March 2018 NARFE Magazine by NARFE

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NARFE-PAC: TELLING YOUR STORY, TELLING IT RIGHT

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NARFE OFFICER CANDIDATE STATEMENTS

COVER STORY

OPENING UP NEW OPTIONS

TSP MODERNIZATION ACT GIVES YOU GREATER FLEXIBILITY

P.26

Volume 94 • Number 3

Federal Employee Program

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MAR

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WASHINGTON WATCH

GOP Tax Overhaul Signed Into Law

Debt Ceiling: Ways to Avoid Default

New Action Center Tool Shows Your Relationships with Legislators

NARFE Bill Tracker

COLUMNS

From the President

42 Managing Money 44 Alzheimer’s Update

COVER STORY

TSP MODERNIZATION ACT. The new law will revamp the ry Your Storules and provide the control TSP participants have Tellingwithdrawal t h ig it Rlonging for. Tellingbeen

DEPARTMENTS

16 Questions & Answers

In spite of of this country. oyees are al community “Federal empl federal this, the feder Members of the country and time what make this is targeted time the know dent ly fami FE Presi AC works run,” said NAR well: again. NARFE-P headlines all too en. “Without story about Richard Thiss to change the force Cuts “Drastic Work thing would fall s, and every , oyee them federal empl Agencies,” paying at Regulator y it’s ther Whe of Congress apart. Drastic helps members our “Budget Includes they nation’s debt to Employee our see the true value ral nt Fede for rtme Cuts Depa try.” veterans at the bring to this coun eral rs, making Benefits,” “Fed of Veterans Affai SEE PAGE 36 ions ered Workers’ Pens mail gets deliv the sure FE is tired ring our men Targeted.” NAR on time, or ensu lines and of the same head uniform are and women in too. That’s s we know you are , federal employee working supported is AC FE-P why NAR are the lifeblood ge the every day to chan story. federal family’s

46 For the Record:

TSP Returns, Retirement Claims Status, Countdown to COLA

48 NARFE News FEDcon18

34 34

SPECIAL SECTIONS MAR

M A R 2 018

W W W. N A R F E . O R G

’18

COVER STORY

www.narfe.org LIKE US ON FACEBOOK:

NARFE National Headquarters FOLLOW US ON TWITTER:

@narfehq

52 Candidates for NARFE

National, Regional Office, Federation Elections

On the Web VISIT US ONLINE AT:

68 The Way We Worked

TELLING YOUR STORY, TELLING IT RIGHT. NARFE-PAC plays an important role in helping to tell your story to members of Congress.

OPENING UP NEW OPTIONS

TSP MODERNIZATION ACT GIVES YOU GREATER FLEXIBILITY

P.26

Volume 94 • Number 3

P.34

NARFE PAC: TELLING YOUR STORY, TELLING IT RIGHT

ON THE COVER

Illustration by GRAPHEK W W W. N A R F E . O R G

MARCH 2018 | Volume 94 | Number 3

National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association EDITOR Susan Boswell ASSISTANT EDITOR Christopher Johnson GRAPHIC DESIGN GRAPHEK EDITORIAL BOARD Richard G. Thissen, Jon Dowie Barbara Sido 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 1622 New York, NY 10168 Phone: 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 866-5047300 or go to www.nfbnewsline.org. ON DIGITAL AUDIO: Issues of narfe magazine are also available in audio format through the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS). For availability, call 202-727-2142 or your local NLS service provider. The Association, since July 1970, has been classified by the IRS as a tax-exempt labor organization [not a union]; however, dues and gifts or contributions to the Association are not deductible as charitable contributions for income tax purposes.

NATIONAL OFFICERS RICHARD G. THISSEN, President; natpres@narfe.org JON DOWIE, Secretary/Treasurer; natsectreas@narfe.org EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR BARBARA SIDO, execdir@narfe.org

REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENTS

REGION I James P. Crawford (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont) TEL: 603-630-5191 EMAIL: crawfordjim62@gmail.com REGION II Evelyn Kirby (Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey and Pennsylvania) TEL: 410-604-1141 EMAIL: ekirby@atlanticbb.net REGION III Clarence Robinson (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina, Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands) CELL: 404-312-8028 EMAIL: crobin8145@att.net

REGION VI Marshall L. Richards (Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Republic of Panama and Texas) TEL: 903-660-2784 EMAIL: pappysdad@cobridge.tv REGION VII Rodney L. Adelman (Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming) TEL: 623-505-4719 EMAIL: narfe7vp@cox.net REGION VIII Helen L. Zajac (California, Guam, Hawaii, Nevada and Republic of Philippines) TEL: 707-644-7565 EMAIL: HLZajac125@gmail.com

REGION IV Edward J. Konys (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin) TEL: 937-470-0566 EMAIL: region4vp@gmail.com

REGION IX Richard Wilson (Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington) TEL: 253-210-5609, CELL: 425-736-6899 EMAIL: narfe1404@comcast.net

REGION V Carol R. Ek (Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota) TEL: 620-241-1131, CELL: 620-504-2202 EMAIL: ek617@att.net

REGION X William Shackelford (Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia) TEL: 703-830-6590, CELL: 703-201-6304 EMAIL: wshack1951@aol.com

HERE’S HOW TO CONTACT US…

TO JOIN NARFE, RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP OR FIND A LOCAL CHAPTER:

CALL (TOLL-FREE) 800-456-8410 OR GO TO www.narfe.org TO CHANGE YOUR ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER OR EMAIL LISTING:

CALL (TOLL-FREE) 800-456-8410 EMAIL memberrecords@narfe.org OR GO TO www.narfe.org, log in and click on “Update My Record”

TO REACH A FEDERAL BENEFITS SPECIALIST:

EMAIL fedbenefits@narfe.org NARFE HEADQUARTERS

606 N. Washington St. Alexandria, VA 22314 703-838-7760

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 $40. 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 © 2018, 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

NARFE-PAC MONTH

arch has been designated as NARFE-PAC month! This month, we ask all NARFE members to

commit themselves to support the great work that NARFE-PAC does on behalf of the federal community. I’m sure you’ve already noticed the special cover wrap with information about NARFE-PAC. Additionally, on page 34 is information on how NARFE-PAC operates. During the last Congress (2015-2016), NARFE-PAC received $1.45 million in contributions – the most contributions received in several congressional sessions. This allowed the NARFE-PAC board to make more disbursements to candidates who support the federal community, and also allowed

NARFE’s Mission Statement To support legislation and regulations beneficial to federal civilian employees and annuitants and potential annuitants under any federal civilian retirement system and to oppose those detrimental to their interests. To promote the general welfare of federal civilian employees and annuitants and potential annuitants, to advise and assist them with respect to their rights under retirement, health and other employee and retiree benefits laws and regulations, and to represent their interests before appropriate authorities. To cooperate with other organizations and associations in furtherance of these general objectives. 4

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the board to expand contributions to campaign committees for both parties in both the House and the Senate. The increase in contributions from the NARFE members enabled us to grow our reach and make bigger strides in protecting the earned pay and benefits of the federal community. As we’re facing additional threats this Congress, NARFE-PAC has set a goal to raise even more funds from members like you this election cycle. The NARFE-PAC board has set an ambitious goal to raise $1.5 million from NARFE members. NARFE-PAC is an important part of our efforts here at NARFE, and complements the work done by our grassroots advocates and our NARFE staff lobbyists. Our advocacy program has been incredibly effective during this last session of Congress and was able to hold off attacks on your earned pay and benefits. This is a tribute to NARFE members’ efforts, both through your grassroots advocacy and your contributions to NARFE-PAC. This March, I encourage you to contribute to NARFE-PAC. If you can, please consider becoming a monthly NARFE-PAC sustainer. Sustainers make automatic, monthly contributions through credit or debit cards that serve as a solid foundation to NARFE-PAC’s budget. Thank you for your support of NARFE-PAC.

RICHARD G. THISSEN NARFE NATIONAL PRESIDENT natpres@narfe.org

Washington Watch

GOP TAX OVERHAUL SIGNED INTO LAW

resident Trump signed a major federal tax overhaul into law on December 22, 2017, after Congress approved the measure earlier the same week. The 185-page law lowers

tax rates for both individuals and corporations, while making numerous changes to deductions, exemptions, exclusions, credits and expensing. The new law also doubles the estate tax exemption from $5.6 million to $11.2 million and repeals tax penalties for failure to buy health insurance that were instituted by the Affordable Care Act. According to Congress’ Joint Committee on Taxation, which provides the official “score” of the legislation, the law will increase projected deficits by $1.46 trillion over 10 years. Accounting for changes in economic behavior resulted in a slightly lower estimated increase of $1.07 trillion in projected deficits. The corporate tax changes, which include a rate reduction from 35 to 21 percent, have been made permanent, while the tax provisions that affect

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individuals expire after 2025, if no subsequent changes are made to the law. Individual rates also will increase at a faster pace than before, as tax brackets are now indexed to the Chained CPI. (See sidebar on p. 8 for more information.) For individuals, lower rates will combine with changes to deductions, exemptions and credits to affect each person differently. While most individuals (75 per-

ACTION ALERT!

cent according to the New York Times) will see a tax cut in 2018, some may see a tax increase. According to the Tax Policy Center, which provides independent expert analysis, the law will provide an average tax cut of 1.8 percent, or $1,600 per household in 2018. All income groups will see an average tax cut. However, higher income groups will receive greater average tax cuts in both percentage and amount – 2.2 percent for the top 20 percent ($7,640), and 3.1 percent for the top 5 percent ($13,480). This compares to 0.4 percent for the bottom 20 percent ($60), and 1.4 percent for the middle 20 percent ($930), which includes annual household incomes between $49,000 and $86,000.

MARCH

Are you concerned about harmful proposals to cut your earned pay and benefits included in the president’s fiscal year 2019 budget? Use NARFE’s Legislative Action Center to urge your legislators to oppose any cuts to the federal community in the fiscal year 2019 budget process!

DEBT CEILING: WAYS TO AVOID DEFAULT But these are just averages. Each household will vary in whether lower rates will offset changes to deductions, exemptions and credits. Notably, the law: • Increases the standard deduction from $6,350 to $12,000 for single filers and from $12,700 to $24,000 for married couples, filing jointly. The additional standard deduction for those age 65 and older is retained. • Repeals the $4,050 personal exemption for each family member. • Increases the child tax credit from $1,000 to $2,000 and raises the income level at which it begins to phase out to $400,000 instead of $110,000. • Limits state and local tax deductions to no more than $10,000 of combined income, property and sales tax payments. • Lowers the deductibility of mortgage interest to the first $750,000 of home loan value, from the current $1 million level. • Allows the itemized deduction for medical expenses exceeding 7.5 percent of adjusted gross income for tax years 2017 and 2018 and for medical expenses exceeding 10 percent in 2019 and beyond. • Increases the income level at which the alternative minimum tax (AMT) may apply. Most of the provisions kicked in starting January 1, 2018, so your 2017 tax filing will not be affected. But the taxes withheld from your (Tax continued on p. 8)

he collective ears of the federal community perk up when talk of the debt ceiling appears in the news cycle. What exactly is the debt ceiling and how does it impact federal workers and retirees? The debt ceiling is a limit Congress sets on the amount of debt the federal government can carry at any given time. When that limit is nearly reached, Congress has to increase the debt limit to allow the federal government to borrow additional money to pay for its already incurred costs, or face default. Just the thought of the United States defaulting has pushed Congress to raise the debt limit every time in the past, but every so often, the U.S. comes close to hitting that ceiling. When the window to raise the limit becomes tight, the Treasury Secretary can implement “extraordinary measures” to free up money and provide additional time for Congress to raise the debt limit. This is where Feds come into play. One extraordinary measure that is often discussed by NARFE members is the suspension of reinvestment of the Government Securities Investment Fund (G Fund) within the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). The G Fund is made up of special-issue Treasury securities that count against the debt limit and mature daily. The balance of the fund is ordinarily reinvested but can be suspended in the

event that the Treasury Secretary determines that the fund cannot be completely invested without exceeding the debt limit. Suspending reinvestment creates billions of dollars in headroom that the federal government can use to give Congress additional time to increase the debt limit. The suspension of investment in the G Fund can be irritating to federal workers and retirees, as their retirement funds allow the U.S. to pay its bills. However, the system is set so that federal workers and retirees go unaffected by the suspension. For those curious, the TSP explains, (Debt continued on p. 9) Legislative Resources • Legislative Hotline: A weekly update of legislative news, compiled by the NARFE Advocacy Department staff, distributed via email and available by phone (toll-free) at 800-456-8410, option 4 and online at www. narfe.org. • Legislative Action Center: A one-stop site to send a letter to Congress, and more, at www.narfe.org.

W W W. N A R F E . O R G

Washington Watch

NEW TAX LAW BRINGS MYRIAD OF CHANGES FOR INDIVIDUALS, BUSINESSES (Tax continued from p. 7) paycheck or annuity will change as soon as the IRS updates its tables as early as February. While NARFE members will no doubt view the changes from their own personal financial and political lens, thanks to NARFE’s hard work, no part of the cost of the tax bill was offset by cuts to federal retirement and health benefits. However, the increased deficits that will result from lower tax revenues could lead to more substantial spending cuts down the road, whether from Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security or federal retirement and health benefits.

THE CHAINED CPI AND TAX REFORM The tax overhaul, signed into law last December, indexes the new tax brackets using the Chained CPI. This is causing some understandable confusion for NARFE members. While this switch was made for tax brackets, the tax bill does NOT change the current index (CPI-W) used to determine annual cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs). NARFE strongly opposes using the Chained CPI for determining COLAs to federal and military retirement annuities and Social Security

because it would decrease benefits and undermine the true costs facing older Americans. The tax bill ties the tax brackets to the Chained CPI. Using the lower rate of inflation to calculate future tax rates means that taxpayers will move more quickly into higher tax brackets. However, this does not affect the annual COLAs experienced by older Americans. NARFE will continue to oppose any effort to index COLAs to the Chained CPI.

—BY JOHN HATTON, DEPUTY DIRECTOR, ADVOCACY

TAX BRACKETS: BEFORE AND AFTER THE NEW TAX LAW The tax overhaul retains seven tax brackets for the taxation of ordinary income but lowers marginal tax rates and modifies the width of the brackets, as detailed below for single filers and those married, filing jointly, for the 2018 tax year. The law retains separate filing statuses for heads of households and those married, filing separately, but those are not detailed below. Note that these are marginal tax rates, so

regardless of whether you fall into a higher bracket, the lowest rate always applies to the first dollars you earn. For example, if you are a single filer with a taxable income (income after deductions, etc.) of $10,000 in 2018, you would owe 10 percent on the first $9,525 of income, and 12 percent on the next $475, for a total tax of $1,009.50. You would not owe 12 percent of $10,000, which is $1,200.

