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Retiree FAQ Page

We've compiled some of our most frequently-asked questions for our members looking for information about retirement and UFT retiree benefits. 

Joining the Retired Teachers Chapter

How do I join the UFT's Retired Teachers Chapter?

Retiring members who wish to continue their UFT membership and take advantage of our many benefits must enroll to join the Retired Teachers Chapter. You can enroll online or download an application form on the UFT website and mail it to us at:

UFT Membership Dept.
50 Broadway, Fl 13
New York, NY 10004

How much will be deducted from my pension for union dues once I retire?

Union dues for members of the Retired Teachers Chapter (RTC) are .004% of your monthly pension. 

What information do I need to enter on my application for the Retired Teachers Chapter?

When filling out your application to join the Retired Teachers Chapter (RTC), please include your name, file number/UFT ID number, exact retirement date, current contact information and pension provider. To avoid a delay in processing, please remember to sign and date the application. Applications with no signature will be returned.

After joining the Retired Teachers Chapter, do I need to send a payment for membership?

No, union dues for members of the Retired Teachers Chapter (RTC) will be automatically deducted from your monthly pension. The RTC dues are .004% of your monthly pension.  

Once I retire, can I send my Retired Teachers Chapter and SHIP application at the same time?

Yes, you can send both enrollment applications for the RTC and SHIP together in the envelope included in the retirement packet you were given at your final pension consultation. However, to avoid a delay in processing, you also have the option of sending each application to their respective departments. 

How long does it take for my Retired Teachers Chapter application to be processed?

Applications for the Retired Teachers Chapter (RTC) get processed on your date of retirement, however, due to a high volume of applicants, please allow for up to one week to complete the process. 

SHIP Information

How do I know if the UFT has received my SHIP application?

We strive to have all applications processed as soon after the date of retirement as possible, but due to a high volume of applicants, please allow for up to one week's processing time. You will receive a welcome packet once your SHIP enrollment is finalized. If there are any issues with your application that may hold up your application, we will notify you via email.

What information do I need to include on my SHIP application?

You must include:

  • Your name
  • Address
  • Phone number
  • Retirement date
  • Social Security number
  • A pension deduction authorization

Please make sure to also sign off on the pension deduction authorization, or you will be charged a $30 administrative fee. If you would also like to enroll a spouse/domestic partner, you must attach a copy of either your marriage certificate or domestic partner registration along with the application. 

How do I submit my SHIP application to the UFT?

You can download the SHIP application from the UFT website and mail it along with payment listed on the form to: SHIP, 52 Broadway, 17th fl., New York, NY 10004

Do you have to be a member of the UFT Retired Teachers Chapter to qualify for SHIP benefits?

Yes. The UFT's Supplemental Health Insurance Program (SHIP) is a unique package of benefits developed by the UFT's Retired Teachers Chapter exclusively for its members. 

How soon after receipt will my Supplemental Health Insurance Program (SHIP) application be processed?

The SHIP application process begins the day you retire and are enrolled as a UFT-RTC (Retired Teachers Chapter) member. We strive to have all applications processed on the day of retirement, but please allow for up to one week to complete the application process. 

Will I be notified if my Supplemental Health Insurance Program (SHIP) application is incomplete?

If there are any issues with your SHIP application, we will notify you via email to resolve any issues which may hold up your approval. 

How much does the Supplemental Health Insurance Program (SHIP) cost? How much money do I need to send when I enroll?

Please refer to the SHIP card for the exact fees, as they depend on the time of year and whether or not you also enroll a spouse or domestic partner. You must pay upfront for the first year through December and the cost is $10.00 per month per person.

How soon can I apply for the Supplemental Health Insurance Program (SHIP) upon retirement?

You must first be enrolled as a UFT-RTC (Retired Teachers Chapter) member. Your SHIP application cannot be processed until your retirement date, therefore, please send your application and payment approximately one month prior to your date of retirement. 

What is the SHIP health insurance program for retired teachers?

The Supplemental Health Insurance Program (SHIP) is a unique package of benefits developed by the Retired Teachers Chapter of the United Federation of Teachers (UFT-RTC) exclusively for its members. It provides a supplement to coverage available through city's regular health insurance providers and is activated only after those providers have paid their benefits.

SHIP is a low-cost program to coordinate with most health plans available to retirees of New York City systems. For a modest yearly fee, SHIP will supplement certain payments provided by your New York City health coverage up to a maximum lifetime benefit of $100,000/$10,000 for pre-existing conditions.

SHIP does not require a medical examination for enrollment.

SHIP is separate from your health plan and welfare fund and therefore must be notified of any changes (i.e., death, divorce, marriage). 

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