe . o r g

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30 yrs For example, a career federal employee who retires with a final salary of $50,000 dollars per year and 30 years of service will receive a pension of merely $15,000 per year

the Basic Benefit Plan portion of FERS is now $720 per month, or $8,640 annually.

Under Burr’s and Coburn’s proposal, new employees would no longer receive the pension portion of FERS. Instead, they would receive only the TSP and Social Security. “The cost to taxpayers of these benefits is unsustainable, and we simply cannot afford it,” said Burr.

“Defined-benefit pension plans are going belly-up across the nation because politicians and employers continue to make promises they cannot keep,” Coburn said. “When American families across the country are being asked to sacrifice in order to meet their basic needs, federal employees and members of Congress should not be the exception.”

But the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE) counters the claim that federal pension benefits are inflated. “In fact, federal workers’ pensions represent only a modest portion of the larger federal retirement picture,” NFFE said. “For example, a career federal employee who retires with a final salary of $50,000 per year and 30 years of service will receive a pension of merely $15,000 per year – hardly an exorbitant figure by any measure.”

Effect on recruitment and retention Federal employees worry about the effect of these cuts on federal government recruitment and retention.

“These actions undermine the federal government’s ability to attract and retain the talent this nation needs to deal with the challenges we all face as a country,” NARFE’s Snell told Congress on January 25, 2012. “Shared sacrifice is fair, but singling out federal employees and retirees for disparate treatment threatens to do permanent harm to a federal civil service critical to meeting the increasingly complex and deeply important tasks of government.”

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“There is no question that those proposals also come with a cost,” said NARFE Legislative Counsel Alan Lopatin. “Apart from the ‘pain in the pocketbook’ felt by federal employees, there is a real risk that, as a result of this continuing assault on civil servants, the federal government will not be able to carry out its mission. With more than 40 percent of long-experienced federal workers eligible to retire in the next five years, according to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), the ‘brain drain’ of retirements will take its toll – leaving an indelible mark on the country and Americans in every community, who may not recognize the role that the federal government plays in their everyday lives.”

NARFE members responding to an email inquiry from narfe magazine agree. “I believe elimination of the annuity supplement would cause many employees currently eligible to retire to decide to retire before the elimination took effect instead of waiting later to retire,” said Carol Fagg, a senior legal administration specialist for OPM. “This would cause many agencies to lose some of their most seasoned personnel and cause another retirement backlog.”

Many also thought that the changes would make the federal government a less attractive employer. “Change in these benefits makes federal employment much less attractive,” said a NARFE member who works for the Environmental Protection Agency.

“One of my sons is looking to future federal employment. These changes, along with the lower federal pay in his specialty, may tip the balance and keep him in the private sector.”

“The members of Congress who vote to further cut the pay of middle-class federal workers seem to be willing to destroy the greatest workforce in the

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s

Marriage and Divorce Federal Style Life Changes Take Toll on Retirement Benefits

By Steve Bates

Tammy Flanagan recounts the story of a woman who got divorced from a federal employee two years after that employee retired. One year later, the retiree died. The former spouse was expecting to receive a federal government survivor annuity. But she was surprised to learn that the divorce decree did not specify that she was to receive the benefit.

Because of that omission, “She got nothing,” says Flanagan, who is senior benefits director of the National Institute of Transition Planning, which conducts federal retirement planning workshops and seminars.

Unfortunately, stories like this one are all too common.

As the saying goes, “Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans.”

For federal government employees and retirees, life can take the form of a new marriage or a divorce. When dealing with these major life events, many employees and retirees fail to pay close attention to the benefits implications. The result can be devastating to the retiree, and to the retiree’s current and former spouse and family members.

Pension funds, survivor benefits, savings plan funds and health insurance are just a few of the critical benefits that federal employees and retirees must deal with proactively, even though they might be a distraction to a joyous wedding or might present more headaches during the unpleasant process of a divorce.

As Valentine’s Day approaches, NARFE, federal benefits officials and legal and financial advisers urge employees to think ahead in order to avoid legal nightmares and the prospect of losing key benefits for themselves and their families in connection with changes in marital status.

General financial planning, including retirement planning, should be undertaken by every federal employee – and not just when they approach retirement, experts say.

The laws and rules governing federal retiree benefits are complex and are getting more so by the day. But federal human resource

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Benefits for Same-Sex Couples Laws and regulations governing federal retirement benefits for same-sex couples are in flux. Same-sex domestic partners recently gained some benefits rights, but federal law bars those in same-sex marriages from key federal benefits.

The 1996 Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) prohibits federal agencies from recognizing marriages between same-sex persons for the purpose of granting them the federal employee benefits available to opposite-sex couples. However, in December 2012, the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear two appeals that could change the prohibition: one involving DOMA, and the other California’s Proposition 8.

In 2012, a U.S. Senate committee approved a bill that would allow the same-sex spouses and partners of federal employees to qualify for the benefits given to opposite-sex couples. However, neither the full Senate nor the House of Representatives acted on the measure.

In the meantime, the Obama administration has issued rule changes that make it easier for same-sex domestic partners of federal employees to gain certain retirement benefits. In one such change, the government added same-sex domestic partners to the list of those who have an “insurable interest” in the retirement of a federal worker. As a result, some retirees can file paperwork to provide an annuity for their same-sex survivors. In addition, the children of a federal employee’s same-sex domestic partner can qualify for a child-care subsidy under some circumstances. And children of same-sex domestic partners can qualify for coverage under the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program.

The future of benefits for same-sex couples remains cloudy. “A lot will hinge on the Supreme Court,” says David Snell, director of NARFE’s Federal Benefits Service Department.

Among federal retirees watching the legal maneuvering closely is Tom Carllon, a federal Department of Energy retiree who lives in Denver and who married his same-sex spouse, Gabe Martinez, in California in 2008. Carllon would like to provide a retirement annuity for Martinez, and he would like to gain access to more affordable health insurance.

“We pay an extra $4,500 a year for Gabe and myself to be insured,” says Carllon. “That’s a huge chunk. It comes out of our savings.” As for a possible survivor annuity: “I haven’t even run the numbers,” he says.

“It would be very significant over 30 years.”

Carllon is hopeful that the Supreme Court or Congress will overturn DOMA someday. But he says he recognizes that the Obama administration can’t do more for couples like him and Martinez until that time.

Says Carllon: “The president is committed – as he should be – to upholding the law.”

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officers, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and private attorneys cannot forewarn near-retirees and retirees about all the steps they must take before, during and after major life changes to manage their assets and benefits.

“The burden is on the employee,” says Ann Ozuna, a retired federal personnel officer and founder of Personnel Solutions Federal Benefits Counseling in Spokane, WA. Too Much Information?

On a regular basis, federal agencies and OPM give federal employees a lot of information about their retirement benefits – and how these can be impacted by major life-changing events, such as marriage and divorce.

Still, many retirees are blindsided when these events occur.

“They get told, but they forget,” says Illene Harrison, a former federal retirement officer and now a service officer for NARFE Chapter 80 in Albuquerque, NM. Many people think that a change in marital status won’t happen to them. But government statistics show that about half of first marriages end in divorce.

Often, when employees retire, they and their spouses wind up spending more time together. Sometimes, that, too, can exacerbate marital issues.

“You see a lot of retirees divorcing,” says David Snell, director of NARFE’s Federal Benefits Service Department.

