faq

1.      How does the union work?
 A union is an independent organization of a majority of the employees in one or more facilities of one or more employers uniting together. The basic idea of a union is to create a stronger voice in the workplace for the workers than any one employee alone could have, thereby enhancing thier ability to improve working conditions.
 
2.      Why is a Union important?
Unions are important because they help set the principles and values for skill levels, wages, working conditions, and quality of life for workers. Pay and benefits are usually better than those who are non-union and unions also work to create laws improving job conditions for their members through legislation at the national, state and local level. The major importance of a labor union is to organize the workers in order to negotiate collective bargaining agreements with the management.
 
3.      What do Union dues pay for? And do Union dues pay for your Medical Benefits?
Union dues cover the costs of operating the Union- the office rent we pay, the salaries of union staff, attorneys’ fees for representing the union in litigation against employers and on your behalf, costs associated with negotiating your contract, handling the grievances, arbitrations and costs associated with organizing workers, etc. Union dues do not pay any part of your Medical coverage.
 
4.      How can I obtain information about my Health Benefits?
You can obtain information about you health coverage by calling the Fund’s Member Services Department at (516)-294-1338 Extension 776, or by contacting your Fund Service Representative at Extension 775. There is also information available on the Bulletin Boards at you work site and on the Union website.
 
5.      What is MAP?
The Local 338 Member Assistance Program is designed to support members dealing with personal problems. We are a safe and confidential ear for you to trust. Our program offers assessment to members and can refer you to organizations that specialize in the treatment of your particular issue. The Member Assistance Program also offers Prescription Assistance to those members participating in the Local 338 Prescription Plan. For information about the Member Assistance Program or Prescription Assistance, please see the Member Assistance Program section of our website.
 
6.      Who is my Union Representative? And how can I get in contact with him/her?
You can call the Union call center at (516)-294-1338 Extension 775 and they will be able to give all of the information about who your Union representative is and connect you to them for further assistance.
 
7.      How can I get involved in the union?
You can start by attending a membership meeting. We also have various events, some of which we look for volunteers. Please feel free to contact the Special Projects Department at (516)-294-1338 Extension 247 for more information on how you can get involved.
 
8.      I have a question about a medical claim. Who do I speak to?
Any questions about claims should be directed to one of the representatives in the Medical Claims Call Center at (516)-294-1338 Extension 776.
 
9.  How do I get information about my optical and dental benefits?
As a participant in the Local 338 Benefits Fund, you qualify for optical and dental benefits. For information on your eligibility please contact Damisi Akinkuowo at (516)-294-1338 Extension 324. 
FORMER 305 MEMBERS: For all requests for Optical, Dental, Podiatry, Chiropractor and Annual Physical Vouchers please contact the Fund's Office's Administrative Services Department at (516)-294-1338 x 223
 
10.  Who do I speak to about my retirement benefits?
 For answers to specific Pension questions, please contact Andrew Vella in our Fund Office Pension Department at (516)-294-1338 Extension 305.

11. How do I get information about my prescription benefits?
If you are a participant in a 338 prescription plan and need information about your eligibility or your plan, you can call the Fund Office's Prescription Department at (516)-294-1338 x 223.