Insurance

California School Employees Association (CSEA) member, Anna Avila, is an outreach worker at a Southern California high school who helps connect parents to resources throughout the community. When she landed in the emergency room after becoming ill, she had her union membership to thank for alleviating her stress. Avila ended up spending five days in the hospital and underwent emergency surgery without health insurance. 

“I saw how expensive it was getting,” Avila recalls of the medical bills.  

Then, in a stroke of luck, Avila learned about the Union Plus Hospital Grant.  

“I stumbled across it through an email in what seemed to be perfect timing,” she says. 

Avila applied for the Union Plus Hospital Grant¹ because she met the requirements for eligibility as a Union Plus Credit Cardholder² in good standing and for longer than three months before her hospitalization. Union Plus Mortgage, Supplemental Insurance or Retiree Healthcare program Participants are also eligible to apply. Avila used her $1,200 grant to pay for one of her surgery fees. 

According to Avila, applying was easy. 

“I just collected my bills and sent them in,” she says. 

The Union Plus Hospital Grant can be used to cover a wide range of out-of-pocket hospital expenses, including insurance deductibles, physician charges, medications, and other medical expenses incurred during hospitalization.  
 
“When I got back to work, I let everyone know about the hospital grant,” Avila says. “A lot of people weren’t aware of it. I said it’s there if you ever need it.”  

She continues, “The hospital grant came as a huge blessing and I’m so thankful it was available.”

To learn more about the Union Plus Hospital Grant and other Union Plus hardship benefits, visit unionplus.org/hardship.

Brie is a mutt. Likely a mix of Golden Retriever and Australian Shepherd, she's a little over a year old, furry, playful, and very much loved.

"She's got a cream color like a dairy product," says Brie's owner, Bruce Kube, a hematology supervisor at a university hospital and a member of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) Local 2190. "[The name] Cream wasn't good. Milk didn't apply, so we thought, Brie! Yeah, Brie!

Kube and his wife Carolyn, who is also a union member, adopted Brie in January 2022. “She licks our faces and climbs on top of us," Kube says. "Dogs are my life."

As seasoned dog owners, the Kubes knew that while puppies are cute, they can also be expensive. They decided to look into pet insurance through their unions and considered a few different options before settling on the Union Plus Pet Insurance plan, offered through Pets Best.

Pets Best offers union members up to 10 percent off monthly premiums¹ and a choice of three types of plans with flexible coverage options, helping members get reimbursed up to 90% on their eligible vet bills.* There are no annual or lifetime limits and no networks – members can choose any licensed veterinarian, emergency vet, or specialist in the U.S. You can submit claims easily with the Pets Best mobile app or online customer account, and they even offer free direct deposit for claims reimbursements. Pets Best also offers free 24-hour access to veterinary experts via email, chat, or phone for everything from emergency care to behavioral advice.

"Pets Best had the best coverage of all the plans that we looked at," Kube says. "I'm happy with it. It's much better than paying [full price] for each visit." He adds, “We take advantage of the union benefits. My philosophy is it’s foolish to not get discounts when you can.”

Use natural light when possible

• Avoid using a flash when photographing your pet. Bright flashes may frighten some animals and the flash could result in unsightly “red-eyes.”
• Use indirect natural light whenever possible. With four-legged subjects, it may not always be easy to position your subject, so you may have to move to get the best light.
• Aim for a mid-morning or late afternoon shoot when the light is naturally golden and filtered. If you are shooting indoors, try to avoid strong direct light, and make sure the lighting is even, unless you are trying for a dramatic shoot with specific lighting.

Make sure your pet is comfortable

• If you are going to dress your pet in an outfit, have your pet try it on before the actual photo shoot to make sure it fits properly and is comfortable.
• Give your curious cat or canine time to get used to their surroundings including the photography equipment and setting.
• Make sure your pet is not thirsty or hungry and has had a chance to exercise beforehand.
• Provide reassurance and praise, stay positive and have fun because your good attitude will set the best environment for your pet.

Be patient and take lots of photos

• Keep it fun and try different poses like getting on the floor to take photos eye-to-eye instead of always from above.
• Keep your pets undivided attention by holding a favorite toy or treat (like a piece of cheese, so you can literally tell your pet to “say cheese) just above the camera so your pet will be looking right at the lens.
• Try making an unusual noise to get your pet’s attention and make them look up because calling your pet’s name may be confusing and they’ll come to you instead.
• Take posed photos but don’t forget to let your pet act naturally and capture lots of candid shots that capture your pet’s personality.

Let your fellow union members know that you've found a great fit with MetLife Auto & Home^®. When you refer another union member and he/she gets an auto insurance quote, we'll mail you a $20 gas card to say thanks.*

Spread the word. Tell your fellow union members to call us at 844-219-0292.