SINGLE FILER PREVIOUS LAW:

NEW LAW:

PREVIOUS LAW:

NEW LAW:

10%

$0 - $9,525

10%

$0 - $9,525

10%

$0 - $19,050

10%

$0 - $19,050

15%

$9,525 - $38,700

12%

$9,525 - $38,700

15%

$19,050 - $77,400

12%

$19,050 - $77,400

25%

$38,700 - $93,700

22%

$38,700 - $82,500

25%

$77,400 - $156,150

22%

$77,400 - $165,000

28%

$93,700 - $195,450

24%

$82,500 - $157,500

28%

$156,150 - $237,950

24%

$165,000 - $315,000

33%

$195,450 - $424,950

32%

$157,500 - $200,000

33%

$237,950 - $424,950

32%

$315,000 - $400,000

35%

$424,950 - $426,700

35%

$200,000 - $500,000

35%

$424,950 - $480,050

35%

$400,000 - $600,000

$426,700+

37%

$500,000+

$480,050+

37%

$600,000+

39.6%

Sources: The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act

MARRIED FILING JOINTLY

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39.6%

FEDS UNAFFECTED BY G FUND REINVESTMENT SUSPENSION (Debt continued from p. 7) “G Fund account balances will continue to accrue earnings and will be updated each business day, and loans and withdrawals will be unaffected.” That means it’s business as usual for federal workers and retirees. By law, the G Fund must be made whole once the debt limit is increased, further ensuring those funds are protected. For these reasons, federal workers and retirees will not see the Treasury Department’s moves on their end. In fact, the Treasury suspended reinvest-

By law, the G Fund must be made whole once the debt limit is increased, further ensuring those funds are protected. ment of the G Fund 11 times in the past 23 years, and the G Fund balance, along with its interest, has been restored every time. The Treasury also can suspend reinvestment in the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund

(CSRDF) and the Postal Service Retiree Health Benefit Fund (PSRHBF). However, similar to the G Fund, those funds must be paid back in full after the debt limit is raised, and those who are paid from those funds will continue to receive their payments. While the Treasury’s use of extraordinary measures to give Congress additional time to raise the debt ceiling is unfortunate, the federal community does not feel its effects. Contributions and withdrawals from retirement accounts continue unabated. —BY ROSS APTER, ADVOCACY ASSOCIATE

Contribute To NARFE-PAC I want to make a monthly sustainer credit card contribution:

q $25/month

I want to make a one-time contribution: q $250 – Gold lapel pin and blanket q $100 – Silver lapel pin

q $10/month q Other: ______/month ($10 minimum) Sustainers receive a Sustainer lapel pin and cozy fleece NARFE blanket.

q $50 – Bronze lapel pin q $25 – Basic lapel pin q Other: _________

q Please do not send any gifts for my contribution (This saves NARFE-PAC money!) NARFE Member #: _________________________________________ Name: __________________________________________________ Address: ________________________________________________ City: _________________________________________________ State: ___________

ZIP: _______________

Only members of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association may contribute to NARFE-PAC. NARFE will neither favor nor disadvantage anyone based on the amount of a contribution or the failure to make a voluntary contribution to this political action fund. NARFE-PAC contributions are not deductible for federal income tax purposes.

q Charge my credit card (required for monthly contribution) q MasterCard

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Or mail check payable to NARFE-PAC to: NARFE Attn. Budget & Finance 606 North Washington St. | Alexandria, VA 22314 W W W. N A R F E . O R G

Washington Watch

NEW ACTION CENTER TOOL SHOWS YOUR RELATIONSHIPS WITH LEGISLATORS

ARFE’s Legislative Action Center has a new tool that allows you to identify your relationship to those federal and state elected officials with whom you share a connection. For example, you may find that a lawmaker on the state or federal level was your old college roommate, or you may have developed a working relationship with an elected official through your participation in NARFE advocacy activities.

MYTH vs. REALITY MYTH: Most federal employees perform clerical tasks that do not require much skill and can be described as “paper pushers.” REALITY: Today’s federal workforce requires advanced skills to serve a knowledgebased economy. Federal employees must manage highly sensitive tasks that require great skill, experience and judgment. Professionals such as doctors, nurses, engineers, scientists, statisticians and lawyers now make up a large and growing portion of the federal workforce. A 2017 government report shows 36 percent of the federal workforce serves in professional occupations, compared to 20 percent in the private sector. Source: http://bit.ly/2oQIVde.

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• Go to www.narfe.org and click on the “Advocacy” banner shown in red. • On the left-hand navigation, click on “Relationships with Lawmakers.”

Developing and maintaining relationships with elected officials is crucial to NARFE’s success in protecting the earned pay and benefits of the federal community. NARFE members with meaningful relationships should always rely on customized forms of communication rather than form letters to relay NARFE’s position. For those with existing relationships with representatives, a letter, personal phone call or in-person conversation will be most effective, depending on the situation. NARFE encourages you to identify and develop these relationships so you can help NARFE gain recognition as the trusted source of information about the federal community

and reinforce NARFE’s position on the issues. To identify relationships with legislators and staff, please visit the Advocacy page of the NARFE website and click on “Relationships with Lawmakers” on the left-hand side of the page. Click on the link in the section “Identifying Relationships with Lawmakers.” If you have never used the Action Center, you will be prompted to fill in your contact information before you are directed to the “Relationships” page (shown in the photo above). To begin, click on the first dropdown box to indicate whether the elected official with whom you have a relationship serves on the federal or state level.

Developing and maintaining relationships with elected officials is crucial to NARFE’s success in protecting the earned pay and benefits of the federal community. From there, find the official’s name using the next drop-down list. Then, choose which category best describes your relationship, either “personal” or “other.” If you have developed a working relationship through lobbying a senator or representative or his or her staff, choose “other.” If you have developed a personal friendship, please indicate

“personal.” If you have both a personal and professional relationship, where applicable, please indicate “personal.” Be sure to use the “Notes” box to state any pertinent information regarding the relationship. If your existing relationship is with a staff member, please write his or her name in this section as well as a brief explanation of the nature of your relationship. Once you have selected “Assign,” you will have the opportunity to identify additional elected officials. Thank you for your interest and willingness to identify relationships you have with state and federal legislators. We want to help you maximize the value of these relationships, and we look forward to working with you! —BY MOLLY CHECKSFIELD, GRASSROOTS PROGRAM MANAGER

Order your copy of NARFE’s CONGRESSIONAL DIRECTORY for the 115th CONGRESS (2017-2018) today! Clip and mail to: NARFE Congressional Directory / 606 N. Washington Street / Alexandria, VA 22314-1914 Name___________________________________________________________________ Address _________________________________________________________________

Only $20

City _________________________________________ State ______ ZIP ___________ Member ID# (as it appears on narfe magazine label) ________________________________________________________________________

o Check (payble to NARFE) or cash enclosed o Charge to my credit card o MasterCard

o VISA o Discover o AMEX

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Name on card (print) ______________________________________________________ Signature ____________________________________________ Date _____________

Quantity ________________ $20 each (includes shipping and handling) VA sales tax _____________ VA residents add 6% tax ($1.20 per book) Total cost _______________

Please allow 2-3 weeks for delivery. Call NARFE’s Legislative Department at 703-838-7760 to order by phone. W W W. N A R F E . O R G

Washington Watch

narfe bill tracker

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

BILL NUMBER / NAME / SPONSOR

WHAT BILL WOULD DO

H.R. 756: Postal Service Reform Act of 2017 / Rep. Jason Chaffetz, R-UT Cosponsors: 9 (D), 8 (R)

Requires postal retirees to enroll in Medicare in order to continue receiving their current federal health insurance coverage. Enrollment would be automatic.

Approved by the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform; pending in two other committees narfe, June 2017

H.Res. 15: As a resolution, it will not be sent to the president and, therefore, cannot become law / Rep. Sam Graves, R-MO Cosponsors: 180 (D), 64 (R)

Expresses the sense of the House that the U.S. Postal Service should take all appropriate measures to ensure the continuation of six-day delivery.

Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform

Expresses the sense of the House that the U.S. Postal Service should take all measures to restore service standards in effect on July 1, 2012.

Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform

Expresses the sense of the House that the U.S. Postal Service should take all measures to ensure the continuation of door-to-door delivery for all businesses and residential customers.

Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform

H.R. 757 / S. 255: The Federal Adjustment of Income Rates (FAIR) Act / Rep. Gerald E. Connolly, D-VA Cosponsors (H.R. 757): 71 (D), 1 (R) Sen. Brian Schatz, D-HI Cosponsors (S. 255): 7 (D), 0 (R)

Provides for a 2 percent pay raise for federal employees and 1.2 percent increase in locality pay in 2018.

Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform (H.R. 757) and the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs narfe, April 2017

H.R. 3269: Federal Employee Pension Fairness Act of 2017 / Rep. Anthony G. Brown, D-MD Cosponsors: 26 (D), 0 (R)

Repeals laws passed in 2012 and 2013 that increased the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) contributions for newly hired federal employees.

Referred to the House Committees on Oversight and Government Reform and Foreign Affairs narfe, October 2017

H.R. 1022: Federal Employees Paid Parental Leave Act of 2017 / Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-NY Cosponsors: 75 (D), 1 (R)

Provides federal employees with 6 weeks of paid leave in connection with the birth or adoption of a child.

Referred to the House Committees on Oversight and Government Reform and House Administration

POSTAL REFORM H.Res. 31: As a resolution, it will not be sent to the president and, therefore, cannot become law / Rep. Dave McKinley, R-WV Cosponsors: 162 (D), 45 (R) H.Res. 28: As a resolution, it will not be sent to the president and, therefore, cannot become law / Rep. Susan Davis, D-CA Cosponsors: 184 (D), 57 (R)

FEDERAL COMPENSATION

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NARFEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Position:

Support

LATEST ACTION(S)

Oppose

No position

EDITORâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NOTE: These bills are all listed online at www.narfe.org/legislation/votervoice.cfm.

ISSUE

DC STATEHOOD

TAXES

COLA

GPO/WEP

CAMPAIGN FINANCE

BILL NUMBER / NAME / SPONSOR

WHAT BILL WOULD DO

LATEST ACTION(S)

H.R. 1291 / S. 1278: Washington, DC Admission Act / Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton, D-DC Cosponsors (H.R. 1291): 142 (D), 0 (R) Sen. Thomas Carper, D-DE Cosponsors (S. 1278): 19 (D), 1 (I)

Sets forth procedures that would allow the District of Columbia to become a state known as the State of Washington, DC.

H.R. 2929: Federal Employee Combat Zone Tax Parity Act / Rep. Rob Wittman, R-VA Cosponsors: 7 (D), 2 (R)

Extends the tax credit available Referred to the to military personnel who serve House Committee on in combat zones to civilian Ways and Means federal employees. narfe, September 2017

H.R. 3200: The TaxpayerFunded Pension Disclosure Act / Rep. Ron DeSantis, R-FL Cosponsors: 0 (D), 7 (R)

The legislation would allow for public disclosure of federal pension data, including: name of annuitant, last agency of employment, grade, monthly annuity and total annuity contributions.

Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform narfe, October 2017

H.R. 1251: CPI-E Act of 2017/ Requires Social Security and Rep. John Garamendi, D-CA many federal retirement programs to use the Consumer Price Index for the elderly Cosponsors: 48 (D), 1 (R) (CPI-E) to calculate cost-ofliving adjustments (COLAs) to retirement benefits.

Referred to the House Committees on Ways and Means, Veteransâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Affairs, Oversight and Government Reform, and Armed Services narfe, May 2017

H.R. 1205 / S. 915: Social Security Fairness Act of 2017 / Rep. Rodney Davis, R-IL Cosponsors (H.R. 1205): 121 (D), 48 (R) Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-OH Cosponsors (S. 915): 13 (D), 4 (R), 1 (I)

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

Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means (H.R. 1205), and the Senate Committee on Finance (S. 915) narfe, May 2017

H.R. 20: The Government By the People Act of 2017 / Rep. John Sarbanes, D-MD

Reforms campaign finance Referred to three laws to put small donors on par House committees with wealthier donors. Provides a tax credit or contributions and government matching contributions.

Cosponsors: 161 (D), 1 (R)

Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, and Committee on Rules

The Access to Insurance for All Americans Act, H.R. 1408, has been removed from the tracker. The legislation has failed to garner any cosponsors and is unlikely to be considered by the House of Representatives. W W W. N A R F E . O R G

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Questions & Answers

The following Questions & Answers were compiled by NARFE’s Federal Benefits Institute staff. NARFE does not provide legal, financial planning or tax advice or assistance.

EMPLOYEES CHANGING TO SELF ONLY FEHB IN RETIREMENT

I am age 57 with more than 30 years of creditable federal service, and I’m planning to retire soon. I’ve been covered by my spouse’s Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) plan for my entire federal career, but once my spouse retires and our youngest child reaches age 26, my spouse and I want to switch to separate Self Only plans. Is this possible? Will my agency certify that I’m eligible for FEHB coverage even though I’ve been covered under my spouse’s FEHB plan at another agency?

Yes. You will qualify for an immediate retirement and you have been covered by the FEHB program for the last five years of your federal career, so you will be allowed to obtain your own FEHB coverage if your spouse intends to switch to a Self Only plan or if you lose your spouse (i.e., death or divorce). When you apply for your retirement, it’s important to provide your agency with evidence that you have been covered under your spouse’s FEHB plan so your 16

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agency can properly certify your retirement application package that will be forwarded to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). This evidence is most likely in your spouse’s Official Personnel Folder (OPF) and includes FEHB election/change forms with your name on them. Your agency should understand how to communicate your FEHB eligibility to OPM with your retirement application package; otherwise, you would have to sort this out directly with OPM later when you

attempt to obtain your own FEHB coverage. If your agency doesn’t certify this for you at retirement, it will be like pulling teeth to get this done with OPM later, so it’s highly recommended that you have your agency certify your eligibility upon your retirement from federal service.

AUTOMATIC DEDUCTION FOR TSP CONTRIBUTIONS

As a new federal employee, I noticed that my agency payroll office is automatically deducting part of my salary as a contribution for my Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). Am I getting the full agency match, or am I missing out on some agency contributions?

As a new employee, your agency payroll office automatically began deducting 3 percent of your basic salary for TSP. Federal Employ-

ees Retirement System (FERS) employees receive matching contributions from their agency, up to as much as 5 percent of the employee’s basic pay each pay period. The first 3 percent of pay that you contribute will be matched dollar-for-dollar and the next 2 percent will be matched at 50 cents on the dollar. You are currently giving up some agency matching each pay period in which you limit your contribution to less than 5 percent of your salary. You can use the TSP-1, “Thrift Savings Plan Election Form,” to increase your contribution to the TSP through your agency payroll office.

RETURN TO DUTY AFTER NON-PAY STATUS

I’m a Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) employee and just returned to duty after a period of non-pay status while performing military service. I’m interested in making a deposit into FERS for this period of time. What is the process to initiate this?

You should contact your agency retirement office for assistance. You will need a service document from the military showing the exact start date and end date of your active duty service. You most likely received a DD Form 214 - “Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty,” or equivalent document reflecting the character of discharge (i.e., honorable). If not, you can use stamped active duty orders, or you may use an SF 180,

“Request Pertaining to Military Records,” to obtain these service dates (and character of discharge) from the National Archives at www.archives.gov/veterans. You will also need some military pay information. If you don’t have any military pay documents that show the exact basic pay you earned while on active duty for this period of leave without pay (LWOP-US), you can request an estimate of your military basic pay earned from the appropriate military finance center using form RI 20-97, “Estimated Earnings During Military Service.” Once you have the appropriate military service and earned pay documentation, you can use the SF 3108, “FERS Application to Make Service Credit Payment,” to apply to make this deposit through your agency. Your agency retirement office should process the SF 3108 and forward it to your payroll office along with your elected payment option. The initial amount owed will be the lesser of 3 percent of your military basic pay or the amount of FERS deductions that would have been withheld from your federal civilian pay had you not been on LWOP. The military deposit amount due will not accrue any interest until three years from the date of your return to duty, as per the effective date of your return to duty personnel action. If you choose to pay the deposit over a period of years, you will have until the date of your separation from federal service to pay the military deposit in full, otherwise partial payment will not allow the service

to be included in the computation of your FERS retirement. Forms can be found at www.opm.gov/ forms.

SERVICE DEPOSIT FOR DUTY AS RESERVIST

I used military leave to perform active duty as a reservist for a couple of weeks. Do I need to pay a deposit for this period of service to receive credit toward my retirement?

No. If you were receiving federal civilian pay while on military leave, the appropriate deductions for your retirement should have been withheld from your federal civilian pay, so there is no need to pay a military deposit for these brief periods. This period of covered service should still count toward your retirement.

RETIREES WHEN WILL TSP OPTIONS BE AVAILABLE?

Q A

When can I take advantage of the new Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) withdrawal options?

Under the TSP Modernization Act of 2017, the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board (FRTIB), which oversees the TSP, has two years to make the expanded withdrawal options available. But they are working to implement them as soon as possible.

W W W. N A R F E . O R G

Questions & Answers

WHY THE 2-YEAR WAIT FOR TSP OPTIONS?

Why would it take up to two years for the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board (FRTIB) to implement the new options in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) Modernization Act of 2017?

