Alyssa Lane
The American Postal Workers Union (APWU) offers a range of benefits to its members, including insurance. To apply for union insurance through the APWU, members can review plan benefits, rates, and apply online. The APWU also offers a Voluntary Benefits Plan, which includes voluntary insurance benefits designed specifically for its members. In addition to health insurance, the USPS offers other benefits to its employees, such as participation in the Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) Program, the Federal Long-Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP), and the Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) Program. USPS is currently transitioning to a new online job application system, so applicants should refer to the specific job they are applying for to determine the correct website to use.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Postal Service Insurance | The Postal Service offers coverage through the Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) Program. The cost of Basic coverage is fully paid by the Postal Service, with the option to purchase additional coverage through payroll deductions. |
| Cancer and Health Insurance | The American Postal Workers Union offers Cancer Personal Indemnity and other Specified Health Event insurance coverage. These benefits are designed to provide a financial safety net to members and their families in the event of a serious illness. |
| Mortgage Assistance | The Mortgage Assistance Program helps homeowners with mortgage payments in case of unemployment due to disability, layoff, or strike. |
| Long-Term Care Insurance | Employees may enroll in the Federal Long-Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP), which insures the costs of long-term care (e.g., nursing home or assisted living), which is often not covered by health insurance or Medicare. |
| Retirement Program | The Postal Service participates in the federal retirement program, which provides a pension and disability coverage. Eligibility is based on age and years of service. |
| Application Process | USPS accepts applications for some positions through its new website, USPS Careers (jobs.usps.com). Candidates must meet requirements such as age, background check, drug screening, and medical assessment. |
| Credit Cards and Loans | The American Postal Workers Union offers Union Plus Credit Cards and access to the AFL-CIO Employees Federal Credit Union for various financial services, including loans and checking accounts. |
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What You'll Learn
Application process
The application process for union insurance at USPS depends on the specific type of insurance and role you are applying for. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
- Determine Eligibility: Before applying, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria. For instance, for the American Postal Workers Union (APWU) insurance, you must be a current, retired, or deceased APWU member, or a child, grandchild, stepchild, or legally adopted child of one.
- Choose the Right Website: The application process for different positions at USPS may vary. Some positions use the new application system, USPS Careers (jobs.usps.com), while others still use the legacy application system (eCareer). Check the job listing to confirm the correct website.
- Create an Account: If you're using the new USPS Careers website, you'll need to create a new account and profile, even if you had one on the old eCareer system.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill out the required application form with all the necessary details. Provide accurate and comprehensive information about your work experience, especially if you have relevant experience in the postal or delivery industry.
- Submit the Application: Submit your completed application form through the chosen platform. Some forms can be submitted online, while others may need to be mailed, faxed, or delivered in person to the relevant USPS branch.
- Background Check and Screening: Once your application is accepted, USPS will conduct a background check, which includes a criminal history review, drug screening, and medical assessment. They may also review your driving record and require a motor vehicle record check, depending on the position.
- Finalize Employment: After successfully completing the screening process, you'll confirm your employment, select a start date, and finalize any remaining details.
Remember, the specific steps may vary slightly depending on the type of insurance and position you're applying for within USPS. Always refer to the official USPS website and the relevant union's website for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
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Eligibility criteria
The eligibility criteria for union insurance at USPS vary depending on the specific position and insurance plan being considered. Here are the general eligibility criteria for union insurance and some of the benefits offered by USPS and the American Postal Workers Union (APWU):
- Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old, or 16 years old with a high school diploma.
- Citizenship: Applicants must be citizens of the United States, permanent residents, or citizens of American Samoa or other U.S. territories.
- Background Check: Candidates must pass a criminal background check, which includes a 5-year residency requirement in the United States or its territories. Certain exceptions are made for U.S. citizens who were out of the country for specific reasons, such as being a student or a trailing spouse.
- Drug Screening and Medical Assessment: Applicants must undergo and pass drug screening and a medical assessment.
- Driving Record: A safe driving record is required if the position involves driving.
- Employment History: Applicants must provide their recent employment history.
- Selective Service Registration: If applicable, applicants must be registered with the Selective Service.
Benefits offered by USPS:
- Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI): USPS offers Basic coverage under the FEGLI program, with the option to purchase additional coverage through payroll deductions.
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Career employees can participate in the FSA Program after one year of service, allowing them to use tax-free contributions to cover out-of-pocket health care and dependent care expenses.
- Federal Long-Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP): Employees can enrol in this program to insure the costs of long-term care, such as nursing home or assisted living expenses, which are typically not covered by health insurance or Medicare.
- Retirement Program: USPS participates in the federal retirement program, offering a defined benefit (pension) and disability coverage based on age and years of service.
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP): Career postal employees can contribute to the TSP, similar to 401(k) retirement savings plans in the private sector.
- Annual and Sick Leave: USPS offers generous annual and sick leave, with 13 days of annual leave per year for the first 3 years, increasing to 20 days after 3 years, and 26 days after 15 years. Part-time employees receive prorated leave.
Benefits offered by the American Postal Workers Union (APWU):
- Cancer Personal Indemnity and Specified Health Event Insurance: These comprehensive and affordable benefits, offered through the American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus (Aflac), provide a financial safety net for members and their families in the event of a serious illness.
- Accident Benefit Association: This provision offers benefits in the case of temporary disability, dismemberment, or death resulting from a covered accident.
- Mortgage Assistance Program: The AFL-CIO developed this program to help union members make their mortgage payments if they become unemployed due to disability, layoff, or strike.
