Honoring the Legacy of Service. As we approach Veterans Day, we remember and honor all who have served this great nation, past and present, living and dead. All Veterans Days are important for this reason and this year is particularly poignant for us at AFBA. In August, General John N. Abrams, USA (Ret), our greatly respected and much beloved Lead Independent Director, passed away. We miss him terribly and extend our deepest condolences to his family and many friends. General Abrams represented the highest American ideals and leaves a distinguished legacy of service.
This year’s holiday also marks the 100th anniversary of Armistice Day, commemorating the end of World War I. Those who fought in “the war to end all wars” are a notable example of a generation that sacrificed greatly and made a lasting difference in the history of our nation, and indeed, the world. While this generation of brave servicemembers has passed from our midst, the legacy of heroism they created and the freedoms they protected still endure. To all veterans and their families, thank you for your service and sacrifice.
AFBA, National Guard and First Responders — There in Face of Natural Disasters. Once again this year, severe storms have inflicted great damage to parts of our homeland. Hurricanes Florence and Michael left devastation in their wakes and while the Guard and first responders bravely provide boots on the ground and helping hands on site, AFBA also supports its members affected by these catastrophes. Read how AFBA provides that support, along with some examples of the way the Guard and first responders answer the call when citizens need them most.
Service to National Guard Members Continues to Grow. I recently had the privilege of presiding, along with other AFBA leaders, local elected officials, and dignitaries, at the official ribbon cutting for our new adjunct office in Staunton, Virginia. We are expanding to better serve our growing membership!
The Legacy of Service to AFBA Members Continues. We have recently had a change in command in our Operations team and the mission of providing excellent service to you carries on. Congratulations to Claudia Gabriel on her retirement and to Jill Paulin on her new responsibilities. Read more about our services to you, including our Go Green initiatives, and why keeping your beneficiary information updated is important.
Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. AFBA participated this September by researching and publishing several articles for members and employees about risk factors, warning signs, statistics, and resources. We are very concerned about the increasing rates of suicide in our general population, and particularly so within our member eligible community. I urge you to review the information in this newsletter and act quickly and decisively to make use of the resources cited here if you, a loved one, or friend is in need of help.
Holiday Safety – Cyber Style. Your wellbeing and safety are important to us. In the past, we have provided best practices and tips regarding holiday safety and this year we are focusing on cybersecurity, especially while shopping online. Make sure you review this timely information before making your holiday purchases.
Social Media. In addition to our website, AFBA uses various social sites to communicate with you, our members. We’ve been busy highlighting items of interest to you and news about our association. We encourage you to follow and like us online!
AFBA Has Outstanding Member Benefits – Pass It On! AFBA provides survivor benefits to your family, and because we understand the unique needs of our members, those benefits are paid without war clauses, terrorism and occupational exclusions, or other restrictions associated with going into harm’s way. And we offer an emergency death benefit – up to $15,000 sent within one business day of notice. We appreciate our ability to provide these survivor benefits through life insurance underwritten by our affiliate, 5Star Life. We also offer important non-life insurance benefits like our scholarship, emergency travel assistance, and preventive health screenings, to name a few. Do you have friends and colleagues that would benefit from being part of the AFBA family? Then we appreciate you letting them know about us! We look forward to receiving their inquiries at www.afba.com or 1-800-776-2322.
Ralph E. “Ed” Eberhart
General, USAF (Ret.)
Chairman − President
Click here to read General Abrams’ obituary.
Observed every year on November 11, Veterans Day commemorates one of the most significant moments in history as World War I came to an end.
World War I, also known as “the Great War” or “War to End all Wars” began on July 28, 1914 and lasted until November 11, 1918. The war led to the mobilization of more than 70 million military personnel, including 60 million Europeans, making it one of the largest wars in history. An estimated nine million soldiers and seven million civilians died as a direct result of the war. In 1918, on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, world leaders signed the Armistice ending World War I.
One year later, in November 1919, President Woodrow Wilson first established Armistice Day. Congress declared Armistice Day a federal holiday in 1938. In 1954, after lobbying efforts by veterans’ service organizations, the U.S. Congress amended the 1938 act that had made Armistice Day a holiday, striking the word “Armistice” in favor of “Veterans.” President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the legislation on June 1, 1954. From then on, November 11 became a day to honor American veterans of all wars.
We are fortunate to have a military historian and former National Guard leader, BG Theodore G. Shuey, Jr., USA (Ret.) as a Senior Advisor to AFBA. General Shuey is the author of several books on the Civil War and World War II and an upcoming book on World War I. Click here to read his snapshot of the American Army in WWI .
Those who fought so valiantly in World War I represent the courage, duty and love of this country exhibited by veterans of every generation. AFBA salutes and honors all those who have served our great nation.
On a lighter note, click here to read 20 everyday things that were actually designed during WWI.
In recent months we have seen extreme weather hit parts of the country causing extensive damage to property and major disruptions to people’s lives. It’s at times of disaster like these that we can show our members that we care by providing some relief. Due to hurricanes Florence and Michael, we are giving affected members more time to submit their payments without fear of losing coverage. When disaster strikes, we don’t want you to worry about losing your valuable life insurance coverage with so much else on your mind.
Read the article below about the valiant efforts of first responders and the National Guard during these disasters.
The Southeastern United States has recently been battered by two hurricanes in as many months, beginning with the damage done to the Carolinas in September by Hurricane Florence, and escalating with the devastation wrought in Florida and Georgia in early October by Hurricane Michael. The aftermath has had the effect of highlighting the exceptional work done by the thousands of first responders and National Guard members who flowed into the areas and were critical in storm preparation, search and rescue operations and distributing much-needed supplies.
Just as the last of Hurricane Michael was finally dissipating on October 16, Forbes contributor Don Yaeger recalled sharing a flight with several dozen first responders on their way to his home state of Florida. When Yaeger asked a Sheriff’s Officer from Iowa if he was going there to help any family or friends living in the panhandle, the man answered, “I don’t know anyone there, I just know this is where I’m supposed to be.”
While those who came from miles away to lend a hand made truly admirable sacrifices, perhaps even more extraordinary were those who helped despite being themselves victims.
CNN reported that in Panama City, Florida, one of the towns hit hardest by Michael, many local first responders and National Guard members were dealing with their own property damage and displaced families while still honoring their commitment to the wider community. “While we’re here at work we’ve kind of got to put those emotions and things that are going on in our personal lives aside, because we have to worry about what’s going on here,” said Panama City Battalion Chief David Collier, whose own home was damaged in the storm. “We have to worry about our own personnel and the citizens we’re trying to protect.”
Over 2,500 Florida Guard members were staged across the Panhandle before Hurricane Michael made landfall with Guard members going door-to-door checking on residents, clearing the roads of debris, providing supplies and security at shelters and more.
The full, lasting impact of Hurricanes Florence and Michael is still unknown, but we can all be grateful for the first responders and National Guard members who were on-hand to keep the immediate impact from being any worse.
In mid-August, our National Guard office relocated a few miles from Verona to downtown Staunton, Virginia. Founded in 1747, and located in the Shenandoah Valley, Staunton is known for being the birthplace of Woodrow Wilson, the 28th U.S. president, and the home of Mary Baldwin University, a historical women’s college. For a time during the American Revolution, it was Virginia’s capital as the state legislators fled Richmond and then Charlottesville to avoid capture by the British.
Our new office is housed in one of the city’s more than 200 historical buildings. There was a ribbon cutting ceremony Friday, October 26 with General Eberhart, Staunton mayor, Carolyn Dull, city council members, and other distinguished guests in attendance. The expansion of our office will allow us to accommodate our growing team to better serve our National Guard members.
Claudia Gabriel, long-time Senior Vice President of Operations, retired June 30 after 29 years of dedicated service. Claudia was instrumental in providing caring, dedicated service to our members. In the past few years, along with her team, she supported our organization through tremendous growth and ushered in our digital strategy to help serve members more efficiently and effectively.
Jill Paulin, who served as Vice President under Claudia’s leadership, has been promoted to Senior Vice President of Operations. Jill has 21 years of experience in Customer Operations at AFBA / 5Star Life. Hired as a Customer Service Representative in 1996, she has progressively held positions of increasing responsibility in customer service, training, operations, and has been instrumental in the implementation of key enterprise projects.
“Jill’s deep knowledge of our operations and enterprise will be a great asset in her new role,” says General Eberhart. “Her insights and experience will enable us to continue providing “5Star” member and customer experience, as well as advance key long-term strategic projects that help our organization fulfill its mission – serving those who serve this great nation.”
September was Suicide Prevention Awareness month and AFBA published several articles for members and employees to highlight this issue and provide information for those in need of help themselves or a family member. With the added stress that military members and first responders must endure on the job and at times, aggravated by family separation, they are not shielded from the sufferings of suicide.
Unfortunately, veterans are more likely to die by suicide than the general population. A report from the Department of Veterans Affairs found that although retired servicemembers make up 8 percent of people in America, they account for 14 percent of all suicides. Overall, nearly 21 veterans die by suicide every day, which translates to a rate that’s 2.1 times higher than that of nonveteran adults.
Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder are key risk factors for veterans. As the VA noted, veterans who suffer combat trauma, especially multiple wounds and/or hospitalizations, are at a high risk of suicide. The more times the person was subjected to trauma, the greater that risk increased. Similarly, one study found that PTSD and suicide had a strong correlation – more so than other anxiety disorders.
In 2007, the VA launched the Veterans Crisis Line to help veterans, servicemembers and their loved ones who may be having mental health issues or suicidal thoughts. The Crisis Line offers 24/7 support, 365 days a year, even if the caller isn’t registered with the VA or enrolled in its health care services. To get help call 800-273-8255 / Press 1; connect online; or text 838255.
Suicides among first responders are often driven by emotional strain in a culture that discourages showing weakness. A survey in 2015 of more than 4,000 first responders found that 6.6 percent had attempted suicide, which is more than 10 times the rate in the general population. The survey also found that first responders who felt supported and encouraged at work were less likely to contemplate suicide. The number of firefighters, EMTs and police officers who took their own lives outnumbered all line-of-duty deaths in 2017.
Because shame continues to surround mental health problems within these professions, the public remains mostly unaware since the news media do not widely cover the issue of first responder suicides. Of the 18,000 law enforcement agencies across the United States, only 3-5% have suicide prevention training programs.
If you know a first responder in need of help, please share with them the following numbers: Police call 267-893-5200; Firefighters and EMTs call 267-893-5400.
Click here to read our full article on suicide prevention.
With the holiday season approaching, many of us turn to online shopping because of the convenience of shopping from home and the opportunity to compare prices and get the best deal on our purchases. Here are a few reminders about protecting your personal and financial information this holiday season.
Do you follow AFBA on Facebook and Twitter? If not, you’re missing out on interesting articles, videos, and infographics on a variety of topics. We focus on matters relevant to our members, particularly, veterans and first responders, but there are also general-interest posts on resume writing and life insurance education. Click on the images above to see some of the articles we’ve posted.
Friend us, connect with us, follow us!
Signing up to receive your bill via email not only has environmental benefits, but it will also save you money on postage.
Take advantage of our Member Portal for 24/7 access to all your policies. You can quickly set up a one-time bill payment, set up recurring payments, manage your profile, and download policy related forms.
If you have not updated your beneficiaries in the last 2-5 years and have had “a change of life event,” such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child, please contact our Customer Service Department at 1-800-776-2322.
Since 2004, the Charles C. Blanton Scholarship has been available to candidates for use towards an undergraduate degree at an accredited college of up to $10,000 per family per year for a maximum benefit of $40,000 for college tuition and fees.
The Blanton scholarship is awarded to the surviving spouse or children of an AFBA member who dies in a combat zone because of combat actions, or whose life is lost because of acts of foreign or domestic terrorism, or while responding to or involved at the scene of an incident. (Not available in Virginia.)
The 2018 Cost of Care Survey, conducted by CareScout®, reported that the national median cost of a home health aide now exceeds $50,000. The AFBA Long Term Care Insurance Program can assist you in owning coverage that helps pay for this care – costs that neither Medicare or Tricare are designed to cover. In a simple telephone conversation, they can shop and compare rates with numerous leading companies and help you enroll in the plan that provides the best value – including plans with premium rate guarantees and a return of your premium if you don’t need care.
Call 1-855-581-6647 or visit www.getltci.com/afba for more information.
Save even more on insurance from GEICO!
Get a free quote: https://www.geico.com/mil/afba or call 1-800- 368-2734.
Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. GEICO contracts with various membership entities and other organizations, but these entities do not underwrite the offered insurance products. Discount amount varies in some states. One group discount applicable per policy. Coverage is individual. In New York a premium reduction may be available. GEICO may not be involved in a formal relationship with each organization; however, you still may qualify for a special discount based on your membership, employment or affiliation with those organizations. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. © 2018 GEICO
Any time you have an accident or sudden illness while traveling away from home Emergency Assistance Plus, available through AFBA, provides a crucial safety net that helps with emergency medical transportation expenses your health or travel insurance generally will NOT cover. With more than 20 assistance services, EA+ steps in to provide Medical Evacuation, Medical Assistance, Travel Assistance, and Assistance for Companions.
Read the true story about an EA+ member to see it in action:
Barry and Sandy packed up their car for a weekend getaway to Houston, Texas. While they were there, Barry fell faint and Sandy drove him to the closest hospital. The doctor said he would need to have a heart valve replacement and pacemaker put in and he was taken into surgery. Two days after Barry’s surgery, he had a stroke. Sandy couldn’t believe the turn their weekend trip had taken.
She was so worried about Barry and didn’t know how she’d manage to get him home after he recovered. But then, she remembered they had EA+! She called and EA+ assured her that once Barry was released and considered medically stable to travel, that they would arrange and provide, at no charge to the member, flights to get Barry and Sandy home as quickly and safely as possible.
A few weeks later Barry was finally discharged. EA+ determined Barry needed additional medical attention during his travels home, so EA+ had a driver waiting to take Barry and Sandy to the airport and even upgraded his airline ticket and provided a nurse escort. The nurse escort stayed with Barry and Sandy all the way until they safely arrived at their home. Barry said, “We couldn’t have been treated any better than that, and no charge to us. We highly recommend this to all of our friends.”
To learn more about EA+ and how it can protect you and your family, visit www.emergencyassistanceplus.com/afba or call toll free 1-855-352-3032.
Understanding your risk for stroke and heart disease is the key to prevention. Life Line Screenings go beyond your annual checkup with ultrasound technology that can reveal dangerous plaque buildup or blockage, a major risk factor for stroke and heart disease.
The AFBA partnership with Life Line Screening entitles members to receive four vital screenings for only $135:
Screenings are conducted in communities all over the U.S. daily, making it easy and convenient to fit a screening into your schedule. Call 1-866-895-3365 today to speak with a Preventive Health Advisor, who will help you determine which screenings are right for you.
