Welcome to PFT
Benefits for New Members
Essential benefits information for new PFT members including prescription, dental, vision, retirement, and professional development.
Welcome New Members!
Please fill out this form to enroll in the PFT Health & Welfare Funds Vision, Prescription and Dental benefit programs.
You may submit the form and the necessary documents via personal email at document@pfthw.org or through the mail at the address on the form.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have at (215) 561-2722 or through our contact form.
Eligibility & Start Date
- •Start by the 15th: Coverage effective the 1st of the following month
- •Start after the 15th: Coverage effective the 1st of the second following month
Provider
Prescription benefits are provided by Capital Rx.
Rx Card
Coverage & Co-Pays
| Supply | Generic | Brand |
|---|---|---|
| Retail (30-day) | $6.75 | $9.50 |
| Mail Order or Retail (90-day) | 1 co-pay per 90-day fill | 1 co-pay per 90-day fill |
Prescriptions can be filled at any participating pharmacy.
Participating Dentists
- •Members must use a participating dentist who agrees to accept the total allowed charge as payment in full
- •Some services may not be covered at 100%, and members may share part of the cost
Basic Program
- •You pay the provider and then submit the reimbursement form through our online portal or mail to the Fund Office at 1816 Chestnut Street
NVA Program
- •No upfront cost for basic services if using a participating provider
- •See provider list
Additional Coverage
Members covered under Keystone Health Plans may also have a separate vision benefit. Visit the Active Member Vision section for details.
PA Public School Employees' Retirement System (PSERS)
Choose your retirement class
The Public School Employees' Retirement System (PSERS) administers a defined benefit pension plan for Pennsylvania public school employees. Your retirement benefit is based on a guaranteed formula that factors in your class membership, years of credited service, and final average salary (the highest 36 consecutive months of earnings). Full-time employees are required to enroll starting from their first day of work.
Automatic Enrollment
- •New members are automatically enrolled in Class T-E, contributing 7.50% of salary (may fluctuate)
- •Multiplier: 2.0%
- •Members have 45 days to elect Class T-F, contributing 10.30% (may fluctuate)
- •Multiplier: 2.5%
Irrevocable Decision
Membership Classes
| Class | Contribution Rate | Pension Multiplier | Shared Risk Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| T-E | 7.50% | 2.0% | 7.50%–9.50% |
| T-F | 10.30% | 2.5% | 10.30%–12.30% |
Class T-E members are automatically enrolled but have 45 days to elect Class T-F. Elections are final and irrevocable.
Benefit Calculation Examples
Class T-E Example:
2.0% × 35 years × $83,381 = $58,367 annual pension
Class T-F Example:
2.5% × 35 years × $83,381 = $72,958 annual pension
Difference
Contribution Example (Step 1, Bachelor's Degree)
| Class | Salary | Contribution Rate | Per Pay (26 pays) |
|---|---|---|---|
| T-E | $54,146 | 7.5% | $156.19 |
| T-F | $54,146 | 10.3% | $214.50 |
Difference: $50.36 more per pay for T-F
Vesting Requirements
You become vested (eligible for a monthly retirement benefit) when:
- •You have 10 or more years of service, or
- •You are 65+ years old with at least 3 years of service
If You Leave Before Vesting
Additional Considerations
- •You may choose to invest the contribution difference between T-E and T-F independently
- •Consult a financial advisor to evaluate which option aligns best with your long-term goals
- •Once enrolled or elected, your membership class cannot be changed later
Action Required
The Educational Issues Department offers a wide range of professional development programs to support your growth as an educator.
Program Topics Include:
- •Classroom Management
- •Effective Instruction
- •Literacy, Mathematics, Technology, and Science
- •Special Education and World Languages
Special Programs:
- •School-Based Professional Development
- •Strong Beginnings – Induction and year-long support for new teachers
- •Programs for Teaching – Annual educational conference
Enrollment
Enrollment forms and more information available from:
- •PFT Office: Room 175, 440 N. Broad Street
- •Health & Welfare Fund Office: (215) 561-2722
Contact the Fund Office
Contact us with questions about prescription cards, dental/vision providers, or enrollment assistance.
PFT Health & Welfare Fund Office
1816 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
(215) 561-2722
Contact Page