|  Important Retiree Information From the UAW:
As you are probably aware, General Motors recently sent out a notice that explains who is eligible for self-paid continuation of coverage under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 (COBRA) with respect to the vision and dental benefits that were eliminated in 2009.
Because these coverages were eliminated as a result of the General Motors bankruptcy, members who had coverage and retired on or before July 1, 2009 are eligible to elect self paid continuation for dental and/or vision coverage. This is considered a special COBRA provision under bankruptcy rules and has longer duration provisions than normal COBRA; lifetime for some and 36 months for others.
It is important to note that those members who retired on August 1, 2009 or later are not eligible for this special lifetime dental and vision coverage in retirement. However, a member may extend their active dental and/or vision coverage based on normal COBRA provisions. In other words, if eligible, they could continue their active dental and/or vision coverage for 18 months on a self-paid basis.
The UAW and GM have agreed that for those who retired on or after August 1, 2009, another offering will be made so they may elect COBRA under normal provisions. Those who are eligible will receive notification from the GM Benefits and Service Center via the United States Postal Service as soon as possible.
As always, please use your Local Union Benefit Representative(s) to help you clarify any questions you may have on this or any other benefit related issues.
Fraternally,
Cal Rapson
Vice President and Director
UAW General Motors Department
Retiree Section of UAW Web Site
The retirees section will keep you up to date with news affecting UAW retirees who have put in their time on the job, helped build our great union and still have so much more to give. You’ll also find addresses, telephone numbers and hours of operation for UAW Retiree Drop-in Centers, as well as information about the UAW Retired Workers Program.
This site would not have been possible without the input of the UAW Retired Workers Advisory Council. Made up of UAW retirees, they advise the International on matters concerning retirees. Take some time to navigate the site and check out its features. We hope you find it informative and useful, and that you will visit often to get the latest news and information that’s important to you. Click here!
Has Your Address Changed?
If so you must submit your new address to the following:
1. National Retiree Servicing Center has changed from the National Benefit Center to Fidelity for service, 1-800-489-4646.
2. Local Benefit Office, 304-260-3928.
 Discounts do exist for Retirees; however the way to obtain them differs from Active employees. Here is the correct path to take:
1.) Go to www.gmfamilyfirst.com
2.) If you do not already have one, you must create a User ID and Password
3.) Once into the site you will be able to view the available discounts by clicking on "Retiree Marketplace". You will find this in the menu on the left side of the page.
As per our National Agreement, Hearing Aid Coverage is adjusted annually on October 1st. For details click here.
Please take a moment to view the Memorial Day tribute to our nation's Veterans. Let us not forget their sacrifice.
Links:
• Region 8 Retiree Department |