Do it for yourself. Do it for your family.
Call 1-866-895-3365 or visit www.lifelinescreening.com/afba.
A military family’s health care costs can build up before you know it, especially if you need specialty care outside of the military system. Our TRICARE Supplement Insurance Plan may benefit military retirees and families who utilize TRICARE as their primary insurance. This insurance plan is meant to help protect you from out-of-pocket expenses.
The Benefits:
The features of this supplement insurance plan deliver real benefits for your family.
To learn more about how TRICARE Supplement insurance may help protect your financial future, call 1-800-638-2610 or visit www.afba-tricare.com.
Cost savings estimates based on lowest annual premium for insured under age 40 plus deductibles as compared to maximum out-of-pocket costs that could be incurred without a TRICARE Supplement. The TRICARE Supplement Plans are subject to plan deductible and limitations. See the certificate of insurance for complete plan details. The Supplement Plans are administered by Selman & Company and underwritten by Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (TPLC) (Cedar Rapids, IA) and Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company (TFLIC) (Harrison, NY) for New York residents. TFLIC is authorized to conduct business in New York. TPLIC is authorized to conduct business in all other states. NOT AVAILABLE IN ALL STATES. 1911303
Save time and money on your next auto purchase by using the
We never lose sight of our mission and its importance was underscored as we responded to the recent C-130 crash in which nine Puerto Rican National Guard members lost their lives. See the summary of our response to this tragedy in the article below. Memorial Day also reminds us of our important mission as we honor all the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. We hope this day of remembrance is a meaningful and safe one for you and your families.
In 1947, we began our mission to provide survivor benefits to the families of active duty officers stationed overseas. Our founders likely never imagined that, more than 70 years later, AFBA would have grown into what we believe is the most relevant, dynamic, and growth-oriented association of its kind. Today, your association is more than 640,000 members strong — up over 150,000 from last year! Member eligibility extends to military personnel of all ranks of the active duty component, National Guard, and Reserves. Those who have worn the cloth in the past and have separated or retired are eligible as well. We are also very proud to include First Responders in our ranks as their dedicated service on the home front supports our national security. The response of this community to AFBA’s mission has fueled a great deal of membership growth in recent years, and we are grateful for their participation. DoD contractors and federal employees who serve this great nation every day complete our membership eligibility list. Spouses and dependents of all these groups are eligible for membership. All survivor benefits are underwritten by our wholly-owned affiliate, 5Star Life Insurance Company.
Your association’s significant membership growth in 2017 can be attributed to very positive results from our ongoing operations and the transfer of a large block of members to AFBA from American Equity Life. Fourteen new National Guard state associations and 83 firefighter groups became part of the AFBA family on 1 January. We shared information about this initiative with you last fall and additional details are found in this newsletter.
Board of Directors
AFBA’s Board of Directors continues to guide us with vision and dedication, and our ability to serve you would not be possible without their leadership. Please review the list of candidates this year and complete your ballot. We appreciate your participation in the governance of your association by casting your vote.
Member Safety
We want you and your loved ones to stay safe and secure – physically and online. I recommend the articles on Summer Safety and Cyber Security to you as tools to help you protect yourself and your family. The adage that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure still holds true today, whether it’s regarding swimming safety or how you manage your passwords.
Financial Planning Guide 2018
Managing your finances and planning for the future is an essential part of your family’s welfare. This year’s Financial Planning Guide is like previous editions – packed with useful information on every aspect of your financial well-being. It has the distinction of being the final year in which we will print hard copies of the guide. As in recent years, a link to the guide is posted on our website for your easy access. Going fully digital next year will allow us to provide the guide to more current and prospective members, as well as include subject tabs, helpful search functions, and more advanced electronic dissemination to ensure that you continue to benefit from this vital information.
AFBA Spotlights on Black History, Women’s History and Month of the Military Child
We are proud of all those who serve and, in addition to our regular posts, blogs and messages about our member communities at large, we also enjoy bringing you information from time to time that highlights the contributions of specific groups.
Service to You
Thank you for your patience as we grew this past year. We are aware that in some instances, the wait times you experienced on the phone were too long, and we apologize. We are fully engaged in expanding our self-service capabilities in addition to making sure we have staff available when you need us. We always welcome your calls. We also realize that you have busy schedules and may not be able to phone in during office hours. Many members prefer using self-service options and the member portal on our website is an excellent way for you to access those options at any time of day or night – when it’s convenient for you.
Member Benefits
Over the years, the portfolio of benefits available to AFBA members has grown along with our membership. Read about the benefits available to you as a valued AFBA member
When I graduated from the Air Force Academy 50 years ago this month as a newly minted Second Lieutenant, I could not have envisioned the full flight path of my career and that it would include serving this fine organization. It is one of the best assignments I have had, and I am honored to be your association’s Chairman and President.
Ralph E. “Ed” Eberhart
General, USAF (Ret.)
Chairman − President
Vote for Your Board of DirectorsYou may view the bios of all Board members by clicking here. We are grateful for their leadership and oversight and encourage all members to vote online. Simply login to the Member Portal and click the Vote button. We will announce the results at the annual members meeting.
You are invited to attend AFBA’s Annual Members Meeting. Join us on Thursday, the 28th of June, at 10:00 AM for light refreshments, a short presentation and Q & A on the state of AFBA. The meeting will be held in the AFBA Building, 909 N. Washington Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. To attend, call the RSVP hotline at 1-800-776-2322 ext. 2009 or email [email protected].
Effective December 18, 2017, 5Star Life Insurance Company’s statutory office was relocated to Lincoln, Nebraska. Our home office remains in Alexandria, Virginia with satellite offices in Staunton, Virginia and Lincoln, Nebraska. Please store the enclosed (except in New York) Endorsement with your policy and/or certificate of life insurance underwritten by 5Star Life Insurance Company. NO FURTHER ACTION IS REQUIRED.
We stand with the Puerto Rico National GuardAFBA was deeply saddened by the tragic loss of nine Puerto Rico National Guard members last month in the C-130 crash in Georgia. These Guard members served our country with valor, honor, and dedication, and our thoughts and prayers go out to all the families and members of the Puerto Rico National Guard.
All nine were AFBA members and their beneficiaries received a basic SSLI emergency death benefit within 24 hours. In addition, three of the nine had our Better Alternative coverage. In the hustle and bustle of our daily work, moments like this remind us of why we were founded — to serve those who serve this great nation.
AFBA Welcomes New National Guard State Associations and Local Firefighter GroupsIn July 2017, American Equity Life (AEL) let AFBA senior management know that it had made the strategic decision to exit the group life insurance market and focus its resources on its primary annuity market. American Equity was a well-respected carrier in the National Guard market for many years, acting as a pioneer with the State Sponsored Life Insurance (SSLI) program. At the time of this decision, John Matovina, Chief Executive Officer of American Equity said “We are excited to work with AFBA. With its long-standing commitment to service members and first responders, we are confident AFBA is the ideal partner as we transition our group life insurance business.”
The actual transfer of business took place on 1 January of this year. A total of 14 Guard state associations and 83 local firefighter groups, representing more than 105,000 members and their dependents joined the AFBA family at that time. General Eberhart, USAF (Ret.), Chairman and President of AFBA stated that “For more than 70 years, AFBA has been committed to serving those who serve this great nation. Our focus is on providing life insurance products and services tailored for service members and first responders. American Equity was the pathfinder in serving the Citizen Soldiers and Airmen of our nation, and we are honored to work with their National Guard and firefighter customers to provide these benefits.”
We are pleased to share with you that the Board of Directors of the Wisconsin National Guard Association (WINGA) voted to move the State Sponsored Life Insurance Program to AFBA / 5Star Life effective January 1, 2019. WINGA has created a successful stand-alone program with nearly 6,000 insureds.
We are committed to a successful partnership helping to improve the existing program and, over time, providing increased protection and value to WINGA members and families. Our goal will be to make the transition as seamless as possible for the WINGA members.
We are proud that WINGA recognized our joint commitment to serving and promoting the welfare of their members. As the leading provider in the National Guard market, the addition of WINGA increases the roster of state and territory associations served by AFBA/5Star Life to 53 out of 54 total associations.
Over the last couple of years, we have provided articles and videos on cyber security to help our members stay safe online.
Even with all the reports in the news on security breaches in many companies, the top 3 passwords still used are 123456, 12345 and “password.” While there are no guarantees that malicious actors won’t get your information, the following tips will decrease the probability of getting your personal information hacked. So, let’s do some password maintenance!
1. Have Complicated, Unique, Difficult-To-Crack Passwords
Hate changing your passwords for your social media, online banking, Amazon.com and other online accounts? We all do.
A good solution to create strong passwords (and track them at the same time) is to sign up for a password storage tool. Some are free while some have a nominal fee.
All you need to do, once you have such a tool, is to create one very complex password and remember it. Then you can let the tool auto-generate all your other long and tricky passwords, which you won’t need to remember.
2. Never Reuse a Password
Don’t use the same password or slightly modify it to use it on multiple accounts. Make each password unique, with a mix of upper and lower-case letters, numbers, special characters – at least ten characters, ideally more.
3. Update Your Passwords Regularly
Change your passwords periodically (at least every 6-12 months).
4. Prevent “Dictionary Attacks”
Don’t use dictionary words, your pet’s name, your college or any other words that have an obvious correlation to you as a person.
5. Don’t Store Passwords in Your Browser
It seems convenient, but hackers feel the same way. Browser attacks are very common. The most common browser attack is the Malicious URL. This is where the website you are going to contains an exploit that can compromise your system and collect those stored passwords. Also, never write down passwords or share them with others.
6. Never Leave any Level of Entry Unprotected
Have (unique) passwords on your firewall, your WiFi network, your computer, your phone, your tablet, etc.
Summer is here, and we want you to stay safe during these hot months! Always keep safety in mind whether you’re traveling, spending time outdoors, or spending a low-key weekend at home. Below are some tips from webmd.com and the National Safety Council. Read through them to ensure you have the knowledge needed to protect yourself and your loved ones from injuries so you can continue to stay healthy, happy, and active. Have a great summer!
1. Make Yourself Unattractive
To insects, that is. Scented soaps, perfumes, and hairsprays can attract mosquitoes and other biting bugs. Use bug spray with DEET (not for infants under two months old.)
2. Use the 20-Minute Rule
Drink water at least every 20 minutes to prevent heat stress and heat stroke. If you’re going to be outside for more than an hour or exercising strenuously, you should add a sports drink to replenish electrolytes.
3. Play It Safe
Inspect playground equipment for rotten wood or plastic with sharp edges. Make sure the slides and other surfaces are cool enough to be comfortable.
4. Leave Fireworks to the Experts
More fires are reported on July 4 than any other day of the year. The National Safety Council advises everyone to stay away from all consumer fireworks and to only enjoy fireworks at a public display conducted by professionals.
5. Swimming Safety
Don’t go in the water unless you know how to swim. Never swim alone. Never drink alcohol when swimming.
6. Boating Safety
Life jackets are essential to safe boating. In addition, the Coast Guard recommends all boat operators take a safety course to learn the rules of the waterway.
Last year we launched a new video featuring AFBA Chairman and President, General Eberhart, and 5Star Life’s CEO and President, Mark Singleton, covering our history and markets. Click below to watch it.
We also debuted our redesigned Newsroom at newsroom.afba.com. Here you will find articles on timely topics that relate to each of our markets.
Do you follow AFBA on Facebook and Twitter? If not, you’re missing out on interesting articles, videos, and infographics on a variety of topics. We focus on matters relevant to our members, particularly, veterans and first responders, but there are also general-interest posts on resume writing and life insurance education.
Friend us, connect with us, follow us!
Paperless Billing Benefits
Using the online services of AFBA’s website for paperless bill viewing and electronic bill payment not only has environmental benefits, it will also save you money on postage and provides round the clock access to your billing status. To sign up, log in to your account at afba.com and update your profile or call us at 1-800-776-2322.
One of our more popular member benefits is our annual Financial Planning Guide (FPG) covering important financial topics for all stages of life. This valuable resource includes information on:
Please Note: Starting next year, we will no longer print the FPG and instead offer an enhanced digital version. It will have all the updated, valuable information you have come to expect in an easy-to-navigate format.
You can download the guide (in PDF form) or request to have a copy mailed to you by clicking here.
Members can ensure the future well-being of their families in the event of an untimely death with our Survivor Scholarship. It provides up to $10,000 per family, per year for a maximum benefit of $40,000 for undergraduate tuition and fees. The surviving spouse or children of members killed in combat, as a result of an act of terrorism, or First Responders at the scene of an incident are eligible. (Not available in Virginia.)
The need for extended care can compromise a comfortable retirement as such care is not covered by Medicare, TRICARE, or your medical insurance.
Having a strategy in place to help pay for this care can help ensure access to the type and quality of care you need and deserve.
There are new insurance options that guarantee your rate, provide a death benefit if you do not need care, and can even provide lifetime benefits.
The AFBA Long Term Care Insurance Program can help you understand if one of these new options are right for you.
Call 1-855-581-6647 or visit www.getltci.com/afba for more information.
Save even more on insurance from GEICO!
Get a free quote: https://www.geico.com/mil/afba or call 1-800- 368-2734.
Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. GEICO contracts with various membership entities and other organizations, but these entities do not underwrite the offered insurance products. Discount amount varies in some states. One group discount applicable per policy. Coverage is individual. In New York a premium reduction may be available. GEICO may not be involved in a formal relationship with each organization; however, you still may qualify for a special discount based on your membership, employment or affiliation with those organizations. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. © 2018 GEICO
Any time you have an accident or sudden illness while traveling away from home, Emergency Assistance Plus (EA+), made available through AFBA, provides a crucial safety net that helps pay for emergency medical transportation expenses your health or travel insurance generally will NOT cover. With more than 20 assistance benefits, EA+ steps in to provide Medical Evacuation, Medical Assistance, Travel Assistance, and Assistance for Companions.
Read the testimonial below from a member to see EA+ in action:
“My wife Laura and I flew to Branson, Missouri to enjoy some world-class music. Our trip was cut short when Laura became ill and needed medical assistance. Unfamiliar with the area, I called EA+ and they helped me locate a hospital nearby where Laura received care for the next two days. Because of my wife’s condition, I knew we wouldn’t be able to continue our trip. EA+ made arrangements to fly us back home to Idaho. EA+ even upgraded Laura’s seat due to her condition and insisted I join her to monitor her medical state. We cannot express our thanks and appreciation for all that was done to make such a frightening situation, tolerable, calming and comforting.”
-Greg J.
For more information, visit www.emergencyassistanceplus.com/afba or call toll free 1-855-352-3032.
