Building financial wellness with ease
Whether you're looking to save for retirement, build your dream kitchen or enjoy the peace of mind that comes with an emergency fund for your family, it all starts with conquering your debt. That's where the Union Plus® Personal Loan can make all the difference.
Shift your focus
Sometimes reaching the peak of financial wellness can feel like climbing a mountain, but if you take it one step at a time, you'd be surprised by what you can achieve. If you are feeling overwhelmed by debt, remember that you have options outside of an avalanche of payments — like the Union Plus Personal Loan.
Start with one simple step
No matter what your financial situation is, the Union Plus Personal Loan offers flexibility that makes freeing up your cash flow or building up your savings easier. By consolidating multiple payments on your existing debt into one easy payment with a fixed APR, you can focus on paying off debt without bogging down your bank account.
Pay off debt strategically
Depending on the interest rates on your debt, you may be able to save money in the long run when it comes to paying it off. Find out what interest rate you qualify for with a Union Plus Personal Loan to see how much you could save over the life of your loan.
Building financial well-being begins with becoming debt-free, and the Union Plus Personal Loan can make that possible. Apply to find out which rates you qualify for and embark on the journey toward building a stronger financial foundation.
If you're navigating building financial wellness, you may be asking yourself, what does financial wellness really mean? And the answer is: It means something different for everyone.
Emergency response legal help
MetLife Legal Plan network attorneys are able to provide document review and consultations for many issues you may face, at no cost through MetLife's Emergency Response Legal Assistance. These include:
- Reviewing documents related to federal aid and insurance claims
- Providing assistance with identity theft issues due to lost personal documents
- Answering questions about damaged property for renters or homeowners
- Providing advice on dealing with creditors and bill collectors
If you need assistance call the Customer Service Center at 1-800-821-6400.
You will need to identify you are with Union Plus, the last four digits of your Social Security Number and indicate that you are interested in the document review and consultations services being offered as part of the Emergency Response Legal Assistance.
Group legal plans are provided by MetLife Legal Plans, Inc., Cleveland, OH. In certain states, group legal plans are provided through insurance coverage underwritten by Metropolitan Property and Casualty Insurance Company and Affiliates, Warwick, RI. Please contact MetLife Legal Plans for complete details.
We know that dealing with the aftermath of a natural disaster is a stressful time. Legal assistance can be beneficial to help you get back on your feet and get answers to your questions.
Estate planning at your fingertips
Most of us know we need important estate planning documents like wills, advance directives and powers of attorney, but finding the time to complete these documents can be a challenge.
With MetLife Legal Plans' new digital estate planning solution, it's easy for you to complete estate planning documents. This allows you to designate your wishes for healthcare, as well as protect your family and assets quickly and easily from the comfort of your home.
Use the digital estate planning solution to create:
- Last Will and Testament – Leave property to loved ones and choose guardians for minor children.
- Advance Directive – Plan for a medical emergency and select medical care preferences.
- Durable Financial Power of Attorney – Choose someone to manage finances in case of an emergency.
How does it work?
MetLife's digital estate planning solution is available to all enrolled legal plan members at members.legalplans.com. You will need to create an account here using the email and password of your choice to use the digital estate planning solution.
To get started:
- Once you’ve created an account and logged in, choose “Wills and Estates” from the main menu, and then click on “Estate Plan Bundle” from the coverage page.
- Answer a few questions to find out if the digital estate planning option is right for you. If it is, click on “Do it Online” to continue.
- Begin creating your documents by providing some information about yourself, your family and your healthcare wishes.
- Review the documents to ensure your wishes are correctly stated.
- Print the documents and review the instructions for notarization. You can find a notary at most banks or UPS stores.
The process is designed to work for most people, but if there are aspects of your estate that are more complicated, you might be directed to reach out to one of MetLife's network attorneys instead of using the online process.
1CARAVAN survey conducted by ENGINE on behalf of MetLife Legal Plans, January 2020.
Group legal plans are provided by MetLife Legal Plans, Inc., Cleveland, OH. In certain states, group legal plans are provided through insurance coverage underwritten by Metropolitan Property and Casualty Insurance Company and Affiliates, Warwick, RI. Please contact MetLife Legal Plans for complete details.
Did you know that 70% of Americans do not have a will, the most basic estate planning document you need to protect your assets and your family?1 MetLife Legal Plans gives you the option to complete estate planning documents online in as little as 15 minutes!
