June/July 2023 NARFE Magazine

P. 24

Staying Sharp Behind the Wheel

P. 34

Investing With Purpose

Applicable to all discounts: Residents under a Life Care Agreement are not eligible for the discounts. These discounts do not apply to any room, board or services which are paid for all or in part by any state or federally funded program. Discounts are available to members and their family members, including spouse, adult children, siblings, parents, grandparents, and corresponding in-law or step adult children, siblings, parents, and grandparents through current spouse. Subject to availability. Further restrictions may apply.

*Discount is only applicable to new residents of a Brookdale independent living, assisted living, or memory care community admitting under an executed residency agreement. Discount applies only to the monthly fee/basic service rate, excluding care costs and other fees and is calculated based on the initial monthly fee/basic service rate.

**Discount is only applicable to new clients of personal assistance services by a Brookdale agency under an executed service agreement.

***Discount is only applicable to new residents of a Brookdale assisted living or memory care community admitting under an executed respite agreement. Discount applies to the daily rate.

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Jenn Rafael

CREATIVE SERVICES MANAGER

Beth Bedard

ADDITIONAL GRAPHIC DESIGN TGD

EDITORIAL BOARD

William Shackelford, Kathryn E. Hensley, Johann De Castro

CONTACT US

NARFE Magazine

606 North Washington St. Alexandria, VA 22314-1914 Phone: 703-838-7760 Fax: 703-838-7781

Editorial: communications@narfe.org

Advertising Sales: Francine Garner advertising@narfe.org

NARFE FOR THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED

ON THE TELEPHONE: This publication can be heard on the telephone by persons who have trouble seeing or reading the print edition. For more information, contact the National Federation of the Blind NFBNEWSLINE® service at 866-504-7300 or go to www.nfbnewsline.org.

ON DIGITAL AUDIO: Issues of NARFE Magazine are also available in audio format through the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS). For availability, call 202-727-2142 or your local NLS service provider.

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

NATIONAL OFFICERS

WILLIAM SHACKELFORD

President; natpres@narfe.org

KATHRYN E. HENSLEY Secretary/Treasurer; natsectreas@narfe.org

ACTING CHIEF OF STAFF

JOHANN DE CASTRO jdecastro@narfe.org

REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENTS

REGION I Jeff Anliker (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont)

Tel: 413-813-8136

Email: jeff.anliker@outlook.com

REGION II Larry Walton (Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey and Pennsylvania)

Tel: 443-831-1791

Email: rvp2@narfe.org

REGION III Lynn Harper (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina and Puerto Rico)

Tel: 478-951-3260

Email: lynn_harper@msn.com

REGION IV Robert L. Helfrich

(Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin)

Tel: 317-501-1700

Email: rlhelfrich@yahoo.com

REGION V Cindy Reneé Blythe (Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota)

TO JOIN NARFE, RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP OR FIND A LOCAL CHAPTER: CALL (TOLL-FREE) 800-456-8410 OR GO TO www.narfe.org

TO CHANGE YOUR ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER OR EMAIL LISTING: CALL (TOLL-FREE) 800-456-8410 EMAIL memberrecords@narfe.org OR GO TO www.narfe.org, log in and click on “My Account”

TO REACH A FEDERAL BENEFITS SPECIALIST: EMAIL fedbenefits@narfe.org

NARFE HEADQUARTERS

606 N. Washington St. Alexandria, VA 22314

703-838-7760

Hours of operation: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. ET

Tel: 785-256-1450

Email: mrsdocbusyb@yahoo.com

REGION VI Marshall L. Richards (Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Republic of Panama and Texas)

Tel: 903-660-2784

Email: pappysdad@cobridge.tv

REGION VII Sharon Reese (Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming)

Tel: 575-649-6035

Email: rvp7@narfe.org

REGION VIII Robert H. Ruskamp (California, Hawaii, Nevada and Republic of Philippines)

Tel: 703-628-3234

Email: ruskampr@gmail.com

REGION IX Steven Roy (Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington)

Tel: 425-344-3926

Email: stevenroy1@yahoo.com

REGION X Robert Allen (Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia)

Tel: 757-404-3880

Email: rvp10@narfe.org

NARFE Magazine (ISSN 1948-4453) is published monthly except in February and July by the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE), 606 N. Washington St., Alexandria, VA 22314. Periodicals postage paid at Alexandria, VA, and additional mailing offices. Members: Annual dues includes subscription. Nonmember subscription rate $48. Postmaster: Send address change to: NARFE Attn: Member Records, 606 N. Washington St., Alexandria, VA 22314. To ensure prompt delivery, members should also forward changes of address without delay. Because of the volume involved, NARFE cannot acknowledge nor be responsible for unsolicited pictures and manuscripts, although every reasonable precaution is taken. All submissions become the property of NARFE. Copyright © 2023, NARFE. Advertisements in the magazine are not endorsements of products and/or services by NARFE, unless officially stated in the ad. We shall accept advertising on the same basis as other reputable publications: that is, we shall not knowingly permit a dishonest advertisement to appear in NARFE Magazine, but at the same time we will not undertake to guarantee the reliability of our advertisers.

You plan for your tomorrow, but have you planned for the possibility of a tomorrow without you in it?

At a time when your loved ones should be focused on memories of you, they shouldn’t be troubled with thoughts of financial burdens.

The NARFE Senior Term Life Insurance Plan

This plan, specifically designed for our members ages 50–74, offers coverage amounts between $5,000 and $25,000* for members ages 50–64 or coverage amounts of $5,000 or $10,000* for ages 65–74. Plus, coverage is available with no medical exam required.

Economical Group Rates negotiated with our insurance partners exclusively for our members. • No Medical exam required! It’s that easy.

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.

Decisions Ahead About NARFE’s Structure

As most NARFE members know, the peak travel time for NARFE national officers has been during the months of April and May, when most of the federations convene their conventions/conferences. This year was no different from previous years, with 27 federations requesting a national officer to address attendees.

Members of the Panama Federation were beyond gracious in welcoming me and Region VI Vice President Marshall Richards and his wife, Linda. My travel concluded with a “virtual” visit to the Georgia Federation. As tiring as it might seem, interacting with members is fun, worthwhile and highly educational. Many of the federation visits were easy, as federations have adapted to the use of electronic meetings; out of the 21 that I participated in, only seven were in-person meetings.

Frequently, I’m asked why NARFE doesn’t reach out more to other organizations with similar interests. The simple answer is that NARFE is unique: There are no other organizations whose mission is devoted to protecting federal retirement benefits. However, NARFE does not work in a vacuum. We do work very closely with Federally Employed Women (FEW) and Blacks In Government (BIG), but I have learned that there are other organizations with interests similar to NARFE’s and also have membership issues. I have asked NARFE Membership Engagement Director Nora MacDonald to explore the development of a plan that will allow these smaller organizations to benefit from the 102-year-old NARFE legacy.

An organizational change that has been suggested by members over the years would be to implement a 501(c)3 model for NARFE. This change

needs to be examined in detail to determine the best avenue to move NARFE forward.

There are different classifications for nonprofit organizations such as NARFE. Currently, we are classified as a 501(c)(5), which provides for the exemption from federal income tax of labor, agricultural or horticultural organizations. Under this provision, NARFE-PAC is maintained as a separate and segregated 527 fund, and this continued maintenance would be required; a 501(c) (3) organization may not contribute to a political organization such as a candidate committee, political party committee or political action committee.

Some of the advantages of the 501(c)3 classification primarily benefit our fundraising activities, but there are other considerations as well. A value-added aspect of membership would be that donations would become tax-deductible for donors, thereby allowing for a more robust fundraising operation that could include major and planned gifts.

Even if we change classifications, we must preserve NARFE-PAC, which provides financial contributions to campaigns of candidates for congressional office and to other campaign committees. This is a vital part of NARFE’s advocacy strategy and political activity. NARFE representatives must be permitted to lobby members of Congress on members’ behalf. This is not available to a 501(c)3.

Another possible solution would be to convert to a 501(c)4 or (c)6. With this solution NARFE-PAC could remain separate and segregated.

I look forward to hearing from members on this important matter.

WILLIAM SHACKELFORD NARFE NATIONAL PRESIDENT natpres@narfe.org

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MISS A WEBINAR?

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

Share the Number of Feds in Your State With Lawmakers

An important part of grassroots advocacy is ensuring that a member of Congress is aware of the number of federal employees, retirees and annuitants who reside in the district. This

enables your representative or senator to better understand how pressing issues impact their constituents, as well as educate them about the size and influence of the federal and postal communities.

Share this information— and other issue briefs and fact sheets—whenever you meet with legislators and their staffs. To find out the population of federal employees and retirees for your state, visit www.narfe.org/states

READ NARFE MAGAZINE ONLINE

NARFE’s website now offers a digital flipbook of this and previous issues at www.narfe. org/magazine-issues. Read the magazine online on your computer, phone or tablet, or download it to peruse later.

ORIGINS OF JUNETEENTH

On June 19, 1865, 250,000 still-enslaved Texans learned from Union soldiers that they were free—months after the Civil War’s end, and more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation. Read about how Juneteenth became a federal holiday at www.narfe.org/juneteenth.

FIND A CHAPTER NEAR YOU

A NARFE chapter is your local connection to NARFE. With nearly 800 chapters, there’s a good chance you’ll find one close to home, wherever you are. To locate a chapter near you, visit www.narfe.org/chapters .

SAVE MORE WITH NARFE PERKS

Whether you are planning your next vacation, buying a gift or planning for retirement, members can save money on everyday purchases with special discounts from our Affinity Partners. Taking advantage of just one offer could more than pay for your annual membership. Visit www.narfe.org/narfe-perks-formembers (or see p. 50) to see how your savings could add up.

Smile, you’re covered

GEHA provides access to almost 400,000 dental provider locations and comprehensive services. And with no in-network deductibles, we’re making sure federal retirees have everything they need to start their next chapter with a smile.

Biden FY24 Budget Includes Pay Raise, OPM Customer Service Improvements

The Biden Administration released its Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) budget proposal on March 9. It seeks funds to improve OPM customer service to annuitants, proposes a 5.2 percent average pay raise for federal employees and more.

The White House highlighted its request for “$6.6 million for the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to help reduce processing times and improve customer satisfaction, expand a pilot for online retirement application, and begin to fund additional IT modernization initiatives akin to a case management system.” This focus came as welcome news to NARFE, as NARFE National President William Shackelford urged the administration to focus on customer service improvements via adequate funding and improved technology in his January letter to President Biden.

The budget proposes a 5.2 percent average pay raise for federal employees, in line with the requested military pay raise and recent changes in privatesector wages. Shackelford urged the administration to support this amount in his January letter and applauded the announcement in a media statement. If Congress does not block the raise, the president may authorize it based on

existing statutory law. While the budget does not specify this, if the administration follows past precedent, the raise will come via a 4.7 percent across-the-board increase and a 0.5 percent average increase in locality pay rates.

The administration also outlined the budget’s support for the President’s Management Agenda priority to strengthen and empower the federal workforce via various initiatives, notably efforts to improve federal hiring processes. It focuses on advancing “Talent Teams,” promoting pooled hiring actions, and quality employee

assessments by including subject matter experts in the qualification process, among other strategies.

In addition to these provisions, the budget also indicates support for:

• Legislation to prevent a return of Schedule F, a broad new exception to merit-based civil service rules.

• Legislation to require coverage of three primary care visits and three behavioral health visits without cost-sharing for all Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) plans.

• Legislation to limit costsharing for insulin for all FEHB plans.