In a fact sheet (www.tsp. gov/PDF/formspubs/ tspfs10.pdf), the FRTIB, which oversees the TSP, states, “there are substantial programming changes and form revisions that must be made to allow par-

ticipants to begin using these new options. There are many publications and webpages that will need to be changed to reflect the new policy and changes.” In addition, pursuant to administrative law, the FRTIB must publish any new regulations necessary to implement the new options. Once published, a 30-day period for public comments will take place, and then all comments will be considered prior to making any final regulatory changes. The FRTIB is very motivated to enact these new options as soon as

possible. Based on feedback that the FRTIB obtained from plan participants, the board expressed its desire for more flexible withdrawal options. Although Congress has given FRTIB two years to implement these changes, it intends to have the changes in place before the deadline. At press date, FRTIB has not yet released a specific timeline for having the new options in place, but the board plans to release each new option as soon as possible, even if some options aren’t ready to be released yet.

Focus on Federal Benefits TSP MODERNIZATION ACT OF 2017 The TSP Modernization Act was signed into law on November 17, 2017, offering more flexible withdrawal options for Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) participants and giving them more control over their own retirement savings. The legislation passed Congress with NARFE’s endorsement, and NARFE members are anxiously awaiting implementation of the new withdrawal options. This issue of narfe magazine includes a feature article, written by Mark Keen, to discuss TSP withdrawal options. The Q&A section highlights some of the questions we have been receiving from our members regarding these upcoming changes. THE NEW LAW • Allows multiple, partial post-separation withdrawals, which individuals can time to

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their individual needs. • Current rules allow only one partial post-separation withdrawal. • Permits multiple, age-based withdrawals for participants who are still working and are older than age 59-1/2 and subsequent post-separation partial withdrawals. • Current rules allow only one age-based withdrawal while actively employed in federal service. • Provides greater flexibility for those receiving periodic payments by: (a) allowing the election of quarterly or annual payments, (b) allowing periodic withdrawals to be changed at any point during the year, (c) allowing periodic payments to be stopped while leaving the account balance in the TSP and (d) permitting the purchase of an annuity or a partial withdrawal

while in periodic payment status. • Under current rules, periodic payments may be made only on a monthly basis. These payments can be changed only once per year, just prior to the beginning of the next calendar year. They cannot be stopped without withdrawing the entire balance. Also, if in periodic payment status, the participant cannot select a partial withdrawal or annuity purchase. • Eliminates the withdrawal election deadline. • Current rules require participants to make a decision on how they would like to withdraw their funds by April 1 of the year following the year they turn age 70-1/2 and are separated from service. This deadline often has been confused with the IRS’ required minimum distributions, leading individuals to withdraw their entire balance at that time.

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Questions & Answers

ANTICIPATING CHANGES TO THE LAW

If the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board (FRTIB) asked Congress for the changes in the TSP Modernization Act of 2017, why didn’t FRTIB begin working on this before the law was passed?

FRTIB did begin work on this before the new law was passed. However, in a fact sheet (www.tsp.gov/ PDF/formspubs/tspfs10.pdf) the FRTIB states that, “it would have been inefficient to spend the substantial resources necessary for this project before knowing whether the bill would become

law or what exactly would be included in it.” The FRTIB says it was “prepared as we could prudently be for the passage of the law, and we are working to make the transition as quickly as possible while ensuring that the processes work correctly and in the best interest of [TSP] participants.”

DEADLINE APPROACHING FOR TSP ACCOUNT

I’m separated from federal service and the deadline for withdrawing my Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) account is arriving. What happens?

The current withdrawal deadline remains until new regulations are put in place. You still must make a decision on how you would like to withdraw your money (e.g., via periodic payments, or an annuity) prior to the deadline. However, current withdrawal options do not require that you withdraw the entire amount of your TSP account in one payment. You can elect monthly payments as low as $25 per month and leave your remaining balance in the TSP until the new options become available. If subject to the IRS’ required minimum distribution (RMD),

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your monthly payments will count toward satisfying your RMD, and if necessary, the TSP will give you a supplemental payment to satisfy your RMD each year.

USE OF OPTIONS PRIOR TO IMPLEMENTATION

What happens if I want to use one of the new Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) withdrawal options before the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board (FRTIB) has implemented the changes in the new law?

Unfortunately, you will need to wait. Nothing changes until new regulations are put in place, so you are limited to the current withdrawal options, using either the TSP-77, “Request for Partial Withdrawal When Separated” (www.tsp.gov/ PDF/formspubs/tsp-77.pdf) or the TSP-70, “Request for Full Withdrawal” (www.tsp.gov/PDF/ formspubs/tsp-70.pdf). Again, current withdrawal options do not require that you withdraw the entire amount of your TSP account in one payment. You can elect monthly payments – as low as $25 per month – and leave your

remaining balance in the TSP until the new options become available.

KNOWING WHEN TSP OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE

Q A

How will I know when the new options become available as the result of the TSP Modernization Act?

As they become available, the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) will widely announce the new options on its website, social media, email and postal mail. NARFE also will share these announcements in communications with members.

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Questions & Answers

RECEIVING PAYMENTS PRIOR TO NEW OPTIONS

If I’m already receiving monthly payments from my Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) account, or if I elect to receive payments before the new options are available in the TSP Modernization Act of 2017, will I still be able to take advantage of the additional withdrawal options?

Yes. As long as you have an account balance when the new options take effect, even if you’ve begun receiving monthly payments or have taken a partial withdrawal before then, the new withdrawal

options will be available for you. Be aware that if you make changes to the duration of your monthly payments, there may be tax consequences. For more details, refer to the TSP tax notice, “Important Tax Information About Payments From Your TSP Account” (www.tsp.gov/ PDF/formspubs/tsp-536.pdf). To obtain an answer to a federal benefits question, NARFE members should call 800-456-8410 and select option 2 for the Federal Benefits Institute; send the question by postal mail to NARFE Headquarters, ATTN: Federal Benefits; or submit it by email to fedbenefits@narfe.org.

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W W W. N A R F E . O R G

Cover Story

OPENING UP

NEW

OPTIONS: TSP Modernization Act Gives You Greater Flexibility BY MARK KEEN

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The Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board (FRTIB) has set its sights on providing more flexible withdrawal rules, and for good reason. Each year, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) participants pull out about $9 billion from their TSP accounts as they turn age 59-1/2 or leave the federal workforce. The primary reason for this mass exodus, as TSP surveys show, is due to the restrictive withdrawal rules. Soon, however, TSP participants will no longer need to look elsewhere for flexibility, as the president recently signed into law the TSP Modernization Act, which revamps the withdrawal rules and provides the control TSP participants have been longing for.

W W W. N A R F E . O R G

OPENING UP

NEW

TSP Modernization Act Gives You Greater Flexibility

OPTIONS • Single payment: allows you to withdraw the entire balance in one transaction.

• Series of monthly payments: the monthly pay-

Before we jump into the details of the TSP Modernization Act, it will be helpful to review the current withdrawal rules to fully appreciate the effect the new rules will have. Today, TSP participants are allowed one in-service withdrawal once they have attained age 59-1/2. An in-service withdrawal occurs while the TSP participant is still employed with the federal government and may be for any amount, subject to a minimum of $1,000. Participants that have less than $1,000 in the TSP account must take the entire balance. In-service withdrawals may be taken only from the vested account balance. Participants are immediately vested in their own contributions, any agency matching contributions and the earnings on those contributions. However, participants are generally not vested in the agency’s automatic 1 percent contributions and the earnings on those contributions until they have completed three years of federal service. TSP participants who have separated from federal service have the option to take a partial withdrawal or one of four full withdrawal options. A TSP participant is permitted to make only one lifetime partial withdrawal, and only if he or she did not take an in-service withdrawal. A partial withdrawal may be for any amount, subject to a $1,000 minimum, and provides a TSP participant the opportunity to keep the remaining balance with the TSP as long as a minimum of $200 remains. If you already have taken a partial withdrawal from your TSP and need additional money, the only remaining option is to elect one of the full withdrawal options: 28

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ments allow you to withdraw your entire balance in a series of substantially equal monthly payments until the TSP account is exhausted. When electing monthly withdrawals, you may choose from one of two options: monthly payments based on life expectancy, or monthly payments based on a specific dollar amount. Monthly payments based on life expectancy will be calculated by the TSP using either the Single Life Expectancy table or the Uniform Lifetime Table, depending on your age. Each year, the TSP will use the appropriate table to recalculate your monthly withdrawals and make adjustments accordingly. • Life annuity: the balance may be used to purchase an annuity from the TSP’s annuity provider, subject to a minimum of $3,500. An annuity is a monthly benefit payable for life. There are many options to choose from when electing this option, including the ability to elect a joint life annuity, which will be payable for your life and that of the joint annuitant’s. • Mixed withdrawal: A mixed withdrawal is simply a combination of any two, or all three, full withdrawal options. As we’ll discuss later, this option can provide the flexibility to obtain a lump-sum payment while also receiving a monthly payment. It’s important to note that once a full withdrawal option has been elected, a TSP participant may no longer elect a partial withdrawal, regardless of whether a partial withdrawal already was taken.

The TSP Modernization Act paves the way for several tweaks to the TSP withdrawal rules. For starters, the new rules will allow TSP participants to take more than one partial withdrawal.

NEW WITHDRAWAL RULES

The TSP Modernization Act paves the way for several tweaks to the TSP withdrawal rules. For starters, the new rules will allow TSP participants to take more than one partial withdrawal. The ability to take multiple partial withdrawals also will apply to in-service withdrawals. Unlike the current rules, if you take one or more in-service withdrawals, you’ll still be eligible for partial withdrawals after separating from the federal workforce. Existing rules only allow TSP participants to change the amount of their specific monthly payments one time per year, during the annual change period, which is at the end of each calendar year. Those receiving monthly payments based on life expectancy, may make a onetime change to monthly payments based on a specific dollar amount during the annual change period, as well. Under the current rules, monthly payments may be reduced to as little as $25 per month, but they may not be stopped entirely. The only way for a TSP participant to stop monthly payments is to close out the TSP account by taking the remaining balance as a single payment, an option that may be elected at any time. The TSP Modernization Act also makes several enhancements to periodic payments. For starters, TSP participants will no longer have to wait until the annual change period to change the amount of their payments. Instead, TSP participants will be able to change the amount of their periodic withdrawals at any time – even stopping the payments altogether while allowing any remaining balance to stay in the TSP. However, this is subject to the rules for required minimum distributions

(RMDs). Furthermore, TSP participants will no longer be limited to monthly payments. The new rules provide the option to receive payments on a quarterly or annual basis as well. Another great feature will be the ability to take a partial withdrawal, or elect an annuity, while receiving periodic payments. For example, let’s say you are receiving $500 per month but need an additional cash infusion to make the down payment on a new car you’re purchasing. Not a problem with the new withdrawal rules. The TSP currently has a withdrawal election deadline, which requires those who have separated from service to elect a full withdrawal option by April 1 of the year following the year they reach age 70-1/2. Participants who are still working for the federal government at age 70-1/2 have until April 1 the year following the year they separate from service. Those who fail to make a withdrawal election by this deadline will forfeit the account to the TSP and the account will be transferred to the G Fund. The account can be reclaimed, but no earnings will be received during the time the account was forfeited. Although the TSP’s withdrawal election deadline coincides with the IRS’s required beginning date (RBD) for RMDs, it’s actually a separate TSP deadline. This deadline has created quite a bit of confusion for TSP participants and is a contributing factor to participants withdrawing their entire balance at that time. Fortunately, the TSP Modernization Act removes the TSP deadline. Note, however, this has no affect on the IRS requirement to begin RMDs by the RBD, so withdrawals will still need to be taken to satisfy RMD requirements. In addition to the changes authorized in the TSP Modernization Act, the TSP also plans on doing away with the pro rata withdrawal rule, which requires all withdrawals to come proportionately from both the Traditional TSP balance and the Roth TSP balance, if one exists. When the new rules go into effect, TSP participants will have the ability to elect how much of a withdrawal is to come from the Traditional balance and how much should come from the Roth balance. W W W. N A R F E . O R G

OPENING UP

NEW

TSP Modernization Act Gives You Greater Flexibility

OPTIONS have 75 percent of your TSP allocated to the C Fund and 25 percent allocated to the G Fund, 75 percent of your withdrawal will come from the C Fund and 25 percent will come from the G Fund.

WAITING FOR CHANGE

There are a few areas the TSP Modernization Act won’t change. For example, the new rules won’t change the fact that withdrawals come proportionately from the investment funds held in your TSP. This is a positive development for any TSP participant who wishes to keep their Roth balance untouched and growing tax-free for as long as possible. The new flexibility doesn’t, however, change the fact that the Roth TSP is still subject to RMDs. While Roth IRAs are not subject to RMDs, Roth accounts in employer plans, such as the TSP or 401(k) plan, are subject to RMDs. This is an IRS rule, not a TSP rule. This change means that TSP participants will no longer have to go through the rigmarole I described in my column in the November 2017 issue of narfe magazine (pp. 58-59) to isolate the Roth TSP balance in a Roth IRA. Instead, if a TSP participant doesn’t wish to take RMDs from their Roth TSP balance, they will now simply have to take a partial withdrawal, direct 100 percent of those funds to come from the Roth TSP balance and transfer the withdrawal to a Roth IRA prior to reaching age 70-1/2. There are a few areas the TSP Modernization Act won’t change. For example, the new rules won’t change the fact that withdrawals come proportionately from the investment funds held in your TSP. For example, if you 30

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Now for some bad news: don’t expect these changes to be implemented quickly. The FRTIB has two years from the time the president signed the bill to implement the new rules. You might find comfort, however, by the following FRTIB statement: “We asked Congress for these new withdrawal options, so rest assured that we’re motivated to enact them as soon as possible. We intend to have the changes in place before the two-year deadline but don’t yet have a specific date to announce.” Regardless, participants may need to maneuver within the current system if they need to access their TSP account before the new rules take effect and the current rules don’t fit their needs. Fortunately, there are several key provisions that provide TSP participants the opportunity to use the current rules to create a temporary solution. For starters, the TSP is a portable retirement benefit, which means that all, or part, of your single payment may be transferred to another retirement plan, such as a 401(k) plan of a new employer or an IRA. Additionally, monthly payments that are not expected to last 10 years are also eligible to be transferred to another retirement plan. Second, once the new rules take effect, TSP participants will able to make changes to their current withdrawal elections. And finally, as long as the TSP account remains active, which requires a minimum balance of only $200, TSP participants may transfer money from other retirement plans into the TSP at any time.

TSP WITHDRAWAL SCENARIOS

Let’s look at a few scenarios in which you may use the current rules and key provisions to access your TSP account before the new rules take effect, while keeping the TSP account active.

If you have not started monthly payments

You have not used the one-time partial withdrawal:

Participants who have not taken an in-service withdrawal, or a partial withdrawal, have the ultimate flexibility. If you’re looking to access a portion of your TSP, but would like the remaining balance to stay invested with the TSP, you may elect a partial withdrawal by completing form TSP-77, “Request for Partial Withdrawal When Separated,” and requesting a withdrawal for any amount of $1,000 or more. As long as a balance of $200 or more is maintained, the remaining money will continue to be invested with the TSP. Sometimes life isn’t as simple as needing a onetime distribution. Let’s assume you need a cash infusion now but may need one or more additional partial distributions before the new rules take effect. Once again, if you have not used your one-time partial withdrawal, you have the most flexibility. In this situation, you may want to take a partial withdrawal large enough to cover the current needed distribution and any potential future distributions. However, instead of having the withdrawal paid directly to the participant, the partial TSP withdrawal is transferred to an IRA instead. When the money is transferred to an IRA, the TSP participant will have the flexibility to take withdrawals however and whenever the IRA permits. As long as $200 remains in the TSP account, it will remain open and the TSP participant may transfer the Traditional IRA back into the TSP when the new rules take effect and multiple withdrawals are permitted.

Keep in mind that under current rules, if you have both a Traditional and Roth balance, any withdrawal will come proportionately from both balances. If this is your case, you may transfer the Traditional TSP balance to a Traditional IRA and the Roth balance to a Roth IRA. The TSP doesn’t permit transfers into the TSP from Roth IRAs, so any Roth TSP balance moved to a Roth IRA will have to stay in the Roth IRA.

