Dipac

If you are a participant in the CGLIP option the following may be helpful to you. If you are not a participant the only comments of possible interest to you are with regard to CHOICES. Unfortunately we have no data on who is/is not a CGLIP participant other than suspecting there might be a considerable number of such individuals.

Given the INVISTA indicated participant-paid CGLIP premium schedule commencing 01/01/2011, the affordability of CGLIP coverage is a personal 'cost vs coverage' issue. You need to assess the coverage needed for your particular circumstance, and you need to decide  what you can afford.

If you are still within the age 65-75 bracket, possibly the rate at which your coverage is reducing each year continues to result in a lower year over year out of pocket cost to you, which may offset the increased participant-paid CGLIP premium.

While the combination of increased cost for Medical & Dental benefits plus the added cost for your particular CGLIP coverage is the full cost increase which will impact on the net monthly pension benefit you receive, it is important to think of them as separate situations. Do not let the added costs of M&D dictate your CGLIP decision unless the overall cost is beyond your means and you include consideration of your needs. Note also that you do have options to reduce your M&D coverage by moving to lower cost packages. Unfortunately as we age this becomes a less appropriate alternative, since the needs for this coverage tend to increase with age.

Because each individual is dealing with unique personal needs, we have no general advice to offer other than the above comments. Proceed carefully since any reductions in coverage are irreversible.

Remember if you plan any change to your current selections (CHOICES & CGLIP) the enrolment windows closes October 29^th.

DIPAC Admin