Snell and other experts urge federal employees who are nearing retirement age to take advantage of the many good resources online (see sidebar, p. 32) because of the complexity of the issues and the volume of paperwork required.

“There are so many ‘ins and outs’ to this, and so many employees are unaware of this, it’s incredible,” says Ozuna.

The laws governing federal retirement benefits are not the same as those governing the private sector – or those impacting military employees and retirees, for that matter.

There are two types of federal retirement programs: the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS), which affects employees employed before 1987, and the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), which covers employees hired on or after January 1, 1987. There are many differences between the two.

The High Costs of Divorce While the benefits implications of a marriage after retirement are significant (see sidebar, p. 33), they are dwarfed by the changes that can be wrought by a divorce. A divorce can reduce the federal employee’s annuity payments, as well as change who can get a survivor benefit and health insurance coverage.

“Divorce is an emotional roller coaster. People just want to get over it as soon as possible,” says Kristina Sturgis, a certified financial planner and certified divorce financial analyst with Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. in Burke, VA. However, inattention to important details – or losing one’s perspective on what’s most important – during a divorce can lead to poor decisions and loss of benefits, she warns.

A federal employee going through a divorce must be aware that his or her former spouse and other family members might be awarded some of the employee’s benefits through negotiation or in court. Among the benefits affected are: • Pension benefits under the CSRS or FERS. • Survivor benefits, payable upon the employee’s death or after retirement.

• The FERS basic death benefit, payable upon the death of the employee.

• Thrift Savings Plan funds.

• Life insurance benefits.

• Continued enrollment in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP) under certain circumstances.

Some of these benefits terms can be confusing, particularly for former spouses and family members of federal retirees. “Retirement annuity” refers to the basic federal government pension, while “survivor benefit” is an annuity paid as a death benefit. “We’re talking about two different things,” says Lynn E. Berry, a partner with the law firm Becker, Kellogg & Berry in Springfield, VA. “People get very confused.”

Surprises Abound One common mistake made by retirees who get divorced is not recognizing the respective roles of the employee’s agency, of OPM and of the attorneys handling the divorce, says Sturgis.

And then there are the pages and pages of rules.

Many former spouses of federal retirees do not realize that they lose their survivor benefit if they remarry before age 55.

And many retirees find out too late that if they wish to provide a survivor annuity for the spouse they married after they retired, they must make this election within two years of the date of the marriage.

Some of the biggest shocks that federal retirees and former spouses experience relate to matters addressed – or not addressed – in divorce decrees.

Carolyn M. Grimes, managing partner of the law firm Lieblich & Grimes in Northern Virginia, says that she and other attorneys hear from many retirees who realized only after their divorce order was final that something was left out – intentionally or otherwise.

With few exceptions, says Grimes, “If you didn’t get it in the final decree, you won’t get it.”

Special rules apply to court orders involving federal employees and retirees. Funds from federal retiree pensions cannot be divided by a Qualified Domestic Relations Order, which is an order that applies to private-sector employee retirement funds. And government human resources staff can’t give employees or retirees advice about how to structure court orders for federal employees and retirees. However, OPM has an online handbook for attorneys to use in drafting such orders (see sidebar, p. 32). “This is an excellent source,” says NARFE’s Snell. “Have your attorney read it.”

In addition, OPM must be sent original decrees and must accept them in order for their terms to be implemented in benefits payments.

The employee or retiree should include his or her full name, complete mailing address, a certified copy of the court order granting benefits, and a signed statement that the order has not been amended, superseded or set aside. He or she should send identifying information concerning the employee or retiree, including date of birth, Social Security number and mailing address, notes Flanagan.

Many former spouses of federal employees don’t know that their representative must apply in w w w. n a r fe . o r g

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writing to OPM to receive a court-awarded annuity payment; it won’t happen automatically.

“The biggest thing that people miss is the ability to tie in the health insurance for the former spouse,” says Berry. Even granting a former husband or wife $1 in a survivor benefit can qualify the ex-spouse for federal health insurance benefits. The former spouse must pay the premiums; but without that survivor benefit spelled out in the court order, he or she will lose health coverage eligibility.

Find the Right Attorney Many, if not most, attorneys lack experience in handling divorces involving one or more federal employee or retiree – especially lawyers outside of the Washington, DC, area. Attorneys who have not handled such cases might not know how different federal worker divorces are – and might make critical errors.

“Interview your attorney. Make sure that they are experienced in this area,” advises Rebecca Davis, legal director of the Pension Rights Center in Washington, DC. Some attorneys don’t know much about, or don’t like to deal with, complicated pension issues.

Finding an expert who understands how to value pensions – especially federal government retirement annuities – can be critical in some divorces.

“Pick up the phone and call somebody who knows something about pension issues,” says Tim

Keep Copies of Your Records Even the best federal agencies slip up from time to time, especially one as busy as OPM. Experts

For information regarding federal civil service retirement visit:

Call: 888-767-6738

www.narfe.org/federalbenefits

Email: retire@opm.gov

www.opm.gov/retire/index.aspx www.benefits.gov To contact OPM Write to: U.S. Office of Personnel Management Retirement Operations Center P.O. Box 45 Boyers, PA 16017-0045

32

Voit, a financial analyst with Voit Econometrics Group Inc. in Naples, FL. “This literally means tens of thousands of dollars. Possibly hundreds of thousands of dollars.”

Often, the attorneys and the parties to a divorce make inaccurate assumptions about the value of marital assets. These assets include pensions, houses and other items of great value. A house might seem like a great asset; but if the equity in it is low, it might be worth far less than a pension, particularly over several decades, experts note.

They add that employees should not rely on their attorney for everything. Retirees need to manage their relationship with OPM and other agencies. Federal workers and retirees must have accurate information on file with OPM at all times.

Any changes should be communicated promptly and thoroughly.

“Just like when you are working, if you have a life event, contact OPM,” says Flanagan. Changing a beneficiary is a critical step. So is relocating.

“If you move, OPM is not going to come looking for you,” says Grimes. “Pay attention to deadlines,” she says, adding that while OPM’s website is helpful, some private-sector sites can’t be trusted. “Make sure that you’re getting the right information.”

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OPM publication RI 38-116, A Handbook for Attorneys on Court-Ordered Retirement, Health Benefits and Life Insurance under the Civil Service Retirement Benefits, Federal Employees Retirement Benefits, Federal Employees Health Benefits, and Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) Program, is available only on the OPM website at www.opm.gov/retire/pubs/pamphlets/list.asp.

Retirement Questions and Answers

say that, in dealing with OPM, it’s important to keep good records, to be patient – and to be persistent.

“Always, when you send something to OPM, make sure that you get a return receipt,” says Barry Johnson. The Bowie, MD, resident says he has been struggling to straighten out a glitch in his retirement annuity that has caused funds to be withdrawn from his annuity checks based on outdated information.

Johnson, who worked for three agencies over a 33-year federal career, was divorced in 2004. He says the original divorce decree said that his ex-wife should receive part of his retirement annuity. A revised court order changed that.

However, the government has been withholding funds from Johnson’s annuity checks and has not sent any to his former wife.

Numerous calls and letters to OPM left Johnson with the belief that the matter would be resolved.

As of late November 2012, he says, his checks were still being reduced, and he does not know where the funds are going.

“It has been a humbling experience. It has been a painful process,” says Johnson. “I know that they (OPM) have a heavy workload,” he adds, but he would like to resolve the matter and get on with his retirement.

