Friday, November 8, 2024

Frequently Asked Questions


Health Care


Q.

What is the WSIAW Health Plan?

A.

The WSIAW Health Plan provides free medical examinations to eligible employees and retirees. The examination includes specified diagnostic test which vary depending on the age of the individual. Test results are reviewed by the Plan’s Medical Consultant who provides the individual with a confidential written evaluation. These tests are meant to supplement your normal medical care and not replace your need for a personal physician. The examinations are performed by specified local medical providers who contract with the Plan to provide the service at a fixed fee.

Q.

How do I become eligible?

A.

You worked at least 350 hours in covered employment during the current or preceding calendar year; or you are retired and receiving a pension benefit from the WSIAW Pension Plan. Covered employment means work under a collective bargaining agreement requiring contributions to this Plan. Dependents are not eligible to participate in the Plan.

Q.

What kind of examination is performed?

A.

The type of examination you receive will depend on your age. The basic examination will include a complete history and physical examination, chest x-ray(s), lung function test, blood and urine tests, a vision and a hearing test.

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Pension


Q.

How do I become a Participant in the Plan?

A.

You become a Participant in the Plan if your employer is required by a Collective Bargaining Agreement with a Local Union affiliated with the Western States Conference of Insulators and Allied Workers to contribute to the Plan on your behalf as an Insulator and Allied Worker.


Q.

I am going through a divorce, what happens to my pension?

A.

If your former spouse is awarded a portion of your earned benefit through the Plan, it will be necessary that you and your spouse complete a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) so that the Plan can pay benefits to your former spouse. You may contact the Benefit office and request that a sample QDRO be provided to you.


Q.

Does the Pension Plan affect Social Security benefits in any way?

A.

No.

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Annuity


Q.

How do I become a Participant in the Plan?

A.

You become a Participant in the Plan if your employer is required by a Collective Bargaining Agreement with a Local Union affiliated with the Western States Conference of Insulators and Allied Workers to contribute to the Plan on your behalf as an Insulator and Allied Worker.


Q.

When do I become vested?

A.

Any Individual Account of an Employee who vested or is receiving retirement or disability benefits from the Pension Plan or the Health Plan shall be 100% vested immediately. Any other Individual Account resulting from three hundred fifty (350) or more hours of contributions shall be vested.


Q.

May I withdraw my funds prior to retirement?

A.

You may apply for and receive payment of your Individual Account only if you are vested in the Plan and your balance does not exceed $5,000 and have had no contributions made to this Plan on your behalf for the last full Plan year and any period since.

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