As an AFBA member, you can receive a discount off of a package of four important preventive health screenings through our partnership with Life Line Screening. It is proactive and smart to take care of your cardiovascular health and stay healthy and active. AFBA and Life Line Screening have partnered since 2010.
Life Line Screening data shows that seventy percent of people aged fifty-five and older have at least two risk factors for cardiovascular disease and may not even know it.
By special arrangement, you can get four screenings for only $129:
Other screenings are available as well at an additional cost, including”
The package of four screenings is discounted for our members, so take advantage of this important preventive health program today. If other screenings are recommended for you based on your age and risk factors, consultants will work with you to create a package that is right for you.
Call 1-866-895-3365 or visit www.lifelinescreening.com/afba.
Here are some important facts about a TRICARE Supplement plan to help you make an informed decision about your healthcare.
FACT 1: More options. TRICARE Supplement is available to TRICARE-eligible beneficiaries who are entitled to retired, retainer or equivalent pay and who are under 65 or are ineligible for Medicare.
FACT 2: Costs are more predictable. With TRICARE Supplement, you pay an additional premium and annual deductible. In exchange, TRICARE Supplement covers your other out-of-pocket expenses. If you have come close to reaching your out-of-pocket limit with TRICARE Select, you can save money with a supplement and better anticipate your recurring costs.
FACT 3: Covers your family. TRICARE Supplement is a great option for retired military personnel, but it’s also a great option for their spouses and children.
Family members can maintain coverage even after the primary military person has aged into Medicare and is no longer eligible for TRICARE Supplement.
FACT 4: Help you keep your doctor. With TRICARE Select only, you would pay more for visits to non-network providers. With TRICARE Supplement, your out-of-pocket costs are covered, and there’s no distinction between network and non-network providers.
FACT 5: Pre-existing conditions are covered after six months. For the first six months of coverage, treatment for pre-existing conditions will not be covered. However, once the seventh month of coverage begins, this limitation expires and pre-existing conditions are covered from this point on.
Learn more! Call 1-800-638-2610 or visit www.afba-tricare.com.
As your Association celebrates its 70th anniversary, it is stronger than ever and well prepared to support AFBA members and their families in their daily lives as well as in their time of need. Our leadership team is proud to be a part of an organization whose noble mission of serving those who serve this great nation has not changed in 70 years. We are honored and humbled by the responsibility to carry the organization forward to serve new generations of AFBA members.
Salute to Veterans — The upcoming Veterans Day provides the perfect opportunity to express our gratitude to all the men and women who have served. AFBA salutes all veterans and offices will be closed in observance of Veterans Day on Friday, November 10.
Enhanced service to the National Guard — We are pleased to announce that AFBA/5Star Life and American Equity Investment Life Insurance Company (AE) have partnered to transition AE’s National Guard and Fire Fighter group life insurance coverage to AFBA. read more »
Natural Disasters — Unfortunately our nation has experienced several natural disasters this year. From hurricanes and flooding to the fires in CA, our First Responders and the National Guard have been critical in helping people get back on their feet. read more »
Air Force Birthday — 1947 was a great year! Both AFBA and the US Air Force were formed. We found a list of facts about the USAF symbol that you might find interesting. read more »
Member Benefits and Services to Better Serve You — AFBA continues to maintain strategic alliances with like – minded organizations to better serve you. read more »
Tell Your Friends About Us — AFBA reaches out to support all those brave men and women in this great nation who go into harm’s way. This includes members of the uniformed services, first responders, government employees and families of each group. With our affordable life insurance coverage, underwritten by 5Star Life Insurance Company, and unique features like no combat or terrorism exclusions, and an emergency death benefit of up to $15,000 sent within one business day of notice, we are here when you need us. Referrals are the greatest compliment. Please send your interested friends and family to www.afba.com or ask them to call us at 1-800-776-2322.
Ralph E. “Ed” Eberhart
General, USAF (Ret.)
Chairman − President
MENU
We are pleased to announce that we are partnering with American Equity (AE) to transition its National Guard SSLI and Firefighter group life insurance to AFBA/5Star Life on January 1, 2018.
American Equity is a well-respected carrier in the Guard market, with a strong pool of 15 state associations representing more than 65,000 Soldiers and Airmen and their families. We are deeply committed to working with American Equity to make the transition seamless and transparent for the state associations and their members. In addition, the AE Firefighter block consists of more than 100 groups with 13,000 members, and it is highly complementary to our current position and future growth plans in the First Responder market.
“We are excited to work with AFBA. With its long-standing commitment to service members and first responders, we are confident AFBA is the ideal partner as we transition our group life insurance business,” said John Matovina, Chief Executive Officer of American Equity. “We have been in the National Guard and Firefighter business since day one at American Equity. Supporting those who serve our country and communities is, and will continue to be, part of our culture and identity. As our annuity business continues to grow, we believe our service members and firefighters will be well-served by an organization strategically focused on providing products and services meeting their needs.”
General Eberhart, USAF (Ret.), Chairman and President of AFBA, added “For 70 years, AFBA has been committed to serving those who serve this great nation. Our focus is on providing life insurance products and services tailored for service members and first responders. American Equity has been the pathfinder in serving the citizen-Soldiers and Airmen of our nation and we are honored to work with their National Guard and Firefighter customers to provide excellent life insurance solutions and service.”
We have seen extreme weather hit parts of the country causing extensive damage to property and major disruptions to people’s lives. It’s at times like these that we can show our members that we care by providing some relief in the midst of disaster. Due to hurricanes, flooding, and fires in TX, FL, GA, PR, USVI, and CA we are giving affected members more time to submit their payments without fear of losing coverage. When disaster strikes, we don’t want you to worry about losing your valuable life insurance coverage with so much else on your mind. These important messages are posted on our website at www.afba.com.
Read the article below about the valiant efforts of First Responders and the National Guard during these disasters.
This year’s hurricane season was one of the most devastating in recent history. Hurricane Harvey was the first major hurricane to make landfall in the U.S. in 12 years. The storm hovered over southeast Texas and unleashed an unprecedented amount of rainfall – anywhere from 40-61 inches, according to The Weather Channel and caused widespread flooding.
Following Harvey was Hurricane Irma, which also reached incredible extremes. The storm is one of five in history with maximum sustained winds at or exceeding 185 miles per hour. It maintained these speeds for 37 hours, which is the longest length of time on record. In terms of damage, Irma ravaged the Virgin Islands as well as Barbuda, Antigua, St Martin, and others. The state of Florida was also heavily damaged by the storm, leaving thousands without housing.
While recovery efforts were underway in those areas, Hurricane Maria came through and hit Puerto Rico as a Category 4 which was the strongest storm to hit there in 85 years. The energy grid was heavily damaged leading to an island-wide power outage. Maria also hit the US Virgin Islands again causing more damage to those islands already suffering.
Hurricanes weren’t the only disaster this fall. During October, a series of wildfires broke out in Northern California. They spread from 1,000 acres to over 20,000 acres within a day destroying an estimated 3,500 structures, according to ABC News. By October 14, the fires had burned more than 210,000 acres while forcing 90,000 people to evacuate from their homes.[
First responders and members of the National Guard have been essential in aiding those affected by these and other major storms. Their work helped ensure the people most at risk received the help they needed.
Since its inception following World War I, Veterans Day has evolved over the years in name, date and traditions, but the purpose of the holiday has always been to honor the men and women, living and dead, who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Veterans Day is observed on November 11, regardless of the day of the week on which it falls. November 11 marked the end of World War I and its significance helps focus attention on the important purpose of Veterans Day: A celebration to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.
Each year the President signs a proclamation declaring November Military Family Appreciation Month. This proclamation marks the beginning of a month-long celebration of the military family in which the Department of Defense and the nation honors the commitment and sacrifices made by the families of the nation’s servicemembers.
Throughout November, military families serving around the world are honored through a variety of observances and recognized for their commitment and the many contributions they make every day in support of the military and our nation.
Community leaders, businesses, and military bases and posts are teaming up to recognize military families through special events such as: open houses, fun runs, family fun nights, and community dinners; discounts at MWR facilities, local business and sporting events; and special recognitions during community activities throughout November.
AFBA is not the only one to celebrate a milestone birthday in 2017! The Air Force became a separate service on September 18, 1947 after President Harry S. Truman signed the National Security Act that same year. It is the youngest of all five services. In its 70 years of existence, the Air Force has become the world’s premier aerospace force. The mission of the United States Air Force is to fly, fight and win in air, space and cyberspace.
We recently launched a new video featuring AFBA Chairman and President, General Eberhart, and 5Star Life’s CEO and President, Mark Singleton, covering our history and markets. Click below to watch it.
Earlier this year, we also debuted our redesigned Newsroom at newsroom.afba.com. Here you will find articles on timely topics that relate to each of our markets.
You have undoubtedly heard and read all the stories in the news about security breaches at companies such as Equifax and others. We want to assure you that we do everything possible to keep your personal information safe. We routinely have exercises where we go over certain incidents, such as ransomware, and develop a plan for each event. So, if the unthinkable happens, we will be ready and mitigate any damage as quickly as possible.
There are some basic rules that everyone should follow to keep your information safe and computer free from viruses. Below is a list of 9 things you can do according to Lifewire.com.
Remember, there’s far more good than bad on the Internet. The goal isn’t to be paranoid. The goal is to be cautious, aware, and even suspicious. By following the tips above and becoming engaged in your security, you’ll not only protect yourself; but you’ll also be contributing to the protection and betterment of the internet.
Paperless Billing Benefits
Using the online services of AFBA’s website for paperless bill viewing and electronic bill payment not only has environmental benefits, it will also save you money on postage and provides round the clock access to your billing status. To sign up, log in to your account at afba.com and update your profile or call us at 1-800-776-2322.
Do you follow AFBA and 5Star Life on Facebook and Twitter? If not, you’re missing out on interesting articles, videos, and infographics on a variety of topics. We focus on matters important to our members, particularly, veterans and first responders, but there are also general-interest posts on resume writing and life insurance education.
Since 2004, the Charles C. Blanton scholarship has been available to candidates for use towards an undergraduate degree at an accredited college of up to $10,000 per family per year for a maximum benefit of $40,000 for college tuition and fees. The scholarship is provided to the surviving spouse or children of an insured AFBA member who dies as a result of combat or a first responder who dies while involved in operations at the scene of an incident. 131 families are now eligible for this program.
The AFBA Long Term Care Insurance Program can assist you in owning coverage that helps pay for extended care – costs that neither Medicare or Tricare are designed to cover. A specialist with LTCI Partners can help you own meaningful benefits that fit your budget. In a simple telephone conversation, they can shop and compare rates with numerous leading companies and help you enroll in the plan that provides the best value.
Call 1-855-581-6647 or click https://www.getltci.com/afba
Save even more on insurance from GEICO!
Get a free quote: https://www.geico.com/mil/afba or call 800 368-2734.
Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. GEICO contracts with various membership entities and other organizations, but these entities do not underwrite the offered insurance products. Discount amount varies in some states. One group discount applicable per policy. Coverage is individual. In New York a premium reduction may be available. GEICO may not be involved in a formal relationship with each organization; however, you still may qualify for a special discount based on your membership, employment or affiliation with those organizations. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. © 2017 GEICO
Any time you have an accident or sudden illness while traveling away from home Emergency Assistance Plus (EA+), offered through AFBA, provides a crucial safety net that helps pay for emergency medical transportation expenses your health or travel insurance generally will NOT cover. With more than 20 assistance benefits, EA+ steps in to provide Medical Evacuation, Medical Assistance, Travel Assistance, and Assistance for Companions.
Read the testimonial below from a member to see EA+ in action:
“My wife Laura and I flew to Branson, Missouri to enjoy some world-class music. Our trip was cut short when Laura became ill and needed medical assistance. Unfamiliar with the area, I called EA+ and they helped me locate a hospital nearby where Laura received care for the next two days. Because of my wife’s condition, I knew we wouldn’t be able to continue our trip. EA+ made arrangements to fly us back home to Idaho. EA+ even upgraded Laura’s seat due to her condition and insisted I join her to monitor her medical state. We cannot express our thanks and appreciation for all that was done to make such a frightening situation, tolerable, calming and comforting.”
-Greg J.
For more information, visit www.emergencyassistanceplus.com/afba or call toll free 1-855-352-3032.
As an AFBA member, you can receive a discount off of a package of four important preventive health screenings through our partnership with Life Line Screening. It is proactive and smart to take care of your cardiovascular health and stay healthy and active. AFBA and Life Line Screening have partnered since 2010.
Life Line Screening data shows that seventy percent of people aged fifty-five and older have at least two risk factors for cardiovascular disease and may not even know it.
By special arrangement, you can get four screenings for only $135:
Other screenings are available as well at an additional cost, including”
The package of four screenings is discounted for our members, so take advantage of this important preventive health program today. If other screenings are recommended for you based on your age and risk factors, consultants will work with you to create a package that is right for you.
Call 1-866-895-3365 or visit www.lifelinescreening.com/afba.
What does this mean for you?
Choosing the TRICARE Supplement Plan will provide you with worldwide coverage that wraps around your TRICARE benefit plan giving you the protection you need and want for you and your family.
We offer supplement programs for:
Don’t pay more than you need to for health care. AFBA TRICARE Supplement Plans can provide you with dependable coverage.
Enroll at www.afba-tricare.com or call us at 1-855-311-1478.
We were created as a nonprofit organization in 1947 with the support of General of the Army, Dwight D. Eisenhower. Initially formed in the basement of the Pentagon to provide $10,000 of life insurance to active duty officers serving overseas, we are one of the oldest and largest associations of our kind. Over the years, we have changed our name a few times, moved offices, added new products to our portfolio, and expanded our membership eligibility to cover all military, DoD, federal employees, and first responders. We also have our own insurance company, 5Star Life, to underwrite our member eligible products and to serve our country’s civilian workforce through the worksite market.
While we have grown considerably and come a long way since our founding, our core mission remains steadfast – serving those who serve this great nation. And we will never be too large to forget that we are here to serve with integrity by offering flexible, customized insurance solutions. Because there are no limits to the sacrifices our members and policyholders may be called upon to make, we do not exclude any occupation, duty assignment, deployment, or hazard from our protection at any time. From the workplace to a war zone, we stand behind our insured families, ready to deliver on our promise to pay claims quickly and compassionately. And unlike anyone else in our industry, we offer a no cost scholarship benefit to the survivors of those whose deaths occur as a result of combat, terrorism, or participation as a first responder in an emergency.
We have paid almost $2 billion in claims, served thousands of members, and helped countless families achieve financial security in their time of need. Today, we are 450,000 members strong, financially sound, and strategically positioned to remain relevant, serving new generations of members. Thank you to our members, employees, field representatives, board of directors, and senior leaders as we say Happy Birthday AFBA!