Other horror stories abound. Snell says he has heard from retirees who have lost their entire pension because of mistakes made at various points.

His advice to all federal employees and retirees when it comes to retirement benefits: “You have got to pay attention to everything.”

—Steve Bates is a free-lance journalist in the Washington, DC, area. He is a former writer and editor for numerous print and online publications, including The Washington Post.

Answers to the following commonly asked questions were provided by Kenneth J. Zawodny Jr., associate director of retirement services for the Office of Personnel Management (OPM):

On the marriage side:

How do I arrange for a survivor annuity for a spouse acquired after retirement?

Write to OPM’s Post-Retirement Marriage Section, P.O. Box 45, Boyers PA 16017-0045, and indicate your interest in providing a survivor annuity for your new spouse. OPM will calculate the cost to leave that benefit and provide an election.

How do I get health coverage under the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP) for a spouse acquired after retirement?

If you have FEHBP coverage before acquiring the spouse, and you have selfonly coverage, acquiring a spouse after marriage is considered a Qualifying Life Event. You may change your health benefits to family coverage up to 30 days before the marriage or within 60 days after the marriage. If you already have family coverage (covering other eligible dependents), you may simply contact your health plan and provide the dependent information for your new spouse and the reason for the addition.

On the divorce side:

What effect does divorce have on my retirement annuity and/or survivor benefits?

1. It could change your election to leave a survivor benefit for that person (as he or she was your spouse before); 2. It could reduce your net annuity if a benefit apportionment is courtawarded for that now-former spouse; and 3. It could change your health benefits, as that spouse is no longer an eligible dependent under your plan as of the date of divorce.

Can my ex-spouse continue health coverage under the FEHBP? If the ex-spouse is awarded any form of benefit from your retirement in a court order acceptable for processing, the ex-spouse may continue coverage under the FEHBP under his or her own policy if the ex-spouse pays the premiums. If the court order does not award the ex-spouse any form of benefit, coverage is good only for 30 days following his or her loss of eligibility.

Can I elect a survivor annuity for my ex-spouse even if it isn’t mentioned in the divorce decree?

Yes. Voluntary election is allowed.

I am the ex-spouse of a federal retiree. Will I lose my survivor benefits if I remarry?

If you remarry before age 55, your survivor benefit would be terminated.

However, if that marriage ends in the future, you can contact OPM to have your survivor benefit restored. You will need to provide proof of marriage and divorce.

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Managing Money

Protecting Inherited IRAs

I

f you plan to leave your individual retirement account (IRA) to anyone other than a spouse, it’s critical that both you and your beneficiaries understand the rules

that govern inherited IRAs. While not rocket science, a wrong move could result in higher taxes, penalties and even the forfeiture of years of tax-advantaged growth.

If inheriting a traditional IRA, the first thing a nonspouse beneficiary should do is determine whether the deceased IRA owner died before or after the required beginning date (RBD) – April 1 following the year the IRA owner turns 70-½ — which is the date an IRA owner must begin taking required minimum distributions (RMDs). If the IRA owner died after the RBD and had not taken the year of death RMD, the nonspouse beneficiary must take any remaining amount prior to December 31 of the year of death.

Next, the nonspouse beneficiary should transfer the IRA to a beneficiary IRA. Please note: Nonspouse beneficiaries cannot treat an inherited IRA as their own. Instead, a nonspouse beneficiary must retitle the inherited IRA as a beneficiary IRA. Furthermore, nonspouse beneficiaries cannot perform a 60-day rollover, so any transfer must be a trustee-totrustee transfer. If the nonspouse beneficiary receives any distributions from an 34

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inherited IRA, the money can never be put back into the beneficiary IRA. Regardless of age, a nonspouse beneficiary will be subject to distribution rules after inheriting an IRA. If the IRA owner died prior to the RBD, a nonspouse beneficiary can elect to “stretch” annual RMDs over his or her own life expectancy. The nonspouse beneficiary’s RMDs are calculated using the Single Life Table (which can be found in IRS publication 590), and the first RMD is due by December 31 of the year following the year of the IRA owner’s death.

Alternatively, the nonspouse beneficiary can elect the fiveyear distribution rule, which permits the nonspouse beneficiary to take distributions however he or she likes, as long as the beneficiary IRA is completely depleted by December 31 of the fifth year following the IRA owner’s death.

If the IRA owner died after the RBD, there is no five-year option, and the nonspouse beneficiary must take annual RMDs, beginning by December

By Mark A. Keen, CFP ®

31 of the year following the year of the IRA owner’s death. The nonspouse beneficiary can elect to calculate the RMDs based on his or her own age or based on the deceased IRA owner’s age in the year of death. The latter could prove beneficial if the deceased IRA owner were younger than the beneficiary.

Roth IRA owners are not required to take RMDs, so there is no RBD for beneficiaries to worry about. Nonspouse beneficiaries of Roth IRAs, however, will still be subject to distribution rules. They may elect the five-year rule or take RMDs (starting by December 31 of the year following the year of the IRA owner’s death) based on their own life expectancy.

Assuming the distributions are qualified, they will be completely tax-free.

Up to this point, we’ve discussed the beneficiary distribution rules for real, living individuals. Nonliving beneficiaries, such as estates, have fewer options. For example, if the IRA owner dies before his or her RBD, the five-year rule must be followed. If the IRA owner dies after the RBD, distributions may be continued over the remaining life expectancy of the IRA owner.

If an IRA has multiple beneficiaries, special care must be taken to ensure the IRA is split into separate beneficiary IRAs

MONEY MEMO NARFE offers an online retirement calculator and other financial planning tools. Find out more at www.narfe.org/ federalbenefits.

by December 31 of the year following the year of the IRA owner’s death. If this deadline is not met, then all beneficiaries must take their RMDs based on the oldest beneficiary’s life expectancy. Not a big deal if all the beneficiaries are close in age; but if there is a large age gap between the beneficiaries, the youngest beneficiary could lose out on years of tax deferral.

A nonspouse beneficiary is never subject to the pre-age 59-½ withdrawal penalty and always has the option to take as much money as he or she likes (as long as the RMD rules are met) at any time. However, if the beneficiary does not need the money, the better option is often to leave the money in the IRA (subject to the RMDs, of course) and preserve the tax-advantaged growth for as long as possible.

With an understanding of these rules, and proper planning, a nonspouse beneficiary (and even their beneficiaries) can benefit from years of tax-advantaged growth.

Mark A. Keen, CFP®, is president and owner of Bennett Financial Advisors, 10300 Eaton place, STe. 470, Fairfax, VA, and an investment adviser representative and registered principal of The Strategic Financial Alliance, Inc. (SFA). Securities and advisory services are offered through SFA. Email: mkeen@tributaryadvisors.com.

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§ The Service Benefit Plan will pay a hearing aid benefit up to $2,500 total every 3 calendar years for adults age 22 and over. Hearing aid benefits for Service Benefit Plan members up to age 22 is $2,500 every calendar year. (2013 benefit.) Do not rely on this communication piece alone for complete benefit information. All benefits are subject to the definitions, limitations, and exclusions in the Service Benefit Plan brochure.

