Okay, don't worry-- this isn't some dramatic shake-up. It's more like swapping out the batteries in the remote: the function stays the same, but things just work a little better.
Starting in plan year 2026, a new Medicare Advantage insurer will be stepping in. The goal? Same coverage, clearer service, and ideally, fewer moments of yelling "representative!" into the phone.
To make sure you have every detail you need (and answers to the questions you don't even know you have yet), please reserve November 4, 2025, for an upcoming informational meeting that will be held at the Local 697 Union Hall.
Now, a small truth: anticipation is often worse than reality. So, while curiosity may tempt you to call the Fund Office or Retiree First in the meantime, no secrets will be revealed until after the 20th of this month.
We appreciate your patience--it will be rewarded with clarity.
So, in short: circle the date (November 4th, 2025) and guard your mailbox like it owes you money or like it's got a handmade card from the grandkids with glitter that will haunt your carpet for years - because the Benefit Fund Office is sending you some very important information via the U.S. Postal Service. Yes, that magnificent, chronically-underappreciated government institution that is mocked endlessly… right up until you need a birthday card to reach rural Idaho in two days for less than a dollar.
Think about it: $0.78 to launch a small paper envelope of thoughts, hopes, or "Happy Holidays from Brenda and Steve" across thousands of miles-- and it actually arrives. That's not just logistics. That's borderline magic.
So, check your mail, read the info, and maybe-- just maybe — give your mail carrier a nod of respect. Or at least don't let your dog bark at them.
Anywho - Bring your questions, bring your curiosity, and prepare to leave the November 4th, 2025, meeting knowing you understand how Medicare Advantage plans work-- which, let's be honest, is already more than Congress can say.
And yes. The exact time of said meeting will be revealed within that document that will be sent out to you, and it will include the phone number to call to reserve your spot at that meeting.