General Ralph E. “Ed” Eberhart, USAF (Ret.)
Chairman & President
You may view the bios of all Board members by clicking here. We are grateful for their leadership and oversight and encourage all members to vote online. Simply login to the Member Portal and click the Vote button. We will announce the results at the annual members meeting.
You are invited to attend AFBA’s Annual Members Meeting. Join us on Friday, the 23rd of June, at 10:00 AM for light refreshments, a short presentation and Q & A on the state of AFBA. The meeting will be held in the AFBA Building, 909 N. Washington Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. To attend, call the RSVP hotline at 1-800-776-2322 ext. 2009 or email [email protected].
Founded in 1996 as a wholly owned subsidiary, 5Star Life Insurance Company is AFBA’s principal underwriter for member insurance products. 5Star Life Insurance Company exists to further the mission of AFBA to serve those who serve this great nation. To achieve that goal, 5Star Life provides value to AFBA in two unique and distinct ways.
We are focused on delivering the best life insurance value to members, high-quality affordable life insurance coverage with unique features not easily found in the marketplace. At the same time, we’re committed to maintain a financially strong insurance company. We have made significant investment in the past few years to manage the business, improve our policy administration systems and implement a brand-new claims system among other things to ensure that in 5, 10 or 50 years, we’ll still be here to pay claims for our members and their families. .
We are proud to announce that the National Guard Association of California (NGAC) has selected AFBA and 5Star Life Insurance Company as the provider of its State Sponsored Life Insurance program effective May 1, 2017.
AFBA is the leading provider in the National Guard market with more than 140,000 active insureds representing over $14B of life insurance in force in 38 states and territories. Both AFBA and NGAC are strongly committed to promoting the common welfare of their members and recognize that the soldiers and airmen of the National Guard deserve the best life insurance program available and this partnership will ensure that.
This affiliation with NGAC underscores our unwavering commitment to serve the men and women serving this great nation. It is a great honor and responsibility that we do not take lightly.
According to NGAC President John N. Haramalis, “Both AFBA and NGAC share a common legacy and mission of promoting the welfare of their members, and they recognize that the soldiers and airmen of the National Guard deserve the best life insurance program available. Their product is the strongest and most beneficial to Guard members and their families. We look forward to this partnership and continued growth.”
We are pleased to share with you that we have achieved a significant milestone that enables us to enhance our service to our members: we launched a new claims processing system, Fineos.
Fineos is an industry leading claims management system that enhances the member experience through improved communication, automation, personalization, and proactive claim management. We are excited to have this new tool at our disposal to help deliver the best possible service to members and beneficiaries.
Life insurance is a promise, a promise that we will be here for you and your family when you need us. Paying claims efficiently and compassionately is the moment of truth when we deliver on that promise.
Last October, we launched our updated Member Portal. This secure, online platform gives you 24/7 access to important policy information. In addition to improved layout and design, you will notice we have also added new functionality. Please note that if you have not logged in to our website in a while, for security reasons, you may have to register again.
Consolidated Account Access
Once you log in, you have access to all your active policies on a single, personalized screen. You can quickly set up a one-time online bill payment, set up recurring payments, manage your profile, and download policy related forms.
Mobile-Friendly Design
You now have full access to all of the site’s features from any device, including your desktop computer, smartphone, tablet or any other mobile device. The responsive design of the new portal presents all site features in a user-friendly format.
Keep Current
We want to stay in touch with you! It’s important to keep us informed whenever you change your address, telephone number, or email addresses.
Do we have the correct, most recent beneficiaries for your life insurance? It’s critical to ensure that we have the most current beneficiary designations for you on file so that you know that the true beneficiary receives your life insurance proceeds. Have you recently gotten married? Did you have a child? Did a family member have a name change? Please let us know! Call 1-800-776-2322 to have a new beneficiary form sent to you or download one from our website.
Save Time
Did you know that you have different ways to pay your bill and manage your account? Try our quick and easy payment options on our website or through our automated phone option. If you prefer to talk to a representative, Customer Service has recently expanded the staffing on our payments line. Please call 1-800-776-2322 and choose option 1 for Customer Service then remain on the line and wait for the next prompt. Press 1 to make a payment with a representative.
AFBA’s complimentary 2017 Financial Planning Guide (FPG) is a 100-page booklet available to members and their families upon request. This valuable resource includes information on:
You can download the guide (in PDF form) or request to have a copy mailed to you by clicking here.
Charles C. Blanton AFBA Family Survivor College Scholarship
Members can ensure the future well-being of their families in the event of an untimely death with our Survivor Scholarship. It provides up to $10,000 per family, per year for a maximum benefit of $40,000 for undergraduate tuition and fees. The surviving spouse or children of members killed in combat, as a result of an act of terrorism, or First Responders at the scene of an incident are eligible.
Long-Term Care Insurance: Help Protect Your Financial Freedom
You can receive a free consultation from a long term care insurance specialist dedicated to serving AFBA members. A short conversation can help you determine if this planning is right for you.
AFBA chose LTCI Partners, LLC to provide members with this service. They have access to many leading companies to shop and compare benefits and help you own meaningful benefits that fit your needs and budget – including exclusive AFBA member pricing.
Call 1-855-581-6647 or click www.getltci.com/afba for more information.
Special Discounts for AFBA Members from GEICO
You could save even more on insurance from GEICO! With GEICO you’ll enjoy:
Get a free quote: https://www.geico.com/mil/afba or call 1-800-368-2734.
GEICO contracts with various membership entities and other organizations, but these entities do not underwrite the offered insurance products. Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Customer satisfaction based on an independent study conducted by Alan Newman Research, 2016. Homeowners, renters and condo coverages are written through non-affiliated insurance companies and are secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, Inc. Motorcycle and ATV coverages are underwritten by GEICO Indemnity Company. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. © 2017 GEICO. GEICO is the second-largest private passenger auto insurer in the United States according to the 2015 A.M. Best market share report, published May 2016. Discount amount varies in some states. One group discount applicable per policy. Coverage is individual. In New York a premium reduction may be available. GEICO may not be involved in a formal relationship with each organization; however, you still may qualify for a special discount based on your membership, employment or affiliation with those organizations. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, One GEICO Plaza, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2017.
AFBA is proud to continue our Unique partnership with PenFed Credit Union that provides AFBA members with access to PenFed’s industry-leading mortgage programs and rates.
Wheather you are in the market to purchase a new home, need an equity line of credit, or want to refinance your mortgage, PenFed’s mortgage lending programs will match your needs and budget.
Take a look at what PenFed offers and decide which program is right for you. Visit PenFed.org/AFBA or call 1-800-247-5626 to learn more.
If you’re thinking about buying a car, why wait? Visit PenFed.org/AFBA
Emergency Assistance Plus Provides a Crucial Safety Net
Any time you have an accident or sudden illness while traveling away from home Emergency Assistance Plus (EA+), offered through AFBA, provides a crucial safety net that helps pay for emergency medical transportation expenses your health or travel insurance generally will NOT cover. With more than 20 assistance benefits, EA+ steps in to provide Medical Evacuation, Medical Assistance, Travel Assistance, and Assistance for Companions.
We put together a package of essential support services. All of which are vital in an emergency and made available to you at a bargain price. This package is far below what you’d likely pay on your own so sign up today.
For more information, visit www.emergencyassistanceplus.com/afba or call toll free 1-855-352-3032.
AFBA members receive a discount off of a package of four important preventive health screenings through our partnership with Life Line Screening. It is proactive and smart to take care of your cardiovascular health and stay healthy and active.
Life Line Screening data shows that seventy percent of people aged fifty-five and older have at least two risk factors for cardiovascular disease and may not even know it.
By special arrangement, our members can get four screenings for only $135, plus a FREE Osteoporosis test:
Other screenings are available as well at an additional cost, including:
Call 1-866-895-3365 or visit www.lifelinescreening.com/afba.
Are you a military retiree using TRICARE? If so, read on to find out why TRICARE supplement insurance is a smart choice. Although TRICARE offers comprehensive insurance coverage, it’s important to note that it does not cover every costly expense a military retiree or their family may face.
TRICARE holders who would like some peace of mind of being covered regardless of what type of health care costs they may incur should look no further than a TRICARE supplement plan. TRICARE supplement will help reduce out-of-pocket expenses that are left behind by TRICARE and as a result may help secure your family’s financial future.
TRICARE Supplement Candidates
TRICARE supplement insurance is especially useful to military retirees and their families who use TRICARE as their primary form of insurance coverage.
If a TRICARE holder suffers from a serious illness or accident, he or she is responsible for unexpected out-of-pocket expenses to pay for hospital stays, surgeries, specialists and more. A TRICARE Supplement policy can help pay for these costly, unforeseen out-of-pocket expenses.
Features of the AFBA TRICARE Supplement Plan
TRICARE prescription copayments are increasing. Fortunately, the reimbursement amount with an AFBA TRICARE supplement plan, also increases in order to eliminate the burden of higher medical expenses. Out-of-pocket, doctor and hospital cost shares can also be paid for or reduced, depending on the type of TRICARE you hold. When you choose a TRICARE supplement, you also have the flexibility of choosing any TRICARE authorized provider anywhere in the world.
Help Protect Your Financial Future and Enroll in the AFBA TRICARE Supplement Today
You can’t predict the future but you can prepare for it. By choosing an AFBA TRICARE supplement plan, you help ensure that you and your family will be protected financially in the event of any health issue that may come your way. To learn more about TRICARE supplement and to enroll, call 1-800-638-2610 or visit https://www.afba-tricare.com/.
(2017) 1112432
Do you follow AFBA on Facebook and Twitter? If not, you’re missing out on interesting articles, videos, and infographics on a variety of topics. We focus on matters important to our members, particularly, veterans and first responders, but there are also general interest posts on things like resume writing and life insurance education
.
As your Association approaches its 70th anniversary, it has never been as financially strong or better prepared to support you and your family. With our low-cost life insurance coverage, underwritten by 5Star Life Insurance Company, unique features like no combat or terrorism exclusions, and an emergency death benefit of up to $15,000, we are here when you need us.
As we reflect on our upcoming anniversary, we are proud to be a part of an organization whose noble mission of serving those who serve this great nation has not changed in 70 years, and we’re confident we’ll be here to serve many future generations of AFBA members.
From workplace to war zone, we stand behind you.
Recently, our senior staff, Board of Directors, and I took an opportunity to formally express our organization’s value proposition. We believe the language below reflects our heritage and captures what makes us a vibrant organization for today’s members while also guiding us into the future. We hope you feel proud, as we do, to be a part of this organization.
Expressing the value we provide to our members:
We are a mission-driven enterprise founded in 1947 with the support of General Eisenhower to protect military families. While we have grown considerably from our first offices in the basement of the Pentagon, we will never be too large to forget that we are here to serve with integrity by offering flexible, customized insurance solutions. Today, it is our privilege to serve those who serve our great nation in the armed forces, as well as first responders, federal government and department of defense employees, and all citizens of this great nation.
Our Value Proposition:
Veterans Day
We want to express our gratitude to all the men and women who have served in the armed forces. AFBA salutes and thanks all veterans. Our office will be closed in observance of Veterans Day on Friday, November 11.
Pearl Harbor 75th Anniversary
December 7th marks the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Our association will be paying its respects in a special publication “Pearl Harbor: 75th Anniversary – Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future” that will chronicle this historic moment and examine the lessons learned plus the military and technology tactics which emerged as a result. We’re happy that AFBA is a part of this historic and patriotic effort.
Additional Highlights
As you read through the newsletter, you will see detailed updates, including how we support our members, our recent sponsorship of a special program, 9/11 Inside the Pentagon, highlights of our enhanced Member Portal, and an article on cyber security and terms with which you should be familiar. As always, we have included additional information on valuable member benefits.
Thank you for your support of AFBA. We hope you enjoy your Fall Newsletter. On behalf of all AFBA staff, have a safe and happy holiday season.
General Ralph E. “Ed” Eberhart, USAF (Ret.) Chairman & President
Our number one mission is to serve our members. That can mean different things depending on the day – it means showing we care in the midst of a disaster or delivering new processes to make it easier to do business with us. This year, we have had many opportunities to do both.
We have seen extreme weather hit parts of the country causing extensive damage to property and major disruptions to people’s lives. It’s at times like these that we can show our members that we care by providing some relief in the midst of disaster. Due to flooding disasters in WV, MD, LA, IN, IA, and SC we suspended termination of life insurance policies for a period of time, giving people more time to submit their payments without fear of losing coverage. When disaster strikes, we don’t want you to worry about losing your valuable life insurance coverage with so much else on your mind. These important messages are posted on our website at www.afba.com.
In mid-October we launched the newly updated and redesigned Member Portal, a secure, online platform which gives you 24/7 access to important policy information. In addition to improved layout and design, you will notice we have also added new functionality. We are working on adding new features in the coming few months and will share those updates in our next newsletter.
Paperless Billing Benefits
Using the online services of AFBA’s website for paperless bill viewing and electronic bill payment not only has environmental benefits, it will save you money on postage and provides round the clock access to your billing status. To sign up, update your profile at www.afba.com or call
800-776-2322.
We appreciate your patience and understanding in mid-September when our phone lines were down due to a vendor hardware issue. Our IT team worked with our vendor around the clock to address the problem, and our customer service representatives implemented an ingenious back up plan to answer your calls on their cell phones until the issue was resolved. Again, we thank you for your patience during that time.
We continually seek new ways to improve our products, member benefits, and member services. The best way to do this is to ask the experts – you, our members. Please
click here to complete a quick survey. Upon completion of the survey, you will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a $100 gift card. We appreciate your participation and value your feedback. We hope this survey will help us meet your expectations and improve our overall service to our members and their families.
Do you follow AFBA on Facebook and Twitter? If not, you’re missing out on interesting articles, videos, and infographics on a variety of topics. We focus on matters important to our members, particularly, veterans and first responders, but there are also general-interest posts on resume writing and life insurance education. Friend us, connect with us, follow us!
Since its inception following World War I, Veterans Day has evolved over the years in name, date and traditions, but the purpose of the holiday has always been to honor the men and women, living and dead, who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Veterans Day is observed on November 11, regardless of the day of the week on which it falls. November 11 marked the end of World War I and its significance helps focus attention on the important purpose of Veterans Day: A celebration to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.
Happy Thanksgiving to you, your family and friends. While most people in the U.S. celebrate Thanksgiving as a day at home with family, thousands of military personnel and first responders are on duty. We are especially thankful for their willingness to make this and many other sacrifices to keep our country safe at home and abroad.
In July, we welcomed the National Guard Association of South Carolina to our insurance programs. The onboarding has gone smoothly and we are proud to welcome the NGASC members and dependents as part of the AFBA family.