• Legislation to allow disabled children of Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) annuitants who are incapable of self-support to reinstate

JUNE/JULY ACTION ALERT: WEP/GPO

Visit NARFE’s Legislative Action Center at www.narfe.org to send a message to your lawmakers urging them to cosponsor the Social Security Fairness Act of 2023, H.R. 82/S. 597. This bill would repeal the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) policies, which unfairly reduce Social Security benefits for federal, state and local government retirees who earned a pension from their civil service career separate from benefits earned from employment covered by Social Security.

survivor annuities when the annuity had previously been terminated due to substantial employment income, as is permitted under the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).

These are just some of the highlights of the budget as it pertains to the federal

MYTH VS. REALITY

MYTH: Federal salaries and annuities will still be paid even in the event of a default due to the debt limit not being raised.

REALITY: A failure to raise the debt limit could delay payment of federal wages and retirement annuities until the federal government has enough cash on hand to pay them. If the crisis dragged on, the duration of any delays would increase.

workforce and NARFE’s issues. But the entire budget contains an extensive set of proposals, from the annual agency budget requests to support for changes in law related to taxes, prescription drug pricing and more. It represents the opening salvo in the back and forth between the administration and

congressional leaders on larger budget negotiations and annual appropriations bills. Look for the weekly NARFE NewsLine and other updates from NARFE to learn more about what comes next as it relates to federal workforce and benefits issues.

—JOHN HATTON, STAFF VICE PRESIDENT, POLICY AND PROGRAMS

OPM Director Testifies Before House Oversight Committee

In March, the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability held a hearing on the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), calling Director Kiran Ahuja before the panel to testify about federal personnel policy and issues affecting the agency.

Chairman James Comer, R-KY, opened by questioning Ahuja about federal employees returning to in-person work. Comer also focused on workforce accountability and fostering a federal personnel system that runs efficiently and attracts workers. Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-VA, followed, emphasizing that more than 80 percent of the federal workforce lives outside of the Washington, DC, area and thanking federal employees for their work during the pandemic.

Committee members inquired about federal teleworking policy and specific personnel matters within OPM. However, there was also

discussion of issues surrounding OPM’s Retirement Services (RS) division, prompting the director to reply that addressing the division was a priority.

In her written testimony, Ahuja wrote that OPM “must continue to improve our customer service and call center to provide the experience our customers deserve.” Specifically, the agency will focus on enhancing staffing and capacity, increasing information available online and increasing proactive communications from OPM to customers regarding their applications.

Notably during the hearing, Rep. Andy Biggs, R-AZ, questioned Ahuja about retirement processing delays, providing direct stories from constituents negatively impacted by delays in receiving their federal annuities. Processing delays are of great concern to NARFE, with many members contacting headquarters sharing similar experiences of hardship.

Before the hearing, NARFE National President William “Bill” Shackelford submitted a statement for the record outlining NARFE’s concerns with OPM and current federal benefit programs, along with the association’s support for a meritbased civil service.

Shackelford’s statement urged the committee to increase oversight of OPM RS, highlighting concerns with lengthy delays in receiving retirement and survivor payments, updating health benefits and making other changes that require the agency’s involvement. Additionally, Shackelford raised concerns about the expected premium increases for the Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP) and equitable solutions for enrollees. Those solutions include a partial refund of premiums and tax relief for those who wish to continue their FLTCIP coverage. SEE

NARFE GRASSROOTS ADVOCACY

LEARN MORE about how you can take action to protect your earned pay and benefits by reviewing NARFE Grassroots materials at www.narfe.org/advocacy

Be a Voice for the Federal Employee and Retiree Community

Now is the time to be an advocate to protect your earned pay and benefits. As negotiations heat up to raise the debt limit and set a budget for the next two years, federal employee and retiree benefits are gaining unwanted attention. Congress needs to hear from those affected – you – to make sure they keep your hardearned earned benefits off the negotiating table.?

Whether it is sending a letter through NARFE’s Legislative Action Center, making a phone call or meeting with a lawmaker, you are putting a face on an otherwise faceless issue. Your advocacy helps decision-makers make better connections between the laws and policies they act on to how they affect the people they came to Congress to represent. This is why grassroots advocacy is so vital for advancing NARFE’s legislative and policy priorities, and it is a responsibility we all share.

At NARFE, we encourage members to advocate in ways that are comfortable for them. For some, sending a letter through NARFE’s Legislative Action Center might be easier than making a phone call or engaging in a one-on-one meeting with the lawmaker. Whichever way you prefer to advocate, NARFE thanks you for your support and encourages you to continue speaking up on behalf of the federal community. And for those

who would like to participate in advocacy activities but are unsure how to get started, visit the grassroots webpage located on NARFE’s website at www. narfe.org/grassroots-advocacy to access how-to guides and other tools to do so.

In just a few weeks, hundreds of members will come together online for NARFE’s virtual LEGcon23, which will occur June 20-22. The three-day program includes advocacy skill-building training and congressional briefings culminating with participants organized in state groups to meet virtually with their members of Congress.

The conference’s virtual format is a welcome opportunity for those who have been unable to participate in past years’ in-person conferences in Washington, DC. This virtual format will offer the same high-quality programming members have come to love and expect, but in the comfort and convenience of their homes. The conference is developed to meet the needs of members at all advocacy experience levels and would be a great opportunity for firsttime participants who can be a part of group meetings with lawmakers. It is not too late to register for LEGcon23. Visit the conference webpage at http://legcon.narfe.org and register today!

In August, members will engage in NARFE’s Grassroots Advocacy Month campaign. This advocacy campaign is held in conjunction with the August congressional recess, when members of Congress travel back to their states and districts to interact with constituents. Since this year’s August campaign follows LEGcon23, it gives participants of the conference an opportunity to execute a follow-up strategy to continue discussing the issues with the lawmaker at the local level. But most importantly, these discussions would help keep federal community issues fresh on lawmakers’ minds as they interact with other constituents who are also eager to discuss other issues and concerns.

NARFE’s advocacy team is currently developing activities for member engagement and will send out a notification before the start of the recess. However, members should prepare in advance by scheduling meetings with their lawmakers and planning to participate in local congressional events.

NARFE’s Advocacy webpage at www.narfe.org/advocacy includes the latest on key priorities, issue briefs and fact sheets, and additional resources to help prepare members to engage successfully during the August recess and throughout the year.

—NARFE ADVOCACY STAFF

NARFE-PAC goals for the 2023-2024 election cycle:

Disburse $1.2 million in political contributions

Raise $1.6 million $236,186

$151,500 Send NARFE members to 125 local fundraisers

12 Goal progress from 1/1/23 to 3/31/23

CONTRIBUTE TO

Contribute monthly through your annuity or by credit card. Get started at narfe.org/pac-sustainer

OR

Make a one-time contribution:

q $25 – Basic lapel pin

q $50 – Bronze lapel pin

q $100 – Silver lapel pin

q $250 – Gold lapel pin

q $500 – Platinum lapel pin

q Other: _________

Contribution totals are cumulative for the 2023-2024 election cycle

n No pin for me. I’d like 100 percent of my contribution to go to NARFE-PAC.

We need your assistance to achieve these, so please consider contributing to NARFE-PAC today.

NARFE Member #:

Name: Address: City: State: ZIP: Occupation: Employer:

q Charge my credit card

q MasterCard q VISA q Discover q AMEX

Card #:

Exp. Date: _____ /_________ mm yyyy

Name on Card:

Signature:

Date:

To comply with federal law, we must use our best efforts to obtain, maintain and submit the name, mailing address, occupation and name of employer of individuals whose contributions exceed $200 each calendar year. NARFE-PAC is for the benefit of political candidates and activities on a national level. NARFE members have the right to refuse to contribute without reprisal, and NARFE will neither favor nor disadvantage anyone based on the amount of a contribution or failure to make a voluntary contribution. The suggested amounts are only suggestions and not enforceable. Only members of NARFE may contribute to the PAC. Contributions from non-members will be returned. NARFE-PAC contributions are not deductible for federal income tax purposes.

LEGISLATIVE RESOURCES

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

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

WEP/GPO Repeal Bill Secures Majority Support in House, Introduced in Senate

In March, Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-OH, alongside Sen. Susan Collins, R-ME, reintroduced the Senate version of the Social Security Fairness Act, S. 597, a bill that would fully repeal the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO). As of press time, the Senate bill had amassed 38 bipartisan cosponsors in just three weeks.

The 118th Congress has thus far been a productive one for the bill, amassing significant bipartisan support from Congress in record time since its initial introduction in the

House of Representatives in January 2023.

As of press time, the House bill, H.R. 82, had already garnered 232 cosponsors, achieving majority support, and 58 shy of the 290 cosponsors needed to trigger the House Consensus Calendar rule process that would require either committee advancement or a floor vote. At the same time in the 117th Congress, the bill had just 134 cosponsors. As of April 21, H.R. 82 had the second most cosponsors of any bill in Congress. With such strong support this early in the new Congress,

NARFE and its allies inside and outside of Congress have the benefit of more time to work on increasing cosponsors, which puts increasing pressure on congressional leaders to act. NARFE needs the continued support of its members to advance this legislation and hopefully come to a solution on WEP and GPO during this session of Congress. As such, we encourage NARFE members to visit our Legislative Action Center to send a message to their legislators in support of the bill: https://www.narfe.org/action

—BY SETH ICKES, POLITICAL ASSOCIATE

NARFE Urges OPM to Reevaluate Verification of Life Process for Annuitants

On March 7, NARFE

National President William Shackelford wrote to the associate director of the Office of Personnel Management’s (OPM) Retirement Services (RS) division, Margaret Pearson, urging OPM to reevaluate how it is implementing an initiative to reduce improper payments. Shackelford explained that NARFE’s concern is that “OPM RS is unfairly shifting the burden to verify/prove life onto annuitants when OPM RS possesses insufficient evidence of death.” This process results in living federal annuitants

receiving “letters from OPM RS asking them to return a notarized form confirming their current information – in essence providing a notarized form to prove they are still alive.”

The letter cited OPM’s Inspector General’s audit report on the use of the Department of Treasury’s Do Not Pay portal, which provides data indicating possible deaths. As Shackelford explained: “While we do not object to OPM RS’ use of Treasury’s DNP Portal to help reduce improper payments to deceased annuitants, we do not believe it is appropriate for

OPM RS to shift the burden to annuitants to prove they are still alive when OPM RS ‘does not find a death record,’ especially when it’s clear there are multiple reasons for why the Treasury DNP Portal data may provide an erroneous match, including referring ‘to a person with the same name as a retirement annuitant, but who is not the annuitant.’ Such a process appears ripe for the potential to provide false positives, imposing unnecessary burdens and costs on living federal annuitants.”

—BY JOHN HATTON, STAFF VICE PRESIDENT, POLICY AND PROGRAMS

The statement also mentioned safeguarding and improving the Federal Employees Health Benefit (FEHB) program, including a call to provide some or additional reimbursement for Medicare premiums and ensuring FEHB gained access to lower prescription drug

pricing available to Medicare. These efforts could help lower overall FEHB premiums. Finally, the statement praised the committee’s bipartisan effort to advance the Chance to Compete Act, H.R. 159, and warned the committee of attempts to politicize federal service through the reintroduction of Schedule F.

NARFE appreciates the attention Congress is giving to OPM and will continue to work with lawmakers and the administration to address concerns, quicken processing times and improve the overall customer experience.