Here's how it works:

1. Refer a fellow union member.
2. He/she mentions your name and group code DJ7 when he/she calls for an auto insurance quote.
3. We mail you a $20 gas card.*

Limited Time Offer: Billing Accommodations for Texas Policyholders

MetLife Auto & Home is here to help Texas customers experiencing hardship and having difficulty paying their premiums during this time. Accommodations are available through March 24, 2021.

Bill holds and accommodations:

Customers in need of special billing accommodations can contact MetLife Auto & Home at 800-438-6381 (1-800-Get-Met1) for assistance.

One-time payment options:

• Pay-by-phone: 800-438-6381 (1-800-Get-Met1). Customers can pay by electronic check (preferred) or by debit or credit card.
• Online payment: Customers can sign up for online policy access and pay bills electronically by bank account or card at online.metlife.com or MetLife.com (click "Login" and select "Personal Account").

Automatic payment arrangements:

Automatic payment plans help avoid issues that can come up when natural disasters strike. Customers can set up recurring payments via checking account, from a credit or debit card, or payroll deduction (if available through your employer).

Filing a property claim:

Available 24 hours, 7 days a week, 365 days a year:

• Phone: 800-854-6011
• Fax: 866-743-1546
• Email: MET_CAT@metlife.com

MetLife Auto & Home is here for you during this difficult time and appreciates your patience.

MetLife Auto & Home’s claim organization stands ready to assist their customers impacted by the East Troublesome Fire in Grand County, Colorado.

Resources Available

MetLife’s National Catastrophe Response Team is ready to handle any incoming claims, and their claim personnel are prepared to:

• Help customers secure shelter, as needed
• Guide customers through temporary repairs
• Issue advances for immediate expenses
• Promptly compensate customers for any damage to property

MetLife Auto & Home urges residents to pay close attention to local authorities and evacuation orders. Important phone numbers, email addresses, and online resources are included below for customers. When disaster strikes, it is critical to contact MetLife as soon as possible and report the claim to the appropriate area.

Reporting Property Damage Losses
If you need to report property damage losses:

• Phone: 800-854-6011
• Fax: 866-743-1546
• Email: MET_CAT@metlife.com

Catastrophe Van Service
Although MetLife's CAT Van is not deployed to minimize the spread of COVID-19 and to protect the safety of insureds and claims associates, they have emergency service providers engaged and have secured prioritized service for MetLife customers needing assistance.

Billing Accommodations
Updates on billing accommodations for impacted policyholders will be provided as they become available.

Tips for Staying Safe
These are other resources that can help you stay safe! Please share these links with your family and friends:

• Wildfire Safety Tips Video
• Packing a grab-and-go bag in case of disaster
• Incident Information System
• MetLife Cares Twitter 

This important update was brought to you by Union Plus Auto and Home Insurance. MetLife Auto & Home^® lets union members compare and save on home and auto insurance.

Call 855-666-5797 and mention your discount code: DJ7.

Get your personalized quotes today

Here are some ways you can prepare for a hurricane:

Know your neighborhood
Even far inland, flooding can occur in low-laying areas. Visit FloodSmart.gov to view flood maps and find out if you live in a mandatory evacuation zone. 

Plan your evacuation route
Your local emergency management office and American Red Cross are good sources for planning.

Stock up on supplies
Keep sandbags and plastic sheeting on hand. Be prepared to board up doors and windows, and secure or remove loose items outdoors. 

Stay on top of the news
Listen to local news outlets for evacuation orders, or check trusted social media sources, and list your city council's Facebook page Twitter feed. Act quickly to avoid traffic. 

Turn off your utilities
If you are in a hurricane surge zone, keep written instructions on how to turn off your home utilities in a central location. Gas, water, and electricity should be shut off before you evacuate. 

Make an emergency kit!
Your kit should include: 

• A three-to-seven-day water supply (1 gallon per person per day)
• Non-perishable food and cooking tools
• A change of clothing, seasonal gear, and sturdy shoes
• Blankets or sleeping bags
• Emergency tools, including a NOAA weather radio, flashlight, extra batteries, and paper maps
• A first-aid kit, including any prescription medication
• An extra set of keys, cash, and a credit card
• Important paperwork
• Personal hygiene products
• Phone charger
• Recent family photo

Make sure your home and most valuable possessions are covered with home insurance from MetLife Auto & Home^®. As a union member, you have access to home insurance with MetLife Choice^SM allowing you to easily compare auto and home coverage from top carriers.

Call 855-666-5797 and mention your discount code: DJ7.

Get your free quotes

Tropical Storm Sally developed over the weekend and is in the Gulf of Mexico, and rapidly making its way Northwest. MetLife Auto & Home’s claim organization stands ready to assist their customers impacted by Tropical Storm Sally in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi.

