Frequently Asked Questions
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A list of the most commonly asked questions.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 after you have been removed from the DOE payroll.
The maximum is 52 weeks based on an individual claim.
As of Nov. 1, 2024, teachers and other pedagogues approved for this benefit receive $575 a week for up to 52 weeks, while paraprofessionals and other groups in the same salary range receive $475 per week for up to 52 weeks.
Learn more about disability benefits »
Anesthesia is covered only if you are having surgery, like a tooth extraction.