You have used the one-time partial withdrawal:

Now, let’s assume you have used the one-time partial withdrawal but would like to take another partial lump-sum withdrawal without closing the TSP account. The only option is to elect a full withdrawal, and if you want to continue to maintain a TSP account, you must elect a monthly withdrawal in order to keep the TSP account active. Monthly withdrawals may be as little as $25, so the inconvenience is minimal – particularly if it’s a temporary fix until the new TSP rules take effect. In this case, you may use a mixed withdrawal, which is a combination of two or more full withdrawal options, to accomplish your objectives. Using Form TSP-70, “Request for Full Withdrawal,” you may choose a mixed withdrawal by electing a single payment for part of the TSP account value and a monthly payment as low as $25. This is your last opportunity to get a lumpsum payment without transferring the entire TSP balance, so it may be wise to take a single payment for an amount greater than the current need and transfer the single payment to an IRA. The IRA will be accessible as needed while the remaining TSP balance will be paid out in monthly payments. When the new withdrawal options are available, the Traditional IRA may be transferred back into the TSP and the amount of the monthly withdrawals may be changed or stopped altogether. W W W. N A R F E . O R G

OPENING UP

NEW

TSP Modernization Act Gives You Greater Flexibility

OPTIONS If you have not started withdrawals, and don’t necessarily want to, but the withdrawal election deadline is approaching

If you currently receive monthly withdrawals

Unfortunately, under current rules, once you’re receiving monthly payments, you may not stop them. You may elect a final single payment, which may be transferred to an IRA, but the TSP account will be lost, and along with it, the ability to transfer other retirement plans to it in the future. If you have started monthly payments, and don’t want to lose your TSP account, you’ll need to wait until the new withdrawal rules are available. At that time, you’ll be able to elect a different amount, change the frequency of payments, or stop them altogether while still maintaining the remaining balance in the TSP account. Until then, your only option (unless you elect a final single payment) is to change the withdrawal amount during the annual change period at the end of this year.

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The TSP withdrawal election deadline requires you to elect a full withdrawal option by April 1 following the year you turn 70-1/2, or following the year you retire, if later. This deadline also coincides with when you must take your first RMD, so regardless of the TSP withdrawal deadline, you need to take a withdrawal to satisfy your RMD. If your objective is to take the minimum required amount, you may complete form TSP-70 and elect monthly payments based on life expectancy. When electing this option, the TSP will calculate your monthly payments based on the IRS RMD rules. Alternatively, you may elect a monthly withdrawal for as little as $25. The monthly withdrawals will go to satisfy your RMD and, if necessary, the TSP will issue a supplemental payment to satisfy your RMD each year. The TSP Modernization Act makes significant changes and TSP participants should no longer feel the need to transfer money to an IRA simply to have the flexibility with respect to how they may withdraw their money. Until the new rules take effect, however, you may find the need to get a little creative if you need access to your TSP account, but don’t want to close it out. —MARK A. KEEN, CFP®, PARTNER, KEEN & POCOCK. OFFERS SECURITIES AND ADVISORY SERVICES THROUGH THE STRATEGIC FINANCIAL ALLIANCE, INC. (SFA). MARK IS AN INVESTMENT ADVISOR REPRESENTATIVE AND REGISTERED PRINCIPAL OF SFA.

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, y r o t S r u o Telling Y ight R t i g n i l l e T

oldman By Maxwell G

In spite of of this countr y. s ee oy pl l community “Federal em this, the federa e federal tr y un co Members of th is th e ak e and time are who m e is targeted tim t en id es Pr family know th FE -PAC works run,” said NAR o well: again. NARFE out ith “W headlines all to n. se is stor y about Richard Th to change the orce Cuts ll fa ld ou w “Drastic Workf ng ees, and them, ever ythi federal employ Agencies,” ying pa s at Regulator y it’ er th he of Congress apart. W helps members es Drastic r ou to “Budget Includ lue they nation’s debt see the true va l Employee our tment ar ep Cuts for Federa D e th at untr y.” veterans bring to this co eral g in ak m s, Benefits,” “Fed ir of Veterans A ffa SEE PAGE 36 ions ered liv de ts Workers’ Pens ge l ai m sure the RFE is tired our men Targeted.” NA e, or ensuring tim on d an es adlin of the same he uniform are and women in at’s Th o. to e ar u l employees we know yo pported, federa su ng ki or w is AC why NARFE-P are the lifeblood ange the ch ever y day to ’s stor y. federal family

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W W W. N A R F E . O R G

Telling Your Story, Telling it Right What is NARFE-PAC? NARFE-PAC is the political action committee for NARFE. A political action committee, or PAC, is an account set up to raise funds and disburse them to candidates for office. NARFE-PAC is a nonconnected account of NARFE and is funded solely through voluntary contributions from NARFE members. By law, your dues cannot be used for political purposes. NARFE-PAC Tells Your Story NARFE-PAC plays an important role in helping NARFE staff and members tell the federal family’s story to members of Congress. By depicting members of the federal family as overpaid and overprivileged, elected officials have been able to target federal employees and retirees when they are looking to make budget cuts. NARFE works hard to set the story straight, with NARFE-PAC playing a key role.

Progress: 2017-2018 NARFE-PAC Goals Raise $1.5 million from NARFE members

$874,417

Disburse $1 million to candidates and committees

$366, 500

Send 100 members to in-district fundraisers

41 36

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“For too long, the federal family has been an easy scapegoat for politicians in Washington,” said NARFE Staff Vice President for Advocacy Jessica Klement. “By using NARFE-PAC funds to send NARFE members, officers and staff to events for members of Congress, we’re able to change the narrative that allows these elected officials to vilify federal employees and retirees. This is one of the many reasons why it is so important that we have a strong and well-funded NARFE-PAC.” NARFE-PAC helps change the story in two important ways: building relationships with sitting members of Congress and helping to elect new members of Congress, who already understand the value of the federal family. Telling Your Story Again and Again NARFE-PAC allows NARFE’s advocacy staff, officers and NARFE members to build strong relationships with members of Congress. By being able to tell legislators and their staff the real story about the federal family, NARFE-PAC is able to better advance the federal community’s legislative priorities. How does NARFE-PAC build relationships? Whenever NARFE-PAC makes a disbursement to a member of Congress, it is tied to an event in Washington, DC, or in the member’s district. This is an opportunity for NARFE’s advocacy staff, or NARFE members, to interact with the member of Congress in a more informal setting. Unlike in a typical district or Capitol office meeting, NARFE staff and members have an opportunity to speak directly to the member of Congress at these events. NARFE-PAC provides NARFE another avenue to discuss concerns and legislative priorities. Electing Candidates Who Already Have the Story Straight In addition to helping NARFE staff and leaders tell the federal family’s story to current members of Congress, NARFE-PAC also helps elect candidates who already know your story. Whether running for an open seat or challenging an incumbent, campaigns are expensive. Candidates have to introduce themselves to a whole new set of voters, who

likely don’t know them and haven’t heard about their previous experience. That’s why NARFE-PAC disburses thousands of dollars to candidates running for office. Every dollar NARFE-PAC can spend in a close election carries a larger impact and could sway an election. We know it works because NARFE-PAC helped elect Fed-friendly members of Congress this past election. The following are a few concrete examples of how NARFE-PAC disbursements can make a difference in a close race: • Rep. Stephanie Murphy, D-FL: In Florida’s 7th congressional district, Murphy beat 12-term incumbent Rep. John Mica by just 3 percent of the vote. NARFE-PAC contributed $2,500 to her campaign to help defeat the longtime congressman, who had a 15 percent lifetime NARFE voting record and was a champion of privatizing the federal workforce. • Sen. Maggie Hassan, D-NH: NARFE-PAC’s $5,000 contribution helped Hassan win New Hampshire’s Senate seat. She defeated Sen. Kelly Ayotte, who had a 33 percent lifetime NARFE voting record. In one of the closest races of the cycle, Hassan won by about 700 votes. NARFE legislative staff was able to meet one-on-one with Hassan prior to the disbursement to talk about her commitment to supporting the federal community. She is currently serving on the Senate committee with jurisdiction over federal pay and benefits. • Rep. Barbara Comstock, R-VA: NARFE-PAC disbursed $9,000 to support her campaign last cycle in Virginia’s 10th congressional district.

Comstock has a 64 percent lifetime voting record and has been a strong voice for federal employees and retirees. As a member of the majority caucus that understands the value of the federal family, Comstock is an important NARFE ally. “These successes show just how important a strong and strategically focused NARFE-PAC can be,” said Klement. “These three members have been strong allies of the federal family and we need continued support to make sure we have the same successes in the 2018 election cycle.” Looking Forward Election season will be in full swing this summer and it’s important for NARFE members to stay up to date with the elections in their state. Elections were proven to be unpredictable in 2017, and we expect 2018 to be no different. Every seat up for vote this year could have a dramatic impact on the federal family. “Elections matter,” Thissen said, “and we need each and every NARFE member to make sure the candidates in their state know about the concerns of the federal community. With your help, we will be able to ensure that every candidate, regardless of party, knows the real story about the federal family.” While every race is important, a few races will be highly targeted by party committees and get national attention. Considered toss-ups by political pundits, these are races in which incumbents could have a hard time winning re-election or where an open seat could easily change parties. Below are

What Can You Do to Help Change Our Headlines?

Contribute to NARFE-PAC

Invite local candidates to your chapter or federation meetings

Talk to candidates about NARFE’s legislative priorities

Keep track of local races in your state

W W W. N A R F E . O R G

Telling Your Story, Telling it Right some of the closer races NARFE members should be watching this election season: U.S. Senate • Missouri: Sen. Claire McCaskill, D-MO, who has a 70 percent NARFE voting record, is up for reelection and currently facing a field of Republican challengers. Most notable among them is Attorney General Josh Hawley who is running on the platform of being a “Washington outsider.” While McCaskill has held this office since 2006, her last race in 2012 was very close until a controversy with her opponent, Todd Akin, emerged late in the campaign. President Trump also won the state in a landslide, leaving McCaskill with a tough road to victory. • West Virginia: Sen. Joe Manchin, D-WV, who currently has an 85 percent NARFE voting record, is up for re-election and faces two Republican opponents. The challengers include Rep. Evan Jenkins, R-WV, in the 3rd congressional district, who has a 21 percent NARFE voting record and Attorney General Patrick Morrissey. Manchin has held the seat since he won a special election in 2010 for former Sen. Robert Byrd’s seat. While he will have held the seat for almost eight years come Election Day, pundits believe there has been a large shift in West Virginia’s electorate. President Trump won the state with a huge margin. • Nevada: Sen. Dean Heller, R-NV, is running again for his Nevada Senate seat. Heller, who has a NARFE voting record of 37 percent, is facing freshman Rep. Jackie Rosen, D-NV, of the 3rd congressional district, in what is expected to be a tight election. Rosen currently has a 100 percent NARFE voting record. First appointed to the Senate in 2011 to replace outgoing Sen. John Ensign, Heller won his first election for the seat in 2012. Former Secretary Clinton won Nevada in the 2016 election, and there is a very strong Democratic machine in the state looking to push the freshman challenger over the finish line. Considering Heller’s frayed relationship with the president, pundits believe he will face a very tough election cycle. 38

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• Indiana: Sen. Joe Donnelly, D-IN, has a NARFE voting record of 90 percent. In his first reelection campaign this year, Donnelly will face one of two current Republican members of the House who are looking to replace him. Rep. Todd Rokita, R-IN, in the 4th congressional district with a NARFE voting record of 6 percent, and Rep. Luke Messer, R-IN, in the 6th district with a NARFE voting record of 7 percent, will face off in a primary this year to decide who will face Donnelly in the fall. Like McCaskill, Donnelly faced an opponent who had a controversy emerge late in the campaign. Considering President Trump won the state by a large margin in 2016 and the circumstances of his prior race, pundits believe this will be a race to watch this year. U.S. House of Representatives • Colorado: Rep. Mike Coffman, R-CO, is running for his fifth term in Colorado’s 6th district. Coff-

Local Election Checklist Check your members of Congress’ voting record at www.narfe.org Reach out to candidates and solicit feedback on NARFE’s legislative priorities Request candidates fill out NARFE’s candidate questionnaire, available in early 2018 Invite candidates to your chapter or federation meetings Let Headquarters know about your interaction with individual candidates

Telling Your Story, Telling it Right man currently has a 26 percent NARFE voting record. He won re-election in 2016 by nine points, but Democrats consider the seat a target because Secretary Clinton beat President Trump in the district by nine points as well. Coffman’s predecessor was Tom Tancredo, and Coffman’s more moderate stance on immigration has earned him a serious primary challenge. With two strong Democrats vying for a spot on the general election ballot, pundits believe this is a race to watch. • Minnesota: Rep. Jason Lewis, R-MN, is running for his first re-election this year in the 2nd district. Lewis currently has a 25 percent NARFE voting record in the 115th Congress. His first election was very close, with Lewis winning by a margin of just 1.8 points. He is facing the same challenger this cycle, Angie Craig. Recent polling shows Lewis up by only one point over Craig, so pundits believe he will have a tough time winning his re-election campaign. • Pennsylvania: Rep. Matt Cartwright, D-PA, who has a 100 percent NARFE voting record, is running for Pennsylvania’s 17th district again this year. He won his re-election by eight points, but President Trump beat former Secretary Clinton in the district by 10 points. Republicans have made it clear that Cartwright is one of their main targets and believe they can take back this seat, which has been held by a Democrat since 2003.

2018 Election at a Glance In November 2018, Americans will go to the polls to elect: 34 Senators, 435 House Members, 36 Governors.

In 2017, 43 members of the House and Senate have resigned, retired or announced their candidacy for higher office. Democrats need 24 more seats to take back the House and 2 more seats to take back the Senate. 26 Democratic Senators are up for election, and 8 Republicans are up for election.

• Virginia: Rep. Barbara Comstock, R-VA, once again, is expected to face a close race in the 10th district. Comstock has a NARFE voting record of 64 percent. In 2016, Comstock won re-election by a margin of five points, but former Secretary Clinton beat President Trump in the district by 10 points. Democrats also did very well in this district during the 2017 gubernatorial election cycle in the state. While Comstock often breaks with her party, especially on issues that affect the federal community, Democrats believe they can tie her to President Trump and Speaker Ryan, who are highly unpopular in the district. There is currently a large field of Democrats vying to run against Comstock. • Pennsylvania: Rep. Ryan Costello, R-PA, is running for re-election in the 6th district and has a 50 percent NARFE voting record. Costello won re-election in 2016 by 14 points, but his district went to former Secretary Clinton by a slim margin. Democrats believe that makes Costello vulnerable and have placed him high on their list of targeted races. The seat has not been held by a Democrat since 2002. These are just a few of the races NARFE-PAC will be watching in the 2018 elections. As you can see from these races, we have strong supporters of the federal family facing challenges, often from candidates who have shown time and time again they don’t understand the federal community. “From this handful of races, we can see what’s at stake in 2018. Strong supporters of the federal community are facing challenges across party lines, and we need a strong NARFE-PAC to ensure that our voices are heard,” said Klement. “A contribution to NARFE-PAC today helps us tell your story and ensures strong support for the federal community in the years to come.” To learn more about NARFE-PAC, go to the NARFE-PAC page on NARFE’s website (www.narfe. org). There you can find information about NARFEPAC, see who we’ve given disbursements to, and get data on how much individual chapters and federations have contributed to NARFE-PAC. To make a contribution today, simply return the form found on the wrap around this issue of narfe magazine. —MAXWELL GOLDMAN, NARFE’S POLITICAL ASSOCIATE.