In September, we were a proud sponsor of a PBS special program “9/11 Inside the Pentagon”. Marking the 15th anniversary, the broadcast told the rarely seen story of the attack in which 184 people died. Much of the media coverage at the time focused on New York City and United flight 93, so some of the details of the attack that took place on the Pentagon had rarely been heard publicly until now. If you missed the program, it’s still available at https://www.weta.org/tv/program/911-inside-pentagon.
One of the largest conferences we sponsor and attend is the NGAUS annual conference. NGAUS is The National Guard Association of the United States and lobbies on behalf of its 45,000 members. Attended by more than 5,000 current and former members of the National Guard, the 138th Conference and Exhibition took place September 9-12 in Baltimore, MD.
On October 13-16 we hosted our top insurance agents in the First Responder market. For 3 days, our top agents trained on leadership, self-assessment and motivation. This home office visit gave these producers an opportunity to tour the home office, meet with key department heads and get deeper understanding of how their business gets processed and members are supported. AFBA board member, Sal Cassano, retired Commissioner, FDNY, spoke to the group and delivered a well-received message about the attacks of 9-11 and the leadership required in the rebuilding efforts that followed. General Eberhart spoke on a topic he has lived and constantly reflects, the traits of a good leader.
Your young children or grandchildren mean the world to you. And you want nothing more than their happiness, safety, and well-being. There is an important thing you can do today to protect them for years to come. You can provide life insurance protection and guarantee their insurability regardless of future health changes. Our updated product launched August 1. $50,000 of life insurance is available for $8 per month until age 44.
For active duty military, retirees, and separates, you can provide the protection and peace of mind your loved ones deserve at affordable rates with the Better Alternative term life insurance. With no war or terrorism exclusions, you can secure as much as $400,000 worth of coverage. If you’re under age 50 and don’t use tobacco, you can get $100,000 worth of coverage for $8 per month with no medical exam.
Call 800-776-2322 or go to www.afba.com for more information on any of these products.
Understanding Common Cybersecurity Terms
Sometimes information security can be confusing. Even some of the terms themselves can easily be misunderstood. To help, this is a list in alphabetical order, of the most commonly used information security awareness terms and what they mean in every day terms.
Anti-Virus
A security program that can run on a computer or mobile device and protects you by identifying and stopping the spread of malware on your system. Anti-virus cannot detect all malware (see definition further down), so even if it is active, your system might still get infected. Anti-virus can also be used at the organizational level. For example, email servers may have anti-virus integrated with it to scan incoming or outgoing email. Sometimes anti-virus tools are called ‘anti-malware’, because these products are designed to defend against various types of malicious software.
Drive-by Download
These attacks exploit vulnerabilities in your browser or its plugins and helper applications when you simply surf to an attacker-controlled website. Some computer attackers set up their own evil websites that are designed to automatically attack and exploit anyone that visits the website. Other attackers compromise trusted websites such as ecommerce sites and deploy their exploit software there. Often these attacks occur without the victims realizing that they are under attack.
Exploit
Code that is designed to take advantage of a vulnerability. An exploit is designed to give an attacker the ability to execute additional malicious programs on the compromised system or to provide unauthorized access to affected data or application.
Firewall
A security program that filters inbound and outbound network connections. In some ways you can think of firewalls as a virtual traffic cop, determining which traffic can go through the firewall. Almost all computers today come with firewall software installed. In addition, firewalls can be implemented as network devices to filter traffic that traverses through them.
Malware – Virus, Worm, Trojan, Spyware
Malware stands for ‘malicious software’. It is any type of code or program cyber attackers use to perform malicious actions. Traditionally there have been different types of malware based on their capabilities and means of propagation, as we have listed below. However these technical distinctions are no longer relevant as modern malware combines the characteristics from each of these in a single program.
Spear Phishing
Spear phishing describes a type of phishing attacks that target to specific victims. But instead of sending out an email to millions of email addresses, cyber attackers send out a very small number of crafted emails to very specific individuals, usually all at the same organization. Because of the targeted nature of this attack, spear phishing attacks are often harder to detect and usually more effective at fooling the victims.
Vulnerability
This is any weakness that attackers or their malicious programs may be able to exploit. For example it can be a bug in a computer program or a misconfigured webserver. An attacker or malware may be able to take advantage of the vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to the affected system. However, vulnerabilities can also be a weakness in people or organizational processes.
Since 2004, the Charles C. Blanton scholarship has been available to candidates for use towards an undergraduate degree at an accredited college of up to $10,000 per family per year for a maximum benefit of $40,000 for college tuition and fees. The scholarship is provided to the surviving spouse or children of an insured AFBA member who dies as a result of combat or a first responder who dies while involved in operations at the scene of an incident. 124 families are now eligible for this program.
Put off by the complexity of this type of planning? Experience the AFBA Long Term Care Insurance Program. We selected LTCI Partners, LLC, to help members with this planning. In a simple conversation they can help personalize a plan so you own meaningful benefits that fit your budget. They shop and compare rates with numerous leading companies – including plans with special AFBA member pricing. Read more>>
LTCI Partners will find the plan that helps deliver the best results for you. They can also provide comparisons to other programs targeted to veterans and won’t hesitate to recommend another program if it better serves your needs.
Call 855-581-6647 or go to www.ltcipartners.com/afba for more information.
Save even more on insurance from GEICO!
Get a free quote: https://www.geico.com/mil/afba or call 800-368-2734.
Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Discount amount varies in some states.
GEICO contracts with various membership entities and other organizations, but these entities do not underwrite the offered insurance products. Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Discount amount varies in some states. One group discount applicable per policy. Coverage is individual. In New York a premium reduction may be available. GEICO may not be involved in a formal relationship with each organization; however, you still may qualify for a special discount based on your membership, employment or affiliation with those organizations. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, One GEICO Plaza, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2016.
Whether you are in the market to purchase a new home, need an equity line of credit, or want to refinance your mortgage, PenFed’s mortgage lending programs will match your needs and budget.
Consider a Fixed Rate Mortgage with PenFed. Competitively priced rates, combined with our easy online application and our free 60 day rate lock on home purchases with a ratified sales contract and refinances, make these programs an attractive choice for doing better financially.
PenFed’s Adjustable Rate Mortgages [ARM] are straightforward programs that get frequent industry recognition. Our adjustable rate mortgages are available for home purchases and refinances.
Take a look at what PenFed offers and decide which program is right for you. Visit PenFed.org/AFBA or call 800-247-5626 to learn more.
PenFed’s Auto Lending program
Your Association is entering its 70th year of operation, and since our founding, we have never wavered in our support of those who serve this great nation. Our mission is to provide you and your family with the security and value of affordable life insurance without combat, terrorism, geographic, or hazardous occupation exclusions. In pursuit of this mission, we must maintain our financial strength and ability to grow, keeping our commitments to our current members and remaining relevant for each new generation to come. With that in mind, we are focusing our resources on our core and legacy benefit of life insurance. We are emphasizing growth in AFBA membership and leveraging the insurance operations with our affiliate, 5Star Life Insurance Company. Under the very capable leadership of Mark Singleton, 5Star Life’s President, the life company is achieving its primary objective of underwriting products for AFBA members while diversifying the enterprise risk profile and achieving operational scale. We will continue to work together with 5Star Life to provide a stronger association for your benefit.
I am pleased to report that our membership is growing and is more diverse and stronger than ever. We continue to serve the active duty military, have enhanced our position in the National Guard market by bringing The National Guard Association of South Carolina into the fold, and have seen impressive growth in the first responder market.
The appointment of Salvatore Cassano, former Fire Commissioner, Fire Department New York, and Vietnam era combat veteran, to the AFBA Board of Directors reflects the importance of our first responder members. In addition to Commissioner Cassano, Tom Walsh, previously an advisor to the Board, has been appointed as a director. Summaries of these new directors’ bios are included in this newsletter, and you may also view the bios of all Board members here. We are grateful for their leadership and oversight and encourage all members to complete the enclosed ballot card or cast your ballot online. Results of the balloting will be announced at the annual members meeting to be held June 30.
We are dedicated to providing meaningful benefits to you. The Charles C. Blanton Scholarship is for families of insured AFBA members who die as a result of combat, terrorism or while involved in incident operations as a first responder. We continue to maintain alliances with like-minded organizations that provide you with additional valuable member benefits.
AFBA works diligently to remain abreast of the latest cyber threats that may impact the security of our members’ information and to bring the latest technology and best practices to bear against those threats. We also encourage you to remain vigilant in protecting your personal information on your home computers and other electronic devices. To assist you, we are launching the first in a series of cybersecurity tutorials that we believe you will find informative and helpful.
We never forget that we are here to serve you during your time of loss — the death of a loved one. Our dedication to fast, accurate and compassionate claims service is unparalleled and we value the feedback of our members on how we are doing. See comments from one of our member beneficiaries further in the newsletter.
We want to hear from you! We appreciate your feedback concerning any service or member benefit suggestions that might be of value to you. We are also interested in developing member profiles of service to this great nation and of your interactions with AFBA.
Thank you for your loyalty to AFBA and for your service to our nation. We reach out to support all the brave men and women of the uniformed services, first responders, government employees, and contractors and the families of each of these groups. Referrals are the greatest compliment and we would welcome the opportunity to assist your friends and family. Please send them to www.afba.com or ask them to call us at 1-800-776-2322.
General Ralph E. “Ed” Eberhart, USAF (Ret.) Chairman & President
We are proud to announce that the National Guard Association of South Carolina (NGASC) Board of Directors voted to move their State Sponsored Life Insurance program from VOYA (formerly ING) to AFBA, effective July 1, 2016. AFBA and NGASC share a common legacy and rich heritage as not-for-profit associations providing outstanding service to their members.
AFBA is the leading provider in the National Guard market with more than 111,000 active insureds representing over $12B of life insurance in force in 37 states and territories. Both AFBA and NGASC are committed to promoting the welfare of their members and recognize that the soldiers and airmen of the National Guard deserve the best life insurance program available.
“We are glad to have earned the confidence and trust of NGASC and look forward to providing the highest value products, outstanding services, and a superior customer experience in accordance with the principles and values of our Association,” said Kimo Wong, Senior Vice President, Regional Operations, AFBA. Tad Shuey, Vice President, Military Markets, AFBA, will be working closely with NGASC to facilitate a smooth transition.
NGASC Executive Director, Lawrence Crowson stated “AFBA has demonstrated a strong commitment to doing what is “right” for those who serve this great nation. Their product is the strongest and most beneficial to the Guard member and their families. We look forward to this partnership and continued growth.”
There are two common methods for determining an individual’s life insurance requirement, the “multiple earnings” approach and the “needs” approach.
AFBA’s complimentary 2016 Financial Planning Guide (FPG) is a 100-page booklet available to members and their families upon request. This valuable resource includes information on:
You can download the guide (in PDF form) here.
Cybersecurity has been in the news lately with several high profile information compromises. Companies aren’t the only ones at risk though. It is important to safeguard your personal information while online.
AFBA has selected LTCI Partners, LLC to provide members with advice and guidance with long-term care insurance planning. They have access to many leading insurance companies to shop and compare benefits – including exclusive AFBA member pricing.
Love. Live. Peace. These are themes often shared with us that move others to own long term care insurance. We invite you to watch their stories.
Love. Help protect loved ones from having to provide for your care.
Allen and Lynda Striepe’s story.
Live. Live the life you imagined, independent from possible financial hardships caused by needing care.
Stories from long term care insurance owners.
Peace. Have the peace of mind that helps you focus on living instead of on finances.
Two minute overview of long term care insurance.
Learn more about whether this planning is right for you.
Call 1-855-581-6647 or click www.getltci.com/afba for more information.
You could save even more on insurance from GEICO! With GEICO you’ll enjoy:
With GEICO enjoy:
· Savings for multi-car policies, good student, safety features, and more.
· 24/7 support, online or by phone, for claims bill paying, policy changes, and more.
· Great policy rates for renters, motorcycles, and much more.
· Storage protection plans with reduced premiums.
· Great customer service
· 75 years of service to the military.
Get a free quote: https://www.geico.com/mil/afba or call 1-800-368-2734.
Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. GEICO contracts with various membership entities and other organizations, but these entities do not underwrite the offered insurance products. Discount amount varies in some states. One group discount applicable per policy. Coverage is individual. In New York a premium reduction may be available. GEICO may not be involved in a formal relationship with each organization; however, you still may qualify for a special discount based on your membership, employment or affiliation with those organizations. Motorcycle and ATV coverages are underwritten by GEICO Indemnity Company. Homeowners, renters and condo coverages are written through non-affiliated insurance companies and are secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, Inc. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2016. © 2016 GEICO
Whether you are in the market to purchase a new home, need an equity line of credit, or want to refinance your mortgage, PenFed’s mortgage lending programs will match your needs and budget.
Consider a Fixed Rate Mortgage with PenFed. Competitively priced rates, combined with our easy online application and our free 60 day rate lock on home purchases with a ratified sales contract and refinances, make these programs an attractive choice for doing better financially.
PenFed’s Adjustable Rate Mortgages [ARM] are straightforward programs that get frequent industry recognition. Their adjustable rate mortgages are available for home purchases and refinances.
Take a look at what PenFed offers and decide which program is right for you. Visit PenFed.org/AFBA or call 1-800-247-5626 to learn more.
PenFed’s Auto Lending programs provide the flexibility and all the extras you seek as you try to do better with your finances:
If you’re thinking about buying a car, why wait? Visit PenFed.org/AFBA and get behind the wheel of a new or used car today.
Any time you have an accident or sudden illness while traveling away from home Emergency Assistance Plus (EA+), offered through AFBA, provides a crucial safety net that helps pay for emergency medical transportation expenses your health or travel insurance generally will NOT cover. With more than 20 assistance benefits, EA+ steps in to provide Medical Evacuation, Medical Assistance, Travel Assistance, and Assistance for Companions.
Now EA+ is better than ever with the addition of the Rescue Nurse benefit, which can save members between $5,000 and $10,000. Read the below testimonial from a member to see EA+ in action:
“We were a long way from home and I broke my back. I needed to fly home and have our van returned. EA+’s medical team reviewed my case and set my mind at east by recommending a Rescue Nurse to accompany me during my travel home. They even arranged upgraded seating for me so I could recline during the flight home. Without EA+, I would have had to spend a considerable amount of money to take a plane home and also have a relative drive my van home. Thanks to EA+, my worries were minimized and they even saved me several thousand dollars in out-of-pocket expenses.”
-Dean S., Cedar Rapids, IA
For more information, visit www.emergencyassistanceplus.com/afba or call toll free 1-855-352-3032.
