After many months of research and preparation, NALC published the first NALC Retirement Manual in 2004. Updates were made available in 2006 to be inserted into the 2004 version of the manual.

A comprehensive source of information on all aspects of retirement, packed onto a single cd, the NALC Retirement Manual is extremely helpful to all members of the NALC. This manual provides the vital information needed by those in the process of preparing for retirement, as well as those who are just entering the Postal Service.

Additionally, the manual provides information useful to those who have already retired, and gives guidance to their survivors. With 18 separate chapters, covering everything from military buy-back to Social Security and Medicare, the Thrift Savings Plan, taxes, COLAs and NALCREST, there is something for everyone contained in this first-of-its-kind compilation. Director of Retirees Ernie Kirkland notes that

Our plan is to make as much information as possible available at all levels in order to properly assist our members who have questions regarding retirement options.

This CD of our manual should do just that. Branch officers and directors of retired members on both the state and local levels will find the Retirement Manual extremely useful. Assistance can be provided to surviving family members in need of information regarding death benefits and survivor annuity elections. Many chapters contain a section of frequently asked questions (FAQs) which will make it easier and quicker to provide comfort to those seeking guidance.

Branch officers and directors alike should take the time to familiarize themselves with the NALC Retirement Manual and what it has to offer their members. Also, branches or state associations should consider addressing retirement in any training sessions.

One free copy of the NALC Retirement Manual on CD has been made available to each branch. In addition, a copy has been provided to each state director of retirees.

Additional copies are available at a cost of $2.00 by contacting:

or by calling 202-393-4695.

The Director of Retirees writes a column in NALC's monthly magazine, the Postal Record, that covers a wide range of issues.

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