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Managing Money

KNOW THE RMD RULES

ou cannot keep money in retirement accounts forever. The IRS ensures this by forcing retirement plan owners to take required

minimum distributions (RMDs) at a certain age. While the rules pertaining to RMDs are straightforward, the penalty is steep – 50 percent of any missed RMD. Let’s take a dive into the mechanics of RMDs to ensure you don’t run afoul of the rules. RMDs apply to all Traditional Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs), SIMPLE IRAs, SEP IRAs and employer-based retirement plans, such as the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), 401(k), 403(b) and 457 plans. Roth IRAs do not require RMDs, but Roth accounts held in employer plans, such as the Roth TSP, are subject to RMDs. RMDs generally must begin in the year you turn age 70-1/2, but the IRS permits the first RMD to be delayed up until April 1 of the year following the year you turn 70-1/2. If you’re still working at that time, you don’t need to take your first RMD from your current employer’s retirement plan until the year in which you retire. Once again, you may delay your first RMD from your employer plan until April 1 following the calendar year in which you retire. Please note, even if you are working, you must still take

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RMDs from your IRAs and any previous employer-based retirement plans you own when you turn age 70-1/2. Calculating an RMD is a straightforward process: Simply divide the account balance as of the end of the previous calendar year by the distribution period as defined in the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table. If your spouse is the sole beneficiary of your IRA, and is more than 10 years younger than you, the Joint Life and Last Survivor Table may be used. Your distribution period is based on your age (or your age and your spouse’s age in the case of the Joint Life and Last Survivor Table) as of December 31 of the year of your RMD. Please note, while the IRS permits the use of the Joint Life and Last Survivor Table, employer plans, such as the TSP, are not required to make this table available. In fact, the TSP does not.

BY MARK A. KEEN,

CFP®

There is a third IRS table, the Single Life Table, but do not be confused or misled, this table is used only by beneficiaries who have inherited a retirement plan. All retirement plan owners will use either the Uniform Lifetime Table (regardless of marital status) or the Joint Life and Last Survivor Table. All three IRS tables may be found in IRS Publication 590-B, “Distributions from Individual Retirement Arrangements (IRAs),” Appendix B. To illustrate how RMDs are calculated, let’s look at two individuals turning 70-1/2 in 2018. We’ll assume both will be 70 as of December 31, 2018, and have an IRA with a balance of $250,000 as of that date. In our first example, we’ll assume our IRA owner, Nancy, is single and has listed her son as beneficiary. Although Nancy is single, she will still use the Uniform Lifetime Table to determine her distribution period, which for a 70-year-old, is 27.4. Nancy’s 2018 RMD is $9,124.09, which is calculated by dividing $250,000 by 27.4. In our second example, we’ll assume our IRA owner, Sarah, is married to Robert, who is 55 years old and the sole beneficiary. Robert is more than 10 years younger,

BENEFITS RESOURCES NARFE offers members a wide range of information on federal benefits. Visit www. narfe.org/federalbenefits and www.narfe.org/ FederalBenefitsInstitute.

so Sarah will use the Joint Life and Last Survivor Table to determine her distribution period. Based on Sarah’s age of 70, and her husband’s age of 55, Sarah’s distribution period is 31.1. Once again using a balance of $250,000, Sarah will calculate her RMD to be $8,038.59. If Sarah’s husband was less than 10 years younger, Sarah would use the Uniform Lifetime Table and a distribution period of 27.4, just like Nancy.

If you have multiple IRAs (including Traditional IRAs, SIMPLE IRAs and SEP IRAs), the IRS says you need to calculate the RMD separately for each IRA, but you may take the RMD from as few as one IRA. Employer plans are a different story. If you have multiple employerbased retirement plans, such as a TSP and 401(k), you must calculate and take a separate RMD from each employer plan you hold. Bear in mind, RMDs are the minimum you must withdraw from a retirement plan each year; you may always take more than the required amount. Failing to take the minimum, however, will come at a steep price. MARK A. KEEN, CFP®, IS PARTNER, KEEN & POCOCK, 10300 EATON PLACE, 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.

NARFE NATIONAL LIFE MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION National Life Membership offers a hedge against future dues increases and affirms a member’s ongoing support of NARFE’s mission to serve federal employees and retirees. National dues are paid for life; applicable chapter dues are billed annually.

CONTACT INFORMATION o Mr. o Mrs. o Miss o Ms. Full Name _____________________________________________ Street Address _________________________________________ Apt./Unit ______________________________________________ City _______________________ State _____ ZIP _____________ Phone (__________) ____________________________________ Email ________________________________________________ Date of Birth _____ /_____ /_________ dd

yyyy

Recruiter ID # (if applicable) _______________________________ Chapter Number (if applicable) ____________________________ (call 800-456-8410 for chapter information) MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION Member Number: _______________________________________ (New members) Membership is open to civilians in any agency of the federal or D.C. (before Oct. 1, 1987) governments eligible for a federal annuity.

Thank you for becoming a National Member for Life. You will receive a membership card, certificate and special lapel pin. Please allow six weeks for processing. Dues payments & gift contributions to NARFE are not deductible as charitable contributions for income tax purposes.

I am a (check all that apply)

o Active Federal Employee o Active Federal Employee Spouse

o Annuitant o Annuitant Spouse o Survivor Annuitant

Life Membership Fee Schedule Ages 30-39 40-50 51-55 56-60 61-65 66-70 71-75 76-80 81-90 91-100+

Single or Quarterly Payment Installments $1,796 $450.25 1,408 353.25 1,127 283.00 960 241.25 801 201.50 653 164.50 514 129.75 392 99.25 251 64.00 127 33.00

PAYMENT INFORMATION o Single Payment or o Quarterly Installments (4 payments) Life Membership fee amount: $ _____________________ PAYMENT OPTIONS o Check or Money Order (Payable to NARFE) o Charge my: o MasterCard o VISA o Discover o American Express Card No. _________________________________________ Expiration Date _____ /_______ mm

yyyy

Name on Card _____________________________________ Signature ________________________ Date ___________ MAIL THIS APPLICATION TO NARFE Member Records 606 N. Washington St. / Alexandria, VA 22314-1914 W W W. N A R F E . O R G

Alzheimer’s Update

STAMP HELPS RAISE MONEY AND AWARENESS

BY OLIVIA A. WILLIAMS NARFE-ALZHEIMER’S CHAIR

he U.S. Postal Service issued a newly designed semi postal stamp for Alzheimer’s awareness at a special dedication ceremony held November 30, 2017, at Johns

Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland. During the ceremony, NARFE member Kathy Siggins was congratulated and presented with a special award for her efforts and behind-thescenes work in order to make this special stamp a reality.

“The Postal Service is proud to issue this stamp to help raise public awareness of Alzheimer’s,” said Postmaster General Megan J. Brennan. Siggins led the charge for the original Alzheimer’s commemorative stamp, the original design (facing left not right) by USPS Art Director Ethel Kessler, released in 2008. Kessler had a personal connection with Alzheimer’s as her mother had the disease. The Postal Service asked Americans to use these stamps to raise awareness of this tragic disease and draw attention to the cause. This helps raise funds for research that may one day lead to better treatments to prevent or halt the progression and perhaps find a cure. The new stamp release represents 18 total years of continuous efforts on the part of Siggins and Lynda Everman. The design is appropriate and symbolic as it depicts a woman with Alzheimer’s disease being comforted by a family mem44

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ber, friend, caregiver or health care professional, touching her on the shoulder. This was to draw attention to the importance of care partners for those with Alzheimer’s and related neurological disorders. The background shows the sun in the clouds to darkening skies, signifying the decline of the disease. While the darkness portrays confusion, the light conveys hope. Those who have a loved one with dementia understand the darkness and light, despair and hope, helplessness and determination as they face this journey together. The stamp is now available at many post offices, online at www.usps.com or toll-free 800-STAMP-24. These stamps are sold at a higher price in order to raise money for a particular cause. The stamps are designed to be used as first class postage. The Alzheimer’s Disease stamp is the first of five semipostal stamps, each with a limited release of two years.

Kathy Siggins, at left, and Richard Thissen.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, Alzheimer’s is one of the top 10 leading causes of death in the United States. It is the most common form of dementia, but is not a normal part of aging. The release of the new stamp aligned with November’s designation as National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, which the late former President Ronald Reagan declared in 1983. At the time of his announcement, Alzheimer’s disease affected less than 2 million Americans. Now, more than 5.3 million Americans age 65 or older are estimated to have the disease. This semipostal fundraising stamp will not only increase awareness, but also will raise much-needed funds for dementia research. Spread the word and help stamp out Alzheimer’s.

OLIVIA A. WILLIAMS IS CHAIR OF THE NARFEALZHEIMER’S NATIONAL COMMITTEE. EMAIL: OEASHF3@BELLSOUTH.NET THIS COLUMN APPEARS QUARTERLY.

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’18 7 2017

G FUND

F FUND

JANUARY

O.20%

DECEMBER

0.20%

NOVEMBER

S FUND

I FUND

-1.14%

5.72%

3.34%

5.00%

0.48%

1.11%

0.47%

1.60%

0.19%

-0.11%

3.07%

2.90%

1.06%

YTD

0.20%

-1.14%

5.72%

3.34%

5.00%

1 YEAR

2.33%

2.40%

26.40%

19.59%

27.99%

3 YEAR*

2.07%

1.44%

14.70%

12.03%

9.75%

5 YEAR*

2.09%

2.38%

15.96%

13.99%

8.18%

10 YEAR*

2.37%

3.96%

9.83%

10.44%

3.64%

—BY SEAN MCCAFFREY, DEPUTY CHIEF INVESTMENT OFFICER, THRIFT SAVINGS PLAN

L INCOME

L 2020

L 2030

L 2040

L 2050

JANUARY

1.10%

1.84%

3.12%

3.66%

4.15%

COUNTDOWN TO COLA

DECEMBER

0.41%

0.57%

0.81%

0.92%

1.00%

NOVEMBER

0.62%

0.99%

1.55%

1.80%

2.03%

YTD

1.10%

1.84%

3.12%

3.66%

4.15%

1 YEAR

6.71%

10.72%

16.38%

19.01%

21.42%

3 YEAR*

4.27%

6.35%

8.81%

9.95%

10.97%

5 YEAR*

4.46%

7.23%

9.41%

10.59%

11.62%

10 YEAR*

4.01%

5.52%

6.69%

7.23%

N/A

’18 2017

*ANNUALIZED

RETURNS are net of the effect of accrued administrative expenses and investment expenses/costs. Source: TSP (For additional monthly returns, go to www.tsp.gov.) G Fund: Government securities (specially issued to the TSP) F Fund: Government, corporate and mortgage-backed bonds C Fund: Stocks of large- and medium-size U.S. companies S Fund: Stocks of small- to medium-size U.S. companies (not included in the C Fund) I Fund: International stocks of 21 developed countries L Fund: (Lifecycle) 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.)

OPM RETIREMENT CLAIMS PROCESSING STATUS

2016

Claims Received

Inventory Avg # of Days (Steady State % Processed in to Process Case in is 13,000) 60 Days or Less (FYTD) More Than 60 Days

DECEMBER 5,483 15,097 JANUARY 15,317 23,087 FEBRUARY 9,114 23,916 MARCH 7,216 20,530 APRIL 6,581 18,932 MAY 5,548 16,140 JUNE 6,141 14,530 JULY 10,070 17,091 AUGUST 7,136 17,125 SEPTEMBER 8,810 16,828 OCTOBER 8,850 18,860 NOVEMBER 5,572 19,294 DECEMBER 5,568 14,515

56% 51% 56% 61% 56% 54% 55% 55% 57% 57% 59% 58% 62%

95 89 104 105 80 89 99 98 105 93 93 97 96

FOR THE NUMBER of new retirement cases the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) receives each month by agency and the percent with errors that it returns to those agencies, go to www.opm.gov/retirement-services/. Source: OPM 46

Strong fourth quarter corporate earnings reports and the continued solid economic outlook drove stocks higher during January in the U.S. and around the world, while prospects for the future return of inflation caused U.S. interest rates to move up as well. The C Fund and the S Fund had solid gains. The I Fund’s positive results also were supported by a weaker dollar. Higher interest rates caused a loss in the F Fund. All of the L Funds had positive results.

C FUND

*ANNUALIZED

2017

For the Record

STOCKS SOAR IN JANUARY, INTEREST RATES INCREASE

THRIFT SAVINGS PLAN FUND RETURNS

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he Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) decreased 0.06 percent in December 2017. To calculate the 2019 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), the indices of July, August and September 2018 will be averaged and compared with the 2017 third-quarter average of 239.668. The percentage increase determines the COLA. December’s index, 240.526, is up 0.36 percent from the base. 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. December’s index is 2.2 percent higher than the December 2016 base index of 235.390. FECA recipients will receive a 2.2 percent COLA, effective March 1. 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.

MONTH

CPI-W

OCTOBER 2017

240.573

NOVEMBER DECEMBER JANUARY 2018 FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER

Monthly % Change

% Change from 239.668

-0.15

0.38

240.666

0.04

0.42

240.526

-0.06

0.36

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: $13 Million Fund NATIONAL COMMITTEE CHAIR Card Number: Olivia Williams, 22 Garden Springs Road Expiration Date: (mm)/ (yy) Columbia, SC 29209 *Total as of December 31, 2017 3-Digit Security Code: 100% of all contributed funds go to Name: (please print) EMAIL: oeashf3@bellsouth.net

$12,554,461* 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: State: ZIP: 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 1641 Prince St. Alexandria, VA 22314

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

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.

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 NARFE-FEEA Scholarship Fund

Amount: $ Amount: $

Name: Address: City: State: ZIP: To make credit card contributions, visit NARFE Scholarships at www.feea.org/givenarfeschol or NARFE Disaster Relief at www.feea.org/givenarferelief.

NARFE News

NARFE ELECTIONS YOUR VOTE COUNTS!

CALLING ALL PHOTOGRAPHERS!

hat does glory mean to you? NARFE is calling on all amateur photographers to submit their entries for the 2018 NARFE Photo Contest. Winning entries will be used in the NARFE 2019 calendar. The deadline for all entries is April 15. The theme for this year’s contest is “The Glory of America.” All NARFE members in good standing may submit a photo, whether or not they’ve already had a photo appear in past calendars. The only exception is all professional photographers are not eligible.

NARFE is calling on all amateur photographers to submit their entries for the 2018 NARFE Photo Contest. Photos must be horizontal in format and 8” x 10” or 8 1/2” x 11” in size. Each member is limited to five photo entries (no photos of children or pets, please.) Each entry must have the following information on

In accordance with the One Member, One Vote bylaws amendment, candidate statements appear on p. 52 along with federation elections information. In the April issue, an announcement of the Bylaws and Resolutions Committee report will be published and made available at www.narfe.org/2018Balloting. Voting for candidates and bylaws will get underway May 10, when internet voting will be live. A ballot will be inserted in the June 2018 narfe magazine along with complete voting information. Visit www.narfe.org/2018Balloting.

a piece of paper taped to the photo: photo title, entrant’s name, address, chapter number (if applicable), email address and phone number. Submitted photos will not be returned. Please mail photos to: NARFE Photo Contest (Attn: M. Williams), NARFE, 606 N. Washington St., Alexandria, VA 22314. (Note: Photos sent by email will not be accepted. No Polaroids.) Photos will be judged and winners notified by the end of June. For more information, go to www.narfe.org/ photocontest.

FEDERATION CONFERENCE DATES

hirty-two states, Panama and the Philipines will hold conferences this year. Dates and locations are: AK, 4/13-15, Juneau; AR, 5/17-18, Little Rock; CT, 9/2018; ID, 4/4-6, Boise; IL, 5/16-18, Decatur; IA, 5/24-25, Tama; KS, 4/23-24, Wichita; ME, 5/15-16, Freeport; MA, 5/4-5, Devens; MI, 5/30-6/1, Troy;

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MN, 5/22-23, Willmar; MS, 4/68, Louisville; MO, 4/26-27, St. Louis; MT, 4/9-11, Helena; NE, 5/7-8, Grand Island; NH, 5/24, Meredith; NM, 4/19-21, Tucumcari; NY, 5/10, Albany; NC, 5/1-3, Hickory; ND, 5/2-4, Valley City; OR, 5/6-8, Klamath Falls; RP, 3/17, Panama City; PA, 6/12-13, York; PI, 12/8, Pampanga;

RI, 5/18, West Warwick; SC, 3/2628, Myrtle Beach; SD, 5/15-17, Flandreau; TN, 4/16-17, Jackson; VT, 5/17, Berlin; VA, 4/8-11, Charlottesville; WA, 5/14-16, Spokane Valley; WY, 5/30-31, Casper. Many federations hold conventions every other year. The 18 federations not listed here will hold their next conference in 2019.

