Dear ,

Celebrating Thanksgiving with Gratitude

As Thanksgiving approaches, bringing with it a much-anticipated 4-day weekend, we at the Guam Federation of Teachers (GFT) are eager to express our deep gratitude and best wishes to every member. This festive season is a perfect time to acknowledge our shared blessings, chief among them being the steadfast dedication and hard work of our GFT union members. Your consistent efforts significantly contribute to enhancing various sectors across the Government of Guam, uplifting our community and paving the way for a brighter future on our island.

Your invaluable contribution in shaping and nurturing the minds and lives within our community, especially during challenging times, is a cornerstone of what makes Guam thrive. The strength and spirit you display are the driving forces behind our collective progress, and for this, our gratitude is boundless.

This Thanksgiving, as we unite with family and friends, let's also reflect on the impactful difference we, as a united workforce, make. GFT members are integral to the fabric of GovGuam, serving in diverse areas such as education, healthcare, Behavioral Health and Wellness, public safety, the Port Authority, and many others. Our shared camaraderie and support as GFT Union members not only strengthen us individually but also fortify our collective resolve.

We encourage you to relish this period of rest, contemplation, and happiness with your loved ones. May your Thanksgiving brim with love, laughter, and the comforting presence of family and friends.

We extend our sincere thanks once more for your unwavering dedication and for being a vital part of the GFT family. We are excited to continue our journey together, striving for a future that's brighter and more prosperous for everyone in Guam.

GFT General Membership Meeting

GFT General Membership Meeting

Monday, November 27, 2023 @ 6 PM

University of Guam Jesus & Eugenia Leon Guerrero School of Business and Public Administration, Room 129

Mangilao, Guam

We encourage all members to join to receive important updates.

Retirement Plan Updates

DB 1.75 Early election by November 30, 2023

DB 1.75 Election deadline December 29, 2023

DC Members who made an election to the DB 1.75 and decide to remain in the DC plan – an election form MUST be completed to remain in the DC plan at the Retirement Fund by December 29, 2023.

DB 1.75 Plan Effective Date January 1, 2024

The DB 1.75 allows you to withdraw funds by age 62 without any penalty, except for safety personnel. Safety personnel may elect to withdraw funds by age 55 without penalty (conditions apply). You are allowed to separate from GovGuam without touching your retirement until age 62 (55 for safety personnel). Otherwise, withdrawing your funds early would result in a penalty of 0.5% per month.

Making the change to DB 1.75 is OPTIONAL, depends on your financial situation, and planned service with GovGuam. The DB 1.75 becomes more financially beneficial when you stay with GovGuam for many years.

If you are still weighing your options and need some guidance, check https://gftunion.com/2023/local-news/defined-benefit-db-1-75-plan/

https://ggrf.com/public-review-documents

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