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The Informed Citizen

Celebrating NARFE-PAC’s Success

N

ARFE-PAC, working in consultation with federation NARFE-PAC coordinators, was successful over the 2011-12 election cycle in supporting winning candidates, especially in closely contested races. Of the 171 House and Senate campaigns financially supported by NARFE-PAC in the 20112012 election cycle, 94 (56 percent) were closely contested (the winner received less than 60 percent). Candidates supported by NARFE-PAC won 67 of these 94 contests (71 percent). NARFEPAC did even better in close statewide races for the Senate, winning 14 of 16 close races (87 percent).

LEVERAGING NARFE-PAC While NARFE-PAC contributions are based on a variety of factors, from voting records to degree of influence over federal workforce issues to responsiveness to local NARFE members, NARFE-PAC also seeks to derive the best “bang for the buck” by supporting candidates in competitive races. In other words, it aims to provide the last dollar to the candidate who wins by one vote.

NARFE-PAC can brag that we actually did this. In the 2011-2012 election cycle, NARFE-PAC’s last contribution, made November 1, went to the winning incumbent in the last race to be decided, North Carolina’s 7th Congressional District. The same philosophy guided many contribution decisions.

OVERALL SUCCESS Overall, about 82 percent of NARFE-PAC-supported candidates will serve in the 113th Congress. Of the 171 candidates 38

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NARFE-PAC supported, only 26 lost either their primary or general election, while five either withdrew or retired prior to the election. (These numbers reflect minor corrections from the NARFE-PAC Report in the January issue.)

INCUMBENTS Incumbents can be beaten. In fact, six incumbents, despite NARFE-PAC support, were defeated – one in a primary, two at the hand of another incumbent and three to challengers.

PARTY COMMITTEES Our only contributions not directly given to candidates are made annually to the House and Senate Republican and Democratic committees. Each of these four contributions is $15,000. These contributions provide valuable access and information regarding campaigns and legislation.

By Christopher Farrell, Legislative Representative

NUMBERS, ACTIVISM AS IMPORTANT AS DOLLARS NARFE-PAC prowess should never mislead members. While NARFE-PAC is a very important tool in protecting federal retirement and health benefits, members should not forget the importance of organizing, advocating and voting. Recruiting new members increases our clout with legislators. And continued activism, through face-to-face meetings as well as phone calls, letters and email messages, ensures that members of Congress understand there are real voters represented by our NARFE-PAC dollars.

CHALLENGES AHEAD Congressional redistricting made the job of NARFE-PAC coordinators even more daunting. Now it is our task to reorganize around newly shaped districts. Form alliances with different chapters to coordinate delivering NARFE’s message to a Congress with many junior members who have little knowledge of or appreciation for federal career service.

MORE TO COME March once again will be “NARFE-PAC Month.” The March issue of narfe magazine will provide both the overall rationale for our political action committee and specific information on our process and procedures.

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This is Brenda with emergency? Are you Lifeline. Do you need and your loved ones anxious help Mrs. Jones?” about what would happen if

For the Record

Thrift Savings Plan Monthly Returns

Stock funds advanced even as Congress delayed

2012

by Tracey Ray

JUNE

0.11%

0.05%

4.13%

3.25%

7.08%

Stocks managed to hold on to early December gains, despite the fact that Congress was unable to pass legislation to avert the “fiscal cliff” before the markets closed on December 31. The I Fund was the best-performing fund for the fourth month in a row, as the problems in Europe were overshadowed by the turmoil in the United States. For the year, the I Fund was the best performer for the first time since 2007.

JULY

0.12%

1.38%

1.40%

(0.62%)

0.56%

—TRACEY RAY is chief investment officer of the Thrift Savings Plan

MONTH

G FUND

F FUND

C FUND

S FUND

I FUND

JANUARY

0.13%

0.88%

4.50%

7.59%

5.36%

FEBRUARY

0.12%

0.05%

4.34%

3.99%

5.14%

MARCH

0.14%

(0.61%)

3.30%

2.30%

0.13%

APRIL

0.15%

1.12%

(0.62%)

(0.71%)

(1.87%)

MAY

0.14%

0.91%

(5.99%)

(6.91%)

(11.40%)

AUGUST

0.11%

0.07%

2.25%

3.57%

3.29%

SEPTEMBER

0.10%

0.15%

2.57%

2.51%

2.96%

OCTOBER

0.12%

0.20%

(1.86%)

(1.31%)

0.85%

NOVEMBER

0.11%

0.16%

0.57%

1.53%

2.41%

DECEMBER

0.12%

(0.13%)

0.91%

2.69%

4.02%

YTD

1.47%

4.29%

16.07%

18.57%

18.62%

LAST 12 MO

1.47%

4.29%

16.07%

18.57%

18.62%

L 2020

L 2030

L 2040

L 2050

2012

MONTH

L INCOME

JANUARY

1.18%

3.03%

3.77%

4.34%

4.87%

FEBRUARY

0.98%

2.53%

3.10%

3.54%

3.99%

MARCH

0.54%

1.23%

1.49%

1.68%

1.86%

APRIL

0.01%

(0.38%)

(0.52%)

(0.63%)

(0.78%)

MAY

(1.38%)

(4.20%)

(5.23%)

(6.00%)

(6.85%)

JUNE

1.04%

2.72%

3.32%

3.77%

4.27%

JULY

0.37%

0.63%

0.71%

0.75%

0.78%

AUGUST

0.63%

1.57%

1.94%

2.23%

2.51%

SEPTEMBER

0.62%

1.52%

1.87%

2.12%

2.38%

OCTOBER

(0.11%)

(0.45%)

(0.60%)

(0.71%)

(0.80%)

Countdown to COLA

T

he chart below tracks the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) – the monthly inflation change.

To calculate the amount of the 2014 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), the indices of July, August and September 2013 will be averaged and compared with the 2012 third-quarter average of 226.936. That percentage increase, if any, determines the COLA. Benefits awarded under the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA) to individuals suffering work-related injuries or illnesses are adjusted according to each calendar year’s percentage change in the CPI-W. The CPI represents purchases of food and beverages, housing, apparel, transportation, medical care, recreation, education and communication, and other goods and services. Included are various government fees, such as water charges, auto registration fees, and sales and excise taxes. For more information, go to www.bls.gov/cpi.

Month

% Change from 226.936

NOVEMBER

0.34%

0.77%

0.93%

1.06%

1.19%

October 2012

227.974

-0.1

0.45

DECEMBER

O.47%

1.19%

1.48%

1.69%

1.93%

November

226.595

-0.6

-0.15

December YTD

4.77%

10.42%

12.61%

14.27%

15.85%

January 2013

LAST 12 MO

4.77%

10.42%

12.61%

14.27%

15.85%

February March April

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

40

CPI-W

Monthly % Change

| FEB

2 013

May June July August September

ARF

E

N

Est

. 1921

Donate to NARFE Programs

Support Alzheimer’s Research

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

Write your chapter number on check; make it payable to: NARFE-Alzheimer’s Research

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

Please circle: Mr. Mrs. Miss Ms. and mail to: Name: Alzheimer’s Association Address: 225 N. Michigan Ave., 17th Floor City: State: ZIP: Chicago, IL 60601-7633 Chapter Number: Credit Card Information:

MasterCard Visa NARFE members contributed for If you have any questions, write to:

Discover AMEX Alzheimer’s research: $10 Million Fund National Committee Chair Card Number: Jane Rodgers, P.O. Box 234 Expiration Date: (mm)/ (yy) Wadesville, IN 47638-0234 *Total as of November 30, 2012 3-Digit Security Code: 100% of all contributed funds go to Name: (please print) Email: ajrodgers@tds.net

$10,008,236* Alzheimer’s research.

