UPMA RETIRED, FALL LUNCHEON

OCTOBER 1, 2025

DER DUTCHMAN RESTAURANT

our Retiree's Fall Luncheon was another success. The tables were full of happy retirees enjoying another exquisite lunch provided by the Der Dutchman Restaurant. enjoy the following photos.

Why are UPMA Retired monthly dues increasing to $10.00 by 1/1/2028?

At the 2025 National Convention in Dallas, members approved a bylaws amendment to gradually raise retiree dues from $5.73 per month to $10.00 per month over a 3-year period ending December 31, 2028. Beginning in 2029, dues may only increase once per year, and by no more than the COLA increase.

This change was necessary because over the past nine years dues were raised only four times, while retiree membership has declined by over 5% per year and operating costs have continued to rise. Retiree dues help support expenses such as the UPMA Leader magazine, computer systems, national convention costs, legislative advocacy, and retiree services from the National Office as well as maintenance and utilities for the National Office in Alexandria VA.

  It is also important to note that when a member retires, they receive six months of free membership, with full benefits, before paying dues — an added cost absorbed by the National Office. To cover the true costs of retiree services and operations, it is estimated that $118 per member per year is needed (this estimate was put together 3 years ago but never acted on). The dues adjustment ensures UPMA can continue to serve and represent all retirees effectively.

  Charles R Peters, UPMA Retired National President

SOCIAL SECURITY DISCONTINUES PAPER CHECKS: 

The Social Security Administration (SSA) will no longer issue paper checks for benefit payments. This change is part of a broader government-wide initiative to modernize payment systems and enhance service delivery. By moving to electronic payments exclusively, we aim to improve efficiency, security, and ensure beneficiaries receive their monthly benefits promptly. People who currently receive paper checks have two convenient options to receive their Social Security payments electronically: 

Direct Deposit: Beneficiaries should enroll in direct deposit with their financial institution. Payments can be deposited directly into your checking or savings account.

Direct Express® Card: For people without a bank account, the Direct Express card is a prepaid debit card designed specifically for federal benefit payments.

COST OF LIVING ADJUSTMENT (COLA) 2025: From OPM.gov

Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) annuitants and survivors and eligible Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) retirees and survivors will receive a COLA effective December 1, 2024. The increase will be reflected in your January 2, 2025, payment. CSRS annuitants will receive a 2.5% COLA and eligible FERS annuitants will receive a 2.0% COLA.

Click on this Link to the Federal Retirement Newsletter:

https://www.myfederalretirement.com/ira-contirbutions-secure-act/