—BY ROSS APTER, DIRECTOR, LEGISLATIVE AND POLITICAL AFFAIRS

NARFE BILL TRACKER

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

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

Cosponsors: H.R. 159: 3 (D) 2 (R)

S. 59 1 (D) 2 (R)

H.R. 1002/S. 399: Saving the Civil Service Act / Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-VA / Sen. Tim Kaine, D-VA

Cosponsors: H.R. 1002: 10 (D) 1 (R) S. 399: 14 (D) 1 (I)

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

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

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

FEDERAL PERSONNEL POLICY

H.R. 1487: The Strengthening the Office of Personnel Management Reform Act / Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-VA

Cosponsors:

H.R. 1487: 1 (D)

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

Codifies several recommendations for OPM by the National Academy of Public Administration (NAPA), such as clarifying that OPM stands at the center of federal civilian human resource management and ensuring the director of OPM possesses human capital and leadership expertise.

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

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

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

NARFE’s Position: Support Oppose No position

NARFE BILL TRACKER

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

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

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

SOCIAL SECURITY

Cosponsors:

H.R. 82: 165 (D) 67 (R)

S. 597: 31 (D) 4 (R) 3 (I)

H.R. 716: The Fair COLA for Seniors Act / Rep. John Garamendi, D-CA

Cosponsors:

H.R. 716: 24 (D) 0 (R)

Requires Social Security and federal retirement programs to use the Consumer Price Index for the Elderly (CPI-E) to calculate cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) to retirement benefits.

Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means. 1/9/2023

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

FEDERAL ANNUITIES

H.R. 866: The Equal COLA Act / Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-VA

Cosponsors:

H.R. 866: 16 (D) 1 (R)

H.R. 536/ S. 124: The Federal Adjustment of Income Rates (FAIR) Act / Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-VA / Sen. Brian Schatz, D-HI

Cosponsors:

H.R. 536: 54 (D) 1(R) S. 124: 19 (D) 1 (I)

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

Provides federal employees with an 8.7 percent average pay raise in 2024.

Referred to the House Committees on Ways and Means, Veterans’ Affairs, Oversight and Accountability, and Armed Services 2/1/2023

FEDERAL COMPENSATION

H.R. 856/ S. 274: Comprehensive Paid Leave for Federal Employees Act / Rep. Don Beyer, D-VA / Sen Brian Schatz, D-HI

Cosponsors:

H.R. 856: 28 (D) 1 (R) S.274: 9 (D) 0 (R) 1 (I)

H.R. 1301/ S. 640: Federal Employees Civil Relief Act / Rep. Derek Kilmer, D-WA / Sen. Brian Schatz, D-HI

Cosponsors: H.R. 1301: 2 (D) S. 640 15 (D) 1 (I)

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

Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability 2/8/2023

Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability 1/26/2023

Referred to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs 1/26/2023

Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability, Veteran’s Affairs and House Administration 2/7/2023

Referred to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs 2/7/2023

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

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

Referred to the Senate Committee on Finance 3/2/2023

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More Than Just Hearing Aids

Blue Cross and Blue Shield Service Benefit Plan members get a full hearing care package when they use their allowance through TruHearing®

The TruHearing Program Includes:

Personalized Care

Guidance and assistance from a TruHearing Hearing Consultant

Professional exam from a local, licensed provider

1 year of follow-up visits for fitting and adjustments to ensure you’re completely satisfied with your hearing aids

Next-Generation Sound Devices for Your Lifestyle

The latest chips and algorithms combine to make speech clearer, even in the most challenging environments

Advanced sensors automatically adjust to the noise around you for better clarity and natural sound

New models include sound enhancement technology to make your voice sound more natural to you

1 The Service Benefit Plan will pay a hearing aid benefit for Standard and Basic Options up to $2,500 total every 5 calendar years for adults age 22 and over, and up to $2,500 total per calendar year for members up to age 22. FEP Blue Focus does not have a hearing aid benefit. Do not rely on this communication piece alone for complete benefit information. All benefits are subject to the definitions, limitations, and exclusions in the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Service Benefit Plan brochure. The Blue365® Discount Program offers access to savings on items that you may purchase directly from independent vendors, which may be different from items covered under the Service Benefit Plan or any other applicable federal healthcare program. For hearing aids, acupuncture, chiropractic and vision services, you must exhaust your Service Benefit Plan benefit first before accessing the savings of the Blue365®

Bluetooth connectivity for streaming your favorite music, TV and phone calls straight to your ears3

A wide variety of rechargeable models that keep a charge for an entire day4

Options to match your lifestyle including virtually undetectable devices

Discount Program. To find out what is covered under your policy, contact the customer service number on the back of your member ID card. The products and services described herein are neither offered nor guaranteed under any local Blue company’s contract with the Medicare program. These items are not subject to the Medicare appeal process. Any disputes regarding these products and services are not subject to the Disputed Claims process. Blue Cross Blue Shield Association (BCBSA) may receive payments from Blue365 vendors. Neither the Service Benefit Plan, nor any local Blue company recommends, endorses, warrants or guarantees any specific Blue365 vendor or item. The Service Benefit Plan reserves the right to change, modify, or terminate any item and vendors made available through Blue365, at any time.

2 Price shown does not include cost of comprehensive hearing exam. Examination and testing for prescribing of hearing aids is covered under the Service Benefit Plan. The member should confirm that the provider rendering the hearing exam is a Preferred provider. If the provider is Non-preferred, the member may be charged a maximum fee of $45 for the exam, and the member may need to submit a claim for reimbursement. Must be a Service Benefit Plan member to access TruHearing discounted pricing. TruHearing is offered through Blue365, which provides exclusive health and wellness deals and is a program of Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, an association of independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies. The Blue Cross® and Blue Shield® words and symbols, Federal Employee Program®, FEP® and Blue365® are all trademarks owned by Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.

3 Smartphone compatible hearing aids connect directly to iPhone®, iPad®, and iPod® Touch devices. Connectivity also available to many Android® phones with use of an accessory. 4 Rechargeable features may not be available in all models and styles. All content ©2021 TruHearing, Inc. All Rights Reserved. TruHearing® is a registered trademark of TruHearing, Inc. All other trademarks, product names, and company names are the property of their respective owners. Listed benefit amount may differ from customer's actual benefit. Actual customer payment will vary. Follow-up provider visits included for one year following hearing aid purchase. Hearing aid repairs, and replacements subject to provider and manufacturer fees. For questions regarding fees, contact TruHearing customer

Q&A

THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS & ANSWERS were compiled by NARFE’s Federal Benefits Institute experts. NARFE does not provide legal, financial planning or tax advice or assistance.

DEFERRED RETIREMENT

QI’ve attended a couple of retirement classes and have received conflicting information regarding a postponed retirement. I plan to resign in about five years when I am 58 with 24 years of service, then delay the application for my retirement until I turn 60. Will my unused sick leave count? Will I be able to receive the FERS Special Retirement Supplement? What happens with my health and life insurance? When could I receive the COLA? Am I eligible for any retirement benefits if I left federal service now, at age 53 with 19 years of service?

AThere are two main ways to receive your FERS basic retirement benefit. The first is a deferred retirement which is available if you separate from federal employment before meeting the minimum age and/ or service requirements for an immediate retirement benefit. To qualify for a deferred retirement benefit, you must have performed a minimum of five years of creditable civilian service and be under age 62 prior to separation or have at least 10 years of service and under the Minimum Retirement Age or “MRA.” Your MRA is between age 55 and 57 (57 if you were born in 1970 or later).

You can apply for a deferred retirement at age 62 – or as early as your MRA if you separated with at least 10 years of creditable service. A deferred retirement does not allow credit for unused sick leave and is not entitled to receive the FERS Special Retirement Supplement (SRS). Deferred retirement applicants are not eligible to reinstate their insurance (FEHB, FEGLI, or FEDVIP) in retirement. The other way to receive your FERS retirement benefit is an immediate retirement. This means you are eligible to begin receiving your retirement benefit within 30 days of your

separation. This could be an “early” retirement or a disability retirement, but in most cases, an immediate retirement is considered “optional” because the employee has reached their MRA and minimum service requirements while employed and may choose to retire on any date. Although you must have a minimum of five years of creditable civilian service, the additional service may be a combination of civilian service and military active duty. Military service requires a paid service credit deposit to be creditable. Here are the minimum age and service requirements to qualify for an optional immediate retirement:

• MRA with 30 years

• 60 with 20 years

• 62 with 5 years

• MRA with 10 years (benefit is reduced 5% for each year under age 62 unless one of the other age and service requirements are met)

◊ You may choose to postpone receiving the MRA + 10 retirement benefit to avoid some or all the age reduction. An immediate retirement receives credit for unused sick

leave even if the application is postponed to avoid the age reduction. This pamphlet provides the conversion chart to convert your hours of sick leave to months and days of service credit: https://www.opm.gov/ retirement-center/publicationsforms/pamphlets/ri83-8.pdf.

Continuation of health and life insurance is an additional benefit of retiring with an immediate retirement if you also meet the “five-year” test of having that coverage for the five years immediately preceding your retirement. Your health benefits (FEHB) coverage can be reinstated for a postponed MRA + 10 retirement once you begin to receive your annuity if the five-year test was met prior to leaving Federal service. Your life insurance (FEGLI) may also be reinstated based on the level of coverage you had that met the five-year test prior to your separation. You will also be able to elect supplemental dental and/ or vision coverage under FEDVIP as there is no five-year test for this enrollment.

If you are eligible for an immediate, unreduced retirement under FERS, you will be entitled to a FERS SRS which is an additional payment to “bridge” the time between your retirement and qualifying for Social Security at age 62. An MRA + 10 retirement is not entitled to the FERS SRS, even if you choose to postpone your application.

If you plan to apply for a deferred or postponed retirement, it is advisable to review the Application for a Postponed or Deferred Annuity application, RI 92-19 https://www.opm.gov/ forms/pdf_fill/ri92-19.pdf to be sure you understand how to complete this form. You will later submit the completed application directly to the Office of Personnel Management. Before resigning, and if permitted, it is a good idea

to save a paper or electronic copy of your entire eOPF (electronic Official Personnel Folder). It is important to maintain copies of your service history that show the beginning and ending dates of each appointment, along with any changes in work schedule or retirement coverage. Maintain your final leave and earnings statement to document your sick leave balance and CSRS or FERS retirement contributions for this appointment. If you wish to maintain your health insurance while you delay your application for retirement, you will have the opportunity to elect Temporary Continuation of Coverage (TCC) for up to 18 months. You will pay the employee and employer share of the premium plus an extra 2% administrative fee while covered. You may begin taking Thrift Savings Plan distributions once your payroll provider has notified the TSP of your separation; this typically takes about 30 days. Your retirement benefit will be computed using your high-3 average salary at the time you

COUNTDOWN TO COLA

separate and your total length of creditable service. Your FERS benefit will not receive any cost-ofliving adjustments until after you reach age 62.

To learn more about your retirement, visit https://www. opm.gov/retirement-center/. The NARFE Federal Benefits Institute has a webinar, Understanding Deferred/Postponed Retirements Options, archived at https:// www.narfe.org/federal-benefitsinstitute/narfe-webinars/ webinar-archive/

RETIREMENT

MEDICARE

QHow can I pay for Medicare Part B premiums if I am not receiving Social Security retirement benefits?

AThere are several ways to pay for Medicare Part B:

• Online through a secure Medicare account at https://

The Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) increased 0.33%in March 2023. To calculate the 2024 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), the 2023 third-quarter indices will be averaged and compared with the 2022 third-quarter average of 291.901.

The percentage increase determines the COLA. March’s index, 296.021, is up 1.40% from the base.