Why do I need a legal plan?
During your lifetime, you may need legal help more often than you think. Getting married, buying or selling a home, starting a family, dealing with identity theft, sending your kids off to college or caring for aging parents are just some scenarios where MetLife's experienced attorneys can provide expert legal advice. With the legal plan, you can get access to legal help for all of these issues and more, all for a monthly fee.
Q. How does the plan work?
A. Getting started is easy. You simply choose an attorney from MetLife's network, which is available online or by calling their Client Service Center. You can also choose an attorney outside of their network and be reimbursed according to a set fee reimbursement schedule.1 They will then give you an assigned case number to share with your attorney when you make an appointment. It’s that simple. You can speak to MetLife's Network Attorneys face to face, by phone, or you can submit questions online to their Law Firm E-Panel® — whatever works best for you. And for certain legal matters, your attorney may be able to represent you in court without you having to make an appearance. MetLife's Network Attorneys are there for you, whenever you need advice on any personal legal matter or representation on a number of legal services covered under your plan — giving you peace of mind that you’ve got an expert on your side, for as long as you need them.
Q. Can I get help finding the right attorney for my needs?
A. Yes, MetLife's Client Service Center representatives are here to help you find the right attorney for your legal matter, whatever that might be. They’re committed to ensuring you receive the expert legal help you need, when you need it. Peace of mind knowing you have access to the expert attorneys you need, whenever you need them.
Q. How are attorneys selected for the network? What are their qualifications?
A. MetLife only selects attorneys who meet their selection criteria and agree to their Attorney Code of Excellence. Attorneys in the network have an average of 25 years' experience in the practice of law, have graduated from an accredited law school, and must maintain valid state licensure. Additionally, the attorneys must agree to provide superior customer service to all legal plan members. MetLife routinely monitors their attorneys to ensure their members’ needs are being met and conduct an annual re-credentialing audit that looks at legal activity, member feedback, verification of malpractice insurance and more.
Q. Whom do I contact if I have a problem with the legal plan or an attorney?
A. Send an email to clientservice@legalplans.com or call the Client Service Center at 800-821-6400, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST/EDT when you have questions or concerns about MetLife's legal plan benefits, Network Attorneys, or other matters involving the legal plan. They operate a full-service Client Service Center at the headquarters in Cleveland, Ohio. Their representatives are trained to answer questions and resolve problems, and will take immediate action to resolve any issues that arise.
Q. Can I use the plan outside my state of residence? Is international coverage available?
A. MetLife operates a national network of more than 18,000 Network Attorneys in all 50 states and most U.S. territories. Plan members may receive service from Any Attorney. Anywhere. Anytime.® Plan members traveling outside the United States may also use the plan. Simply contact the attorney of your choice in your area. You will be reimbursed according to the out-of-network fee reimbursement schedule. You may call the Client Service Center at 800-821-6400 to get a copy of the out-of-network fee reimbursement schedule.
Q. Can I use an attorney who is not in the network?
A. Yes, you can use any attorney you’d like. If you choose an attorney outside of MetLife's network, they’ll reimburse you for services based on a set fee reimbursement schedule.1
Q. Can I use an attorney more than once?
A. Yes, you have unlimited use of the plan for covered legal matters as long as you pay your monthly premium.
Q. How much will it cost?
A. Less than you might think. For less than a dollar a day, you can have MetLife legal experts on your side, for as long as you need them.
Q. How do I pay for my coverage?
A. It’s easy. Your legal plan premium is paid for through a monthly fee charged to your method of payment.
Q. Are my spouse and family members also covered by my plan?
A. Yes, your spouse and dependent children are covered under the plan.
Q. Are claim forms required when using the legal plan?
A. No. MetLife makes using your plan easy. When you use a Network Attorney, there is nothing for you to do. Plan services are covered in full, and billing is between MetLife and the Network Attorney. There are no waiting periods, no copays, no deductibles and no claims forms.
1You will be responsible to pay the difference, if any, between the Plan’s payment and the attorney’s charge for services.
Group legal plans are provided by MetLife Legal Plans, Inc., Cleveland, OH. In certain states, group legal plans are provided through insurance coverage underwritten by Metropolitan Property and Casualty Insurance Company and Affiliates, Warwick, RI. Benefit programs offered by MetLife and its Affiliates contain certain exclusions and terms for keeping them in force. For costs and complete details of the coverage, call or write the company.