Resources Available

MetLife’s National Catastrophe Response Team is ready to handle any incoming claims, and their claim personnel are prepared to:

• Help customers secure shelter, as needed
• Guide customers through temporary repairs
• Issue advances for immediate expenses
• Promptly compensate customers for any damage to property

MetLife Auto & Home urges residents to pay close attention to local authorities and evacuation orders. Important phone numbers, email addresses, and online resources are included below for policyholders. When disaster strikes, it is critical to contact MetLife as soon as possible and report the claim to the appropriate area.

Reporting Property Damage Losses

If you need to report property damage losses:

• Phone: 800-854-6011
• Fax: 866-743-1546
• Email: MET_CAT@metlife.com

Filing a Flood Claim

If you need to file a flood claim:

• Phone: 877-254-6819
• Email: metlifecs@torrentcorp.com
• Customer website: metlife.managemyfloodpolicy.com
• Agent website: metlife.torrentflood.com

Billing Accommodations

Updates on billing accommodations for impacted policyholders will be provided as they become available.

Tips for Staying Safe

These are other resources that can help you stay safe! Please share these links with your family and friends:

• MetLife Hurricane Support
• Packing a grab-and-go bag in case of disaster
• YouTube — 3 quick hurricane tips
• MetLife Cares Twitter 

This important update was brought to you by Union Plus Auto and Home Insurance. MetLife Auto & Home^® lets union members compare and save on home and auto insurance.

Call 855-666-5797 and mention your discount code: DJ7.

GET YOUR PERSONALIZED QUOTES TODAY

Here are some tips to help you evaluate if your car insurance is the right fit — and to ensure you're getting the best deal possible.

Ask About Customization

• You should look for an insurance company that understands how unique you are and your desire for individualized coverage.
• From your driving habits to the style of your car, choose a provider whose benefits and discounts can be tailored to you.

Review Customer Service Ratings

• Choose a company that provides you with the peace of mind knowing that you are cared for during the unexpected.
• It's important you're with a highly-rated provider that can handle your claims with the expert service you need to protect your assets and help you quickly get back on the road.
• Human connection, 24/7 claims processing, and common courtesy are all paramount.

Look for Features & Benefits That Make Life Easy

• Shop for an insurance provider that provides easy and convenient coverage so you have one less thing to worry about.
• Online claims processing can help you quickly gain access to documents you need, review your account, and directly connect with adjustors so you can start the repair and recovery process right away.
• When choosing insurance providers, find out how long it would take to receive claim-settlement funds so you know what to expect from your coverage.
• Look for a provider who offers online bill payment — or automatic deductions from your paycheck — so you can save time and ensure you never miss a payment.

MetLife Auto & Home^® lets union members compare and save on home and auto insurance.

Call 855-666-5797 and mention your discount code: DJ7.

GET YOUR PERSONALIZED QUOTES TODAY

Here are eight fun and safe ways you can enjoy this summer with your pet:

1. Buy a kiddie pool for you dog.
   Let them play in and cool themselves off in it. Always keep an eye on your dog while playing in the kiddie pool — and of course make sure they like the water.
    
2. Take your dog (or cat if they like the car) on a scenic drive.
   It’s social distancing while also getting you and your pup out of the house.
    
3. Go hiking with your dog.
   Organize a trail hike appropriate for your dog’s fitness level and breed. Be cautious not to go in the heat of the day, and be sure to bring a doggie water receptacle for breaks.
    
4. Take your dog camping with you.
   Dogs love being outside and will appreciate the nature getaway. Bonus points for letting them sleep in the tent!
    
5. Go to a lake or other safe body of water for an afternoon of swimming. 
   Many breeds love the water, see if your dog is one of them! Consider a canine lifejacket for them if you’re boating with your dog.


6. Go for a summer bike ride. 
   For small dogs, a bike pull trailer meant for children can be easily converted to accommodate dogs, allowing you to take the littlest members along for leisurely summer bike rides. Be sure your pet is safely harnessed in so that he or she can’t leap out. And always avoid roadways with dogs.


7. Check out the local dog park. 
   Most cities have some designated parks where dogs are allowed to roam off leash. Always ensure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations when frequenting high dog-trafficked areas.


8. Take a scenic car ride with the windows (partially) down. 
   If your dog loves to stick her head out the window, consider getting her "doggles," which are canine goggles designed to protect eyes and shield from the sun as well. 

By getting outdoors and including your furry friend in family outings this summer, you’ll be sure to make lasting memories while also helping your dog to be the best companion possible.

Protect your pet from summertime injuries with Union Plus Pet Health Insurance. Accident Only¹ plans are only $6/month for cats and $9/month for dogs. If you'd like to include illness coverage, there are comprehensive BestBenefit Accident and Illness plans² available. 

Learn MORE ABOUT
Union Plus PET HEALTH INSURANCE