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

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

Questions & Answers

www.medicare.gov/account/ login

• Medicare Easy Pay: This free service allows automatic deduction of your premium payments from your savings or checking account each month. More details visit https://www.medicare.gov/ basics/costs/pay-premiums/ medicare-easy-pay

• Mail your payment (check, money order, credit, or debit card) to Medicare using a coupon and the provided return envelope. For more details visit https://www. medicare.gov/basics/costs/ pay-premiums

Medicare Premium Collection Center/PO Box 790355

St. Louis, MO 63179-0355

If you retired under CSRS and are not entitled to Social Security retirement benefits, then you can have Medicare premiums withheld from your OPM annuity payments. OPM must receive a request for the withholding from Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. OPM cannot withhold premiums based on your direct request or even one from the Social Security Administration. Call Medicare with any billing of premiums questions at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or TTY: 1-877-486-2048.

QI need to learn more about becoming eligible and applying for Medicare. What resources are available?

AMost people sign up for Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) when they’re first eligible, typically at age 65. If you’re working and covered

through an employer group health plan such as FEHB, you may delay Part B without a late enrollment penalty. This is also true if your spouse is working, and you are covered under their “current employment” health insurance. If you are age 65 or older and receive Social Security benefits, you will be automatically enrolled in Part A and Part B. If you don’t want Part B, follow the instructions that come with the card, and send the card back. There is no premium for Part A for most people since you paid the 1.45 percent payroll tax during your career. Part B has a standard premium of $164.90 / month / person in 2023 and for those with higher income, the premium will include a surcharge or “Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount” that can substantially increase the cost of Part B. Part A covers inpatient care such as room and board during an inpatient hospitalization. Part B is medical insurance for outpatient medical expenses such as services from doctors and other health care providers, durable medical equipment (like wheelchairs, walkers, etc.), and some preventive services. To learn more about Medicare enrollment, see CMS Publication, available at https://www.medicare.gov/ Pubs/pdf/11036-EnrollingMedicare-Part-A-Part-B.pdf. To learn about the basics of Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D, visit: https:// www.medicare.gov/basics/ get-started-with-medicare

The NARFE Federal Benefits Institute has webinars archived on the topic of coordination of Medicare and FEHB: https:// www.narfe.org/federal-benefitsinstitute/narfe-webinars/ webinar-archive/. Check out Section 9 of your FEHB plan

brochure or your plan website for an explanation of how your plan coordinates with other insurance, including Medicare. Find links to your plan’s website and brochures: https://www. opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/ healthcare/plan-information/ plans/.

QHow can I change my dental or vision plan?

AYou may change your Federal Employees Dental or Vision plan at www.benefeds.com during the annual open season periods or when you have a Qualifying Life Event. The number to contact Benefeds is 1-877-888-3337, TTY 1-877-889-5680 or International +1-571-730-5942.

SURVIVOR BENEFITS

QI retired a few years ago and am getting married soon. Can I add my new spouse to my insurance? How can I elect a survivor benefit?

ACongratulations! You can add your new spouse to health, dental, and/ or vision coverage up to 31 days before or up to 60 days after the date of your marriage. You may also make changes during annual open seasons or other Qualified Life Event (QLE). For FEHB changes, use the Health Benefits Election Form, OPM form 2809: https://www.opm.gov/forms/pdf_ fill/opm2809.pdf. Submit form to OPM using the address provided on the form to change your FEHB coverage or enrollment. To add your new spouse to your dental or vision supplement under FEDVIP, you must first check your eligibility and create a My BENEFEDS

account. Then, select “Enroll” in dental or vision coverage from your account dashboard to answer a few questions to determine what QLE you experienced and if it allows you to enroll outside of open season. Retirees are not eligible to increase their life insurance coverage under the Federal Employees Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) program. You may provide a survivor benefit to a spouse that you marry after retirement within two years of the date of marriage. If you retired under the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) or CSRS Offset, you may elect to provide 55% of any amount up to the amount of your unreduced retirement benefit. Under the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) you may elect either the maximum survivor benefits equal to 50% of your unreduced FERS benefit or a partial survivor benefit equal to 25% of your FERS benefit. If you happen to remarry the same person to whom you were married at retirement, you cannot elect a survivor annuity greater than the one you elected at retirement. For a post-retirement survivor election, there will be two reductions in your annuity:

1. The normal reduction to provide the survivor benefit:

• The reduction for FERS depends on the election of the maximum or partial survivor benefit. The reduction is either:

◊ 10% of your basic annuity for the max or

◊ 5% of your basic annuity for the partial

• The reduction for CSRS depends on the base selected for the survivor election. The reduction to your benefit will be computed as:

◊ 2.5% of the first $3600 of your basic annuity, then 10% of the remainder up to the amount you have chosen as the base for the survivor benefit. For example, if you elect to provide a survivor benefit equal to 55% of $10,000 (which provides $5,500 / year or $458 / month to your surviving spouse), the reduction would be $730 / year or $60.80 monthly (2.5% of $3,600 + 10% of $6,400).

2. A permanent actuarial reduction equal to the difference between the new annuity rate with the survivor benefit and the old one without the survivor benefit since your retirement, plus 6 percent interest. The actuarial reduction continues even if the marriage ends.

When you write to OPM, include a copy of your marriage certificate, your full name, the name of your new spouse, your CSA number, and signature.

OPM will send you specific information on the cost of the benefit and ask you to confirm your election. OPM, Remarriage after Retirement, Retirement Operations Center, P.O. Box 45 Boyers, PA 16017-0045.

You may also want to update your beneficiary designations:

• Federal Employees Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) https:// www.opm.gov/forms/pdf_ fill/sf2823.pdf

• Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) and/or Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) https://www.opm.gov/ forms/pdf_fill/sf3102.pdf

OPM must receive the forms before your death to be valid. You can email retire@opm.gov and/or call OPM at 1-888-767-

6738 to request the forms or complete them online at www. opm.gov/forms and mail them to OPM as directed on the form. To learn more about designating beneficiaries for your Thrift Savings Plan account, you will need to log into your My TSP account. Learn more by reading the TSP Death Benefits Booklet, Publication 31, https://www.tsp. gov/publications/tspbk31.pdf

OPM CONTACT INFO

QWhat and when is the best way to contact OPM?

AWe all know what it is like to call for customer service only to be told, “Our lines our busy, please wait for the next available representative” or worse, “Please try again later.” To avoid this situation, try using OPM Services Online at https:// www.servicesonline.opm.gov/ This is an online service allowing retirees the ability to make many changes electronically. You may also find your question answered at the Customer Support Center available at https://www.opm. gov/support/retirement/. Other ways to contact OPM are by email or phone. Email at retire@ opm.gov. To call, use 1-888-7676738 or TTY: 711. The lines are open Monday through Friday, 7:40 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET, closed on federal holidays. The busiest time is between 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. ET.

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.

Moving to an Encore Federal Career

Retirement may provide a new and exciting adventure or a chance to do something familiar. In some cases, federal employees retire only to begin a period federal reemployment. It is possible to become reemployed in federal service while receiving a CSRS or FERS retirement benefit. Here are some of the ways to become reemployed in federal service along with a few considerations before you begin an “encore” federal career.

REEMPLOYED ANNUITANT

CSRS and FERS retirees may return to federal service under a temporary (temporary or term) or a permanent appointment (career, career-conditional, excepted, etc.). Your work schedule may be fulltime, part-time or intermittent.

Positives:

• While reemployed, you continue to share your knowledge and expertise.

• If hired under a position that conveys health insurance, you may participate in premium conversion (paying premiums pre-tax) if you re-enroll as an employee.

• Reemployed Annuitants may be reemployed in a position that conveys eligibility for health benefits and life insurance.

• Depending on the length of reemployment, you may qualify for a supplemental or a redetermined annuity when you retire from your second career. This requires a minimum of one year of full-time service to earn a supplemental annuity benefit or five years to earn a full recomputation.

• If a reemployed annuitant is performing service covered by FERS or CSRS, the reemployed annuitant is eligible to participate in the TSP. If you are facing IRS RMDs (Required Minimum Distributions), these may be postponed while you are contributing to the TSP.

• Continuing employment may allow you to delay filing for Social Security while your benefit continues to grow.

Negative:

• You may be working only for the difference between your new salary and the amount of your CSRS or

FERS annuity, as your salary may be offset by the amount of annuity (prorated on an hourly basis), depending on the type of retirement you are receiving. Note that a retiree’s annuity is terminated upon reemployment in the Federal service when based on an involuntary separation, disability or when the annuitant receives a presidential appointment subject to retirement deductions. For more information, visit www.narfe. org/opm-ri90-18.

REEMPLOYMENT OF CIVILIAN RETIREES TO MEET EXCEPTIONAL EMPLOYMENT NEEDS/ DUAL COMPENSATION WAIVER

This is a temporary appointment with a limitation on the number of hours you may work and a limit on the period of reemployment. Reemployment is granted under four categories of case-by-case waivers: emergency hiring need; severe recruiting difficulty; need to retain a particular individual uniquely qualified for a specific project; and requests based on other unusual circumstances not rising to the level of an emergency.

Positives:

• You will receive your annuity and full salary without an offset.

• Earn both annual and sick leave during the period of reemployment.

IT IS POSSIBLE TO BECOME REEMPLOYED IN FEDERAL SERVICE WHILE RECEIVING A CSRS OR FERS RETIREMENT BENEFIT.

• If the reemployment is for more than one year, health benefits coverage is available.

Negative:

• This type of reemployment does not provide coverage under CSRS or FERS; therefore, there is no increase to your existing annuity and no contributions to TSP are permitted. For more information visit www.narfe.org/ opm-dual-waiver.

PHASED RETIREMENT

This is a two-step retirement process. Step one is a period of partial retirement and partial employment. During this period, you will receive 50 percent of your earned retirement benefit while working 50 percent of a full-time work schedule. Step two is entry into full retirement with an increase to the initial retirement benefit based on the period of “phased retirement.”

Positives:

• Mentor and train the next generation of federal employees who will be moving into senior-level positions.

• Continue health and/or life insurance coverage as a full-time employee without paying any of the government share of the premiums.

• Allow time to transition from full time work to full retirement, while increasing your final retirement benefit.

Negative:

• Phased retirement is not available for all positions or at all agencies. For more information visit www.narfe.org/opmphased-retirement

Staying Sharp Behind the Wheel

What older drivers need to know about driving safely, what to look for in a new car, how to save money on car insurance— and when to turn

BY EVERETT A. CHASEN

over the keys

In 2020, there were almost 48 million licensed drivers age 65 or older in the United States, a 68% increase since 2000, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

While driving helps older adults stay mobile and independent, the risk of being injured or killed in a traffic crash increases as people age. This is true even though seniors have extensive experience behind the wheel.

“Senior drivers are among the safest on the road, especially compared to teen drivers,” says Rhonda Shah, Manager, Traffic Safety Advocacy and Community Impact for the Automobile Association of America (AAA)’s Public Affairs Office. “They often reduce their risk of injury by wearing seat belts; they don’t drink and drive; they observe speed limits; and they don’t drive distracted.”

If that’s the case, why are seniors more likely to be hurt or killed in traffic injuries? “Age-related fragility,” Shah explains. “With the exception of teens, seniors have the highest crash death rate per mile driven. As we age, our ability to drive safely is affected by natural changes to our bodies over time.”

What steps can older adults take to stay safer on the roads?

How to Stay Safe

In 2020, about 7,500 older adults were killed in traffic crashes, according to the CDC, and 200,000 were treated in emergency departments for crash injuries. This means that on average, 20 older adults are killed and nearly 540 are injured in crashes each day.