- Scholarships: The APWU offers various scholarships, such as the E.C. Hallbeck Memorial Scholarship for college tuition and Vocational Scholarships for specialized training in fields like culinary arts, medical assistant, electrician, etc.
- AFL-CIO Employees Federal Credit Union: APWU members and retirees can access a range of financial services, including loans, savings and checking accounts, and credit cards.
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Insurance benefits
The American Postal Workers Union (APWU) offers a range of insurance benefits to its members. These benefits are designed to provide financial security and peace of mind in the event of illness, accident, or other unforeseen circumstances.
One of the key insurance benefits offered by the APWU is the Cancer Personal Indemnity and other Specified Health Event insurance coverage. This comprehensive plan, offered through the American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus (Aflac), provides a financial safety net for members and their qualifying family members in the event of a serious illness. The plan pays cash benefits directly to policyholders, regardless of any other insurance they may have.
The APWU also offers Accident Benefit coverage, which provides benefits to members and their beneficiaries in the case of temporary disability, dismemberment, or death resulting from a covered accident. This coverage is independent of other causes, ensuring that members and their families are financially protected in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
In addition to these health-related insurance benefits, the APWU also offers a range of other insurance-related perks. For example, the Voluntary Benefits Plan provides voluntary insurance benefits designed specifically for APWU members, including entertainment discounts on movie tickets, theme park tickets, and more. The APWU also offers a Mortgage Assistance Program, which helps union members make their mortgage payments if they become unemployed due to disability, layoff, or strike. This program provides financial peace of mind and stability for union homeowners.
Furthermore, the APWU has partnered with Union Plus to offer exclusive benefits to its members. Union Plus provides access to Union Plus Credit Cards, issued by Capital One, as well as a range of money-saving benefits and discounted services. APWU members and their families are automatically eligible for these benefits without any additional fees or membership requirements.
Overall, the American Postal Workers Union prioritizes the financial well-being of its members by offering a comprehensive suite of insurance benefits and services designed to provide security and peace of mind in various life circumstances.
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Additional benefits
The American Postal Workers Union (APWU) offers a range of additional benefits to its members, including:
Accident Benefit Association
The Accident Benefit Association provides benefits to members and their beneficiaries in the event of temporary disability, dismemberment, or death resulting directly from a covered accident. These benefits are paid directly to policyholders, regardless of any other insurance they may have.
Cancer Personal Indemnity and Other Specified Health Event Insurance Coverage
APWU offers comprehensive and affordable health insurance benefits to protect members and their families against catastrophic illnesses. These benefits are provided through the American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus (Aflac) and are designed to provide a financial safety net in the event of a serious illness.
Union Plus Benefits
Union Plus offers a range of exclusive money-saving benefits to APWU members and their families, including entertainment discounts on movie tickets, theme park tickets, and more. The Union Plus Mortgage program also makes buying, selling, and refinancing a home more affordable, with financing provided by Wells Fargo.
AFL-CIO Employees Federal Credit Union
APWU members and retirees have access to the products and services offered by the AFL-CIO Employees Federal Credit Union, including ATMs, internet and mobile banking, direct deposit, Visa check/debit card, savings and checking accounts, and various loan options.
Voluntary Benefits Plan
The Voluntary Benefits Plan offers voluntary insurance benefits specifically designed for APWU members, including disability, life, dental, hospital indemnity, and automobile insurance.
Scholarship Opportunities
The APWU also offers various scholarship opportunities for members and their families, such as the E.C. Hallbeck Memorial Scholarship and vocational scholarships for specialized training programs.
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Union Plus benefits
Entertainment and Travel Discounts
Union Plus members can access discounted movie tickets and rentals, theme park tickets, and travel bargains on car rentals and sporting events.
Union Plus Credit Cards
The Union Plus Credit Card, issued by Capital One N.A. in partnership with Mastercard International Inc., offers competitive rates and U.S.-based customer service.
Mortgage Assistance
The Union Plus Mortgage program helps eligible members with their mortgage payments in times of need, such as unemployment due to disability, layoff, or strike. It also assists union members in purchasing or refinancing a home.
Scholarships
Union Plus offers scholarships to support the educational pursuits of union members and their children. Over the past 25 years, they have awarded more than $4 million in scholarships.
Supplemental Insurance
Union Plus provides a range of supplemental life and accident insurance plans tailored to meet the unique needs of union members and their families. This includes Cancer Personal Indemnity and other Specified Health Event insurance coverage offered through the American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus (Aflac).
Legal Services Discount
Union members can access legal services at a discount, helping them save on important matters such as adoption.
Access to AFL-CIO Employees Federal Credit Union
Union members and retirees can access the services of the AFL-CIO Employees Federal Credit Union, including ATMs, internet and mobile banking, direct deposit, savings and checking accounts, and various loan options.
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Frequently asked questions
USPS accepts applications through their new website, USPS Careers (jobs.usps.com), and their legacy application system (eCareer). You must be 18 years old at the time of appointment or 16 years old with a high school diploma. You must be able to pass a criminal background check, drug screening, and medical assessment.
USPS offers coverage through the Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) Program. The cost of Basic coverage is fully paid by the Postal Service, with the option to purchase additional coverage through payroll deductions. Employees may also enroll in the Federal Long-Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP), which covers the costs of receiving long-term care.
The APWU offers Cancer Personal Indemnity and other Specified Health Event insurance coverage through the American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus (Aflac). The Accident Benefit Association provides benefits to members and their beneficiaries in the case of temporary disability, dismemberment, or death resulting from a covered accident.