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NARFE’S PREMIER CONFERENCE AUGUST 26-28, 2018 • JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA HYATT REGENCY JACKSONVILLE RIVERFRONT

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN! Register today at www.narfe.org/fedcon18 to take advantage of the early bird rates available through March 31. Registration by phone is available at 571-483-1265.

FEDcon18 BREAKOUT SESSIONS You’ll be able to choose to attend sessions from among the following topics: Federal Benefits

Advocacy

What’s Your Best Retirement Date?

NARFE-PAC 101

TSP – Your Best Options

The Power of Storytelling

Choosing Your Best Social Security Strategy

People Matter in Politics

FEHB and Medicare – What’s Best for You

Estate Planning for Feds How Much Money Do You Need to Retire

NARFE Leadership

NARFE Chapter Development NARFE Leadership Development

Legislative Update & Preview of the 116th Congress

Advocacy Responsibilities 101 (New and Emerging Leaders) Getting Out of a Grassroots Slump

Lifestyle

Introduction to Social Media Expanding Your Social Media Footprint Managing the Caregiver Role Navigating the Retirement Transition

NARFE, the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association, provides legislative advocacy to protect and preserve the earned pay, retirement and benefits of federal employees, retirees and their survivors. NARFE provides expert education on and assistance with benefits for all members of the organization.

FEDcon18 KEYNOTE SPEAKERS JUST ANNOUNCED!

MARA LIASSON Political Update

HENRY WINKLER

National political correspondent for NPR and contributor to Fox News Channel

Actor, author, director and producer

TAMMY FLANAGAN Rethinking Retirement

Federal benefits expert and counselor, NARFE Institute presenter and Government Executive columnist

MIKE MASSIMINO Excellence in Civil Service Former NASA astronaut, Columbia University engineering professor

ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS LIGHT UP THE NIGHT AT THE NARFE GALA Don’t forget to purchase your tickets during registration for the NARFE Gala celebration taking place Tuesday evening. Say farewell to friends, new and old, at this fun event featuring good food and live music!

RELAXATION LOUNGE – start your day with wellness in this new area with activities such as yoga and tai chi.

A NEW NARFETown – where members can speak directly with federal benefits and advocacy experts.

NEW MEMBER MEET AND GREET ON SUNDAY – find out more about NARFE and chat with fellow members.

HOTEL INFORMATION Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront Conference Rate: $99 plus tax To make your reservation visit www.narfe.org/fedcon18 and click on Travel > Hotel or call 888-421-1442

CANDIDATE NARFE MEMBERS WILL ELECT NATIONAL OFFICERS AND REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENTS FOR TWO-YEAR TERMS. NATIONAL PRESIDENT JON DOWIE After two terms as your National Secretary/Treasurer, please consider me a candidate for President. My National experience is current and relevant. We all are experiencing the Renaissance of NARFE as we continue to move in a new direction. We are all in this together; anxious to move forward, but being patient to examine our options. The “Washington” environment is sometimes chaotic, but we have to continue to think strategically and act tactically. Having chaired the Strategic Planning Committee for two terms, I had the opportunity to work with a cross section of NARFE members and explore alternative views of our future. The first strategic plan provided the basis for both “One Member One Vote” and “Optional Chapter Membership.” A chapter member myself, as we transition to a more agile organization, I will continue to provide support of chapters. As your representative on the Employee Thrift Advisory Counsel, we have insured that TSP call centers were not reduced in size or number and that more flexible withdrawal options for participants will be made available in the future. 52

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I supported new ideas, such as the Federal Benefits Institute and webinars, which with the creative abilities of our staff grew from experiment to success. More than 20,000 members have accessed our library of past webinars. This is a model of things to come. Our award winning magazine continues to improve while maintaining the communication backbone of the organization. Our digital footprint continues to grow through various channels as we attract new members and interest. Earned benefits protection is never out of my thoughts. My mother worked the night shift in a large metropolitan post office and my wife was in the Pentagon on “9/11” which are constant reminders of the sacrifices many of you have made and continue to make. NARFE’s financial future continued to improve during my term, compared to millions of dollars of losses in prior terms. My Pentagon background in maintaining Congressional relationships is something that will be valuable to NARFE. As a former Chief Financial Officer for a publicly traded international firm and several privately owned firms, I have insight into complicated negotiations. Serving on the faculty of Clemson University and serving as the Technical Director of the National CPA Group provided me a unique prospective. I know how to listen and take appropriate action: together we can “secure the future” of NARFE. I would appreciate your vote.

STATEMENTS NARFE members who announced their candidacy as of the deadline of this edition have submitted the following statements for publication in narfe magazine. The statements are also available on www.narfe.org/2018Balloting. NARFE will offer members the opportunity to vote online or by mail via a ballot which will be included in the June issue of the magazine, with instructions for print and online voting.

STEVE LENKART These are extraordinary times. In the years to come, active and retired federal and postal employees will face many challenges to the financial security and health care benefits that we enjoy today. Within the last year alone, budget discussions between the White House and Congress proposed cutting at least $149 billion from federal retirement over the next 10 years. This massive cut proposes to eliminate the FERS annuity supplement, employ â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;high fiveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; instead of high three salary years for retirement calculations, and increase contributions by 1% for each of the next six years. Earned benefits for current retirees take an enormous hit because the proposed budget would eliminate cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) for FERS retirees and significantly reduce COLA for CSRS retirees. It is estimated that under this scenario, federal pensions may lose between 33 percent to 60 percent of value in 20 years, meaning each $100 in pension dollars today would be worth $67 to $40. Luckily, NARFE has a second-to-none legislative department that fought off these unbearable cuts proposed in the FY 2018 budget. However, greater challenges await as the FY 2019 budget proposal may double the

cuts to $300 billion. It is safe to assume that in the years to follow, this trend will continue. These appalling attempts to erode the wellness of the civil service and the financial security of active and retired employees inspired me to run for national president. For the last 30 years, I have supported and defended civil service as the cornerstone of a modern democracy. My expertise centers around policies that sustain a strong, apolitical workforce buttressed by sensible pay and benefits that attract the very best talent. As a career SES and as the former executive director of the U.S. Merit Systems Protection Board, I embraced policies to better govern and promote successful careers for two million federal employees. In private practice as a professional advocate and spokesperson, I took the fight for pay and benefits from the sidelines to the spotlight in the eyes of the public, the press, Congress, and several presidential administrations. As an executive for federal labor, executive, and professional associations, I expanded organizational reach to younger generations to solidify national presence and prominence. If elected, I will bring the entirety of my strength, energy, reputation, and institutional knowledge to NARFE as national president. I look forward to meeting and talking with you in the coming months. W W W. N A R F E . O R G

CANDIDATE

NATIONAL PRESIDENT KEN THOMAS NARFE recently released the Strategic Plan - Secure the Future document. Like many of you, I read the document and listened to comments and explanations concerning recommended changes. Some changes I agree with and some I don’t. What I do believe is drastic changes are needed if NARFE is to survive in the twenty-first century and be a viable association. NARFE continues a course of decline and is slow to confront challenges of the future. NARFE’s challenges include: structurally remaining unchanged since 1947; unprecedented membership collapse (loss of 250,000 members since the late 80s, over 98,000 in the last seven years); insufficient revenue to maintain the association by over-reliance on dues revenue; and lack of focus on the core legislative mission. Solving NARFE’s challenges require structural change, rebranding to revitalize it, and a message that aggressively and effectively markets it to a new generation of federal employees who are the future of NARFE. In so doing, NARFE cannot ignore or dismiss its loyal and faithful members who have long supported and held the association together. It is time for change and not business as usual. NARFE cannot afford weak promises, low expectations, and unattainable goals.

THEODORE A. (TED) VAN HINTUM I am Ted Van Hintum and I am announcing my candidacy for NARFE National President. I joined NARFE as an active federal employee in 2006. After retirement from the federal government, I was elected President of the Colorado Billie Love Chapter 2286 in 2011. In 2013, I was elected President of the Colorado Federation of NARFE chapters representing over 4,400 Colorado NARFE members in 17 chapters. I was reelected Colorado Federa54

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I am now a candidate for NARFE National President. My government experience, including working on Capitol Hill, thirty-five years in departmental management and executive level service, and my years of NARFE experience as a chapter, district, and federation officer will serve the association’s membership well. NARFE needs a practical leader providing strategic direction with a strong focus on advocacy. The president must be a key power broker at Capitol Hill meetings, playing the dual role of a valued expert helping design coverage and changes in legislation, and a straight-talking advocate who can summarize complex reforms in layman’s terms. As NARFE’s president, my priorities must be building the business of NARFE, creating efficiencies, making tough deals and carefully considering divergent viewpoints. The time has come for real-world solutions to the array of challenges NARFE faces. I am . . . • Committed to listening to your comments and suggestions. • Committed to setting strategic direction, and initiating projects focusing on membership recruiting and retention. • Committed to association restructuring. • Committed to using technology to enhance association growth. • Committed to marketing and advertising NARFE. I respectfully ask for your vote and support by electing me your next NARFE National President.

tion President in 2015. I continue to serve as Chapter 2286 President and as Colorado Federation Immediate Past President. I am a Life Member of NARFE. My accomplishments as Colorado Federation President included: • Launching the “Colorado NARFE News,” a quarterly newspaper delivered to all NARFE members in Colorado and the Federation Presidents; • Creating the congressional district liaison program in Colorado and appointing 10 congressional liaisons to serve in Colorado’s 7

STATEMENTS congressional districts; • Revising Colorado Federation bylaws to implement Optional Chapter Membership and One Member One Vote (distributed to all Federation Presidents as model bylaws); • Serving as the Region VII representative on the NARFE Strategic Planning Committee in 2015 and 2017; and, • Serving on the NARFE National Bylaws Committee in 2016 (also in 2018). I retired from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in 2008 after almost 38 years of federal service. My career started as a VA claims examiner in the Des Moines, Iowa VA Regional Office in 1970. I then transferred to VA headquarters in Washington, DC. My last position was as Assistant Director in VA’s Education Service where I was responsible for VA field operations in administering the GI Bill education benefits program. The GI Bill provided

over $1 billion annually to 500,000 veterans and active duty service members. During my VA career, I was an American Political Science Association Congressional Fellow and, on detail from the VA, served as a staff member on the House of Representatives Veterans Affairs Committee. I completed VA’s executive development program and the OPM Senior Executive Development program at the Federal Executive Institute. Prior to VA employment, I served in the Navy from 1963 to 1966 as an Electronics Technician aboard the cruiser USS Topeka with service in the Vietnam theater of operations. Upon release from active duty I attended Iowa State University and graduated in 1970 with a degree in Political Science. I respectfully ask NARFE members to vote for me as NARFE National President.

NATIONAL SECRETARY/TREASURER KATHRYN HENSLEY A member of NARFE for over 25 years and proudly serving at chapter and federation levels, I want to serve you, the NARFE member, as national Secretary-Treasurer. We need fresh, new thinking in NARFE that comes from recent experience gained at the local levels. Below is some of my NARFE experience: NARFE Chapters: McLean, VA - newsletter editor, membership committee Columbia, SC – legislative committee, 1st vice president (membership), 2nd vice president (programs), president (twice), parliamentarian, newsletter editor, treasurer, federation and national convention delegate, nominating committee, and bylaws committee NARFE SC Federation: DFO for 2nd district 2nd vice president - 3 years President - 2 1/2 years Recognizing that our federation guidelines were out of date, requested each Executive Board member review and update their duties in the guidelines to conform to an electronic environment and our bylaws

Three federation Bylaws Committee revisions Several federation convention planning committees Currently in third year as federation treasurer ending in March Immediate past president of the SC Federation NARFE National: Attended three Legislative Conferences Attended two National Conventions Attended three Federation President meetings Appointed by current president to national Bylaws Committee I bring a lifetime of professional experience in administrative, financial, strategic planning, technology upgrades, legislative review and justification, grant administration, and program management positions with the federal government and in conservation and grant administration with state government and Medical University of SC, as well as many years of work in the local community. I have been an executive director or an officer and board member of a number of local, regional and national non-profit organizations. I have served as treasurer of several non-profit organizations, from a few thousand dollars to multi-million dollar accounts. My federal career covered a 27 year span in the Defense Department and NOAA in Washington, DC. I served in state government, primarily in financial posiW W W. N A R F E . O R G

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tions, for another eight years in South Carolina. In 2018, I’m ending third term as non-partisan elected Commissioner of the Lexington, SC, Soil and Water Conservation District. I attended George Washington University, University of Maryland, American University and received a BA in Political Science from the

RICHARD G. THISSEN I am announcing my candidacy for NARFE National Secretary/Treasurer. I believe my experience on the National Executive Board as a Regional Vice President, as your National Treasurer and as your National President gives me unique expertise and experience to serve in this capacity to assist the new President and the Executive Director in continuing to move our great organization forward and ensure its survival for the next 100 years. As your Treasurer we put methods in place that turned around the financial situation from one that the auditors identified as fiscally unsustainable to an organization that has regular asset growth. During my tenure as National President, we implemented the change from four resident officers to two and created a Marketing Department that is succeeding in reducing our membership losses (more than 50% since 2014). The Marketing Department also created the Federal Benefit’s Institute which has our ability to provide information to our members and prospective members; NARFE’s webinars are becoming the standard for others to strive for.

University of South Carolina in 1975, earned a Certificate in Ocean Policy Studies from the University of Virginia and have completed management, financial, and technology courses at Defense and Agriculture Departments and Midlands Technical College. I respectfully ask for your support and your vote. We have had remarkable success in defending the federal community’s benefits in spite of continued attacks. NARFE PAC contributions are up significantly, another sign of a vibrant organization. We supported changes to the TSP procedures to make the withdrawal process better and this has recently been signed into law. We also supported the Department of Labor Rule which insures that financial advisors must put the client’s interest first. Historic changes to NARFE have also occurred; Optional Chapter Membership and One MemberOne Vote were enacted as a result of the Strategic Planning Process. These changes have made membership in NARFE more attractive to prospects; the number of new members recruited has increased significantly in 2017. I am committed to insure that NARFE continues to provide information and services to the entire Federal community; there are other fine organizations that represent segments, but NARFE is the only one that has a mission to support all federal employees and retirees. I commit to you I will provide the same dedicated service as I have as a NARFE Officer for the past 21 years serving at the Chapter, Federation, Region and National levels. I ask for your vote and support.

REGION II KATHY ADAMS I am seeking the position of Region II Vice President. I joined NARFE in 2000 upon retiring from Dover Air Force Base as the Wing/Base Budget Officer. After serving as Treasurer and First Vice President for my Chapter in Dover I was President for eight years. I then became Delaware’s Federation President and am in my second term in 56

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that position. In my tenure we have developed good dialog with our Members of Congress and state representatives. We provided strong support to our members and are seen in Delaware communities as DELAWARE, DISTRICT OF a caring and focused group COLUMBIA, MARYLAND, speaking up for the Federal NEW JERSEY, PENNSYLVANIA worker and seniors.

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I am encouraged we are making membership progress as lower percentages of members leave NARFE compared to past years. I feel there are many things we can do to help increase membership and bring in more funding. I am eager for NARFE to give members the very best service and information about their pay, pension and benefits. I will continue to work hard and creatively for these goals. I pledge to see us prosper with my long and varied experience and the knowledge and insights I gained backing up my commitment to move our Association forward strategically. I consider myself a good listener and take every concern seriously. If I do not know the answer to your question I will do the research needed and get back in touch with you. I am an honest leader and look forward to working with members of Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland,

New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Over the past several years as a part of Region II’s leadership team I have worked cooperatively and successfully on our shared priorities and joint Regionwide events. With so many recent changes across NARFE I will work diligently with everyone in Region II to help all of us understand what we need to do to strengthen our organization. On the National Executive Board, I will make Big Picture strategic decisions to benefit all in NARFE and move us forward. Many active employees and retirees do not understand why NARFE exists, the good it can do and how each of them can help. We need to educate them and get the word out there! I respectfully ask for your vote and support to elect me as Region II Vice President. I will do my very best not to disappoint you.