“Our ability to drive requires not only knowledge and experience but healthy vision, plus physical and cognitive ability,” Shah tells NARFE. “While our knowledge and experience expand with age, changes to vision, physical health and mental capabilities require adjustments to help us remain safe drivers. Natural age-related changes occur so subtly we often don’t notice them progressing.”

CDC offers a number of tips to help older drivers stay safe on the road. Foremost among these are to always wear a seat belt as a driver or passenger; to drive when conditions are safest, during daylight and

in good weather; and, of course, to never drink and drive. Here are a few additional steps that can help:

• Follow a regular activity program to increase strength and flexibility.

• Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review medicines—both prescription and over-the counter—to reduce side effects and interactions. CDC offers a fact sheet on its website called Are Your Medicines Increasing Your Risk of a Fall or a Car Crash.

• Have your eyes checked by an eye doctor at least once a year. Wear glasses and corrective lenses as required.

• Plan your route before you drive.

• Find the safest route with well-lit streets, intersections with left-turn signals and easy parking.

• Leave a large following distance between your car and the car in front of you.

• Avoid distractions in your car, such as listening to a loud radio, talking or texting on your phone, and eating.

• Consider potential alternatives to driving, such as riding with a friend, using ride share services or taking public transit.

Make a driver planning agreement with your family

While our knowledge and experience expand with age, changes to vision, physical health and mental capabilities require adjustments to help us remain safe drivers.

Have your eyes checked by an eye doctor at least once a year.

Insurance Issues

“Young drivers under the age of 25 tend to pay by far the most for auto insurance, as their lack of driving experience makes them more likely to file a claim [following an accident],” explains Chase Gardner, data journalist at Insurify, a company that helps insurance buyers get the best deal available by simplifying the process of comparing costs.

“However, buyers over the age of 70 also pay a little more than middle-aged drivers, since drivers in these older age groups are also slightly more likely to file a claim, ” he continues. According to Gardner, drivers over the age of 70 still pay much less for car insurance on average than drivers under 25.

Gardner suggests that if your premium is starting to rise, “it never hurts to shop around for a new policy.” Insurance companies calculate risk differently, so one company may give you a better rate than another for being the exact same driver. By comparing rates from four to five different companies, you can be sure you’re getting the best policy. “Sometimes,” he adds, “staying with your current company and taking advantage of loyalty

discounts will still be the cheapest option, but it’s always a good idea to check.”

He believes if older drivers have changed their driving habits significantly, it could be worthwhile to explore usage-based insurance policies. These plans track your habits and overall mileage, charging you only for the miles you drive and rewarding drivers who show caution behind the wheel.

Insurify encourages older drivers who believe they are careful motorists and don’t drive as often as they did in the past to speak with an agent to see if a usage-based policy is right for them. “The savings could be significant,” Gardner tells NARFE.

Finally, Gardner recommends older drivers consider senior driving safety courses; some insurers reward completion of the course with a sizable discount. AAA, for example, offers a Roadwise Driver Course online ( https://exchange. aaa.com/safety/senior-driver-safety-mobility/ aaa-roadwise-driver/) geared toward helping older drivers understand age-related changes they may experience, and explaining ways they can adjust their driving accordingly. Interactive exercises that are part of the course include brain training and assessments.

Choose a vehicle with the right features that you understand how to use properly

Explore a usagebased insurance policy

Insurify has found that, on average, drivers eligible to receive a senior driver safety course discount save 15 percent on their policies.

Car Buying Tips for Seniors

If you’re looking for a new car, how do you determine what type “fits” you? Shah explains that “choosing a vehicle with the right features that you understand how to use properly is key.” More and more, drivers are recognizing the value in having vehicles with advanced driver assistance systems like blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning and lane-keeping assist.

Other valuable technologies available on many cars include forward automatic emergency braking, advanced cruise control, adaptive headlights (which direct your headlights slightly in the same direction as the steering wheel when entering a curve, thereby projecting additional light onto your path of travel), automatic crash notification and parking assistance.

While many of these options are offered in newer vehicles, some drivers are unaware of the safety limitations of these systems. Lack of

understanding or confusion about the proper function of these technologies can lead to misuse or over-reliance on the technology, which can result in a deadly crash. In addition, some people find these new systems distracting instead of helpful.

Keep in mind that while new vehicle safety technologies can improve your comfort and safety behind the wheel, they are not perfect. You must remain engaged and attentive at all times, no matter what technologies are in your vehicle.

Some AAA clubs across the nation offer a CarFit program—an educational program offering older adults the opportunity to see how well their personal vehicles fit them. The program also provides information and materials on communityspecific resources that could enhance their safety as drivers and increase their mobility.

Options for Older Drivers

AAA also provides a driver planning agreement online ( https://exchange.aaa.com/wp-content/ uploads/2021/03/Driver-Planning-Agreement.pdf ) to help families plan together for continued, safe mobility. The agreement requires family members

If older drivers have changed their driving habits significantly, it could be worthwhile to explore usage-based insurance policies

Watch for These Signs

It can be hard for some people to recognize or admit when it’s no longer safe to drive. These are some signs from the National Institute on Aging that it may be time for you or a loved one to stop driving:

• Multiple vehicle crashes, near misses, or new dents or scrapes on the car

• Two or more traffic tickets or warnings within the last two years

• Increases in car insurance premiums because of driving issues

• Comments from neighbors or friends about erratic, unsafe, or aggressive driving

• Anxiety about driving at night

• Health issues that might affect driving, including problems with vision, hearing, and movement

• Complaints about the speed, sudden lane changes, or actions of other drivers

• Recommendations from a doctor to modify driving habits or quit driving entirely

• Learn more at https://www.nia.nih.gov/ health/older-drivers

Shah suggests it’s important to plan ahead for driving retirement. “Consider what would happen if the transportation you use today is no longer an option tomorrow. How would you continue to maintain your independence so that you could continue with your daily routines? Who would you turn to for assistance?”

Thinking ahead about alternative transportation options can give a person peace of mind should their current means of getting around change. Keep in mind that not all types of transportation are available in every community. Organizations that support older Americans can help you learn about your options. The US Administration on Aging operates an eldercare locator (www.eldercare.acl.gov/Public/Index.aspx) to help you connect to services for older adults and their families in your community.

Professional Driving Assessments

When is it time to hand over your keys? “Getting a professional driving assessment can be a good idea if you or your loved one is concerned about your driving safety,” Shah tells us. “In fact, driving performance should be assessed regularly.”

to help older drivers explore all of their options to keep them driving or mobile—and if they are concerned about the driver’s abilities, to help them access appropriate resources or services that can potentially mitigate those concerns.

The agreement also commits the family to help older drivers explore other forms of transportation and show them all of their choices. It recognizes these options may complement their driving or be used as a substitute to extend mobility if driving becomes unsafe. It concludes, “I trust my family to prioritize my safety and mobility and to not ask me to stop driving until all options have been explored,” and designates a family member or trusted friend to discuss if it is safe or reasonable for the older driver to continue driving.

Not only can a professional driving assessment help you recognize and correct possible shortcomings, but it can also result in a specialized plan to help you continue to drive safely. “Think about getting a professional driving assessment the same way as you look at visiting your doctor for annual wellness checkups—as a smart way to identify and manage any physical or mental changes,” she adds.

There are two types of assessments—driving skills assessments and clinical driving assessments. Driving skill evaluations include an in-car evaluation of your driving abilities and a recommendation regarding specialized training, if needed.

Clinical driving assessments identify underlying medical causes of any driving performance deficits and offer ways to address them. They are best for people with a broad spectrum of physical and cognitive disabilities, including dementia, stroke, arthritis, low vision, cardiovascular diseases and other causes of functional deficits.

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The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) offers a nationwide database of driving programs and specialists, available at https://myaota.aota.org/driver_search/. Drivers of all ages should have their performance assessed regularly, Shah counsels. “Driving is a skill that can and should be continually improved. Taking a comprehensive driving improvement course will ensure you have the most up-to-date driving techniques and understand the latest vehicle technologies.”

For children of older drivers

Shah offers guidance to children of parents who believe their parents may no longer be able to drive safely in all situations. “It’s important to remember that initiating a conversation about safe driving with an older driver, especially a parent, is challenging for most people. Concerns about offending or alienating an older driver are normal,” she says.

“Communicate openly and respectfully,” she continues. “Nobody wants to be called a dangerous driver, so avoid generalizing about older drivers or jumping to conclusions about their skills or abilities behind the wheel. Be positive, be supportive, and focus on ways to help keep them safe on the go.”

She suggests avoiding interventions, and keeping the discussion between you and the

older driver. “Inviting the whole family to the conversation will alienate and possibly anger the person you’re trying to help.”

Make privacy a priority by always asking for the older person’s permission to speak with a driver’s physician, friends or neighbors about the driver’s behavior behind the wheel, and never make assumptions. Focus on the facts available to you, such as a medical condition or medication regimen that might make driving unsafe. Don’t accuse an older driver of being unsafe or assume that the driver should stop driving altogether. Focus the conversation on safe driving and on working together.

Finally, Shah counsels older drivers that “we have to be our own best advocate when it comes to changes in our health and driving. Many older drivers self-regulate their driving patterns, meaning they don’t drive at night, when traffic is heaviest and on roads like highways. Although selfregulation practices can be used by any driver, they are most commonly observed in older drivers.”

“Simply getting older doesn’t mean it’s time to hang up your keys,” concludes the US Department of Transportation, “but you should evaluate how you—or loved ones—drive.”

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

Thinking ahead about alternative transportation options can give a person peace of mind should their current means of getting around change.

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Investing With Purpose

Are values-based funds right for you?

BY DAVID TOBENKIN

The two goals of environmental, social, governance (ESG) funds, which focus on socially responsible investments and investing strategies, are doing well for investors and benefiting the world. But many financial advisers and experts note federal employees and annuitants must exercise diligence when considering whether to invest in these funds, as they present risks beyond those in the relatively plain vanilla Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) offerings with which many federal employees and annuitants are familiar. And some question whether they are a good idea at all.

considers the broader impact of its investments on people and the planet, says Jon Hale, Global Head of Sustainability Research at investment analysis firm Morningstar.

“Some funds simply focus on investments that do no significant harm to society, while others orient their investments towards holdings that can create positive benefits to society,” Hale says. “And most of them also have impact through direct engagement with companies in which they’re invested, monitoring and advocating for ESG progress, and thinking about what the company is doing today to ensure that it will be around 50 years from now.”

There are two basic options for investing in ESG funds. The first is to invest in such funds outside of the TSP through taxable brokerage accounts with an independent brokerage like E*Trade or Charles Schwab or those of fund families like Fidelity or Vanguard.

The second option is to invest in ESG funds within the TSP, the very low cost 401(k) type retirement saving plan that the federal government offers to federal employees and annuitants.

Investing in ESG funds through the TSP became an option only recently, in June 2022 when the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board (FRTIB), which operates the TSP, opened a “mutual fund window” through which qualified participants could invest a portion of their TSP holdings in an

an option: the TSP only offered four major stock and bond funds, all based upon major indexes –the C Fund, offering the stocks of a composite of larger corporations; the S Fund, focused on stock of a portfolio of smaller corporations; the I Fund, focused on the stocks of international corporations; the F Fund, focused on a portfolio of bond holdings; as well as lifecycle funds that are combinations of the funds and a G Fund composed of low-growth US Treasury securities. The TSP is well-known as a well-managed, very low-cost investment vehicle with which one can adequately save for retirement and beyond.

The new TSP mutual fund window has more than 5,000 funds in which eligible TSP participants can invest. However, there are some requirements to participate in, and restrictions tied to, the mutual fund window:

• TSP investors must have at least $40,000 in their accounts.

