Skip to main content
Full Menu Close Menu
Tags Group

I have two children ages 24 and 28. Can I add them to my UFT Welfare Fund coverage?

Yes. Dependent children up to age 26 can be enrolled in the Welfare Fund at no cost. Use the Welfare Fund's online Update Your Information (Change of Status) form to enroll a dependent under age 26. Also, young adults ages 26-29 can be enrolled in...

I enrolled in the UFT Welfare Fund about a week ago but have not received my drug card. Now I have to fill a prescription. What should I do?

You can buy the prescription drug you need now. Once you receive the card, submit an original receipt to the Fund for reimbursement. Use the Drug Reimbursement Form for in-service members or call the Forms Hotline at 212-539-0539 to receive them by...

I am a new UFT member and have enrolled online in the UFT Welfare Fund. When will my benefits become available?

Once you’ve enrolled and the Fund receives confirmation from your school that you are on staff, your benefits are available from your first day of employment, but you must enroll first.

I was injured on the job and am on Injury in the Line of Duty (ILOD) status. Am I eligible for disability benefits now?

No. However, if the DOE declines your ILOD status and you believe you are still disabled, you can submit a Welfare Fund Disability application with a copy of the ILOD decision and a DOE leave of absence approval.

Do I automatically qualify for six weeks (8 weeks for a C-section) of disability after having a baby?

No, these are the limits for routine pregnancies. There are many variables that could affect the duration of maternity benefits. You should always apply and UFT Welfare Fund representatives will review your options with you.

Is there a waiting period before disability benefits begin?

Yes. For pedagogues, there is a 28-day unpaid waiting period after your sick bank is exhausted and you have been removed from the DOE payroll. For non-pedagogical employees and paraprofessionals, there is a 14-day unpaid waiting period which begins...

How long can I collect disability benefits from the Welfare Fund?

The maximum is 52 weeks based on an individual claim.

How much is the UFT Welfare Fund disability benefit?

For pedagogues, the disability benefit is $475 per week; for paraprofessionals and other non-pedagogues, it is $375 a week.

Does CIGNA cover general anesthesia?

Anesthesia is covered only if you are having surgery, like a tooth extraction.

CIGNA rejected my claim for a tooth extraction. Why?

If your tooth was impacted, it is considered a medical condition and therefore, the charge must be submitted to your health insurance provider. You may submit any unpaid balance to CIGNA with a copy of the explanation of benefits from your health...