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Frequently Asked Questions

You can search the FAQs on our website by keyword or category above. 

A list of the most commonly asked questions.

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.

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 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 mail.

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 the Welfare Fund during the fall open enrollment period at full cost if they meet certain eligibility requirements. Use the Age 29 form. Or call the Forms Hotline at 212-539-0539 to receive the form you need by mail.

I have just returned to work after four years of leave of absence from the DOE. Do I need to complete a new enrollment form for Welfare Fund benefits?

Yes. Any member returning from a leave of absence of 18 months or more must complete a new enrollment. You can see your chapter leader for an enrollment form or call the Forms Hotline. Your school secretary must also file a pending payroll notification form. And don’t forget to re-enroll in a city health plan.

Can I add my grandchild to my UFT Welfare Fund benefits?

Yes. A child who is living with and financially dependent on a grandparent is eligible for coverage. You’ll need to submit a Change of Status form and a Dependent Child Affidavit, or request these forms from the Forms Hotline at 212-539-0539.

Is there any limit on utilization of the Helpline services?

There is no limit to utilizing the Helpline. The Helpline team is dedicated to helping you each step of the way and will be available on an ongoing basis.

Does the Health & Cancer Helpline assist only in-service members?

The Helpline is available to assist in-service members and retirees as well as their dependents.

Is my information and communication with the Helpline confidential?

All communication with the Helpline is confidential and private.

How do I contact the Health and Cancer Helpline?

Please call the Health and Cancer Helpline at 212-539-0515 and ask to speak with a Health and Cancer Helpline social worker.