Quality legal assistance can be pricey. And it can be hard to know how to find an attorney you trust. With MetLife Legal Plans, you can have a team of top attorneys ready to help you take care of life’s planned and unplanned legal events.
Legal Help for California and Oregon Wildfire Survivors
With the Disaster Relief Plan, MetLife Legal Plan attorneys are able to provide advice and consultations for many issues that these individuals may face, at no cost through 12/31/2020, such as:
- Reviewing documents related to federal aid and insurance claims
- Providing assistance with identity theft issues due to lost personal documents
- Providing legal help for renters or home owners related to damaged property
- Dealing with creditors and bill collectors
If you need assistance call the Customer Service Center at 1-800-821-6400.
Please note that you are with Union Plus and that you are interested in the document review and consultations services being offered as part of the Disaster Relief Plan. You may be asked to provide the last four digits of your Social Security Number.
Group legal plans are provided by MetLife Legal Plans, Inc., Cleveland, OH. In certain states, group legal plans are provided through insurance coverage underwritten by Metropolitan Property and Casualty Insurance Company and Affiliates, Warwick, RI. Please contact MetLife Legal Plans for complete details.
MetLife Legal Plans has activated its Disaster Relief Plan for union members who may be impacted by the wildfires in California and Oregon.
Free Legal Document Review and Consultations Through July 31, 2020
Limited Time Offer: Free Document Review and Consultations
Union members can contact MetLife Legal Plans Network Attorneys through July 31, 2020 for no charge advice, consultations and document review for many issues, including:
- Healthcare proxies or other estate planning
- Home refinancing or personal insurance forms
- Elder law questions for caregivers
Self-Help Document Library
Union members will also have access to MetLife Legal Plans Self-Help Document Library to complete wills, living wills and power of attorney documents.
To access the Self-Help Document Library:
- Click the button below and enter the access code: 9790010.
- Click "Covered Services" in the top navigation and then select the "Self Help Documents" tab, and then click the "Access Now" button to browse the document library.
ACCESS FREE METLIFE LEGAL
SELF-HELP DOCUMENTS
If you need assistance, please contact Customer Service Center at 800-821-6400, Monday-Friday 8am - 8pm EDT.
If you are not enrolled in MetLife Legal Plans, you will need to state you are with Union Plus and provide the last four digits of your Social Security Number, and indicate that you are interested in the document review and consultations services being offered as part of the Disaster Relief Plan.
If you are a current enrollee, you will need to provide your membership number.
MetLife Legal Plans is here to help union members and their families navigate this challenging time by offering no-cost document reviews and consultations through July 31, 2020.
How will Coronavirus Aid Package ("CARES ACT") Impact Your Family?
The CARES Act is a stimulus package that became law last week. The Act includes measures intended to stimulate the economy and provide financial relief to individuals, as well as small businesses and large corporations.
The Act is 883 pages, but here are some quick take-aways of the measures that will most directly impact you and your family:
Direct Cash Payments and How Much You May Receive
- Most adults are eligible to receive a one-time, direct cash payment. Payment amounts are based upon income:
- Most people earning $75,000 or less can expect $1,200
- Married couples without children, earning $150,000 or less can expect $2,400.
- Add an additional $500 per qualifying child under 16.
Help for Unemployed Workers Unemployment Benefits
Most unemployed, partially unemployed and people who cannot work for number of reasons related to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic will receive benefits.
Unemployment Benefit Term Extended by 13 Additional Weeks
The bill provides all eligible workers with 13 weeks of unemployment benefits, in addition to your state's unemployment benefits (which are typically 26 weeks, though this varies by state).
An Additional $600 in Weekly Unemployment Benefits through July 21, 2020
Eligible individuals will receive $600 weekly in federal pandemic unemployment compensation in addition to their current state unemployment benefits for four months — through July 31, 2020.
Expansion of Unemployment Eligibility
The new law extends unemployment benefits to full time, part time and self-employed workers, and includes provisions to support working individuals and families who have been impacted by the closing of a daycare or senior care facility.
There are also provisions for tax payments, student loans, retirement account rules and renters facing eviction.
Get More Information
This summary is not exhaustive. Please refer to the below resources and/or your trusted news outlets for more in depth information on Coronavirus (COVID-19) and the "Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act."