Signature

Join the Silver CIrcle Clip this contribution form and mail to: NARFE Silver Circle, 606 N. Washington St. Alexandria, VA 22314

•For a contribution of $25 or more, you will receive a Silver Circle pin, and your name will be listed in narfe magazine with other contributors.

•For a contribution of $1,000 or more, your name will be placed on the “Wall of Fame” at NARFE Headquarters.

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

/

Enclosed is my Silver Circle contribution: $ ID # (ID # may be found on your narfe magazine label or your NARFE membership card)

Name: Address: City: Silver Circle contributions are NOT deductible for federal income tax purposes.

Installment Plan Wall of Fame 12-month installment plan

Give to the Scholarship and Disaster Funds

Please mail coupon and check to: FEEA 3333 S. Wadsworth Blvd., Suite 300 Lakewood, CO 80227

/

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

State:

ZIP:

My check is enclosed

(Please make check payable to NARFE Silver Circle.)

Please charge my credit card Card type MasterCard Visa

Discover AMEX Card Number: Expiration Date: (mm)/ (yy) Name: (please print)

Signature

Make check payable to: NARFE-FEEA Disaster Fund or NARFE-FEEA Scholarship Fund.

Date

YES!

Date

/

/

I would like to help with my contribution.

Please check appropriate box(es). To make credit-card contributions, call 800-338-0755. Scholarships are available to children, grandchildren and great grandchildren of federal civilian retirees and current federal employees who are NARFE members.

NARFE-FEEA Disaster Fund

Amount: $

NARFE-FEEA Scholarship Fund

Amount: $

Name: Address: City:

State:

ZIP:

NARFE News

NARFE Opens 2013 Scholarship Competition

NARFE Reaches $10 Million for Alzheimer’s!

N

ARFE members have reached the $10 million mark in their giving to combat Alzheimer’s disease. Since NARFE took on Alzheimer’s as a national project in 1985, members have raised money through progressively higher fundraising goals. The total represents thousands of individual member donations and proceeds from hundreds of small fundraising efforts (see photo above).

Through a partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association, Chicago, IL, all donations go to Alzheimer’s research. The number of NARFEfunded Alzheimer’s research grants totals 56.

“Alzheimer’s touches the lives of millions of Americans – both those afflicted with this heartbreaking

Klement, Hatton Promoted in Legislative Department NARFE announced two promotions in its Legislative Department. Jessica Klement has been named NARFE legislative director. She succeeds Julie Tagen, who resigned to become chief of staff for Rep. Alan Grayson, D-FL. John Hatton has been named deputy legislative director.

42

| feb

2 013

disease and their family members,” said NARFE President Joseph A. Beaudoin. “NARFE members can be proud of their commitment to finding a cure for this devastating disease or slowing the progress of its symptoms.” The Alzheimer’s Association estimates that 5.4 million Americans suffer from Alzheimer’s disease.

At NARFE’s 32nd Biennial National Convention in August, delegates approved a new fundraising goal. It’s onward to $11 million!

IN THE PHOTO ABOVE: NARFE Chapter 698 in Alamogordo, NM, recently donated $1,150 to the NARFE-Alzheimer’s Research Fund. Ruth Vaughan, right, presents a check to Marilyn Dobson, Alzheimer’s chair, as President Dennis Clark looks on. Vaughan and a group of friends sold aprons, mittens and other handicrafts to raise the funds.

Klement joined NARFE in April 2012 as communications and legislative representative. Prior to coming to NARFE, she was government and public affairs director of the Federal Managers Association. She holds a bachelor of arts degree in political science and a bachelor of science degree in finance from Marquette University.

NARFE’s 2013 Scholarship Competition opens February 1. The scholarship program offers a total of 60 scholarships of $1,000 each.

Six scholarships are awarded in each of NARFE’s 10 regions. The competition is open to all children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and stepchildren of current NARFE members.

The application appears in this issue of narfe magazine on p. 45.

It also is available on the NARFE website, www.narfe.org, during February, March and April. To obtain the application online, log in as a member, click on the Special Programs link at the left of the next screen, and select Scholarship Program. Deadline for receipt of the application is April 26. Winners will be notified by August 31.

Scholarships are made possible by donations to the NARFEFEEA Scholarship Fund, which is administered by the Federal Employee Education & Assistance Fund. To make a tax-deductible donation, see the coupon on p. 41 or go to the Scholarship Program page on the NARFE website (see instructions above).

For chapter photos, see our Out and About Photo Gallery at www.narfe.org/narfemagazine.

Hatton, an attorney, joined the Association in July 2010. He formerly worked for the Senate Subcommittee on Oversight of Government Management, the Federal Workforce and the District of Columbia. He earned his bachelor’s degree in industrial and labor relations from Cornell University and his law degree from New York University School of Law.

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From George Dennis, founder of TV Ears, Inc. “Driven by my personal understanding of the impact that hearing loss has on a family, I set out to create a product to relieve one of the most frustrating aspects of hearing loss... watching television. Put on TV Ears and enjoy television once again. It’s now also completely made in America!”

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1-866-611-9941 www.tvearsproducts.com Difficulty hearing on the phone?

Ask if you qualify for a Hamilton Captioned Telephone.

TV Ears is a trademark of TV Ears, Inc. © 2013 TV Ears, Inc. All Rights Reserved

For today’s news and yesterday’s views, visit www.TVEarsNewsAndViews.com and make it your home page!

National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association

✄ Cut Along Dotted Line ✄

2013 Scholarship Application Applicants: • Must be high school seniors planning to attend an accredited college full-time in the fall/winter of 2013.

• Must have a grade point average of at least 3.0 on an unweighted 4.0 scale.

• Must be sponsored by a parent, grandparent or greatgrandparent who is a current NARFE member. (Step parents, step grandparents, etc., can also sponsor.) Sponsor must be living at the time application is submitted.

• Must provide your email address on the application. Your application receipt will be sent to this email address; please add “confirmation@feea.org” to your address book.

• Must provide the following materials in your application packet: ❏ Official 2013 NARFE scholarship application.

Photocopies are acceptable. ❏ Full transcript, including fall/winter 2012 grades. Report cards and photocopies are acceptable. If mailed separately by the school, must arrive by program deadline. ❏ Copies of American College Testing (ACT) or Scholastic Aptitude Testing (SAT), or other entrance examination scores.

(Home-schooled students must provide equivalent of transcript and test scores as applicable.) ❏ List and brief description of any awards or volunteer/ community service activities (not to exceed two pages). ❏ Written recommendation from a teacher or counselor, on school or other official letterhead. ❏ One stamped, self-addressed #10 envelope ❏ Essay

Essay Information The essay must be typed, double-spaced, not more than two pages on the following topic: Why is federal civil service important to America?

All of the above materials (except transcript, if necessary) must be mailed in the same 9”x12” (or larger) envelope, postmarked no later than April 26, 2013, to: NARFE Scholarship Awards, 3333 S. Wadsworth Blvd., Suite 300, Lakewood, CO 80227. DO NOT FOLD MATERIALS. DO NOT USE STAPLES OR PAPER CLIPS. Please note: All materials submitted with the application will become the property of FEEA and will not be returned under any circumstances. If needed, make a copy of the information for yourself before mailing.

A total of 60 scholarships of $1,000 each will be awarded.