• The minimum initial transfer for the mutual fund window is $10,000.

• Mutual fund transfers can’t exceed 25% of an investor’s TSP index fund balance.

Mutual funds within the window also charge fees not applicable to core TSP offerings, including an annual maintenance fee, which is required so that mutual fund window administrative costs don’t get passed to the TSP’s non-mutual fund window participants, notes Weaver.

There are a total of 215 funds that appear to meet the characteristics of an ESG fund within the mutual fund window, says Carol Schmidlin, President of Franklin Planning, a Sewell, N.J.based financial advising service with many federal employee and annuitant clients.

General Caveats Regarding Investing Beyond Plain Vanilla Indexes

The TSP’s design in part reflect the efficient market hypothesis that buying funds composed of stocks and bonds of a large section of the market through very broad, low cost index funds and holding them for a long time is safe and secure route to benefiting from overall growth in the US and international economy over time. Holding a large number of companies stock reduces the risk that one or a few companies will falter and drag returns down. There is considerable academic research evaluating decades of stock market returns that this is a sound approach, notes Sanjai Bhagat, a professor of finance at the University of Colorado at Boulder.

Once investors stray from the TSP funds or similar very broadly diversified, low cost index funds to add significant other holdings, investing risks increase and investors must become more informed and involved in managing their holdings or retain financial advisers to do so on their behalf, both Schmidlin and Hale concur.

Among the factors they or advisers will need to examine are:

• Whether investments in a fund are aligned with fund goals

• The track record of fund performance, which should be at least three years and ideally at least five, Hale says.

• The expense ratios of non-index based funds, which can be vastly greater than those of the TSP funds and erode net returns to investors

• Other fees imposed and their magnitude

• The level of risk in an investment or investment strategy and the danger that an investment, even if performing well for a period, will eventually underperform.

• The competence and track record of the fund manager and whether there is a good bench

•

that will allow the fund to survive a manager’s departure

How

a fund holding fits into the investor’s overall financial plan

The prospectuses of funds are required to disclose many of the fund details. Importantly, investors must continue to reanalyze such factors for their investments on a regular basis.

Rating services like Morningstar that rate funds and are independent from them can help. “Our star ratings (one to five, with more stars preferable) measure a particular fund’s past performance as compared to its peers, and I would recommend investing in funds with at least three stars,” Hale says. “We also have analyst ratings that assess expected future performance of funds. Look for funds rated gold, silver, or bronze, and avoid those rated neutral or negative. And we also have a globe rating that is based on ESG evaluations of holdings in a fund’s portfolio, from one globe, low, to five, the best. So you could combine those and say, ‘I want a star rating of four or five; a medal rating of gold, silver or bronze; and a globe rating of four or five;’-- that would likely yield a pretty competitive list of ESG funds.” TSP participants can access Morningstar’s ESG screener for free at Morningstar. com, Hale says.

Do ESG Funds Make Sense?

With those general observations, that brings us to ESG funds as investment vehicles. Many financial experts are skeptical as to whether ESG funds are worth the effort. The University of Colorado’s Bhagat says many scholarly studies show ESG funds tend to underperform non-ESG funds.

“Your readers should not be investing in ESG funds,” Bhagat says. “The data shows no credible evidence that ESG investments offer investors better performance in terms of lower risk and higher return. In fact, the results run exactly the opposite direction: funds that have emphasized ESG have had lower returns and higher risks.”

Bhagat also questions whether a special ESG investment focus is needed, given in a competitive labor market, managers (voluntarily) have to compensate their workers fairly and treat them well if they wish to hire and retain them and, similarly,

Jon Hale, Global Head of

Sustainability Research at investment analysis firm

Morningstar, says the following funds, with accompanying descriptions by Hale, are reasonably good ESGoriented, low-cost (expense ratio) approximations of the Thrift Savings Plan’s C Fund, the S Fund, the I Fund, and the F Fund:

C Fund equivalents

Calvert US Large Cap Core Responsible Index Fund I (CISIX) 4 stars, Bronze-rated, 4 globes, 0.24% expense ratio

This fund focuses on large US companies that are consistent with Calvert’s Principles for Responsible Investments, and Calvert actively engages with companies to improve their sustainability performance. Over the trailing five years (through Feb 2023), CISIX has outperformed the C Fund. For the trailing three years, CISIX has very slightly underperformed the C Fund. The fund launched in June 2000.

Parnassus Core Equity Fund Inv (PRBLX) 4 stars, Gold-rated, 5 globes 0.82% expense ratio

This is an actively managed fund, so its expense ratio is higher than those of index funds. The fund uses ESG criteria to narrow and analyze the universe, while focusing on identifying companies with sustainable competitive advantages. The fund has underperformed the C Fund over the trailing three-years, but has comfortably outperformed it over the trailing five years. The fund launched in August 1992.

S Fund equivalents

IShares ESG Aware MSCI USA Small-Cap ETF (ESML) 3 stars, Silver-rated, 4 globes, 0.17% expense ratio

This fund tracks the MSCI USA Small Cap Extended ESG Focus Index, which narrows a broader small cap index by filtering out companies involved in controversial activities and tilts the portfolio towards companies with better overall ESG ratings. ESML launched in April 2018, so it is less than 5 years old. Over the

have to be responsive to customer concerns, including ESG concerns. He notes, for example, that US businesses went to extraordinary lengths to safeguard their employees’ health during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Schmidlin says that while few of her federal employee clients have approached her about investing in ESG funds or other sustainable investments, she views ESG investments as a potentially reasonable investment strategy “if it’s something important to their values and beliefs.” However, Schmidlin stressed investors need to exercise their due diligence before investing in such funds.

“I researched eight of the funds in the TSP mutual fund window that seemed like potentially good ESG funds to invest in and every one of them seemed to be underperforming similar indexes,” Schmidlin says. “I think you are really going to need to scrutinize these funds to make sure they are what you think they are and I would be concerned you might be sacrificing investment performance. I also would be concerned the average investor would not do the research that is necessary.”

On the other hand, Morningstar’s Hale says the design and diversity of ESG funds has matured to the point where an investor can find ESG funds that have versions that are relatively low cost, low-risk; are tied to broad indexes in a manner similar to the TSP’s funds; and are competitive in performance. Morningstar provides ratings for such funds. Hale provides ESG equivalents to the major TSP funds in a chart on the left.

How to Invest in ESG Funds

If one were to consider investing in ESG funds, Schmidlin notes that investing outside of the TSP might be superior, as investing in an IRA or other custodial account can be done within custodian fund families like Vanguard, Fidelity and Schwab with low or no trading fees for ETFs and fewer transaction fees than through the TSP mutual fund window.

JUNE 20-22 2023

NARFE’S 2023 VIRTUAL LEGISLATIVE TRAINING CONFERENCE Register now!

ENGAGE WITH YOUR LEGISLATORS

Registration is now OPEN for NARFE’s virtual LEGcon23. Visit legcon.narfe.org.

Registration fee: $150

LEGcon23 is NARFE’s virtual legislative conference scheduled for June 20-22, 2023. The three-day program includes two days of interactions with congressional leaders and policy experts and training to build advocacy skills. On the third day of the conference, stakeholders will participate in virtual group meetings with their legislators to discuss the issues affecting the federal community.

Why should you participate?

• Come together as an organized and influential constituent group to demonstrate the size and political influence of the active and retired federal community.

• Network with your federation and chapter peers.

• Improve your advocacy skills to effectively communicate and influence your legislators’ decision-making.

• Hear directly from congressional leaders who will address the status of legislation to repeal or reform the Windfall Elimination Provision and Government Pension Offset, provide equal COLAs for federal retirees, and combat potential threats to critical federal benefit programs.

• Hear from congressional staff on the most effective ways you can communicate with them.

• Caucus with your NARFE federation and chapter groups to participate in virtual visits with your legislators to help put a face on federal community issues, enabling them to make a better connection between them and the financial well-being of their constituents and districts.

Register now at legcon.narfe.org.

I was impressed with the event. It was organized and easy to participate.

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The value per cost was excellent. I am not likely to be able to afford an actual trip to DC to attend LegCon so really appreciated the chance to participate in this virtual presentation.

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LEARN FROM TOP EXPERTS

trailing 3 years, it has comfortably outperformed the S Fund.

Boston Trust Walden Small Cap Fund (BOSOX) 5 stars, Silver-rated, 4 globes, 1.00% expense ratio

This is an actively managed fund, so its expense ratio is higher than those of index funds. The fund screens out companies deriving significant revenue from certain products and activities including tobacco, weapons, private prisons, factory farming, and coal mining. It focus on companies with strong financials that integrate ESG factors into management. Launched in December 2005, the fund has comfortably outperformed the S Fund over both the trailing 3 and 5 years, despite its higher expense ratio.

I Fund equivalent

Calvert International Responsible Index Fund

I (CDHIX) 4 stars, Bronze-rated, 4 globes, 0.29% expense ratio

This fund focuses on large US companies that are consistent with Calvert’s Principles for Responsible Investments, and Calvert actively engages with companies to improve their sustainability performance. Over the trailing three years, CDHIX has underperformed the I Fund, but has outperformed the I fund over the past five years The fund launched in October 2015.

F Fund equivalent

IShares ESG US Aggregate Bond ETF (EAGG) 3 stars, Silver-rated, 4 globes, 0.10% Expense Ratio

This ETF provides broad exposure to the US investment-grade bond market, with a tilt toward corporate issuers possessing strong ESG characteristics. Launched in October 2018, its 3-year return is slightly behind that of the F Fund.

—David Tobenkin

Whether within the TSP window or outside of the TSP, even if one were to use ESG funds, unless they are closely tethered to broadly diversified indexes, they likely should be at most supporting players in any federal employee or annuitant’s equities portfolio, rather than the dominant holding within them, Schmidlin says.

ESG expenses are a key area to scrutinize given it is one of the only key fund attributes entirely within the control of the investor. As noted, the core TSP funds have very low costs. As an example, the C Fund, the S Fund and the I Fund stock mutual funds all have total expense ratios of less than 0.060 percent, or less than a dime per $1,000 invested. Finally, investors must follow examine if one agrees with the ESG fund’s strategy and determine whether the fund is following it with success. Realizing the appeal of ESG to many investors, many fairly standard funds have added “ESG” or “ESG”-like words or descriptions to their marketing materials. It can take some dedicated investor sleuthing to determine whether, aside from investing performance, such funds actually are offering a plausible ESG improvement over broader general investments.

“I think the better sustainable funds will put in the summary prospectus a pretty thorough description of what they’re doing,” Hale says. “If they do not, or if the description is just too sketchy, then I’d probably move on.”

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

It can take some dedicated investor sleuthing to determine whether, aside from investing performance, such funds actually are offering a plausible ESG improvement over broader general investments.

Become a Silver Circle Contributor Today

NARFE offers members a way to give to the association’s General Fund through its donor recognition program, the Silver Circle.

Your contribution to the Silver Circle supports the direct work of NARFE as we continue to provide you resources and advocacy that you rely on and that member dues alone cannot support. When you donate to the Silver Circle, you are ensuring that NARFE has the resources to continue to fight for the financial security and earned benefits for you and the federal community.

NARFE appreciates all financial support you provide to us and would like to recognize you for your generous contributions to our cause. Donate now to the Silver Circle at narfe.org/silvercircle.

With NARFE’s thanks, you will receive:

• A Silver Circle pin and recognition on NARFE.ORG with a donation of $100 or more.

• A Silver Circle pin, your name plate placed on the Silver Circle plaque at NARFE Headquarters, recognition on NARFE.ORG and recognition at the NARFE yearly conference with a donation of $1,000 or more.

