Life insurance built for SCEA teachers.

SCEA's negotiated group life benefit provides basic death benefit coverage for active members — typically $10,000–$25,000. The benefit requires no out-of-pocket premium from members in most tiers.

That's real value. But three structural gaps exist in virtually every union group plan — including this one.

1. Retirement reduces — or eliminates — coverage

For most SCEA retirees, group life benefits step down substantially at 65 and end entirely at a specified age beyond that. The exact schedule is in your Summary Plan Description.

2. Group coverage doesn't follow you between locals

If you transfer, change contractors, or leave the trade for any reason, SCEA group coverage doesn't travel with you. You typically have a narrow conversion window with higher-than-market rates.

3. The amount isn't sized to your family's need

Most working families need 8–10× annual income in total death benefit. SCEA's group plan provides 1–2× — it fills the floor but leaves the room empty.

Three things, in order.

• Pull your Summary Plan Description. Available from the SCEA benefits office. Read the life insurance section.
• Calculate your real need. Mortgage + 15 years of income + education costs - existing assets.
• Get a quote at your current age. Rates lock at purchase. Every year you wait costs money.