State participants in the Group Health Insurance Program: Get your free health screening on May 2, from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at Clarion Suites at the Alliant Energy Center or June 4, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., at the Monona Terrace Convention Center. For event details and to register, go to StayWellor call 1-800-821-6591. Want to find out how to earn your $150 Well Wisconsin incentive? Attend the “Well Wisconsin 101” session on May 22, from 11:00 a.m. to 12 p.m., at the Hill Farms State Office Building, rooms N133/N134. No registration required.
Did you know ETF offers group retirement appointments? These appointments are held statewide once a month and twice weekly in Madison, year-round. Since we can accommodate more members in a group appointment, you can usually attend one within 1-3 weeks. More Group Appointments>
Unexpected medical bills? No need to stress. Just like a regular monthly car payment, break up large, unexpected medical bills with a commonly used health payment plan, interest free! Setting up a payment plan is easy; you can even use your Health Savings Account to make monthly payments. View Informational Video>
Know Your Benefits
Q: I received my WRS Annual Statement of Benefits. What are the top things I should know?
A: Take a few minutes to review your statement, an important year-end summary of your pension account, including balances and interest earned. Sign up for one of our webinars in May to learn more about your statement and WRS benefits.
Were you previously in the Variable Trust Fund? Be in the know about howprevious participationhas affected your WRS account.
By Tarna Hunter, ETF Government Relations Director
In February Gov. Evers released the 2019-2021 executive state budget, a proposal for how the state should manage expenses for the next two years. The budget contains a few proposals that affect the programs administered by ETF, including modifying WRS return to work laws for teachers.There are also separate proposals pertaining to county jailers and retired protective employees who return to work with a WRS employer, and military service credits for certain Department of Corrections employees. More Legislation>
Did you know you can “roll in” (consolidate) non-WRS retirement savings from other qualified plans into your Wisconsin Deferred Compensation account? Watch for an opportunity to try the My Total Retirement program free for 90 days. Read the latest WDC quarterly newsletter. More WDC>
Tips for Easiest Access to ETF Customer Services
While our website is a great place to start if you need WRS benefits information and resources, we know there are times when you need to speak with a benefits specialist. Here are some tips for getting help during this period of peak demand for ETF services. More Customer Service>
In today’s world we expect instant results. The focus seems to be on the short term. For an institutional investor like SWIB, however, there is a balance between short-term and long-term investment results. SWIB also takes a long-term approach to grow investments and protect the WRS. More Investing>
Why Are You in Public Service?
Public Service Recognition Week is May 5-11. We have been celebrating PSRW since 1985, honoring public employees who serve our nation in federal, state, county and local government capacities. Check out ETF’s Twitter profile to see how we’re recognizing your fellow WRS public employees. #PRSW2019
Other News & Features
Wellness Webinars Set
The Well Wisconsin Program is offering two webinars to help you take steps to improve your health and wellness this spring and summer: Practicing Self-Compassion and Understanding Diabetes. More Wellness Webinars>
SWIB Investment Report is Available
SWIB has published its 2019 Goals, Strategies & Performance report, which provides information about investment strategies for the previous calendar year, how well investments performed, and the goals and strategies for the coming year. More SWIB Report>
Video Explains WRS Annuity Options
Choosing a WRS annuity option is not easy. ETF’s video, WRS Annuity Payment Options, provides details on all options, including those protecting joint survivors and beneficiaries. More Video>
Before You Retire: Update Your WAMS Account
Most employees set up their WAMS account using work email addresses. When you retire, your work email becomes invalid; therefore, you won’t be able to access benefits associated with your WAMS account, such as health insurance. Update your WAMS user ID (email address) and password here orcontact ETF for assistance.
Portfolio Manager Celebrates 20 Years of Giving Back
Educators can have a big impact on a person’s life. From an early age they teach and guide students, putting them on a path to success. For Dean Martin, it was the impact educators had on his life that led him to SWIB 20 years ago. More Giving Back>
Valentine Named Chief Technology and Operations Officer
Julia Valentine is SWIB’s new chief technology and operations officer. In this role, Valentine oversees SWIB’s operational processes and technology infrastructure. More Valentine>
Two New Trustees Join Board; Conlin Reappointed
Two new trustees have joined the SWIB Board of Trustees – DOA Secretary Joel Brennan and David Schalow, who was appointed by the Teachers Retirement Board. ETF Secretary Robert Conlin has been reappointed to the board by the Wisconsin Retirement Board. More Trustees>
Governing Board Updates
Last fall ETF announced nominations were open to run for active employee seats on the Employee Trust Funds Board and the Teachers Retirement Board. Find out who the new members are. More Board Updates>
Upcoming Board Meetings
The Group Insurance Board meets on May 15. June meetings are also set for the ETF Board, Teachers Retirement Board, Wisconsin Retirement Board and the SWIB Board of Trustees.More Boards>