- Read the Congressional Bill — H.R. 748
- Read The New York Times article, "F.A.Q. on Stimulus Checks, Unemployment and the Coronavirus Plan"
- Read The Washington Post article, "Calculate how much you'll get from the $1,200 (or more) coronavirus checks"
Learn how the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act may impact you and your family.
Watch our “Managing Your Money During the Coronavirus Pandemic” Webinar
The "Managing Your Money During the Coronavirus Pandemic" webinar, offered practical tips and action plans for managing financial pressure and dealing with creditors during this challenging time.
Watch it now!
On April 15 and 16, 2020, Union Plus and Money Management International presented, "Managing Your Money During the Coronavirus Pandemic," a free webinar for union members, offering financial strategies for navigating the Coronavirus crisis.
Our Partner Responses to the Coronavirus Pandemic
Below you will find updates about the support Union Plus and our partners are providing including offering online tools that support social distancing, billing accommodations for those directly impacted by this pandemic and evolving virtual customer service access.
Union Plus Hardship Help — Here When You Need Us
If your family has been directly impacted by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, please visit our Hardship Help Resources.
Participants in our Union Plus Mortgage, Credit Card, Personal Loan or supplemental insurance programs may be eligible for additional hardship assistance through our Mortgage Assistance Program or other Union Plus hardship assistance programs.
LEARN ABOUT UNION PLUS HARDSHIP BENEFITS
Union Plus Job Loss Grant Qualification Period Just Reduced
In response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the qualification period for Job Loss Grants has been reduced from 90 days to 45 days through September 30, 2020.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR JOB LOSS GRANT
Wells Fargo Announces Aid for Customers and Communities Impacted by COVID-19
Wells Fargo has executed its comprehensive response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, which includes offering fee waivers, payment deferrals and other expanded assistance for impacted mortgage customers.
In addition, Wells Fargo is suspending residential property foreclosure sales and evictions at this time
VISIT THE WELLS FARGO CORONAVIRUS RESOURCE PAGE
The Hartford Suspends Policy Cancellations in Response to Coronavirus Pandemic
To offer support during this challenging time, until June 1, 2020, The Hartford will temporarily suspend policy cancellations due to non-payment of premiums for payments due for February, March and April 2020.
Visit The Hartford’s COVID-19 Resource Center
AT&T is Offering 24/7 Online Support & Billing Options for Impacted Customers
AT&T has waived pending termination and late payment fees for customers experiencing financial hardship due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, as well as offering 24/7 online customer support.
Union Plus Credit Card
Capital One is here to help cardholders who may be impacted by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
Union Plus Get Your Degree for Free from Your Home
Your education doesn't need to be put on hold because of social distancing. With extended registration and semester dates and additional financial aid options for related expenses, Free College remains a great way to further your education, while keeping safe social distances and remaining healthy.
Unemployed, furloughed, laid off union workers and their extended family members are all eligible to enroll in Free College.
Summer session begins June 1, 2020.
Collette Vacation Tours Changes and Travel Advisories
In response to the current Coronavirus pandemic, all tours through June 30, 2020 have been cancelled.
VISIT THE COLLETTE WEBSITE
FOR ADDITIONAL CORONAVIRUS
TRAVEL CHANGES AND ADVISORIES
Complete Your Bachelor's Degree Online for Free
Your education doesn't have to wait because of the Coronavirus pandemic. With our Bachelor's Degree Completion Program, you can finish your Bachelor's Degree for free by enrolling in summer classes, starting May 18, 2020.
GET STARTED! NEXT SESSION STARTS MAY 18
MetLife Home & Auto Offers Billing Accommodations for Customers
MetLife Auto & Home® is providing financial relief, preserving coverage in the event of missed payments, and processing claims remotely to ensure social distancing. These measures include non-cancellations of homeowners, renters and auto insurance policies due to non-payment through July 1, 2020 and a 15% credit for April and May for customers who are paid to date.
Please contact MetLife Home & Auto at 855-666-5797 to discuss options available to you.
GET MORE METLIFE CUSTOMER INFORMATION
Thinking of our Pets During the Pandemic
If you're one of these new pet families, (or are ready to take the pet plunge), you probably have some questions — Pets Best is here to help.
- Free Articles and Tips: Check out the Pets Best Blog for free access to articles with tips about virtual pet care, working from home, pet adoption, and more.
- Virtual Resources for Pets Best Customers: Pets Best customers have access to a 24/7 pet helpline where veterinary experts can answer questions about your pet’s health – day or night from the comfort of your home.
