February 4, 2011- Since the announcement of the Surplus declared by AT&T and the subsequent Surplus Mitigation Agreement reached between IBEW Local Union 21 and AT&T; employees have raised some good questions. 

Our Union and AT&T developed a joint Q&A to answer many of those questions.  The following information will be distributed to employees:

As a result of an agreement reached on January 24th between IBEW Local 21 (“Union”) and AT&T Midwest (“Company”) designed to mitigate the Surplus announcements communicated on January 6, 2011, the Company and Union agreed to distribute a joint Q&A to answer additional employee questions regarding the SIPP offer and OTSSP opportunity. Answers to questions received after the agreement was reached are listed below.  
                                                               
Q & A

1) If I take SIPP or am chosen for OTSSP, will I be paid for my unused Vacation, Excused Work Days, and Floating Holidays?

Per the MOA-Surplus Mitigation and Article 30.28, you will receive compensation for any remaining vacation days, Excused Work Days, and Floating Holidays. 

2) Who do I contact regarding my retiree benefits, both medical and pension?

Pension Service Center 800 416-2363 www.netbenefits.fidelity.com; Benefits Center 877-722-0020 http://resources.hewitt.com/att

3) What options do I have for receiving my SIPP payment?

Article 30.27 of the collective bargaining agreement contains your rights.  In summary, it provides three options: (1) One-half of the total amount paid as a lump sum within thirty (30) days after leaving service and the remaining half in monthly amounts of Six Hundred Dollars ($600.00) beginning within thirty (30) days after leaving service and continuing until the total amount has been paid; (2) As a lump sum within thirty (30) days after leaving service or (3) in Twelve (12) equal monthly payments.

4) Am I eligible for a retirement "party?"

The Service Anniversary and Retirement Award Programs Policy (HROneStop 4.2. Retirement Award Eligibility) contains your rights.  In summary if you retire with a service or disability pension you are eligible for a party. You have up to six (6) months, beginning on the actual retirement date (first day off payroll) in which to hold the party or it will be forfeited.

5) If I am on nights, will I get the 10% differential paid on remaining vacation time?

Yes.

6) How soon will I get the SIPP payout?

Payments should begin within 30 days after leaving service, as outlined in Q&A 3 above.

7) Are there CAPS for SIPP/OTSSP?

SIPP is established in Article 30.26, which provides a cap of $30,500. The OTSSP is a one-time payment of $47,500 in lieu of any other payment provided in Article 30.