NYSUT Member Benefits is offering some new financial education services. Here are brief recaps of these services. For more information, visit www.memberbenefits.nysut.org or call (800) 626-8101.

• 403(b) Field Guide. This booklet covers all aspects of 403(b) plans and includes information pertinent to bargaining unit members not yet contributing to a 403(b) plan, those who are contributing, those nearing retirement, and those already enjoying retirement.

To get the guide, print a copy from the Member Benefits website, use the “Contact” option on the site to send an e-mail request, or call for a copy to be sent free of charge. Chapter leaders can request a supply for their membership.

• 403(b) Provider-Specific Workshop. Member Benefits contracted with the provider of its endorsed Financial Counseling Program, Stacey Braun Associates Inc., to conduct these workshops upon request from chapter leaders. Designed to cover the 403(b) plans available to bargaining unit members, these workshops review the features of each plan, comparing fees and benefits.

Workshops have a registration fee of $20 per participant and a minimum requirement of 30 participants.

A chapter could schedule this workshop as a webinar for a fee of $250.

Workshops will not address specific questions pertaining to an individual’s 403(b) plan. Members with questions regarding personal 403(b) accounts or other financial planning issues will be directed to speak with their 403(b)  adviser or their financial planner. Information on the endorsed Financial Counseling Program will also be available.

• Financial Planning Puzzle Workshops. Today’s economy has clarified the need for a financial plan; unfortunately, for many, beginning a financial plan is a daunting task. This two-hour workshop outlines the process, covering cash management, risk management, savings, retirement and estate planning. Free workshops are being held at NYSUT Regional Offices; visit www.member benefits.nysut.org for dates and locations. 

For information about these programs or about contractual endorsement arrangements with providers of endorsed programs, please contact NYSUT Member Benefits or refer to your NYSUT Member Benefits Trust Summary Plan Description. Agency fee payers to NYSUT are eligible to participate in NYSUT Member Benefits-endorsed programs.