Welfare Notes - January 2008

January, 2008

Dear Participant: We are pleased to present SUP Welfare Plan's Summary Plan Description describing the benefits provided by the SUP Welfare Plan. The Plan was established in accordance with Collective Bargaining Agreements between the Sailors' Union of the Pacific and participating employers.

The Plan Description furnishes a brief description of the benefits to which you and your family are entitled, the rules governing these benefits, and the procedures that should be followed when making a claim. This booklet includes certain information concerning the administration of the Plan as required by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. We urge you and your family to read this booklet thoroughly so that you will be familiar with the benefits of the Plan. We are pleased to present this booklet describing the benefits provided by the SUP Welfare Plan.

Welfare Notes - January 2008

Medicare Part B Reimbursement for Pensioners

A letter was recently mailed to all Pensioners requesting a copy of the Medicare Benefit Verification Notice showing your monthly premium amount.  Please be sure to send a copy of this notice to the SUP Welfare Plan office for yourself and spouse to continue receiving the reimbursement for Medicare Part B premiums on your pension checks.

Active Coverage

Active members become eligible for coverage in the month after they complete 120 eligibility mandays within a 12-month period.  Once a member becomes eligible, the member must enroll in a plan for coverage.   The medical and dental plan choices are dependent upon your residence or the port from which you ship. 

In order to continue eligibility, 60 eligible mandays must be worked within the eligibility period.  The new rolling eligibility period starts in the month following the 60th day worked.

Medical and dental copayments for members as patients can be submitted to the SUP Welfare Plan for reimbursement.  Copayments for dependents are not reimbursable.
Active Members are also eligible for a vision exam and one pair of eyeglasses (lenses and frames) once in a 24 month period.  The maximum payable is $200.00.  

Active members are also eligible for a $25,000.00 Death Benefit.  Please contact the Plan office to make sure you are properly enrolled for all the benefits available to you.

Michelle Chang – Administrator
Patty Martin
Michael Jacyna
Virginia Briggs
Wilma Alday