AFBA members receive a discount off of a package of four important preventive health screenings through our partnership with Life Line Screening. It is proactive and smart to take care of your cardiovascular health and stay healthy and active. AFBA and Life Line Screening have partnered since 2010.
Life Line Screening data shows that seventy percent of people aged fifty-five and older have at least two risk factors for cardiovascular disease and may not even know it.
By special arrangement, our members can get four screenings for only $135, plus a FREE Osteoporosis test:
* Carotid Artery/Stroke
* Abdominal Aorta
* Atrial Fibrillation (irregular heartbeat)
* Peripheral Arterial Disease
Other screenings are available as well at an additional cost, including”
* HDL and LDL Cholesterol levels
* Diabetes risk
* Bone density as a risk for possible osteoporosis
* Kidney and thyroid function, and more
The package of four screenings is discounted for our members, so take advantage of this important preventive health program today. If other screenings are recommended for you based on your age and risk factors, consultants will work with you to create a package that is right for you.
Call 1-866-895-3365 or visit www.lifelinescreening.com/afba.
If you are a military retiree interested in protecting your family’s financial future, then you should consider the AFBA TRICARE supplement plan. TRICARE supplement insurance wraps around TRICARE and helps you and your family save money on your health care expenses. TRICARE supplement is especially helpful if you use TRICARE Standard as your primary form of insurance.
Here are some of the features of the AFBA TRICARE supplement plan:
· Covered cost-shares and co-pays
· Reduced or paid for unforeseen out-of-pocket covered medical expenses
· The flexibility to choose any TRICARE authorized provider anywhere in the world
· Peace of mind that you and your family are protected financially
Request Information or Enroll Online Today
What are you waiting for? To learn more about how TRICARE supplement insurance may help protect your financial future, call 1-800-638-2610 or visit www.afba-tricare.com.
As your Association approaches its 70th year of service, it has never been as financially strong or better prepared to support the generations of AFBA members and their families in their time of need and in their daily lives. Our low-cost life insurance coverage, underwritten by 5Star Life Insurance Company, has no combat or terrorism exclusions, and offers an emergency death benefit of up to $15,000 sent out within one business day of notice.
AFBA Scholarship – Since 2004, the Charles C. Blanton scholarship has been available to candidates for use towards an undergraduate degree at an accredited college of up to $10,000 per family per year for a maximum benefit of $40,000 for college tuition and fees. The scholarship is provided to the surviving spouse or children of an insured AFBA member who dies as a result of combat or a first responder who dies while involved in operations at the scene of an incident. Over 116 families are now eligible for this program.
Salute to Veterans – We are reminded by the upcoming Veterans Day holiday to express our gratitude to all the men and women who have served. AFBA salutes all veterans. Our office will be closed in observance of Veterans Day on Wednesday, November 11.
Enhanced service to the National Guard – I am very pleased to announce an AFBA and 5Star Life Insurance Company Consolidation with The Shuey Agency. This strategic consolidation will enhance State Sponsored Life Insurance (SSLI) Provided to National Guard Soldiers and Airmen through Guard State Associations. read more »
2015 Soldier-Citizen Award – I am honored to have received this award from The American College of Financial Services. read more »
Newest Member Benefits and Services to Better Serve You – AFBA continues to maintain strategic alliances with like-minded organizations to better serve our members.
Need a new mortgage or is it time to refinance – or do you need an auto loan? You can now access world class financial services through Pentagon Federal Credit Union (PenFed). read more »
Considering Long Term Care? AFBA, working with LTCI Partners, LLC, now provides a more comprehensive long-term care insurance offering. Access five long-term care insurance companies to meet your long-term care insurance needs. read more »
Are you prepared for an emergency? In light of the recent tragedies in the Carolinas, we have provided an emergency checklist to help you cope in the event of an emergency. read more »
Help Us Better Serve You – We continually seek new ways to improve our products, member benefits, and member services. The best way to do this is to ask the experts – you, our members. Please visit www.surveymonkey.com/s/AFBAsatisfactionsurvey to complete a quick survey. Upon completion of the survey, you will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a $100 gift card. We appreciate your participation and value your feedback. We hope this survey will help us meet your expectations and improve our overall service to our members and their families.
Tell Your Friends About Us – AFBA reaches out to support all of those brave men and women in this great nation who may go into harm’s way. This includes members of the uniformed services, first responders, government employees and families of each group. Referrals are the greatest compliment. Please send your interested friends and family to www.afba.com. or ask them call us at 800-776-2322.
General Ralph E. “Ed” Eberhart, USAF (Ret.) Chairman & President
Since its inception following World War I, Veterans Day has evolved over the years in name, date and traditions, but the purpose of the holiday has always been to honor the men and women, living and dead, who have served in U.S. Armed Forces.
Veterans Day is observed on November 11, regardless of the day of the week it falls. November 11 marked the end of World War I and its significance helps focus attention on the important purpose of Veterans Day: A celebration to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.
Congratulations to our very own General Ed Eberhart on being the 2015 recipient of the Soldier-Citizen Award presented by The American College of Financial Services. The Soldier-Citizen Award was established in 2014 to recognize extraordinary individuals who have served honorably in the United States military, achieved success in the financial services industry, and who have selflessly given back to society and their community.
General Eberhart attended a ceremony hosted by The American College with a number of fellow industry leaders on August 20, 2015 in Lake Geneva, WI.
The press release regarding this honor can be found athttps://www.theamericancollege.edu/assets/pdfs/News_Release_2015_Soldier-Citizen_Award.pdf
Fairfax County, Virginia hosted the 2015 World Police and Fire Games from June 26th 2015 to July 5th 2015. The Opening Ceremony was held at RFK Stadium in Washington, D.C. on June 26, 2015 to lots of excitement.
The World Police & Fire Games constituted a spectacular international sporting event, offering police officers and firefighters from around the world an opportunity to showcase their athletic excellence in over 65 sporting events, with an estimated 12,000 competitors from over 70 countries.
Aligned with our core mission to “serve those who serve this great nation,” AFBA sponsored the 2015 World Police and Fire Games in a show of support to First Responders for their great effort to make our lives safer.
During the World Games, AFBA had an Exhibitor Booth in the Athlete’s Village.
Teamwork is everything when it comes to representing a company during a public event. The AFBA team working at our exhibitor booth provided information to firefighters and police athletes who approached our booth to learn what AFBA stands for and how we serve those who serve.
We all know that having an emergency preparedness checklist of supplies and equipment is a must to prepare for emergencies or disasters and keep our family and business safe. Somewhere along the line, many people find themselves entirely too busy to take the time for any kind of long term emergency preparedness.
Here are some articles on the importance of Emergency Preparedness. Also, included is a short survival kit list of some essential supplies and equipment that are very basic to disaster kits and hopefully get you in the right direction to at least prepare a little bit.
This will be a good base of items to think about and you can add or change items as you see fit.
Congratulations! By purchasing and maintaining quality life insurance coverage provided by AFBA, you’ve taken a huge step toward safeguarding your loved ones’ financial futures.
The beneficiary designation is the person/trust/entity to whom the proceeds will be paid at the time of your death. Please review your beneficiary designation at least annually and notify us immediately of any changes, even changes of address.
Minors:
By law, a minor cannot directly receive proceeds of life insurance coverage. If a minor becomes the beneficiary of life insurance, the court will have to appoint a guardian for that minor to accept the proceeds on the minor’s behalf. To avoid delays or added expense in processing life insurance proceeds, we suggest the naming of a trusted person or entity as the beneficiary or the establishment of a trust on behalf of the minor(s) as the life insurance beneficiary rather than naming a minor(s).
Divorces:
Many states remove a former spouse as beneficiary based upon the presumption that, upon divorce, the insured no longer intends to designate a former spouse as the life insurance beneficiary.
In all cases of divorce, it is our recommendation that upon the granting of the final divorce decree, the insured person should update his/her beneficiary designations. If the insured person wishes the former spouse to be maintained as the beneficiary of the life insurance, the insured person is required by state regulations to re-designate that former spouse as the beneficiary using the terms “former spouse” or “ex-spouse” as the relationship on the appropriate change of beneficiary form.
Click here to download our change of beneficiary form.
You’ve already taken the big step to protect your loved ones — don’t let it get outdated. Please review those beneficiary designations on a regular basis.
For many veterans, one of the most significant things learned in their time in the military was the importance of service to others. A large percentage of veterans want to continue to help their communities even after being discharged. The commitment to service is so ingrained in a veteran’s personalities that many seek alternative ways to continue helping those around them. AFBA has listed several ways veterans can continue to serve their communities after leaving the military.
1. Volunteer with local veterans groups
One of the most rewarding things former servicemembers can do is to help other veterans with the transition to civilian life. Seek out veteran advocacy groups and find out what ways to help.
2. Participate in fundraising activities
Whether it is a bake sale for an elementary school class field trip or collecting donations for local first responders, getting involved with fundraising can be an excellent way to help promote development in your community.
3. Be a listening ear
Former servicemembers have likely experienced some difficult things in life. Use those memories and learned coping methods to help others who may be struggling. Host a support group for fellow veterans or community members who need a little extra help getting from day to day.
4. Join a nonprofit
The goal of nonprofit organizations is to provide a service that will improve the community in some way. These programs often have difficulty finding volunteers to assist with the day to day operations and special projects. Prior military experience often creates highly organized individuals prepared to tackle tough projects. Make a difference and find a nonprofit that needs these skills.
5. Organize a community event
Veterans are looked to for our leadership. Organize an event like a community clean-up, a family-friendly activity day or a block party. Not only will this strengthen community relations, it allows for veterans to reconnect with neighbors and friends missed during service.
6. Become a mentor
Children need positive role models to look up to. Fulfill that role by mentoring the youth in your community. Consider coaching a Little League team, tutoring at the local high school or volunteering to help at-risk teens.
7. Donate blood
Don’t underestimate this simple act. Many blood banks are often low on supplies, and every donation can save someone’s life. This is an especially useful form of service for those with rare blood types.
8. Lend a hand to the homeless
Veterans homelessness is a big issue in the media right now. However, former servicemembers are not the only group of people affected by it. Help your communities in a big way by raising the money for a transitional housing community. By fundraising and organizing a build, housing may become available for the less fortunate members of your community. Donate your time to a local food bank or soup kitchen for more immediate results.
Life after service does not have to mean life without service. There are plenty of opportunities for veterans to get involved with their communities and continue serving. In the words of author Howard Truman, “Don’t ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive and then go do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” If service is what makes you come alive, then that is something you should pursue.
Scott Williams, President, MarketPlace Group a Division of LTCI Partners
Retirement planning is more challenging than ever. For years, people were able to rely on the proverbial three-legged stool (pension, social security, and private savings), to help assure a secure retirement. These days, that stool is more than a little wobbly and it is difficult to imagine that anything will change in the future.
Few employers still offer the defined benefit pension that was a mainstay of retirement. In many cases, traditional pensions have been replaced by 401k plans, which were hard hit during the economic downturn. Social security is threatened by the ballooning deficit, with changes to the current structure all but certain. Even private savings, while on the rise, are suffering as people contend with rising food and gas prices, not to mention unemployment.
If you’re lucky enough to have a retirement nest egg, you want to do everything you can to safeguard it. One potential threat that you may want to consider is the need for long-term care. Often overlooked as part of retirement planning, long-term care is the kind of care you may need when you are no longer able to perform some of the basic activities of daily living, like bathing or dressing, without assistance. Since approximately 70% of people who reach age 65 will require some period of ongoing assistance or supervision, due to physical or cognitive impairment, it is important to understand the implications. (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Clearinghouse for Long-Term Care Information, accessed September 25, 2009).
Don’t make the mistake of assuming that your medical insurance covers long-term care or that government programs will foot the bills. Medical insurance is intended to cover acute illness that you will recover from – not chronic, debilitating disorders that can lead to the need for long-term care. Medicare and Medicaid can offer some help, but only after stringent requirements are met. And like Social Security, both programs are under considerable strain because of limited resources. Relying on any of these options may result in your having to pay out-of-pocket for your own care.
For this reason, many financial planners are now recommending the purchase of long-term care (LTC) insurance as a way of helping to protect your assets. The coverage is designed to pay for care in a variety of settings, from your own home to a nursing home setting. The premiums for the coverage are far less than the amount you would have to pay for your care, should you ever need it. Since costs vary by state of residence and kind of care, you can determine coverage amounts by considering where you might expect to receive a particular kind of care in the future.
Many people start considering this insurance coverage in their late forties and early fifties. This is a good idea for a couple of reasons. First, you must be in good health to be accepted for coverage. If you wait to apply and your health changes you may not be able to purchase a policy. Second, long-term care premiums are based on your age when you buy the insurance, so the younger you are, the lower your premiums. But if you happen to be over 60 it may not be too late either.
AFBA has a Long-Term Care Insurance Program that allows you the opportunity to work with salaried LTCI advisors who work exclusively by phone – no agent coming to your home. No pressure – we make the process of understanding and owing long-term care insurance easy.
Click here for “What you Need to know about Long-Term Care Insurance”.
For additional information on the AFBA Long-Term Care Program please call or clickwww.getltci.com/afba here for more information or call 855-581-6647.
Save even more on insurance from GEICO!
With GEICO enjoy:
· Savings for multi-car policies, good student, safety features, and more.
· 24/7 support, online or by phone, for claims bill paying, policy changes, and more.
· Great policy rates for renters, motorcycles, and much more.
· Storage protection plans with reduced premiums.
· 75 years of service to the military.
Get a free quote: https://www.geico.com/mil/afba or call (800) 368-2734.
Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Discount amount varies in some states.
GEICO contracts with various membership entities and other organizations, but these entities do not underwrite the offered insurance products. Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Discount amount varies in some states. One group discount applicable per policy. Coverage is individual. In New York a premium reduction may be available. GEICO may not be involved in a formal relationship with each organization; however, you still may qualify for a special discount based on your membership, employment or affiliation with those organizations. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, One GEICO Plaza, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2015.
Whether you are in the market to purchase a new home, need an equity line of credit, or want to refinance your mortgage, PenFed’s mortgage lending programs will match your needs and budget.
Consider a Fixed Rate Mortgage with PenFed. Competitively priced rates, combined with our easy online application and our free 60 day rate lock on home purchases with a ratified sales contract and refinances, make these programs an attractive choice for doing better financially.
PenFed’s Adjustable Rate Mortgages [ARM] are straightforward programs that get frequent industry recognition. Our adjustable rate mortgages are available for home purchases and refinances.
Take a look at what PenFed offers and decide which program is right for you. Visit PenFed.org/AFBA or call (800) 247-5626 to learn more.
PenFed’s Auto Lending programs provide the flexibility and all the extras you seek as you try to do better with your finances:
If you’re thinking about buying a car, why wait? To get behind the wheel of a new or used car with PenFed, visit PenFed.org/AFBA today.
