Not For Women Only – Paraprofessional Ed.

Nov 1, 2003 12:47 PM

Other Common Questions

can I remain in the union while on leave?

Yes. To continue receiving the New York Teacher, preserve your ability to vote in UFT elections and safeguard your eligibility for NYSUT and AFT insurance programs, simply send a $10 check each year with a copy of your leave to the Membership Department at the UFT, 52 Broadway, New York, NY 10004.

What should I do after the baby arrives?

You should take these important steps:

1. Add your child as a dependent within 31 days by notifying your health plan (file an ERB Form) and the UFT Welfare Fund (Change of Status form). Include a copy of your child’s birth certificate and his or her Social Security number.
2. File DBL1 for UFT Welfare Fund disability benefits if you haven’t already done so. (Include photocopies of your approved leave of absence and your child’s birth certificate.)
3. Update your beneficiary designations in the UFT Welfare Fund, Teachers’ Retirement System and tax-deferred annuity (TDA), etc. At TRS, file an updated Designation of Beneficiary form.
4. File a DOE OP 85 form to change your tax exemptions.
5. When you return to work, reinstate your health plan with an EB 1054 form and an ERB form.
6. Do you have a will? You might want to investigate the NYSUT Legal Services Program. For information and an application phone (800) 626-8101 or, online, go to http://memberbenefits@nysut.org, click on "site map" at the bottom of the page, click on "NYSUT Legal Service Plan," then click on "How to Apply."
7. Remember that your UFT borough office is just a phone call away to answer any questions that you have.
8. Be sure to notify all private insurance carriers from whom you have purchased a policy (like Seabury & Smith).
9. Most importantly, congratulations. Whether or not this is your first child, you should cherish these times and enjoy your newly enlarged family.