As the SIU continues striving to provide enhanced services for Seafarers, effective Jan. 1, 2008, headquarters has established a new department known as the “Membership Assistance Program” (MAP).
MAP aims to aid members on all Seafarers Plans matters in one centralized area. The department will be responsible for coordinating membership information such as addresses, beneficiaries, etc. MAP will also send information regarding benefits to members when they become eligible as well as requesting documents that may be missing (birth or marriage certificates, for example). These packages will include a welcome letter, summary plan description booklets, enrollment forms, beneficiary cards and more.
The department will also direct calls from its toll-free number – 1-800-252-4674 – to other appropriate headquarters departments if necessary. In essence, MAP will become a one-stop shop for most member needs related to the union and Seafarers Plans.
MAP will offer a Spanish-speaking coordinator to assist Latin American members and their dependents. It will also be responsible for coordinating assistance with the claims department, pension and other departments.
Again, MAP can be reached at 1-800-252-4674. Members and port personnel are encouraged to contact the department when they need information regarding benefits.
Printer Friendly Page