Any time you have an accident or sudden illness while traveling, AFBA Emergency Assistance Plus provides a crucial safety net that helps pay for emergency medical transportation expenses your health or travel insurance generally will NOT cover. With more than 20 assistance benefits, EA+ steps in to provide Medical Evacuation, Medical Assistance, Travel Assistance, and Assistance for Companions.
For more information, visit www.emergencyassistanceplus.com/afba or call toll free 1-855-352-3032.
Have you or your family considered a document protection and retention program? If not, let Assets in Order be your secure digital file and document protection resource.
AFBA has entered into an exciting marketing alliance with Assets In Order (AIO) through which AIO will be allowed to extend its Legacy Lockbox platform to AFBA members as a complement to our life-insurance programs. The Legacy Lockbox is a secure online planning and storage service that organizes all of your documented and digital assets in one central location to be accessed by you or your loved ones when needed.
With your Legacy Lockbox, you can be sure that all of your digital assets and private information will be safe for coming generations. Family photos, videos, insurance documents, as well as final wishes and words of wisdom can be preserved for years to come.
How Does It Work?
Store Your Digital Assets and Asset Information
With your Legacy Lockbox, you can store various digital assets as well as asset information. From lists to files, we keep everything consolidated on a secure server.
Add Verifiers
Add friends and family that will be able to verify a passing, in the event that one is reported.
Add Recipients
Recipients are trusted individuals that will receive your asset information and carry out your final wishes when the time comes.
Report Event
Friends and family can login to the system to report a passing.
Automated Asset Information Notification
Once a passing has been verified, Recipients are notified and given access to digital assets and asset information. They will receive their own password key to access the account.
Membership Has Its Benefits
As an incentive to join, all AFBA members receive a complimentary Legacy Lockbox subscription for 60-days. Thereafter, renewals are discounted to only $14.95 per year, a 25% savings and benefit because of your membership in the AFBA.
Sign Up today at www.assetsinorder.com/afba and get started protecting your digital assets. The Legacy Lockbox is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to meet your needs!
Enroll in the TRICARE Supplement Plan and receive reimbursement for:
What does this mean for you?
Choosing the TRICARE Supplement Plan will provide you with worldwide coverage that wraps around
AFBA is proud of its commitment to serve our members and their families in their time of need. Over our 67 year history, AFBA has paid in excess of $1.6 billion in life insurance claims. For each claim there is a family or individual going through a stressful time and enduring a period of grief and possibly confusion. Our entire staff, specifically our member service department which includes the claims unit, is dedicated to assisting our members however possible.
AFBA’s mission will always include taking care of the U.S. servicemembers and veterans. That said, we are increasingly providing peace of mind for the country’s first responders and federal employees. Clearly these ranks include many individuals who put themselves in harm’s way and AFBA is here to provide protection for their families.
AFBA recognizes the hard work demonstrated by our Member Service Representatives (MSRs). From addressing the simplest of questions, to assisting bereaved family members, our personable MSRs remain friendly, professional, considerate, empathetic, and caring.
Click here to learn more about the voices on the other end of the line in our Team Spotlight.
Here is how our members feel about our service:
“Dear Mr. Mendelson – Thank you very much for your kind words. My father was a great man and his loss will indeed be deeply felt by those who knew him. He was fiercely proud of his military service and I appreciate your words of comfort and support…” – Mrs. L from Ohio
“I would like to thank you for the speedy care and uncomplicated processing for fulfilling the paperwork on the insurance claim. I would recommend your insurance company to anyone. Thank you so very much!” − Mrs. C from Virginia
Earlier this year, AFBA completed a telephone system upgrade which provides the convenience of making life insurance payments over the phone with your credit card. Click here to read more.
The election following our Spring Newsletter resulted in two new board members: SMA Kenneth O. Preston, USA (Ret.) and CMSAF James A. Roy, USAF (Ret.). We have a Board of Directors any Fortune 500 company would envy. We value this leadership, experience and dedication. They ensure we always keep you – our members and their families – as our number one priority. For more information on the Board of Directors, please check out their bios.
When tragedy strikes, and a family member suddenly passes away, loved ones are left to try and piece together that person’s assets and final wishes while coping with their own shock, heartache and sense of loss. To assist families while going through such heartache, AFBA is proud to offer our members Assets In Order’s Legacy Lockbox, an easy-to-use, affordable online solution that enables individuals to plan ahead. Legacy Lockbox allows members to store, organize and update a wide range of personal information and documentation in a single, secure place for future access by loved ones. The online service is protected by 256-bit encryption, equal to security levels used by banks and major financial institutions. The good news is that you can try it out for free. Click here to find out more.
AFBA continues to provide alliances with like-minded organizations to better serve our members. The Association has engaged Pentagon Federal Credit Union (PenFed) to offer competitive auto loans and an excellent auto buying service. Emergency Air Plus (EA+) offers a first rate air ambulance service to our members who travel. We’re also proud to continue our relationships with the GEICO auto insurance program, ASI’s TRICARE supplement program, and John Hancock’s Long Term Care Insurance.
Sometimes the greatest hurdle in estate planning is determining what documents need to be obtained and stored. In direct response to member suggestions, AFBA has put together two helpful checklists, one for getting your estate planning affairs in order, and one for survivors navigating the procedures following the death of a loved one.
The transition period after completing active-duty can be fraught with changes like finding a permanent home, job-hunting and navigating veterans benefits. It may be tempting to kick back and relax amid all these stressors, but you can’t let your physical fitness fall by the wayside. Find out fun ways to keep fit with friends and family in our most recent infographic.
We are reminded by the upcoming Veterans Day holiday to express our gratitude to all the men and women who have served. AFBA salutes all veterans. Our office will be closed in observance of Veterans Day on November 11th.
If there is anything we can do to better serve you, please let me know by emailing me at [email protected], or you may use the contact us section of our web site.
Thank you for serving and please have a safe and joyful upcoming holiday season.
Since its inception following World War I, Veterans Day has evolved over the years in name, date and traditions, but the purpose of the holiday has always been to honor the men and women, living and dead, who have served in U.S. Armed Forces.
November 11, 1918 – At 11 AM, the armistice ending “The Great War” is declared by the Allied Forces.
1919 – President Wilson proclaims November 11 as Armistice Day, a day to “be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory…”
1921 – An unknown solider is buried at Arlington National Cemetery. The tomb has the words inscribed, “Here rests in honored glory An American Soldier Known but to God.” Soliders from World War II, The Korean War, and The Vietnam War also rest in the Tomb of the Unknowns.
1938 – Armistice Day becomes a federal holiday.
1954 – President Eisenhower signs a bill changing Armistice Day to Veterans Day in order to include all U.S. veterans.
1968 – As part of the Uniform Holidays Bill, Congress changes the date of Veterans Day to the fourth Monday in October beginning in 1971. The purpose was to create three-day weekends throughout the year to encourage rest and travel for government workers.
1975 – Due to the negative reception from many who found the date of Veterans Day too historically significant to change, and the refusal of many states to move the holiday, President Ford changes the date of Veterans Day back to November 11 beginning in 1978.
Today, Veterans Day is observed on November 11, regardless of the day of the week it falls. November 11 marked the end of World War I and its significance helps focus attention on the important purpose of Veterans Day: A celebration to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.
Sources:
https://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/vetdayhistory.asp
https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/history-of-veterans-day
https://www.cnn.com/2013/06/14/us/veterans-day-fast-facts/
As AFBA’s front line to members and their families, our Member Service Representatives (MSRs) work hard to help everyone who calls – no matter the problem. From the simplest of questions, to dealing with challenging inquiries, and to assisting bereaved family members, our MSRs remain friendly, professional, considerate, empathetic, and caring.
The goal of our Member Service Department is to provide excellent service. Providing this high level of service requires three critical skills:
1. Strong Communication Skills
2. Superior Interpersonal Skills
3. Problem Solving and Customer Retention Skills
A simple and known fact is that people would rather talk to a person than an automated machine and this is especially true when it comes to life insurance. Our members want to have the assurance and confidence that everything regarding their coverage is correct and if something should happen to them, it will be handled correctly.
Providing a high level of member service can be quite challenging. Our MSRs perform the following tasks:
Our MSRs have the training and the ability to respond to a variety of situations at a moment’s notice. All this contributes to the high level of customer loyalty and retention our enterprise enjoys.
We have recently upgraded our phone system to provide you self-service options. You can now access your account information, pay your bill, and order printed material using our interactive phone system. To access these features 24 hours a day, seven days a week, dial 1-800-776-2322 and follow the prompts.
You can pay your bill using MasterCard or Visa debit/credit cards.
Have the following information ready when calling:
Set up an account today on www.afba.com for instant access to the following:
In October 2014, AIO (Assets in Order) and AFBA announced a new marketing alliance. Under the terms of this exciting agreement, AIO will be allowed to extend its Legacy Lockbox platform to AFBA members. As a compliment to AFBA life-insurance programs, the Legacy Lockbox is a secure online planning and storage service that organizes all of your documented and digital assets in one central location to be accessed by you or your loved ones when needed.
With your Legacy Lockbox, you can be sure that all of your digital assets and private information will be safe for coming generations. Family photos, videos, insurance documents, as well as final wishes and words of wisdom can be preserved for years to come.
Store Your Digital Assets and Asset Information
With your Legacy Lockbox, you can store various digital assets as well as asset information. From lists to files, we keep everything consolidated on a secure server.
Add Verifiers
Add friends and family that will be able to verify a death, in the event that one is reported.
Add Recipients
Recipients are trusted individuals that will receive your asset information and carry out your final wishes when the time comes.
Report Event
Friends and family can login to the system to report a death.
Automated Asset Information Notification
Once a death has been verified, Recipients are notified and given access to digital assets and asset information. They will receive their own password key to access the account.
As an incentive to join, all AFBA members receive a complimentary Legacy Lockbox subscription until January 2015. Future renewals are discounted to $14.95 per year, a 25% savings and benefit for your membership in AFBA.
Call 888-840-1213 or click here to sign up online.
Get exclusive access to PenFed’s Car Buying Service and auto financing. The online Car Buying Service will give you the ability to research new and used vehicles, get safety information, see photos and videos of vehicles, read reviews, and receive negotiated price quotes on vehicles from dealers in your area.
In addition, PenFed’s auto lending program offers some of the lowest rates in the marketplace. You can benefit from a 1.74% APR on new vehicles. What are you waiting for? Get behind the wheel of a new or used car with PenFed today by visiting www.penfed.org.
You can save even more on insurance from GEICO!
With GEICO you’ll enjoy:
Get a free quote: www.geico.com/mil/afba or call (800) 368-2734.
Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Discount amount varies in some states. One group discount applicable per policy. Coverage is individual. In New York a premium reduction may be available. Motorcycle coverage is underwritten by GEICO Indemnity Company. Motorcycle insurance is not available in all states. Renters coverage is written through non-affiliated insurance companies and are secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, Inc. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company,Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2014. © 2014 GEICO
Three FAQs on TRICARE Supplement Every Military Retiree Should KnowApproximately 5.29 million military retirees and family members worldwide are eligible for TRICARE health insurance. Of these, 2.55 million retirees are using TRICARE, 950,000 of whom are using TRICARE Standard. While TRICARE Standard is a comprehensive insurance plan and allows for more flexible healthcare options, it does not cover every expense a military retiree may encounter. TRICARE Supplement insurance is a worthwhile investment for TRICARE Standard holders who are seeking to reduce out of pocket costs that are not covered by TRICARE. Here are answers to three commonly asked questions that military retirees may have regarding TRICARE Supplement insurance: 1. Who can benefit from TRICARE Supplement?TRICARE Supplement plans are particularly beneficial to military retirees and their families who utilize TRICARE Standard as their primary insurance plan. Since TRICARE Standard is a 75/25 plan, retirees with the Standard plan can tremendously benefit from a supplement. In the event of an accident or serious illness, retirees with TRICARE Standard may be subject to unexpected out-of-pocket costs for specialists, surgeries, hospital stays, and more. A TRICARE supplement plan can alleviate these costly expenses and help buffer military retiree families from the high costs of unexpected health issues that may arise in the future. Additionally, many find that TRICARE Standard is much more convenient than TRICARE Prime. A retiree with a supplement can have 100% coverage while enjoying the flexibility of a Standard plan. 2. What are some TRICARE Supplement benefits?As TRICARE prescription copayments increase, the reimbursement amount with a supplement plan also increases to remove the burden of higher medical expenses. Some out-of-pocket cost shares are also paid for, depending on the type of TRICARE you hold. Doctor and hospital cost shares are alleviated as well. A TRICARE supplement plan provides holders with the flexibility of choosing any TRICARE authorized provider just about anywhere in the world. 3. Why is a TRICARE Supplement important?Simply put, it’s better to be safe than sorry. TRICARE Supplement gives military retirees and their families the peace of mind that they are protected financially regardless of what type of health care costs they encounter in their lives. The financial risk associated with a serious accident or illness is high and can destroy a family’s financial security. TRICARE Supplement allows retirees to take control of their financial futures by preparing themselves for any medical obstacle or unforeseen change in their TRICARE plan that may come their way. |
|
 |
Don’t pay more than you need to for health care. Enroll at https://www.AFBAtricare.com or call us at (855) 311-6858.
About the Author:Ted Painter is a retired U.S. Army Officer and currently works with legislators and several national organizations to promote the interests of our retired U.S. military.
|
Do you know that 70% of people age 65 can expect to use some form of long-term care in their lifetime, and 20% of those age 65 and over will need care for more than five years? Find out how LTC insurance can help pay for the cost of long-term care by taking our Long-Term Care Quiz.
For more information, members may call J. Patrick Murphy, CLU, at 703-450-7344 or email [email protected].
Emergency Assistance Plus (EA+) is a safety net that helps you pay for emergencies your health and travel insurance generally will not cover.
Any time you take a vacation or go on a business trip, if you have an accident or sudden illness, EA+’s Medical Support Team is ready to get you the help you need. At a time when speed is essential to your recovery, EA+ quickly intervenes.
Learn more about the Emergency Assistance Plus Program, available through AFBA: Call toll-free 1-855-352-3032 or visit online at www.emergencyassistanceplus.com/afba.
Whether you’re just starting to build your savings or are well on your way, a Certificate of Deposit (CD) from 5Star Bank is an excellent investment. Interest rates on 5Star Bank CDs are guaranteed for the term of the investment, regardless of the changing market conditions. Call 800-776-2265 or click here to open an account.