CONTACT PETS BEST CUSTOMER CARE
Shop Online for Glasses & Contacts
Our vision plans let you shop online for frames and contacts at participating providers like LensCrafters, Target Optical, Glasses.com and ContactsDirect.
Credit Counseling Shifts Online
Our Credit Counseling program has shifted to phone and online services as we weather this pandemic.
CALL 877-833-1745 AVAILABLE 24/7 OR LEARN MORE ONLINE
Union Plus Personal Loan Program
If you are having trouble making a timely loan payment due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, please call 855-682-9377 for assistance.
Medicare’s Coverage of the Coronavirus
Medicare now covers Coronavirus (COVID-19) testing and covers treatment in outpatient clinics, hospitals, and skilled nursing facilities.
LEARN MORE & FIND AFFORDABLE MEDICARE PLANS
AFL-CIO Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resource Page
The AFL-CIO has compiled a Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic resource page with valuable information and updates. In addition, please check out your union's website as they may have additional information and resources.
VISIT THE AFL-CIO RESOURCE PAGE
Helpful Information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
VISIT CDC.ORG FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)
Hertz is Offering Free Car Rentals to Healthcare Workers in New York City
Hertz is stepping up and offering essential healthcare workers on the front lines of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in New York City free, month-long vehicle rentals* through April 30.
LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW HERTZ IS SUPPORTING NYC HEALTHCARE WORKERS
United Auto Workers at Ford and General Motors Work to Build Ventilators — helping to "Stop the Spread" of the Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Both Ford and General Motors have stepped up to build much-needed ventilators for patients across the country suffering from symptoms of the Coronavirus (COVID-19).
United Auto Workers (UAW) International President Rory Gamble noted, "From the days of Rosie the Riveter, UAW members have stepped up during difficult times in this nation’s history for the good of us all."
We salute the efforts of Ford and General Motors and hail the United Auto Workers of America. We send thanks and well wishes — the work they do will saves lives.
Hertz Healthcare Honor:
*Offer valid for one time rental of up to one month from date of pick up and is valid through April 30, 2020 at participating locations. Applicable car classes include economy, compact, mid-size, and full-size, subject to availability. Driver must present valid medical ID from a healthcare system and a valid driver’s license at reservation pick-up. Offer includes base rate, taxes, and fees. Renter is responsible for re-fueling, tolls, add-on services, and any incurred damage. Additional terms apply.
We'll get through this — together. We're proud to be continuously working as an organization and with our partners to support your families and the health of our communities.
Is Debt Settlement Right for You?
Debt settlement could be the answer to your debt stress if you're dealing with credit cards, personal loans, and other kinds of unsecured debt. But it's important to understand what it is and how it works. Learn the ins and outs of debt settlement so that you can decide if this debt relief option is right for you:
What Is Debt Settlement?
Debt settlement is a process where you or a company on your behalf, negotiates with your creditors in effort to get them to accept less than what you owe on your debt — allowing you to reduce your debt and get out of debt faster than you would if you continued to make minimum payments.
How Does Debt Settlement Work?
Here are the steps that typically happen after you enroll:
- Build — Every month, you make a deposit into an FDIC-insured savings account you own and control.
- Negotiate — Once you save enough in your account, the debt settlement company negotiates with each of your creditors to settle/resolve your debt.
- Settle — Every time your debt settlement company and your creditors reach a settlement agreement, the debt settlement company contacts you to approve the settlement.
- Freedom — After the full settlement amounts are paid on all your accounts, your debt is behind you!
In return for negotiating debt on your behalf, debt settlement companies charge a fee that typically ranges from 15-25% of the debt you enter into the program. But even with the fees, you could still save money by working with a debt settlement company.
Pros of Debt Settlement
With help from a debt settlement company, you could get out of debt faster and for less than you currently owe.
Debt Settlement Pros
- Reduce your total debt
- Affordable program payments
- Faster than minimum payments
Ready to take the first step?
The best way to find out if this debt relief option is right for you is by requesting a free debt evaluation with the Union Plus Debt Settlement program. When you contact our partners at Freedom Debt Relief, you'll speak with a Certified Debt Consultant who will walk you through the debt settlement process, present you with other debt relief options, and help you find the right solution for you.
If you're struggling with high debt that you can't afford to pay on your own, debt settlement could help you reduce what you owe to creditors, save money on your debt, and be debt-free faster.