I joined NARFE in 2011, just before my retirement, wish that I found it earlier. It is an EXCELLENT resource for ALL of your benefit questions. Keep in mind that what you do with some of your benefits in your early work years, WILL have an impact on when/how you will retire. Will you land on your feet or on your backside ? Look at the benefits that a FERS employee needs to juggle : Annuity, TSP, SSA, FEHB, Medicare, etc etc.
The typical HR Office is not trained/equipped to serve/answer retiree questions and problems. That isnt their mission. So who do you turn to with your questions on the selection and use of your benefits ? The answer is the One Stop Shop called NARFE. That is their expertise. Their magazines are always timely with informative articles and they have their own Federal Benefits Institute, a group of experts, available to its members. No need to dial an 800 number and be told that "you are caller number 34 in line."
I also enjoy the local Chapter Meetings where I get to socialize with members who have the same interests as my self. I have learned a lot from the "senior" members in the Chapter who have already made certain decisions such as with Medicare, etc. Many benefits have pitfalls that you need to avoid.
So why should someone join NARFE ?
- They have over 100 years of experience serving the federal public.
- Where else can you get advice that is in YOUR BEST interest ?
- Where else can you get such expertise for only $ 4.00 per month.
- Are your benefits worth more than $ 4.00 ?
- Are your benefits worth than the price of a cup of coffee ?
So check out NARFE's website today, grab a friend and join. Be sure to also join a local Chapter and maximize your membership.
Have a nice day !!!
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John Hockenbury
NY Chapter 2340
( Hudson - Mohawk )
Recruitment Chair
Service Officer
Chaplain
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