Applicants will be notified of the judges’ decision by the end of August. A list of winners and their NARFE sponsors will appear on the NARFE member website at www.narfe.org, and will be published in the December issue of NARFE magazine.

The NARFE Scholarship Program is administered by the Federal Employee Education & Assistance Fund (FEEA) and is made possible by your tax-deductible contributions to the NARFE-FEEA Scholarship Fund, 3333 S. Wadsworth Blvd., Suite 300, Lakewood, CO 80227.

For more information, obtain a copy of NARFE publication F-105, A Guide to NARFE’S Annual Scholarship Awards Program. To get your copy, send an email to natvp@narfe.org; download it from the NARFE website, www.narfe.org; or call Headquarters and ask for the Office of the National Vice President.

Please complete the following. Incomplete applications and applications sent to NARFE Headquarters will not be considered.

Student’s Name:______________________________________

I am taking college courses in high school: ❏ Yes

Complete Home Address:

NARFE Member’s Name: ______________________________

____________________________________________________

Relationship to Applicant:

____________________________________________________

❏ Father ❏ Mother ❏ Grandfather ❏ Grandmother

Home Telephone: _____________________________________ Email Address: _______________________________________ Applicant’s Grade Point Average (GPA): __________________ (Applicants must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 on an unweighted 4.0 scale) College or University (planning to attend): ________________ ____________________________________________________ (Must be a college freshman by fall/winter 2013)

❏ No

NARFE Member No.: __________________________________ Chapter No.: ________________________________________ Member’s Complete Home Address: ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ Member’s Telephone: _________________________________ Member’s Email Address: ______________________________

All of the above materials (except transcript – if necessary) must be mailed, unfolded, in the same 9” x 12” (or larger) envelope postmarked no later than April 26, 2013, to: NARFE Scholarship Awards, 3333 S. Wadsworth Blvd., Suite 300, Lakewood, CO 80227 NO STAPLES OR PAPER CLIPS, AND DO NOT FOLD

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Active and Retired Federal Employees ...

Learn about our ELECTRO NIC MEMBERSHIP at

JOIN NARFE TODAY!

The only organization dedicated solely to protecting and preserving the benefits of all federal workers and retirees, NARFE informs you of any developments and proposals that affect your compensation, retirement and health benefits, AND provides clear answers to your benefit questions.

Who Should Join?

eNARFE.org

Three Easy Ways To Join 1.

2.

3.

N A R F E M E M B E R S H I P A P P L I C AT I O N

Apt./Unit ________________________________________

I am a (check all that apply) ■ Active Federal Employee ■ Active Federal Employee Spouse ■ Annuitant ■ Annuitant Spouse ■ Survivor Annuitant ■ Please enroll my spouse for an additional $45.

Spouse’s Full Name __________________________

City _______________________ State _____ ZIP ________

Spouse’s Date of Birth ______/______/ __________

■ YES. I want to join NARFE.

Please start my individual one-year membership for the first-year dues of $45.

■ Mr. ■ Mrs. ■ Miss ■ Ms. Full Name ________________________________________ Street Address ____________________________________

Phone (__________) _______________________________ Email____________________________________________ Date of Birth _________ /_________ / _______________ dd

mm

yyyy

CALCULATE YOUR DUES

dd

mm

yyyy

NARFE respects the privacy of our members. Personal information is used to provide content and relevant communications to our members, and will not be sold or rented to third parties without your express permission.

CHAPTER AFFILIATION

$45.00 x ___________ = ______________ First-Year Dues # Joining Total Dues (First-year dues include national and chapter dues.)

PAYMENT OPTIONS ■ Check, Money Order or Bill Pay (Payable to NARFE) ■ Bill me (NARFE membership will start when payment is received.)

■ Charge my: ■ MasterCard ■ VISA ■ Discover ■ American Express

(If known, otherwise NARFE will enroll you in the chapter closest to your ZIP code.)

Enroll me in Chapter # ______ ______ ______ ______ MAY WE THANK SOMEONE? If applicable, please provide the name, membership and chapter number of the member who introduced you to NARFE: Recruiter’s Name __________________________________

Card No. _____________________________________

Recruiter’s Membership ID __________________________

Expiration Date _________ /_________

Recruiter’s Chapter Number _________________________

mm

yyyy

Name on Card _________________________________ Signature _____________________________________ Date _________________________________________

MAIL THIS APPLICATION TO NARFE Member Records 606 N. Washington St. Alexandria, VA 22314-1914 IQA

National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association

606 N. Washington St., Alexandria, VA 22314-1914

www.narfe.org

800-627-3394

rr@narfe.org

NARFE’s Dues Withholding Program What is dues withholding?

It is a dues-payment method that gives NARFE members (retirees) the option of having their annual NARFE membership dues deducted from their annuities on a monthly basis.

How does it work?

One-twelfth of your total dues is automatically deducted from your monthly annuity. Your monthly deduction is determined by the following formula: (National dues ÷ 12) + (Chapter dues ÷ 12) = Total Monthly Deduction

Advantages • Save 15% off your annual membership dues!

• Sign up your spouse and double your savings!

• You’ll never get another dues reminder from us!

• Your monthly payment is affordable and convenient!

• You may cancel your dues at any time!

Application process It takes 60-90 days to process your application. Once the process is complete, you will receive a special membership card distinguishing you as a NARFE dues-withholding member.

To learn more about dues withholding, call 800-627-3394.

Retirees, spouses of retirees and annuitant survivors are eligible for dues withholding.

NARFE Dues Withholding Application for Retirees ■ YES. I want to enroll in NARFE’s Dues Withholding Program (Annual dues of $34 plus Chapter dues of record to be withheld annually.)

Social Security Number (9-digit number)

–

Civil Service Annuity Number

–

C S

–

–

–

(Include prefix, CSA or CSF) (Include any applicable suffix)

■ Mr. ■ Mrs. ■ Miss ■ Ms. Full Name _______________________________________

NARFE MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION

Street Address ___________________________________

NARFE Membership ID ____________________________________

Apt./Unit________________________________________ City _________________________ State _____ ZIP _____ Phone (__________) ______________________________ Email ___________________________________________ Date of Birth _________ /_________ / ____________________ dd

mm

yyyy

NARFE Chapter Number____________________________________

■ YES. I Also Authorize My (NARFE Member) Spouse’s Dues To Be Withheld From My Annuity. (Additional annual dues of $34 plus Chapter dues of record to be withheld annually.)

If YES, enter spouse’s information below.

Spouse’s Name ___________________________________________ Spouse’s Membership ID ___________________________________

AUTHORIZATION (Withholding will begin in 60-90 days). No payment should be forwarded with application.

I authorize the United States Office of Personnel Management to make appropriate deductions from my annuity payments, not to exceed the amount certified by the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association as the amount of dues for which I am annually obligated, in accordance with elections I make below, and to pay the deducted sum to the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE). This authorization shall also apply to any and all dues changes certified by NARFE membership in accordance with elections I make below: Please allow 60-90 days for processing.

I understand that this authorization shall be valid until NARFE receives and processes my written notice of cancellation in accordance with its agreement with the Office of Personnel Management and that any disputes regarding this authorization shall be a matter between NARFE and myself. I hold the Office of Personnel Management harmless for any erroneous allotment deduction made pursuant to this authorization. ___________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________

Signature of Annuitant or Survivor-Annuitant

Date

Dues payments and gifts or contributions to NARFE are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes.