*1 year CD/IRA special effective 10/10/2014 and offered at the bank’s discretion, rate may change daily. Offer good for the initial term only. The CD is automatically renewed into a standard CD term at maturity. Annual Percentage Yield (APY) assumes principal and interest remain on deposit for the term of the certificate. CD specials have a $1,000.00 minimum opening deposits, up to a maximum of $249,999.99. For amounts of $250,000 or more, please contact a 5Star Bank New Account Representative 1-800-776-2265. FDIC insured to the maximum allowed by law. All other CD/ IRA terms apply; penalty will be imposed for early withdrawal. Not valid for brokered deposits.
AFBA has put together two helpful checklists. The Estate Planning Checklist is a guideline for organizing your estate affairs and communicating your final wishes to your family and friends. The Survivor Checklist is for survivors navigating the procedures following the death of a loved one. We hope you will find these documents useful.
You’ve finally completed your service to our great nation. This transition period can be fraught with changes like finding a permanent home, job-hunting and navigating veterans benefits. It may be tempting to kick back and relax amid all these stressors, but you can’t let your physical fitness fall by the wayside. Luckily, you can stay healthy with some less strenuous activities that you can enjoy by yourself or with friends and family.
According to the Mayo Clinic, the benefits of a normal, brisk walk can be tremendous. Regular walking can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce your risk of coronary artery disease and other heart illnesses, strengthen your bones and even improve your mood. The same goes for running and weight lifting. Those health benefits can increase if you go farther, travel faster and walk more frequently. If you want to improve your mood and stay active and healthy, consider a regular brisk walk around the block.
Then again, maybe you want to have fun while you stay in shape. There are dozens of recreational activities you can engage in to work up a sweat and stay healthy. According to NutriStrategy, you can burn hundreds of calories by playing a sport or tackling other pulse-pounding events such as:
There are plenty of ways to stay fit and entertained. You don’t have to hit the gym constantly. You can shoot around with friends on the court, pass a ball or hit the beach for a swim to stay fit and healthy.
At the same time, you may want to hold back on binge eating pizza and unhealthy snack foods. Remember, everything in moderation. You can keep your diet and your health in check by eating healthier foods regularly, and you don’t have to sacrifice all your favorite meals to stay healthy. According to the Whole Grains Council, you can reduce your risk of Type 2 diabetes, help maintain your weight and improve many other facets of health just by switching to whole-grain foods instead of refined-grain foods.
Focus on eating lean protein and getting a high dose of fruits and vegetables. Chicken and fish are great sources of lean protein. When it comes to eating healthy, it’s all about balance and portion sizes. If you’re determined to track your dietary habits, try using the services on the United States Department of Agriculture’s Choose My Plate website. You can use this free online tool to create a specialized meal plan to suit your lifestyle, and it even hosts current data about many different food items and exercises.
AFBA continues its 67 year legacy of promoting the welfare of our members and their families. AFBA reaches out to support all of those brave men and women in this great nation who may go into harm’s way. This includes members of the uniformed services, first responders, federal government employees and families of each group. Our 371,000 members have $37.4 billion of life insurance coverage in force and we have paid in excess of $1.6 billion in claims. Our life insurance coverage, underwritten by 5Star Life Insurance Company, has no combat or terrorism exclusions and offers up to $15,000 of an emergency death benefit sent out within 24 hours of notice. AFBA member life insurance programs are competitively priced and reflect the Association’s rich heritage serving the U.S. military.
AFBA remembers and honors those who have died in service to our nation.
Over 100 families are now eligible for the General Blanton AFBA Family Survivor College Scholarship program that will pay up to $40,000 to the surviving spouse and children of an insured AFBA member who dies as a result of combat or a first responder who dies responding to a public safety incident.
AFBA now offers a new term life insurance product for federal employees, which is described on below. We also offer SmartStart, a life insurance product that covers children until age 25 with just one low payment.
The number of women in the military continues to increase – especially in combat roles. AFBA is fully committed to supporting their needs and concerns for family and the future. Please see our infographic here, which illustrates the evolving roles of women in the military.
AFBA continues to provide strategic alliances with like-minded organizations to better serve our members. This past year the Association engaged Pentagon Federal Credit Union (PenFed) to offer competitive auto loans and an excellent auto buying service. This year, we are pleased to announce a new program called Emergency Air Plus (EA+), which offers a first rate air ambulance service to our members who travel. The GEICO auto insurance program has proven popular with our members. Additionally, our TRICARE supplement is saving AFBA members even more money now that access to TRICARE Prime has been eliminated for those retirees and their families that live outside of a 40 mile radius of a Military Treatment Facility (MTF).
Pay by phone – We are excited to announce that AFBA has just completed a telephone system upgrade, which provides the convenience of making payments over the phone with your credit card.
Policy Administration Upgrade – AFBA has recently completed a major modernization project. We upgraded from two older legacy computer systems to a more sophisticated single platform that takes advantage of the latest trends in technology. This means you will now receive much quicker and more efficient customer service from AFBA.
We continue to be grateful for the oversight and governance provided by our Board of Directors. Our Board is diverse in experience and opinions, which in turn allows us to best serve you. Please check out their bios and if you are a member, cast your vote.
General Ralph E. “Ed” Eberhart, USAF (Ret.) President & Chairman
AFBA is proud to offer term life coverage at competitive rates, especially created for groups who currently work or have worked for a government agency.
Fed Term provides low cost life insurance to current, former, or retired Federal employees who are United States citizens (or permanent U.S. residents) and their dependents. It is available in coverage amounts of $50,000 to $500,000 in $50,000 units. Spouses, through age 64, may also apply for up to $500,000. Coverage continues to age 70 as long as contributions are paid. Contributions are based on age and tobacco status and will increase with age.
Smart Start is your opportunity to provide life insurance protection for your child or grandchild and guarantee future insurability, regardless of what happens in life.
If your child or grandchild is between the ages of 14 days and 18 years, you can get coverage that will continue up to age 25. No medical exam is required to apply. Instead, acceptance is based on answers to three health questions.
Smart Start term insurance is available in two coverage amounts with a low one-time payment:
At age 25, the insured can convert to a whole life insurance policy with a one-time guaranteed purchase option up to five times the original face value ($50,000 for the $10,000 term policy or $75,000 for the $15,000 term policy) with no physical exam. What a great way to guarantee life insurance coverage regardless of future health considerations.
To learn more and apply today, call us at (800) 776-2322.
Emergency Assistance Plus (EA+) is a safety net that helps you pay for emergencies your health and travel insurance generally will not cover.
Any time you take a vacation or go on a business trip, if you have an accident or sudden illness, EA+’s Medical Support Team is ready to get you the help you need. At a time when speed is essential to your recovery, EA+ quickly intervenes.
Learn more about the Emergency Assistance Plus Program, available through AFBA: Call toll-free 1-855-352-3032 or visit online at www.emergencyassistanceplus.com/afba.
You now have access to PenFed’s Car Buying Service and auto financing. The online Car Buying Service will give you the ability to research new and used vehicles, get safety information, see photos and videos of vehicles, read reviews, and receive negotiated price quotes on vehicles from dealers in your area.
In addition, PenFed’s auto lending program offers some of the lowest rates in the marketplace. You can benefit from a 1.49% APR on new and used vehicles. What are you waiting for? Get behind the wheel of a new or used car with PenFed today by visiting www.penfed.org.
Enroll in the TRICARE Supplement Plan and receive reimbursement for:
What does this mean for you?
Choosing the TRICARE Supplement Plan will provide you with worldwide coverage that wraps around your TRICARE benefit plan giving you the protection you need and want for you and your family.
We offer supplement programs for:
With the uncertainty of our health care system and yearly increases in premiums, rest assured that you will have stability with the AFBA TRICARE Supplement Plans.
Don’t pay more than you need to for health care. Enroll at www.AFBAtricare.com or call us at (855) 311-1478.
You can save even more on insurance from GEICO!
With GEICO you’ll enjoy:
Get a free quote: www.geico.com/mil/afba or call (800) 368-2734.
Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Discount amount varies in some states. One group discount applicable per policy. Coverage is individual. In New York a premium reduction may be available. Motorcycle coverage is underwritten by GEICO Indemnity Company. Motorcycle insurance is not available in all states. Renters coverage is written through non-affiliated insurance companies and are secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, Inc. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company,Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2014. © 2014 GEICO
Think back on your recent Memorial Day celebration, and you might picture your backyard barbecue. Today, Memorial Day is known nationwide as the unofficial start of summer, but across the country, many towns honored their fallen heroes in the same way they have for nearly 150 years. Here are stories of the first Memorial Day organizers.
In 1864, three women met by chance while visiting a Boalsburg, PA cemetery to mourn the loss of loved ones who had died serving in the Civil War. Together they vowed to return the following year and lay flowers on the graves of not only their loved ones, but of others who may not have someone to honor them. The women spread their idea and in 1865 the entire town gathered for a memorial service and to decorate every grave in the cemetery.
In 1866, a group of Columbus, MS women gathered flowers from their gardens and proceeded to a local cemetery to honor the Confederate casualties from the Battle of Shiloh. Upon arriving, they noticed the nearby Union graves had been neglected. Unwilling to leave the gravesites bare, the women decorated both the Confederate and Union graves.
The predecessor to Memorial Day, Decoration Day, was established in 1868 by Maj. Gen. John A. Logan to be observed on May 30 for the purpose of decorating the graves of the war dead. That year, ceremonies were held at Arlington National Cemetery to decorate the 20,000 graves of Union and Confederate soldiers.
Given the great loss of life caused by the Civil War, many groups throughout the country held similar memorials to honor those who gave their lives.
There are approximately 25 communities who claim to be the birthplace of Memorial Day.
In 1966, Congress named Waterloo, NY the official birthplace. 100 years earlier, its formal and well-organized Memorial Day celebration included a procession and martial music, as well as grave decoration. In 1971, Congress made Memorial Day a Federal Holiday and moved it to the last Monday of May.
Next year, make your Memorial Day more meaningful by visiting a local memorial or cemetery, or participating in the National Moment of Remembrance, a moment of silence for all Americans to pause, remember and honor those who have died in service to our nation.
Although the Department of Defense lifted the ban on women serving in combat roles just one year ago, women have been valuable members of the military since the American Revolution. Whether disguising themselves as men – as Deborah Sampson did during the Revolutionary War – or following their husbands to the outskirts of the battlefields to provide medical care and assistance, women have long been finding ways to serve their country during wartime.
However, it wasn’t until World War I when women were allowed to officially enter the ranks. According to the U.S. Army website, the National Service School was established in 1916 by the Women’s Naval Service to train women in military operations. As the need for troops persisted, the Army, Navy and Marine Corps began soliciting female soldiers. Overall, more than 35,000 women served in World War I, with nearly 21,000 working in the Army Nurse Corps.
Although the Army Reorganization Act of 1920 issued officer status with “relative rank” to military nurses, women weren’t granted permanent military status until 1948, according to the Women in Military Service for America Memorial Foundation. The Women’s Armed Services Integration Act of 1948 marked a turning point for female soldiers, as it made them full, active members of the regular and reserve forces.
Despite the ban on women fulfilling combat roles, which was removed by the Pentagon in 1994, The New York Times reported that hundreds of thousands of female soldiers were deployed in the Afghanistan and Iraq wars. As of 2012, more than 800 women had been wounded during the conflict.
Currently, there are more than 214,000 women soldiers, representing 14.6 percent of active-duty personnel, according to data compiled by the departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs. The Army has the highest number of female soldiers – more than 76,000. Approximately 30 percent of active-duty female soldiers fulfill medical roles, while another 30 percent work in administrative positions.
“Dear Mr. Mendelson, I am writing to you to tell you what a wonderful company you are. My husband…passed away…and within days we received the Emergency Death Benefit check. What a blessing it was for me to have this coverage. I received the final payout today. What a wonderful thing you did to get the money to me promptly. I paid the funeral expenses today in full. I am so glad we had this policy. I will still carry mine. I am very thankful for your service. I am telling everyone about your company. What a peace of mind.”
“From the person who first took my call about my husband passing away, to the timely manner in which I received the final check, I was treated so very well. It was amazing how swiftly your company sent me the emergency death benefit check. I am so grateful for your care of me as I go through this very emotional time.”
“I just wanted to write and express my genuine appreciation for the courtesy and help shown to me when I contacted AFBA following the death of my daughter, and the very quick payment of the dependent benefits. I don’t know how often you receive a “thank you” note, but please know my wife and I genuinely appreciate the very quick, courteous, professional service. The actions of AFBA far exceeded my expectations, and were very reassuring for my wife. I am very pleased to be a member of AFBA.”
We have recently upgraded our phone system to provide you self-service options. You can now access your account information, pay your bill, and order printed material using our interactive phone system. To access these features 24 hours a day, seven days a week, dial 1-800-776-2322 and follow the prompts.
You can pay your bill using MasterCard or Visa debit/credit cards.
Have the following information ready when calling:
Our latest product offering, Custom Care III featuring Benefit Builder, reflects our updated views on risk management, claims trends, and the challenges faced by our industry. Designed to help expand the LTC insurance market, key product highlights include:
Do you know that 70% of people age 65 can expect to use some form of long-term care in their lifetime, and 20% of those age 65 and over will need care for more than five years.
For more information, members may call J. Patrick Murphy, CLU, at 703-450-7344 or email [email protected].
5Star Bank’s new mobile banking saves the day-bank on your schedule! Whether on the go, or at home, the 5Star mobile banking app is a simple and secure way to help you deposit a check, pay a bill, and check your balance with ease all from your phone or tablet. Download 5Star’s free Mobile Banking App today. Call 1-800-776-2265 or go to www.afba.com/5star. Member FDIC.
AFBA’s complimentary 2014 Financial Planning Guide (FPG) is a 100-page booklet available to members and their families upon request. This valuable resource includes information on:
Request a copy of the 2014 FPG by calling (800) 776-2322 or you can also download the guide (in PDF form).
You are invited to attend AFBA’s Annual Members Meeting. Join us for light refreshments, a short presentation and Q & A on the state of AFBA. The meeting will be held on Tuesday, the 24th of June, at 10 AM in the AFBA Building, 909 N. Washington St., Alexandria, VA 22314.
To attend, call the RSVP hotline at (800) 776-2322 ext. 2009 or email [email protected].
Log on to our website to see what is new at AFBA and our Related Enterprises. For up-to-date life insurance account information, have your AFBA number or SSN ready.
If you want to speak with an experienced customer service representative or be contacted by one of our field service representatives, call (800) 776-2322. They are ready to take your call!
Monday through Friday
8:00 AM to 6:00 PM EST
Go Green!
Commissioner Cassano is new to the AFBA family, but comes with vast experience in the First Responder market. Commissioner Cassano held every uniformed rank in his 44 year career with Fire Department New York and ended his career as Fire Commissioner. He also served in the U. S. Army, including a combat tour in Viet Nam. Commissioner Cassano’s appointment to the AFBA Board will be effective June 1, 2016.