REGION III CLARENCE ROBINSON I am announcing my intent to run for re-election as NARFE Region 3 Vice President for the period of November 1, 2018-October 31, 2020. Region 3 encompasses Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, and the Virgin Islands. I completed the first year of my two year term in October. Some of the highlights of my first year were: I attended five National Executive Board (NEB) meetings in Washington, DC, the Joint NEB/Federation President’s meeting in Jacksonville, Florida, and the Legislative Conference in Washington, DC. I attended five Federation meetings in Region 3. (Visits to Puerto Rico / Virgin Islands were cancelled due to hurricane damage.) I also visited several Chapters in Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi. I have scheduled Chapter visits in 2018 for Alabama, South Carolina, and Puerto Rico/ Virgin Islands. I am the NEB Representative on the NARFE Investment and Budget Committee. As a member of the NEB, I participated in the planning and decision making process for various aspects of NARFE such as: • Hired an Executive Director to run the day to day operations at NARFE Headquarters

• Hired legal counsel and a Certified Parliamentarian • Established seven Standing Advisory Committees of NARFE members for operational input ALABAMA, FLORIDA, • Established and approved a long range Op- GEORGIA, MISSISSIPPI, erating Plan for NARFE PUERTO RICO, SOUTH • Currently updating all CAROLINA, VIRGIN NARFE Policy manuals ISLANDS and Handbooks I am your liaison to NARFE Headquarters, keeping the lines of communication open from the Regional level to the Federations and the Chapters. As we move forward to make NARFE “ the organization of choice”, I will continue to be open and listen to your concerns, be adaptable to change and make the difficult decisions. Change will allow NARFE to grow and remain viable and solvent while serving our membership and protecting their rights and benefits. I remain committed and dedicated to making NARFE the best organization possible. Thank you for trusting in me and allowing me to represent you on the National level as the Region 3 Vice President. I am respectfully asking for your vote and support to continue to represent you for the next two years. W W W. N A R F E . O R G

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REGION IV ROBERT L. HELFRICH The National Active and Retired Employees association (NARFE) needs some fresh leadership and I pledge to help take NARFE in a direction that will ensure the success of the organization. Naturally the organization will need new members as well as increased advertising and sponsorships to succeed. The organization is less than half the size it was in 1985, although in the past ten years we have seen the biggest reduction in membership in the organizations history, most of which have come from deaths and non-renewals in the very elderly ranks. Younger retirees do not appear to be joiners of organizations, so we need to make the organization more attractive. We need action to make the organization relevant to those who are near retirement age through a robust website of information on retirement and to get them looking at the website we need to blast social media with our advertising of NARFE. Most people today use Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Spotify, Sirius, Netflix, Pandora, etc., these are the places to advertise NARFE. Below are the NARFE positions of experience that I have held: Indiana Federation President (1 Year), Indiana Federation Treasurer (6 years), Chapter President (7 years), Chapter Vice-President (1 year), Chapter Treasurer (4 years), Chapter Secretary (3 years). One of the most successful legislative campaigns I participated in, was when our federation spent six years working tirelessly with

DONALD F. WIESE My name is Donald F. Wiese and I’m respectfully declaring my candidacy for the position of Regional Vice President in Region IV. I will give you a brief “bio” of my Federal Service as well as my “career” within NARFE. My time with the Federal Government was spent as a Federal Fire Fighter working for the Space 58

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Indiana legislators to get tax fairness for CSRS retirees in Indiana. In 2015 we won a $16,000 deduction for CSRS retirees, which at the time, was equivalent to the average deduction for Social Security recipients in Indiana. During my thirtyILLINOIS, INDIANA, three (32) year Postal career MICHIGAN, OHIO, I held the following leadership WISCONSIN positions: Indiana District Manager of Finance (6 years), Indiana District Manager of Budget and Financial Analysis (17 years). As a high energy and involved individual I was awarded more than twenty (20) exceptional performance awards. Private Sector experience: Have a successful accounting business of over forty (40) years, including payroll services, incorporation services and tax preparation for corporations, partnerships, non-profit organizations and individuals. Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, QuickBooks and ATX. In addition, I am the treasurer for six (6) non-profit organizations including my church and maintain these accounting records via QuickBooks. I would appreciate your support and vote as my goal is to lead NARFE to reach a different generation.

Agency: NASA. I served 23 years with NASA having retired in 1997 with a total of 27 ½ years of government service. My career with NARFE entails being a member for 20 years, having been a Life Member since 2002. I have served nearly every position at the chapter level, including 11 consecutive years as the President for Chapter 470 Cleveland/West (Ohio). On the “State Level”, I have been a VP for State Legislation and currently serving my 2nd (and final, because of term

STATEMENTS limits) 2-year term as the Ohio Federation President. For the past 7 National Conventions, I have been assigned as the Chief Sargent-at-Arms. Although it’s a “part-time” position, it feels more like a full-time job! My extensive knowledge, service assignments, and vast history with NARFE will serve me well in the position of Region IV VP. My goals as a member of the National Executive Board (NEB) will be to Honestly & Fairly represent the 5 States in Region IV. I promise to “balance” the concerns of the over 16,000 loyal NARFE members in the region with those of the members within ALL of NARFE. I will proudly serve NARFE, not only respecting the traditions of our GREAT Organization while keeping an “eye” at our future. I promise to work tirelessly fighting to “maintain”

our EARNED BENEFITS. NARFE has been representing its members for 96 years, and by ANY standards that’s quite an accomplishment. I desire to continue this most important service to our over 209,000 members! For NARFE to continue being the successful organization it has been for nearly 100 years, it MUST balance the needs of its loyal members with fair and equal policies. NARFE must continue to: “Sell Its Brand”…..”Offer the members something no other group does”……and above all “Be There when the members need them”! To that end, I respectfully and humbly ask for the support of those 16,000 voting members in Region IV by casting their ballot vote for Donald F. Wiese for Region IV Vice President.

REGION V CINDY RENEE’ BLYTHE I am announcing my candidacy for the position of NARFE Region V VicePresident at the 2018 National Conference in Jacksonville, Florida. I joined NARFE October 2003 as an Active Federal Employee (AFE); was elected Osage City Chapter #2099 President March 2004 and continue to hold that position. I was elected Kansas Federation President in March 2011 when Carol Ek was chosen to replace Richard G. Thissen as Region V Vice-President. I have the pleasure of being the second generation of a three generation NARFE family. During my association with NARFE, I have participated at several levels of leadership: serving on the National Bylaws and Resolutions Committee during the 2014 and 2016 National Convention; actively participating in the Federation President’s Meetings since 2011, Legislative Training Conferences and the College of NARFE Knowledge; and served as a focus group member for the Future of NARFE (FON) Committee. Shortly our organization will celebrate 100 years of service to our members. We have had to change, adapt, and evolve to keep members involved and interested. The Strategic Plan provides the building blocks for a number of initiatives designed to move the organization forward. I want to see NARFE continue to thrive so that the younger AFEs’ will have a strong voice in the management of their

earned benefits. This will only be accomplished by successfully branding the mission of our organization to them. We can’t get them involved if we don’t reach them with the importance of our purpose. In the meantime, we must continue to act in their best interest so they may share in and enjoy the benefits that those before them have worked so hard to establish and maintain. Legislative advocacy requires direct membership IOWA, KANSAS, MINNESOTA, involvement to keep the lines of MISSOURI, NEBRASKA, NORTH effective communication open DAKOTA, SOUTH DAKOTA between Congress and NARFE. The better informed Congress is regarding federal employee issues the more support we earn. Qualifications: Masters in Business Administration (MBA) from Baker University, Six Sigma Green Belt Certification, 35+year Federal career, the last 30 years with the US Coast Guard. I retired December 31, 2017 as a Management and Program Analyst; specifically I advised senior management in strategic planning, business process performance improvements and performance metrics. I ask that the members of Region V allow me the opportunity to continue to utilize the experience I have gained serving in leadership roles and continue my service to NARFE and its members. W W W. N A R F E . O R G

CANDIDATE JOHN SCHMIDT John Schmidt, a candidate with many qualities, willing to serve NARFE as Region V Vice President. LEADERSHIP. A retired Navy Officer with 26 years of practicing leadership being the Commanding Officer of several units with members of a wide variety of backgrounds, experiences, talents, and abilities. As an employee with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), was a member of the six state Midwest Leadership Development Team. This included developing skills to work with members of Congress and their staffs. COMMUNITY SERVICE positions with Leadership include Parish Council President, Kiwanis President, Boy Scout District Chair, American Legion Post Commander, and VFW life member among many others. In NARFE, served as Minnesota Federation President for six years and a Chapter President. For eight years have been a Volunteer Tax Counselor (one member of a group that completes 1300 to 1400 returns each year) that assists taxpayers in completing tax returns. EXPERIENCE. An employee of the U.S. Department of Agriculture for 40 years gives me a perspective of Federal employment. Most of those years were as a District

Conservationist with NRCS in charge of federal conservation activities in a county. Seven of those years were as a Conservation Coordinator responsible for activities in seven counties in Northwest Minnesota. DEDICATED to our country, the United States, and what it stands for. It is dedication to the principals we have fought for and live for. It is dedication to my family with my spouse, Meg, of 47 years. We are proud parents of three children and six grandchildren. Dedication includes the belief that together we can work for a better future not only for our families, for federal employees and retirees, and for all those who call our country home. WHO AM I. Several years ago I put the following statement in writing as to who I am and what I stand for. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am an American Christian in the Catholic Tradition. As a Navy Officer I will fight for your right to worship God in a manner of your choosing as long as it does not interfere with the rights of another human being.â&#x20AC;? RECOGNIZED several years ago as a Jaycee Senator for years of dedicated service and accomplishment. The Boy Scouts recognized me with a District Award of Merit and as a Silver Beaver. Various plaques and certificates have been received.

REGION VI MARSHALL L. RICHARDS It is an honor and a privilege to serve you, the members of Region VI as your Regional Vice President. I am taking this opportunity to announce that I am a candidate for reelection as your Region VI Vice President. My 20 plus years of NARFE experience includes Chapter Officer, National Legislative Committee Member, Federation President of the Texas Federation and member of the National Executive Board. The experience that I have gained in the last three and one-half years while serving as a member of the National Executive Board will be extremely valuable when the new board begins their term on November 1, 2018. A new National President will be elected and possibly a new National Secretary/ Treasurer and several new Regional Vice Presi60

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dents. Experience matters as NARFE moves forward. Our association will continue to undergo ARKANSAS, changes in the LOUISIANA, near and distant OKLAHOMA, future to ensure REPUBLIC OF PANAMA, TEXAS that NARFE continues to be the voice of the Federal Community and the respected advocate for Federal Employees and Retirees on the Hill. My experience on the board will be important as decisions are made for the successful implementation of changes that will be beneficial to NARFE and its members.

STATEMENTS As your Region VI Vice President, I will continue to work with all members of the Region and will continue to be your voice on the National Executive Board. I will continue to be open while serving you, the members of Region VI. I humbly ask that

you give me the opportunity to continue to serve NARFE and the members of Region VI as your Vice President for the term beginning November 1, 2018. Your vote and support are greatly appreciated. Thank you.

REGION VII RODNEY L. ADELMAN My name is Rodney Adelman, and I ask for your vote for another term as your Region VII Vice President. Most of you are already familiar with my career bio and NARFE experience. Briefly, I am currently completing my second term as your Region VII Vice President. I previously held a variety of Federation and Chapter offices, including Arizona Federation President and Chapter 1789 President. I also served on the National Bylaws Committee, National Legislative Committee, and the Future of NARFE Committee. My 36-year Federal career focused on financial management, Congressional relations, and administration. I have served on Boards of Directors of other nonprofit organizations, including a local volunteer fire department, several home owners’ associations, and a regional trade organization. I understand effective legislative advocacy, having worked on both sides of Capitol Hill and having testified several times before Congressional Committees. Why do I feel I am the best candidate for Region VII Vice President? At the 2014 National Convention, I strongly supported the resolution

directing the NEB to take actions and to begin strategic planning toward implementation of the FON Committee “vision” and recommendations, or something similar. That support continued with the significant governance changes adopted at the 2016 National ARIZONA, COLORADO, NEW MEXICO, Convention and with UTAH, WYOMING the NEB adoption of successive Strategic Plans. I continue to support changes in NARFE that move us forward, while not hesitating to stand up against those proposals that I believe are not in the best interests of NARFE. My commitment to you is to work for a better NARFE. I hope to continue to earn your support and your vote as your representative on the National Executive Board. Thank you.

REGION VIII HELEN L. ZAJAC I am once again seeking re-election to the office of Region VIII Vice President representing California, Hawaii, Nevada, Republic of the Philippines, and Guam. I have served in this position since being elected in 2008 at the Louisville, Kentucky National Convention. I am a Distinguished Member, joining NARFE in 1992 while still employed at the former Mare Island Naval Shipyard. I am willing to continue my service and dedication to our association. During my tenure with

NARFE, I have seen many changes in NARFE overall, many for the good of CALIFORNIA, the association, GUAM, HAWAII, and was honored NEVADA, to have served REPUBLIC OF on the selection THE PHILIPPINES committee for our newly hired Executive Director. I have seen many innovations from our W W W. N A R F E . O R G

CANDIDATE Executive Director, and she brings a new level of business professionalism to our association. I support the improvements submitted by the Strategic Planning Committee and look forward to the positive changes that will be made due to the Committee’s efforts. Change is what we need to grow our association into a more recognized leader that we know we can become; not only with our advocacy actions, but also with our benefits assistance. Change is difficult, and it doesn’t happen overnight, but through a slow, steady process. Once you begin the process of change, and potential members notice the change, there is no doubt that they will join with us for an even greater organization than we could have imagined. With new enthusiasm, ideas, and even new leadership, there is no limit to what we together can achieve. However, we must be open to that change.

We need to look forward to what change can bring and the name recognition that can be brought to our association. I have worked well with the Federation Executive Boards in bringing their concerns to National Headquarters, or the National Executive Board. I take pride in working with members to resolve their concerns with membership and federal benefits. I am willing to continue to develop those relationships with Federations and members; and believe that they will pass those positive relationships forward to other members. The more our members know about NARFE and our accomplishments, the more value that will be shown, not only to our members, but to potential members. I am excited about these changes which are being implemented at NARFE Headquarters, and I look forward to continuing my service on the National Executive Board.

REGION IX RICHARD WILSON It is my intention to seek re-election to the position of Region IX Vice President when the vote is taken early next year. I joined NARFE in December 2004. In April 2005, I became 2nd Vice President of Chapter 1404. In September 2006, I became President of Chapter 1404. In March 2007, I was elected to the Washington Federation District II Vice President position. In May 2010, I was elected to Washington Federation Vice President. In July 2013, upon the death of the then Washington Federation President, I became Federation President. I was elected as Region IX Vice President at the 2016 National Convention in Reno, Nevada. In 2011, I served on the National Recruitment and Retention Task Force. I have served NARFE in leadership roles since 2006. During my time as your Region IX Vice President, I have hosted the 2017 Region IX Training Conference, held in June at Kennewick, Washington. I have served on the National Strategic Planning Team and with the Strategic Planning Committee to develop a plan of action NARFE will take in the next few years. I also attended the Idaho and Oregon Federation Conventions earlier in 2017. I’ve have attended Washington Federation Executive Board meetings in person and the lat62

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est Oregon Federation ALASKA, ExecuIDAHO, tive Board MONTANA, meeting via OREGON, GoTo MeetWASHINGTON ing. Lastly, I attended and participated in the National Federation President’s meeting held July 2017 in Jacksonville, Florida. I’ve worked closely with the five Federation Presidents, keeping them current on NARFE issues as they have me on the happenings in their Federations. I am encouraged by the latest reports which show we are making some good progress in recruiting active federal employees. Much more needs to be done in this area. We must develop more strategies for getting our name out to all federal workers and retirees so they know NARFE is the only association devoted exclusively to serving and protecting the earned rights and benefits of all federal retirees, survivor annuitants and active federal employees. In addition to recruiting,

STATEMENTS my efforts will continue to work on retaining our current members. I pledge to work with Chapters and Federations to find ways to better address how to keep the members we have.