MAIL THIS FORM TO: NARFE, ATTN: Member Records, 606 N. Washington St., Alexandria, VA 22314-1914 www.narfe.org 800-627-3394 rr@narfe.org Do not send money with this form

DW-2 (08/12)

ct

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More minute plans available. Ask your Jitterbug expert for details.

the problem with prepaid phones. Since there is no contract to sign, you are not locked in for years at a time and won’t be subject to early termination fees. Now, when you sign up for our Basic 19 plan, you’ll double your monthly minutes for the same price.

The U.S.-based customer service is knowledgeable and helpful and the phone gets service virtually anywhere in the continental U.S. Above all, you’ll get one-touch access to a friendly, and helpful GreatCall operator. They can look up numbers, and even dial them for you! They are always there to help you when you need them.

Introducing

DoubleTime!

Double your monthly minutes for life with activation by 03/31/13

Call now and get a FREE Car Charger – a $24.99 value. Try the Jitterbug Plus for yourself for 30 days and if you don’t love it, just return it for a refund1 of the product purchase price. Call now – helpful Jitterbug experts are ready to answer your questions.

Available in Silver and Red.

The rate plans are simple too. Why pay for minutes you’ll never use? There are a variety of affordable plans. Plus, you don’t have to worry about finding yourself stuck with no minutes– that’s

Order now and receive a FREE Car Charger for your Jitterbug – a $24.99 value. Call now!

50

100

$14.99

Monthly Rate

GreatCall® created the Jitterbug with one thing in mind – to offer people a cell phone that’s easy to see and hear, and is simple to use and affordable. Now, they’ve made the cell phone experience even better with the Jitterbug Plus.

It features a lightweight, comfortable design with a backlit keypad and big, legible numbers. There is even a dial tone so you know the phone is ready to use.

You can also increase the volume with one touch and the speaker’s been improved so you get great audio quality and can hear every word. The battery has been improved too– it’s one of the longest lasting

on the market– so you won’t have to charge it as often. The phone comes to you with your account already set up and is easy to activate.

Basic 19

Basic 14 Monthly Minutes

Jitterbug Plus Cell Phone Ask how you can get DoubleTime for Life!

Please mention promotional code 46255.

1-888-768-1736

We proudly accept the following credit cards.

47567

www.jitterbugdirect.com

IMPORTANT CONSUMER INFORMATION: DoubleTime offer valid on Basic 19 Plan and applies to new GreatCall customers only. Offer ends 3/31/13. Offer valid until plan is changed or cancelled. All GreatCall phones require a one-time set up fee of $35. Coverage and service are not available everywhere. You will not be able to make 9-1-1 calls when cellular service is not available. Rate plans do not include government taxes or assessment surcharges and are subject to change. No roaming or long distance charges for domestic calls within the U.S. There are no additional fees to call GreatCall’s 24-hour U.S. Based Customer Service. However, for calls to an Operator in which a service is completed, minutes will be deducted from your monthly balance equal to the length of the call and any call connected by the Operator, plus an additional 5 minutes. 1 We will refund the full price of the GreatCall phone if it is returned within 30 days of purchase in like-new condition. We will also refund your first monthly service charge if you have less than 30 minutes of usage. If you have more than 30 minutes of usage, a per minute charge of 35 cents will apply for each minute over 30 minutes. The activation fee and shipping charges are not refundable. Jitterbug and GreatCall are registered trademarks of GreatCall, Inc. Samsung is a registered trademark of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Copyright ©2012 Samsung Telecommunications America, LLC. Copyright ©2012 GreatCall, Inc. Copyright ©2012 by firstSTREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc. All rights reserved.

Member Perks

NARFE Member Perks are

designed to provide NARFE members with a quality option in their search for commonly used products and services.

NARFE makes no guarantee on any products and services listed, and encourages its members to shop and compare before making a decision on any financial matter.

Credit Union

NARFE Premier Federal Credit Union 800-328-1500 www.NARFEpremierfcu.org As a member of NARFE, you have the privilege of joining NARFE Premier Federal Credit Union, which has been serving members since 1935. We offer extensive services at competitive rates to members nationwide. Your savings are federally insured to at least $250,000 and backed by the full faith and credit of the United States Government.

For more information, call the number above, e-mail jparish@narfepremierfcu.org or visit the website.

Insurance, Pet Insurance, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Cancer Care, Enhanced Dental Insurance and Long Term Care. Go to the website for more information on these programs.

GEICO 800-368-2734 NARFE members with good driving records may be eligible for quality automobile insurance from GEICO. Ask about the NARFE discount available to members in many states. Call today for your free, no-obligation rate quote. Be sure to mention that you’re a NARFE member!

• Discount amount varies in some states • Discount not available in all states or in all GEICO companies • One group discount applicable per policy.

Bank of America 866-438-6262

insurance

NARFE Insurance Services 800-233-5764 www.narfeinsurance.com Designed and administered by Marsh U.S. Consumer, a service of Seabury & Smith, Inc., exclusively for NARFE members: Senior Whole Life, Term Life, Medicare Supplements, Hospital Income Plan, Short Term Recovery 50

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As a member of NARFE, you will receive up to 20% off the “Best Available Rate” at participating locations when you travel. Call and give the agent your special discount ID number, 8000002694, at time of booking to receive discount. Whether you are looking for an upscale hotel, an all-inclusive resort or something more cost-effective, we have the right hotel for you... and at the right price. So start saving now. Call our special member-benefits hotline 877670-7088 and reserve your room today at one of these fine hotels: Wyndham Hotels and Resorts®, Days Inn®, Ramada Worldwide®, Super 8®, Wingate By Wyndham®, Baymont Inns and Suites®, Hawthorn Suites® By Wyndham, Microtel Inns and Suites®, Howard Johnson®, Travelodge® and Knights Inn®.

Vacation rentals

Government Employees Travel Opportunities® 877-867-3639 www.getravelop.com/narfe Offers government employees, retirees and their families 7-night stays for only $349 on accommodations worldwide. Book online and save on your next vacation stay.

Credit Card

Bank of America offers the officially approved credit card program for NARFE, featuring the Platinum Plus® MasterCard® with WorldPoints. This is the only credit card that helps support NARFE every time you use it to make a purchase–at no additional cost to you. When calling, use NARFE’s full name, not NARFE.

Wyndham Hotel Group 877-670-7088

hotels

Choice Hotels International 800-258-2847 www.choicehotels.com With 6,000 hotels in the United States and throughout the world, Choice Hotels® offers something for everyone. Join the Choice Privileges® rewards program and earn points with every qualifying stay toward free nights, Airline Rewards, gift cards and more. As a NARFE member, receive 20% off your next stay at participating hotels when you use Special Rate ID 00801967. This offer is subject to availability and cannot be combined with any other offer.

Advance reservations required.

car rentals

Alamo Drive Happy® with Alamo® where NARFE members receive year-round discounts. Call 1-800-462-5266 and reference Contract ID 262544.

National You Drive A Hard Bargain. Receive up to 20% off rentals at National Car Rental. To make a reservation call National Car Rental at 1-800-CARRENT® and reference Contract ID 5282909.