To learn more about the Silver Circle donor recognition program or how to recommend an outstanding NARFE member to the Silver Circle, please visit www.narfe.org/silvercircle or email us at donatenow@narfe.org

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Don’t Settle For Low Returns on Your Cash

It’s no secret that interest rates have skyrocketed since the Federal Reserve embarked on its fight against inflation in March 2022. While higher interest rates have increased borrowing costs, the upshot is individuals can now earn a respectable return on their safe assets, such as savings, CDs and money markets.

Despite the massive jump in interest rates, the national average yield for savings accounts remains a meager 0.23% annual percentage yield (APY), according to Bankrate’s weekly survey of institutions from March 15. This doesn’t mean you need to settle for the national average yield on your savings accounts, however. In fact, with a little effort, you can earn well over 3% – even more than 4% – on your savings with one of the many online highyield savings accounts.

Online savings accounts are offered by online banks or financial institutions that operate primarily through the internet, without physical branches. The lower overhead typically allows online banks to offer checking and savings accounts with yields far exceeding the rates offered by traditional brick-and-mortar banks.

Not only do high-yield online savings accounts offer better rates on liquid cash than traditional brick-and-mortar banks, but you can typically get great rates without any account minimums, fees or transaction charges.

In the late 1990s, ING introduced the Orange Savings account by ING Direct – an online bank without branches that offered attractive rates on

savings accounts. Since then, many online banks and savings accounts have popped up, offering savers many options to fit their personal needs. Finding online savings accounts and comparing rates is quick and easy using your favorite internet search engine. In less than a minute, I was able to track down the following online savings accounts and rates (as of March 20, 2023):

• Marcus by Goldman Sachs: 3.75%

• American Express: 3.75%

• Discover Bank: 3.60%

• CapitalOne 360: 3.40% Those are great rates, but they’re not the best rates available for online savings accounts. To get the very best rates, you may have to go with an online savings account that has minimum balance requirements. However, the minimum balance requirements for online banks are typically far less compared to traditional brick-andmortar banks. For example, a $5,000 minimum balance qualifies you for a rate of 4.4% with CIT Bank, a division of First Citizens Bank. Not bad considering you would need at least $1 million to get Wells Fargo’s best published rate of

2.5% with its Platinum Savings account ($100,000 minimum balance will get you 1%).

Besides great rates, convenience and ease of use are additional advantages offered by online savings accounts. In a matter of minutes, you can use your computer or phone to open an account. Once opened, you’ll have access to your account anytime and anywhere through the bank’s website and/or mobile app. You can also transfer money between your online savings account and other bank accounts electronically, without fees, and without having to visit a branch or write a check.

Online savings accounts aren’t without their own set of drawbacks. For starters, not everyone is computer savvy and may not be comfortable banking online or through a mobile app. This may not be an issue, however, with some online savings accounts that have ties to traditional brickand-mortar banks. For example, the CapitalOne 360 Performance Savings account may be opened and accessed online, through their mobile app or at one of Capital One’s locations.

Furthermore, accessing your savings may not be as simple as driving to the local branch and making a withdrawal. Unlike traditional banks that have ATMs or branches where you can withdraw cash for free, online banks often don’t offer ATM cards, and those that do, may charge fees for using out-ofnetwork ATMs.

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ARE ONLINE BANKS SAFE?

With the recent banking turmoil, including the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank, you may be scoffing at the idea of entrusting your savings to an online bank. While you’re wise to be cautious, all the banks mentioned here are members of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), and just like with traditional banks, deposit accounts at these online banks are insured up to $250,000 per ownership category with FDIC coverage. Check out my column in the January/February issue of NARFE magazine for ways to increase FDIC coverage well beyond the $250,000 limit.

You can verify if an online bank is FDIC insured by using the FDIC’s BankFind tool, which you may find at FDIC’s website, www.fdic.gov.

Despite the fact short-term interest rates have jumped over the past year, traditional brick-andmortar bank rates have barely budged. Fortunately, with the proliferation of online savings accounts, you don’t have to accept low returns on your cash anymore.

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

Moderate Physical Activity May Cut Risk of Dementia, Other Cognitive Impairment

According to a new study, senior women were less likely to develop mild cognitive impairment or dementia if they were more active, including through daily walking and other moderate or vigorous physical activity.

The study, by researchers at the Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health Longevity Science at the University of California-San Diego, found that among women age 65 or older, each additional 31 minutes per day of moderate to vigorous physical activity was associated with a 21% lower risk of developing mild cognitive impairment or dementia.

Researchers also found that the risk was around 33% lower with each additional 1,865 daily steps. “Given the fact that the onset of dementia could begin 20 years or more before the symptoms show, the early intervention for delaying or preventing the cognitive decline and dementia among older adults is essential,” according to senior author Andrea LaCroix, Ph.D., M.P.H. Distinguished Professor at the Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and human Longevity Science at UC San Diego.

The study, published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association, asserts that it appears more women live with and are at a higher or greater risk of developing dementia than men.

Dementia is a debilitating neurological condition that can cause loss of memory, the

ability to think, reason or solve problems. Dementia may affect more than 5 million Americans,

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY HAS BEEN IDENTIFIED AS A PROMISING WAY TO REDUCE THE RISK OF DEMENTIA AND ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE. LACROIX STATED THAT PREVENTION IS IMPORTANT BECAUSE ONCE DEMENTIA IS DIAGNOSED, IT IS VERY DIFFICULT TO SLOW IT DOWN OR TO REVERSE IT.

Steven Nguyen, Ph.D., M.P.H., postdoctoral scholar at the Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, wrote that few large studies that have measured movement and sitting in relation to mild cognitive impairment and dementia; much of the published research on the associations of physical activity and sedentary behavior with cognitive decline and dementia is based on selfreported actions.

and that number is expected to double by 2050.

Physical activity has been identified as a promising way to reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. LaCroix stated that prevention is important because once dementia is diagnosed, it is very difficult to slow it down or to reverse it.

For this study, the researchers sampled data from about 1,277 women as a part of two Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) ancillary studies: the WHI Memory Study (WHIMS) and the Objective Physical Activity and Cardiovascular Health (OPACH) study. As a part of the study, women wore research-grade accelerometers, going about their daily activities for up to seven days, in order to obtain accurate measures of physical activity and sitting. Activity trackers showed a daily average of 3,216 steps, with 276 minutes in light physical activities and 45.5 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity, along with 10.5 hours of sitting. Examples of light physical activity included housework and gardening; moderate to vigorous physical activity included brisk walking. This information has clinical and public health importance, as there is little known published information on the

amount of physical activity and the intensity that was needed for a lower dementia risk, according to Nguyen.

“Older adults can be encouraged to increase movement of at least moderate intensity and take more steps each day for a lower risk of mild cognitive impairment and dementia,” said Nguyen. “The findings for steps per day are particularly noteworthy because steps are recorded by a variety of wearable devices increasingly worn by individuals and could be readily adopted.”

The study also showed that a higher amount of sitting and prolonged sitting were not associated with higher risk mild cognitive

impairment or dementia, according to the publication.

More research is needed, such as examining a larger and more diverse population that includes male subjects, the researchers wrote.

To NARFE members: Thank you again for all you have done and are continuing to do in this huge fight against Alzheimer’s. The first survivor of Alzheimer’s disease lives among us today. Together, we are making progress toward our goal, and a cure will be found someday.

Share Your NARFE Pride

ShopNARFE is the official online store offering NARFE-branded merchandise. A portion of the proceeds from all purchases support the organization.

Shop now at www.narfe.org/shopnarfe.

His & Hers T-shirts, Polos and Jackets Baseball Cap

Bumper Sticker & Auto Magnets Tote Bags Face Masks

NARFE Lapel Pin License Plate Frames And More!

NARFE.org/shopnarfe

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

NARFE MAGAZINE SUMMER SCHEDULE

As a reminder, this is a combined June/July issue of the magazine. There will not be a separate July issue mailed in late June.

Why You Need NARFE More Than Ever

Whether you are a current federal employee, a retiree or a survivor, it’s important that you stay on top of legislation affecting your benefits. It’s also crucial that you pay attention to deadlines and options when choosing and using those benefits.

There’s a lot to track, but NARFE is here to help connect you with the information you need.

Professional associations provide connections with people who share your interests, and they offer direct access to focused, expert answers without all the static. NARFE is the association that helps federal employees and retirees cut through the clutter and get straight to the resources that help them understand and manage their valuable federal benefits.

Of course, there are other sources of information. Do a quick Google search on “How to manage my TSP?” and

you’ll get more than 15 million results, many from websites hosted by firms that offer financial planning services. Some information from these providers can be helpful, but they often try to steer you into other services they manage (and get commissions from), rather than helping you take best advantage of the federal benefit opportunities you already have. NARFE’s educational content, articles and other resources provide deep answers and unbiased guidance from experts with decades of experience, helping active and retired Feds get more out of their federal financial and health benefits.

CORRECTION TO TAX INFORMATION

Information about Vermont was incorrect in the April 2023 issue of NARFE Magazine. Starting with the 2022 tax year, Social Security and Civil Service Retirement System income is exempt for single filers making less than $45,000 a year ($60,000 married filing jointly); partially exempt with income up to $55,000 ($70,000 MFJ). We regret the error.

Since 1921, NARFE’s mission has been to defend and advance the benefits you were promised when you signed on with the federal government. In uncertain times, that mission is more important than ever. To that end, NARFE nurtures connections and alliances with influential members of Congress and the administration to protect your future. Rest assured, our experienced advocacy team will continue to work tirelessly for the federal community.

There’s one more thing you can count on from your NARFE membership—value. If you research the cost of the multiple sources of information, education and solutions NARFE provides for less than the price of one fancy coffee drink per month, you’ll find that no one else comes close to providing the same kind of value for that small annual investment. In short, federal employees and retirees like you need direct access to skilled analyses of the issues that affect you, as well as expert advice and impartial answers to help you maximize the value of your federal benefits—you need NARFE.

—NARFE COMMUNICATIONS

Donate

Donate to NARFE

MAKE CHECK PAYABLE TO:

NARFE

PLEASE MAIL COUPON AND CHECK TO: NARFE / 606 N. Washington St. / Alexandria, VA 22314 or donate online at www.narfe.org/ donate

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

NARFE safeguards the earned pay and benefits of America’s five million federal workers, retirees, their spouses, and survivors. NARFE is YOUR legislative voice and tireless advocate. NARFE contributions are NOT tax-deductible.

to NARFE programs

Enclosed is my NARFE Contribution: $ __________________

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

Name: Address: City: State: ZIP:

Credit Card Information: q M/C q VISA q Discover q AMEX

Card Number:

Expiration Date: (mm)/ (yy) Security Code:

Signature: Date: / /

Name: (please print)

Support Alzheimer’s Research

NARFE members contributed for Alzheimer’s research: $16 Million Fund $15,692,263.94*

*Total as of March 31, 2023. All contributions go directly to Alzheimer’s research, with the exception of funds given to the Walk to End Alzheimer’s or The Longest Day.

