Benefits Corner

Ernst & Young Services Free in 2008

The General Board of Pension and Health Benefits has arranged to provide Ernst & Young Financial Planning Services free of charge to participants in their retirement plans. Services are available to:
• active participants,
• surviving spouses, and
• terminated and retired participants with an account balance of at least $10,000

Benefits of using the free Ernst & Young program:
1. Unlimited phone time. In the past, this program was sold in three-hour blocks. In 2008, not only is this service free, there's no time limit! You can call as often as you like, and you can spend as much time on the phone as necessary.
2. Unbiased service. You will receive guidance without a sales pitch. Ernst & Young planners never try to sell you investment products or service.
3. Educated in General Board-related matters such as General Board plans, clergy housing allowance, clergy tax issues, etc.
4. Access to a customized retirement strategy. Planners will help you develop a plan to meet your retirement goals.
5. Wide-ranging expertise. In addition to retirement planning, planners can provide advice on many other financial matters such as managing debt, buying a home, understanding tax issues and estate planning.

There is no need to enroll. Simply call Ernst & Young directly at 1-800-360-2539 between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m., Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. In addition, you have free access to the Ernst & Young Financial Planning web site which offers tips on managing your money and expanding your knowledge of a wide range of financial topics. Visit their web site at http://gbophb.eyfinancialplanner.com (company code: gbophb; company program: gbophb2007).