Avis The employees/owners of Avis offer guaranteed low rates and quality services to members of NARFE. Call 800331-1441 and mention ID# A991900.

narfe merchandise

NARFE General Store 855-99NARFE (855-996-2733) www.narfegeneralstore.com Order Official NARFE name badges, customizable NARFE logo products and plaques.

emergency services

MASA 800-423-3226 Medical Air Services Association has been the industry leader in prepaid emergency assistance services for more than 30 years. NARFE members have experienced MASA’s “peace of mind” services since 2001.

Now NARFE members are entitled to even more: air ambulance transportation, helicopter transportation, ground ambulance, vehicle return, mortal remains transport, and much more!

Call MASA Today. It Could Save Your Life!

hearing benefits

Moving services

NARFE Member HomeBenefits 800-666-9203 http://narfe. myhomebenefits.com • Earn thousands in cash-back rewards when you buy or sell a home* • Shop competitive mortgage rates, receive discounts on closing costs, plus take advantage of your VA Loan Benefits • Receive preferred pricing on interstate moving services with the nation’s most trusted moving company – Allied Van Lines! *State restrictions apply. Call or visit website for details.

Bekins Van Lines 800-456-6832

1. Stroke/Carotid Artery 2. Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm 3. Atrial Fibrillation 4. Peripheral Arterial Disease.

You will receive a confidential written report within 21 days. Life Line Screening and NARFE encourage you to share these test results with your doctor. All four screenings cost just $135. To schedule an appointment, please call the number above and give the operator code number BKHN075 or visit the website. Coverage may vary and may not be available in all states.

TruHearing 877-360-2442 Two discount programs to choose from: ValueAdd® or MemberPlus®. Similar to a warehouse membership, MemberPlus saves hundreds more for a $108 yearly membership. MemberPlus also includes: • 45-day, money-back guarantee on membership fee and all purchases • 48 batteries, 3-year warranty, and one-time loss and damage for 3 years (small manufacturer deductible applies) on each purchased hearing aid • Guest membership for up to four extended family members (siblings, parents, etc.) for only $79 each • Combine with an existing health plan hearing benefit to maximize savings.

education

Ivy Bridge College 877-615-9246 http://ivybridge.tiffin.edu/ narfe Want to earn your associate’s degree before you transfer to a four-year school? Ivy Bridge College offers a variety of degree programs that will help put you on the right track. No matter which program you choose, an education with Ivy Bridge will provide you with a solid foundation for a rewarding future. NARFE members and their families can enjoy an exclusive 5 percent savings on tuition at Ivy Bridge, a unique online institution that provides a highly supported pathway to a bachelor’s degree. To learn more, call or visit the website.

Visit TruHearingMemberPlus.com for more information, or call 877360-2442, Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. ET.

(M-F, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. CT)

NOT A MEMBER?

www. narfe@bekins.com All NARFE members will receive discounted pricing for all interstate shipments. Discount will apply to packing and moving services and valuation protection. All intrastate shipments, locals and international moves will be competitive in cost based on your geographical location. Mention you are a NARFE member and transportation agreement #00930.

preventive health screenings, will conduct the following screenings using state-of-the-art ultrasound technology in your neighborhood:

health screening

GO ONLINE: It’s easy to join online at www.narfe.org. Click “Join NARFE.”

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

TURN TO PAGE 47: Fill out the Membership Application and mail it to NARFE to receive all the perks of being a NARFE member.

Life Line Screening, America’s leading provider of community-based

Call Toll-Free 800-627-3394.

w w w. n a r fe . o r g

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The Way We Worked

When Horses traveled the Information Superhighway This photo, taken in 1910, shows deliveries being made to the Smithsonian Institution’s International Exchange Service (IES) on the south side of the Smithsonian Castle in Washington, DC. The IES sent American research publications around the world and distributed foreign research publications across the United States.

Today, staff serve the same goal but instead use computers to distribute the publications via pdf files.

Photo courtesy of Smithsonian Institution Archives; Pam Henson, director, Institutional History Division, Smithsonian Institution Archives; in collaboration with the Society for History in the Federal Government (SHFG), http://shfg.org/shfg/. Bringing together government professionals, academics, consultants, students and citizens interested in understanding federal history work and the historical development of the federal government.

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Are you a Smithsonian employee or retiree? Tell us about your service, and we will post it on the NARFE website.

To tell your story, send an email message to communications@narfe.org.

Stories may be viewed at www.narfe.org/ narfemagazine.

Technology Breakthrough

➻

Safe, comfortable bathing from Jacuzzi®

Finally... Jacuzzi makes bathing safe and affordable again here is nothing like the simple pleasure of taking a warm bath.

The cares of the day seem to fade away, along with the aches and pains of everyday life. Unfortunately for many aging Americans with mobility issues, slipping into a bath can result in slipping onto the floor.

The fear of falling has made the simple act of bathing and its therapeutic benefits a thing of the past… until now. firstSTREET has partnered with Jacuzzi®, the company that perfected hydrotherapy. Together, they’ve created a walk-in tub that offers more than just safe bathing, peace-of-mind and independence, it can actually help you feel better.

Unlike traditional bathtubs, the Jacuzzi® Walk-In Tub features a leakproof door that allows you to simply step into the tub rather than stepping precariously over the side. It features a state-of-the-art acrylic surface, a raised seat and the controls are within easy reach. No other Walk-In Tub features the patented Jacuzzi® PointProTM jet system. These high-volume, low-pressure pumps feature a perfectly balanced water to air ratio to massage thoroughly

yet gently. Some swirl, some spiral, some deliver large volumes of water and others target specific pressure points. They are all arranged in precise locations designed to deliver a therapeutic massage, yet they are fully adjustable so that your bathing experience can be completely unique.

Five major considerations to help make an informed decision before buying a Walk-In Tub: ➻ Quality - A walk-in tub is a major investment. You want to find a quality tub that will last for decades. Look for one that’s acrylic, 100% leakproof, mold-resistant, full metal frame construction and one that’s American made. ➻ Warranty - Ask for a lifetime “no leak guarantee.” The best tubs offer a lifetime warranty on both the tub and the operating system.

Jacuzzi® Other Brands

SEE THE JACUZZI DIFFERENCE ®

Laboratory tests clearly show how Jacuzzi® outperforms other manufacturers’ jet systems, producing a deeper and wider plume of revitalizing bubbles. Best of all, it doesn’t cost you a penny more!

Why spend another day wishing you could enjoy the luxury and pain-relieving benefits of a safe, comfortable bath?

Call now and you’ll get an unsurpassed lifetime warranty. Knowledgeable product experts are standing by to help you learn more about this product. Call today!

➻ Pain Relieving Therapy - Find a tub that has both water and air jet therapy to soak away your aches and pains preferably with a perfectly balanced water to air mix. ➻ Comfort - Insist on ergonomic design, easy-to-reach controls. ➻ Endorsements - Only consider tubs that are ETL or UL listed.

Also look for a tub tested to IAPMO (International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials) standards and that’s USPC (Universal Spa Plumbing Code) Certified.

Jacuzzi® Walk-In Tub

New! • Low Threshold Step • Jacuzzi® PointProTM Jet System • Comfortable Built-in Seat

For information call:

1-888-651-9754 Call now Toll-Free and mention your special promotion code 49233.

Third-party financing available with approved credit.

Not Available in Hawaii and Alaska

80437

T

The Jacuzzi® Walk-In tub is luxurious, feature-packed and affordable

What To Look For in a Walk-In Tub:

All rights reserved. © 2012 firstSTREET®, Inc. For Boomers and Beyond®

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