Teamsters Rail Conference
Coming Soon!
Currently, Members of the Rail Conference are not eligible to enroll in the Teamsters VIP+ Plan. While the VIP+ Plan is specifically underwritten for Members of Teamster Locals in the U.S., programs for the BLET and BMWED will be available soon. Please check back to find out more about upcoming enrollments for the BLET and BMWED.
Why are BLET and BMWED Members Not Eligible for the Teamsters VIP+ Plan?
The Teamsters VIP+ Plan is specifically designed for IBT locals, which operate as independent branches within the larger Teamsters organization. Thanks to a close partnership between Union One, IBT, and IBT Locals, this plan offers benefits and coverage tailored to Teamsters Members across different industries. BLET and BMWED, however, are distinct divisions within IBT. These divisions focus exclusively on the railroad industry, operating under specialized guidelines and labor agreements that shape their benefit structures. Because of these differences, BLET and BMWED Members do not currently qualify for the Teamsters VIP+ Plan.
Similar Benefits for BLET and BMWED Members
Many BLET and BMWED Members already have access to Income Protection Plans through Union One. Most of these plans have been around for many years and have unique differences from other income protection plans, such as no subrogation for FELA claims, 24-hour – on-and-off-the-job coverage since railroad workers are not covered by worker’s compensation insurance, and unique policy language specific to the rail industry.
We understand the importance of these benefits and encourage any BLET or BMWED Members who don’t currently have access to Union One Voluntary Income Protection Plans to reach out to their leadership and/or Union One. Working together, we can explore solutions to create a benefits plan tailored to the specific needs of BLET and BMWED Members, as we have with many BLET and BMWED General Committees and Local Divisions.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THIS PLAN
IMPORTANT: The monthly cost for coverage is based on your age at the start of the coverage and will increase on the policy anniversary date after you move into a new age bracket. This benefits guide is tailored for Members aged 18-79. If you depart from the IBT, opt out of paying dues, or retire, you must notify the Teamsters VIP+ administrative office at (224) 770-5304. You have 30 days to notify us of your retirement if you wish to port or convert your Life Insurance. Not doing so within 90 days could delay or negate your eligibility for a refund.
Participation in this program is voluntary, and the decision to enroll rests solely with the Members. Members are responsible for bearing all associated costs. A $2 technology fee is included in all listed monthly costs for the following coverages: Short-Term Disability and Long-Term Disability. A $1 technology fee is included in all listed monthly costs for the following coverages: Member Life and Spouse Life.
We encourage Members to thoroughly review the complete policy booklet, email info@TeamstersVIP.com to request a copy, if you did not receive one upon enrollment.
This program is administered by Union One Benefits Administration.
This voluntary benefit plan is classified as a Safe Harbor plan and, as such, is not subject to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Teamsters does not contribute to the premiums for this plan on behalf of its Members, does not endorse the plan, and does not require Members to enroll in the plan.
FOR AD&D, STD & LTD: THIS IS AN EXCEPTED BENEFITS POLICY. IT PROVIDES COVERAGE ONLY FOR THE LIMITED BENEFITS OR SERVICES SPECIFIED IN THE POLICY.
For STD & LTD: These policies provide disability income insurance only and do NOT provide basic hospital, basic medical, or major medical insurance as defined by the New York State Department of Financial Services.
North Carolina Residents: THIS IS NOT A MEDICARE SUPPLEMENT PLAN. If you are eligible for Medicare, review the Guide to Health Insurance for People with Medicare, which is available from the company.
Group Insurance coverages are issued by The Prudential Insurance Company of America, a Prudential Financial company, Newark, NJ. The Booklet-Certificate contains all details, including any policy exclusions, limitations, and restrictions, which may apply. Contract Series: 83500.
Prudential, the Prudential logo, and the Rock symbol are service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc. and its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide.