I hope you will vote to give me the opportunity to continue to serve you as your Region IX Vice President for the next two years. Thank you for your support these past two years.

REGION X WILLIAM “BILL” SHACKELFORD Since November 2014, I have been privileged to hold the position of Region X Vice President (RVP). Serving NARFE members in our Region from Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia has been a real honor. Region X has many members and an equal number of diverse opinions. However, its needs and those across all of NARFE are identical. At the time of the 2014 National Convention in Orlando, NARFE was on a course of decline that needed to be curtailed. Since the convention, recommendations by the Future of NARFE (FON) Committee and the Strategic Planning Committee coupled with the endorsement of a portion of these changes by the National Executive Board (NEB) signals the most dramatic organizational change in NARFE’s history. I remain a supporter of the recommendations of the FON Committee and vision of the NARFE Strategic Plan. I believe that the actions of these committees and the NEB exhibit the intent to make changes as NARFE heads towards its centennial year in 2021. We all share the same vision to see NARFE prosper for another century. It is impossible to lead and serve with deaf ears. NARFE members from Region X require someone who will listen and address their concerns. I will continue to be their voice on

CHARLES TALLEY Charles Talley of Charlotte, North Carolina, was elected to President of Charlotte Chapter 105 in December 2016. Charles was appointed National Legislative Officer to the North Carolina Federation Board in May 2015. Talley has extensive NARFE experience, having served in leadership positions with NARFE’s North Carolina Federation, Chapter

the NEB and be open and available while serving you. In order to remain a viable advocacy organization, we have many chalKENTUCKY, NORTH CAROLINA, TENNESSEE, lenges ahead of us VIRGINIA, WEST VIRGINIA but on all levels of the organization we can exercise appropriate advancements to make NARFE stronger. We must all work together to address the challenges that OUR organization faces. I’ve made a concerted effort to keep Region X members informed. Through the five Federation Presidents and Executive Boards, I’ve provided summaries of NEB meetings and the status of strategic planning. I am proud of NARFE and believe that our members have the potential to make a difference in the overall growth and success of NARFE. I appreciate all members of Region X and all that they have done for NARFE over the years. Thank you for your continued membership and support of NARFE. We are all in this effort together so let’s move forward before it is too late. I ask that you give me the opportunity to continue to serve NARFE and the Region X members as your RVP for the next two years. 105 vice president, AARP’s National Volunteer Engagement Advisory Council, National Driver Safety Committee, National Coordinator for WorkSearch and Tree Master for TreesCharlotte. Talley has a Bachelor of Science Degree. He worked for 35+ years with the United States Postal Service in New Jersey, Michigan, Connecticut, New York, Virginia and the District of Columbia in Communications, Marketing and Sales developing and implementing strategies (such as vote W W W. N A R F E . O R G

CANDIDATE STATEMENTS by mail which allows citizens to comfortably and privately at home). Vote by Mail gives every registered voter a fair and equal opportunity to choose the candidate that is worthy of the vote. It is a worthy strategy to mobilize communities across the country, that NARFE should consider. This mobilization would create visibility for NARFE and support from the public to assist in furthering NARFE’s mission of enhancing and protecting the federal community benefits. It would improve the federal community image in the public arena and garner the necessary support NARFE need to remain sustainable. Talley was honored with AARP’s most prestigious volunteer award recognizing AARP Volunteers who have made a difference in their

communities in ways that support AARP’s mission, vision and strategic direction and that inspire others to volunteer. Talley was one of the twelve founding members of the WorkSearch Program, a Virtual Job Coach initiative and assisted in establishing WorkSearch Program sites across the country. Talley provided outstanding representation of the AARP Foundation and the AARP DC State Office including presenting on AARP RFD-TV, at national conferences and at five AARP Life@50 events. Talley wants to assist NARFE in mobilizing its membership and communities to enhance and protect benefits for all people; which is the reason he is running for Region X Vice President.

FEDERATION ELECTIONS 2018 FEDERATION

WEBSITE

Alaska Federation

CONTACT David Epstein - dave1013@gmail.com

Indiana Federation

www.narfe.org/in

Maxine Ross - 317.546.2152

Maine Federation

www.narfe.org/me

Lloyd Woods - 207.557.4971

Massachusetts Federation

www.manarfe.org

William Wayne - 781.534.0770

Michigan Federation

www.narfemi.org

Sallye McGill - 248.561.4385

Minnesota Federation

www.narfe.org/mn

Karen Thygeson - 218.681.0334

Missouri Federation

www.monarfe.org

Nebraska Federation

www.nebraskanarfe.org

New York Federation

www.narfeny.net

North Carolina Federation

www.ncnarfe.org

Oregon Federation

www.narfe.org/or

South Carolina Federation

www.scnarfe.org

Washington Federation

www.narfewa.net

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Chuck Newkirk - 914.402.1776

Becky Stiles - 541.683.2706

Nancy Crosby - 509.735.3288

Active and Retired Federal Employees ...

Join NARFE Today!

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

Who Should Join the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association? If your future security is tied to federal retirement benefits – federal retirees, current employees, spouses and individual survivors – you should join NARFE.

NARFE MEMBER BENEFITS

• • • • •

Get monthly issues of narfe magazine with news and insights for the federal community. Access the NARFE Federal Benefits Institute for powerful resources to help you fully understand and manage your benefits. Visit the Legislative Action Center to contact your representatives about bills affecting federal benefits. Visit the Member Perks page for a full listing of the many time-, money- and hassle-saving benefits available only to NARFE members. The opportunity to get involved at the local level by joining a chapter in your area. 1Q6

NARFE MEMBERSHIP APPLIC ATION q YES. I want to join NARFE for the low annual dues of $40. q Mr. q Mrs. q Miss q Ms.

____________________________________________________

Full Name

____________________________________________________

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____________________________________________________

Apt./Unit

____________________________________________________

City

State

ZIP

____________________________________________________

Phone

____________________________________________________

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

q Annuitant Spouse q Survivor Annuitant

q Please enroll my spouse _______________________________________________

Spouse’s Full Name

_______________________________________________ Spouse’s Email

THREE EASY WAYS TO JOIN 1. Complete this application and mail with your payment to NARFE / Member Records / 606 N. Washington St. / Alexandria, VA 22314-1914

2. Join online at www.narfe.org. 3. Call 800-456-8410, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET.

PAYMENT OPTIONS q Check, Money Order or Bill Pay (Payable to NARFE) q Bill me (NARFE membership will start when payment is received.) q Charge my: q MasterCard

q VISA q Discover

q AMEX

_________________________________________________ Card No. Expiration Date _____ /________ mm

yyyy

_________________________________________________ Name on Card _________________________________________________ Signature _________________________________________________ Date

TOTAL DUES $40 Annual Dues X ___________ = ___________ Per Person # Enrolling Total Dues Dues payments are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. Looking to meet others in the federal community and participate in NARFE at a local level? Call 800-456-8410 to learn about a NARFE chapter in your area. Or, if known, add Chapter # to join now ________________

MAY WE THANK SOMEONE? If applicable, please provide the name, membership ID and chapter number of the member who introduced you to NARFE: _________________________________________________ Recruiter’s Name _________________________________________________ Recruiter’s Membership ID _________________________________________________ Recruiter’s Chapter Number

NARFE respects the privacy of our members. Personal information is used to provide content and relevant communications to our members, W W W. N A R F E . O R G | 65 and will not be sold or rented to third parties without your express permission.

Member Perks

SAVE MONEY WITH NARFE PERKS NARFE appreciates your service, and so do businesses across the country. Whether you are planning your next vacation or planning for retirement, members can save money on everyday purchases, thanks to our Affinity Partners. It’s just one more way we’re able to say “thank you” for being a NARFE member. INSURANCE

MiniMoves 800-300-6683 GEICO 800-368-2734 www.geico.com/fed/narfe GEICO offers a special discount opportunity for NARFE members. To find out how much you could save, visit our website or call today and mention that you are a NARFE member. Have your current coverage information available in order to secure a comparable quote. Your completed quote will help benefit NARFE! For complete terms and conditions, visit www.narfe.org/memberperks.

NARFE Insurance Services 800-233-5764 www.narfeinsurance.com Designed exclusively for NARFE members, plans administered by Mercer Health & Benefits Administration LLC: Group Term Life Insurance, Senior Age Whole Life Insurance, Senior Term Life Insurance, Group Hospital Income Insurance, Hospital Income and ShortTerm Recovery Insurance, and Pet Insurance.

MOVING SERVICES

Bekins Van Lines 800-456-6832 narfe@bekins.com All NARFE members will receive contracted pricing for all interstate shipments. This will apply to packing, transportation and full-value coverage against damages. Please mention you are a NARFE member. 66

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NEW

MiniMoves is America’s only national mover exclusively focused on small shipments; a piece, a room or a full condo. There’s no minimum weight charge. Our binding quote helps you plan your move with confidence. Member discount - $25 off 500 pounds; $50 off larger moves. Use code 1292.

Wheaton World Wide Moving 800-248-7960 narfe@wvlcorp.com At Wheaton, we know interstate relocating is much more than trucks and boxes. Moving is not simply an address change. It’s a life change. With a network of top-quality agents throughout the United States, Wheaton provides peace of mind with every relocation. We offer you, as a NARFE member, benefits to help you have a positive interstate relocation experience. Call today and mention you are a NARFE member to start the moving process.

PRODUCTS

Omaha Steaks 800-228-9055 www.omahasteaks.com/ NARFE Since 1917, Omaha Steaks has been delivering customers the finest gourmet steaks, seafood, poultry, pork, sides and desserts. Omaha Steaks make memo-

rable gifts for any holiday, or you can enjoy a gourmet meal right at home. NARFE members can enjoy FREE SHIPPING on select combos and an additional 10% DISCOUNT at checkout! If calling, use promo code YTZ.

NEW

Purchasing Power 866-670-3479 purchasingpower.com/NARFE With Purchasing Power, thousands of brand-name products are within reach. As members of NARFE, you can buy today and pay over time through payroll or annuity allotment. Choose from the latest computers, appliances, vacation packages and more. Never worry about hidden fees, credit checks or interest. Pay over 6 or 12 months, and you’re done. Save 5% with code NARFEVIP.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

Verizon FiOS www.narfe.org/memberperks NARFE members can save up to $10 a month on a new qualifying Triple Play bundle with Verizon Fios Internet, TV and home phone service – savings of up to $120 per year. This exclusive onlineonly savings is only available to new Verizon customers or those upgrading to the Triple Play Package.

TRAVEL

Alamo 800-462-5266 www.alamo.com Drive Happy® with Alamo® where

NARFE members receive year-round discounts. Call or visit our website today and reference Contract ID 262544.

Avis Car Rental 800-633-3469 www.avis.com Avis Car Rental is one of the world’s best-known car rental brands with approximately 5,500 locations in more than 165 countries. Avis has a long history of innovation in the car rental industry and is one of the world’s top brands for customer loyalty. Call or book your reservation now at Avis.com using the NARFE AWD number A701900.

Budget Car Rental 800-218-7992 www.budget.com Budget Car rental was founded in 1958 for the “budget-minded” renter. Today, with approximately 3,500 locations around the world, Budget is a leading rental car supplier now offering discounts to members of NARFE. Call or book your reservation now at Budget. com using the NARFE BCD number D871500.

Choice Hotels International 800-258-2847 www.choicehotels.com With 6,400 hotels in the United States and throughout the world, Choice Hotels® offers something for everyone. 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 through phone number or website above; cannot be redeemed at individual hotels. Choice Hotels brands are: Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Sleep Inn, MainStay Suites and more.

WELLNESS

National 800-CAR-RENT www.nationalcarrental.com 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. For complete terms and conditions, visit www.narfe.org/ memberperks.

Wyndham Hotel Group 877-670-7088 NARFE members receive up to 20% off the “Best Available Rate” at participating locations. Call and give the agent your special discount ID number, 8000002694, at time of booking to receive discount. Call to reserve your room today at one of these fine hotels: Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, Days Inn, Ramada Inn, Microtel Inns and Suites and more. Advance reservations required through phone number above; cannot be redeemed at individual hotels.

NEW HearUSA www.hearusa.com/narfe The Nation’s Most Trusted Name in Hearing Care. Choose from 250+ hearing aids from 11 manufacturers with $0 co-pay for many plans. Wireless. Bluetooth. Smartphone compatible. Nearly invisible. Risk-free 60-Day trial. Free follow-up care. Free 3-Year warranty. Call 1-855-845-2706 to see if you qualify for 2 FREE hearing aids.

Life Line Screening 800-324-9906 www.lifelinescreening.com/ NARFE Life Line Screening, America’s leading provider of community-based preventive health screenings, will conduct health screenings using state-ofthe-art ultrasound technology in your neighborhood. To schedule an appointment, please call the number above and give the operator code number BKHN075 or visit the website.

NEW

Wyndham NEW Extra Holidays 800-428-1932 www.extraholidays.com Excellent service and the finest comforts are standards you can always rely on with Wyndham Extra Holidays. With more spacious floor plans than a regular hotel, you can enjoy a One-, Two- or Three-Bedroom suite with separate living areas and partial or fully equipped kitchens. Please use promo code 8000002694 when calling or booking online.

Sunrise Senior Living www.SunriseSeniorLiving.com Sunrise Senior Living, a leading provider of high-quality, individualized, senior living services, offers NARFE members a special, discounted rate. Mention code: NARFE-discount during your visit and receive a one-time 5% off of suite/room rates at any of Sunrise’s U.S. communities for one year. For a complete list of Sunrise locations, visit www.SunriseSeniorLiving.com. For a complete list of any restrictions, visit www.narfe.org/ memberperks. For new move-ins only.

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. Check out these additional Member Perks on the NARFE website for more details!

W W W. N A R F E . O R G

The Way We Worked

TRAINING TO GO TO THE MOON In this 1967 photo, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the United States Geological Survey (USGS) jointly sponsored a series of geology education training courses for NASA astronauts in the Apollo program. The astronauts received training and instructions from academic geologists, NASA geologists and USGS geologists all around Texas and the southwest to familiarize themselves with geological principles and methods for future missions to the moon. The U.S. Geological Survey, Branch of Astrogeology, continued their training partnership with NASA through the end of the Apollo program. Geology remains an important, though more limited, part of an astronaut’s training. PHOTO from the Records of U.S. Geological Survey, National Archives, courtesy of the National Archives History Office; in collaboration with the Society for History in the Federal Government (SHFG), bringing together government professionals, academics, consultants, students and citizens interested in understanding federal history work and the historical development of the federal government. To join, visit http://shfg.org. 68

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DID YOU KNOW? Starting in 1963, the USGS Astrogeology Research Program played an important role in training astronauts destined to explore the lunar surface and in supporting the testing of equipment. Harrison H. “Jack” Schmitt, USGS geologist and Apollo 17 astronaut, is still the only geologist to visit the moon. Following the mission, the USGS created a number of products and maps to highlight the explorations of the Apollo astronauts. Visit www.nasa.gov.

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IMPORTANT CONSUMER INFORMATION: Jitterbug is owned by GreatCall, Inc. Your invoices will come from GreatCall. 1Monthly fees do not include government taxes or assessment surcharges and are subject to change. Plans and services may require purchase of a Jitterbug Flip and a one-time setup fee of $35. Coverage is not available everywhere. 5Star or 9-1-1 calls can only be made when cellular service is available. 5Star Service will be able to track an approximate location when your device is turned on, but we cannot guarantee an exact location. 2We will refund the full price of the Jitterbug phone and the activation fee (or setup fee) 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 be deducted from your refund for each minute over 30 minutes.You will be charged a $10 restocking fee. The shipping charges are not refundable. There are no additional fees to call GreatCall’s U.S.-based customer service. However, for calls to a Personal Operator in which a service is completed, you will be charged 99 cents per call, and minutes will be deducted from your monthly rate plan balance equal to the length of the call and any call connected by the Personal Operator. Jitterbug, GreatCall and 5Star are registered trademarks of GreatCall, Inc. Copyright ©2018 GreatCall, Inc. ©2018 firstSTREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc.

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