TRICARE Dental Plan Changed

The old TRICARE Retiree Dental Plan (TRDP) expired on 31 December 2018. MOAA pressed the issue explaining many eligible participants were unable to complete the enrollment process and needed additional time to navigate the sign-up procedure or do not have computer access.

This pressure by MOAA resulted in the BENEFEDS enrollment option being extended for three months. Some members signed up via telephone and it was a simple operation. If you have not signed up as yet, and want to, go online to https://benefeds.com/ or call 1-877-888-3337 to enroll.

Korean War Veterans Ambassador for Peace Medal

Veterans who served in Korea during the Korean War from June 25, 1950 to July 27, 1953 or participated in UN peacekeeping operations until the end of 1955.

The Ambassador for Peace Commemorative Medal is an expression of appreciation from the Korean government to American service men and women who served in the Korean War. The Ambassador for Peace Medal was initially presented to veterans as a special memento for those of who returned to South Korea through the “Revisit Program.” The honor has since expanded to veterans who cannot travel the long journey to Korea.

Posthumous Awards

The commemorative medals may be awarded posthumously. However, please understand that the highest priority for presenting the medal is given to veterans who are currently surviving. The next of kin, such as the spouse or descendants may apply for the medal on behalf of a deceased veteran.

Additional information on how to apply for the medal can be found by contacting the Air Force Personnel Center at 800-558-1404, or by writing to HQ AFPC/DPPPRA, 550 C St. West, Suite 12, Randolph Air Force Base, Tex., 78150, or by visiting its Web site at: http://www.afpc.randolph.af.mil/awards

Big Income Tax Changes!

Have you filed your 2018 Federal tax return? Did you find that your refund is lower than last year? Do you owe more than you had withheld? The major tax changes made last year have really affected the withholding formula. Because of that your retirement check and your social security payment probably increased and less was withheld. You can make sure this does not happen to you for your 2019 tax filing, here’s how:

1. Collect your 2018 return paper work (include all statements for investments and bank accounts)

2. Get online (if you don’t have access to a computer at home try the public library)

3. Go to https://www.irs.gov/individuals/irs-withholding-calculator

4. On the upper right of the page you can view a video on how to use the calculator

5. When you are done, you can adjust your W-4 on the DFAS website: https://mypay.dfas.mil/mypay.aspx

6. If you aren’t familiar with this page there are video instructions available by going to https://bit.ly/2AgEJf1

7. Still need help? Your kids or grandchildren are great tech help resources.