If you have any questions, write to: National Committee Chair Olivia Williams

22 Garden Springs Road Columbia, SC 29209

OR EMAIL: oeashf3@gmail.com

MAKE CHECK PAYABLE TO:

NARFE-Alzheimer’s Research (write your chapter number on memo line)

PLEASE MAIL COUPON AND CHECK TO: Alzheimer’s Association

225 N. Michigan Ave., 17th Floor Chicago, IL 60601-7633

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

Give to the NARFE-FEEA Fund

MAKE CHECK PAYABLE TO:

NARFE-FEEA Fund

PLEASE MAIL COUPON AND CHECK TO: FEEA

1641 Prince St. Alexandria, VA 22314

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

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

Name:

Address: City: State: ZIP:

Chapter number:

Credit Card Information: q M/C q VISA q Discover q AMEX

Card Number:

Expiration Date: (mm)/ (yy) Security Code:

Signature: Date: / /

Name: (please print)

The NARFE-FEEA Fund supports NARFE members during disasters; provides scholarships to their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and funds other programs to support NARFE members at the direction of NARFE and FEEA.

Enclosed is my NARFE-FEEA Fund Contribution: $ ________

Name:

Address: City: State: ZIP: Email:

To make credit card or e-check contributions, visit www.feea.org/givenarfe.

New Business Development Manager at NARFE

Francine Garner has joined NARFE as manager of business development. In this role, she is responsible for growing support for NARFE’s many advocacy and education efforts.

Francine has more than 30 years of association exhibit/ tradeshow sales, sponsorship and advertising expertise in the nonprofit sector. She has worked for several large organizations, including the American Association for Justice, where she was named Employee of the Year by the Executive Board for her sales expertise and increasing revenue for the organization, and the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, where she was given the opportunity to travel and coordinate the trade show

and sponsorship sales for its partner, the International Federation of Obstetrics and Gynecology Congress (FIGO) in Cape Town, South Africa.

In her position at NARFE, she will be responsible for all non-dues revenue growth. This encompasses generating advertising revenue through various media platforms, including the magazine, website and e-newsletters, as well as general fundraising activities. Other revenue-generating functions for which she is responsible include management of ShopNARFE, the NARFE member online store, and the Affinity Perks Program, which provides our members and staff with great discounts on travel services and products.

Francine is a North Carolina native currently living in

2023 CONFERENCES & EVENTS

Information as of April 1:

Washington, DC. She has a bachelor’s degree from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

Francine enjoys volunteering in the Washington area, and is proud to take part in many major events. She was a Marshall at the First Million Man March on Washington (1995), a Marshall at the 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington (2003), a volunteer for more than five years at the Mid-Atlantic Jazz Festival (2008 through 2013) and a volunteer during President Obama’s 2009 inauguration.

She also enjoys sewing and thrift shopping for resale; she’s especially proud of her five-star seller rating on eBay!

REGION X: September 12-14, Frankfort, KY; email Robert Allen, rvp10@narfe.org, for more information.

ALASKA: September 23, virtual; email Paul McIntosh, mcintoshpaul10@gmail. com, for more information; https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88666139423, passcode SDNCV0xROW1RRk96RytVTkwwZ2l4QT09.

FLORIDA: October 12-14; contact Evelyn J. Seabrook, brooklyn_seav48@hotmail.com, for more information.

GEORGIA: June 6, Courtyard by Marriott, 589 Carl Vinson Parkway, Warner Robins; federation election May 1-26; email Nancy Wall, njwall1992@gmail.com, or visit http://ganarfe.org for more information.

ILLINOIS: September 26-28, 1202 N. Keller Drive, Thelma Keller Convention Center, Effingham; federal election and business meeting September 28 during conference; email Linda J. Glasgow, glasgowljg43@aol.com, or visit http://www.narfe.net/site/il/ for more information.

MONTANA: September 11; email Leland “Wally” Walbruch, leland.walbruch@gmail.com, for more information and to register.

WISCONSIN: November 6; contact Melanie Miller, melanie.miller@wisc.edu, for more information.

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 NARFE?

If your future security is tied to federal retirement benefits—federal retirees, current employees, spouses and individual survivors—you should join NARFE.

NARFE MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

q YES. I want to join NARFE for the low annual dues of $48. q

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 Services / 606 N Washington St / Alexandria, VA 22314-1914. 2. Join online at www.NARFE.org 3. Call 800-456-8410, Monday through Friday,

NARFE MEMBER BENEFITS

• Access the NARFE Federal Benefits Institute for powerful resources to help you fully understand and manage your benefits.

• Access to FEDHub, NARFE’s online community, where members share ideas, information and solutions—it’s the go-to place where active and retired Feds connect

• Visit the Legislative Action Center to contact your representatives about bills affecting federal benefits.

• Get NARFE Magazine and our weekly e-newsletter, NewsLine—your best sources for the latest news and information on issues impacting federal employees and retirees.

• NARFE Perks discounts on insurance, travel, health services and more!

• Nearly 800 local chapters unite federal employees, retirees, their spouses and survivors, and provide networking, advocacy and leadership opportunities.

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:

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.

Would you like to receive a FREE one-year chapter membership? Choose one: q Chapter closest to home OR q Chapter #____________

THANK YOUR RECRUITER Did someone introduce you to NARFE? Please provide their Name and Member ID.

Recruiter’s Name

Recruiter’s Membership ID

NARFE respects the privacy of our members. Personal information is used to provide content and relevant communications to our members. Some NARFE member benefits are provided by third parties (NARFE Perks), and not NARFE.

USE YOUR NARFE PERKS AND YOUR MEMBERSHIP WILL MORE THAN PAY FOR ITSELF!

ADT Home Security | 844-892-3513 | https://Partners.ADT.com/SSE-P1

Get your ADT-monitored home security system today for $28.99 a month with AND $100 Visa reward card from Protect Your Home ADT Authorized Premier Provider. *New customers only. Visit website for full details of offer.

GE Appliances Store | Use the link below to start shopping!

Save with NARFE members-only access to the GE Appliances Store! You will enjoy up to 25% off MSRP every day on the latest in high-quality appliances. *Orders can not be shipped to P.O. boxes, APOS, Canada, Puerto Rico, HI, AK or U.S. Territories. https://www.myapstore.com/GEStore/Appliances/ Registration?AuthCode=MONARFE21

LegalShield | 410-419-7130 | Shieldbenefits.com/narfe

Whether it’s big, small or somewhere in between, you have affordable legal help when you need it. Members receive the discounted rate of $18.95 for families of 10 (two adults and up to 8 children) when you sign up through the website above.

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

Because you’re a member of NARFE, you now have access to exclusive members only discounts at ODP Business Solutions (previously Office Depot/Office Max). Members save up to 75% off on ODP Business Solutions Best Value list of preferred products and can take advantage of products discounted off the officedepot.com regular prices. Restrictions may apply so visit officediscounts. org/narfe for details. Product and service discounts may no longer be available for in-store purchases.

Purchasing Power | www.PurchasingPower.com/NARFE

While not a discount program, Purchasing Power is an exclusive purchase program helps members buy brand-name computers, electronics, appliances and furniture via annuity allotment when cash is not an option. No credit check or down payments.

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

Designed exclusively for NARFE members, (plans administered by AMBA Administrators, Inc.) Senior Age Whole Life Insurance, Senior Term Life Insurance, Hospital Indemnity and Short Term Recovery Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, AssistPlus, Discount Prescription Plan and Pet Insurance.

Member Options | 833-378-8224 | https://www.member-options.com/narfe

Member Options Auto and Home Insurance Program - Save Money with Multiple Quotes! Get quotes from top-rated insurance carriers on Auto, Home, Renters, Pet insurance and more in a matter of minutes. Answer a few simple questions online or over the phone with our licensed insurance experts to compare multiple options that meet your specific needs. To review and choose what’s best for you, go to the link above or call 833-378-8224.

PRE-PLANNING

..................................................................................................................................

Neptune Society | 800-NEPTUNE (637-8863) | www.neptunesociety.com

Our prearranged plans cover all necessary expenses for one guaranteed price even if the services are not needed for 40 or 50 years. The Neptune Society offers a $100 discount to all NARFE members. *Discounted offer is not valid for residents of Louisiana, Tennessee and Kentucky. Void Where Prohibited.

(Previously Office Depot/Office Max)

AMBA

Coleman Allied | 850-375-0917 | jack.jacobs@colemanallied.com

With over 300 agency partners and an entire team dedicated to a quality move experience, Coleman Allied provides customized discount levels for all NARFE members for Interstate moves. *The NARFE pricing only applies to moves that leave the state you currently reside in.

Wheaton World Wide Moving | 800-248-7960 | narfe@wvlcorp.com

At Wheaton, we know interstate relocation is much more than trucks and boxes. With a network of topquality agents throughout the United States, Wheaton provides peace of mind with every relocation.

TRAVEL, TRANSPORT & ENTERTAINMENT

Choice Hotels International | 800-258-2847 | www.choicehotels.com

With 6,400 hotels throughout the world, Choice Hotels offers something for everyone. As a member, receive 20% off your next stay at participating hotels when you use Special Rate ID 00801967.

Collette Travel | 844-311-6563 | www.gocollette.com

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

Enterprise Rent-A-Car® | Book Now! | https://partners.rentalcar.com/narfe

When you’re ready to go, Enterprise Rent-A-Car makes it easy. We offer everyday low rates on a great selection of cars, trucks and vans and customers are picked up at no extra cost*. See website for exclusions.

Hotel Engine | https://members.hotelengine.com/join/narfe175

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

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

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

National Car Rental® | 800-CAR-RENT | www.nationalcarrental.com

NARFE members receive great rates with National Car Rental! At National, we pride ourselves on always providing you with unsurpassed convenience and choice. https://partners.rentalcar.com/narfe

Active&Fit Direct | https://www.narfe.org/narfe-perks-for-members/activefit-direct/ Stay active from anywhere for $28/mo. Active&Fit Direct includes 12,200+ Gyms, 9,300+ On-Demand Videos and 1:1 Well-Being Coaching. A fitness program with no annual fees and no long-term contracts. Switch gyms anytime. Membership options for your spouse. No Enrollment Fee With Promo Code: SWEAT4SPRING1

Brookdale Senior Living Communities | 877-713-2762 | www.brookdale.com/narfe

As the largest operator of senior living communities in the US, Brookdale has over 1,000 locations all across the country. Members are eligible for 7.5% discount at Brookdale Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care communities and 10% discounts on Brookdale Private Duty Home Care. Discounts are for new move-ins/customers only.

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

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

Mapping the Planets

This 1972 photograph shows Patricia “Patsy” Conklin working in the Bioscience and Planetology Section at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). She is assembling Mariner 9 photos into large mosaics. Before computers and software could stitch together digital images, they were printed on photo paper, trimmed by hand and taped in place on a large blackboard according to a detailed diagram of the spacecraft’s photo coverage of a planet. This preliminary mosaic was then photographed and used to show latitude and longitude of geographical features, and detail gaps in coverage. Additional mosaics were later created with filtered, corrected and enhanced photos, and more precise scale and placement.

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

DID YOU KNOW?

About 18,000 civil servants work for NASA.

Learn more at www.nasa.gov/ about

Blue Cross and Blue Shield Service Benefit Plan members may be eligible for two fully covered hearing aids with zero out-of-pocket cost on many models when applying your hearing aid benefit*. HearUSA offers all these features and follows all safety protocols for our customers and employees. Call 1-855-252-0025 to discover more or visit www.blue365deals.com/fep.

EXPERIENCE - HearUSA has been changing lives through better hearing since 1987 and a proud NARFE Circle Sponsor since 2016.

CHOICE - All major hearing aid brands and styles available, including completely-in-the-canal, the smallest custom hearing aids on the market.

TECHNOLOGY - Smart technology helps you hear more clearly and eliminates annoying feedback “whistling”.

RECHARGABLE - Most models have rechargeable options; no need to ever replace batteries! Plus, many models connect with your cell phone!

TELEHEALTH - Take advantage of HearUSA Telehealth Services where you obtain quality care at home. Telehealth appointments are available.