Frequently Asked Questions
Who can become a member of the JFDBF?
As of January 7, 2014, any full time employee, active duty or retired, of the JFRD, may be eligible for membership. Enrollment is traditionally limited to the employee's first year of employment but exceptions may be made at the discretion of the Board of Directors during a period of open enrollment.
How do I join?
Beneficiary form and a payroll deduction form can be downloaded from this website or contact any Board member . Then return the forms to the Fund Administrator. Membership starts as soon as the forms are received prior to any payroll deductions.
What if my address or beneficiary changes?
Any address or beneficiary changes are solely the responsibility of the JFDBF member. Just download and fill out the updated forms and return them to the Fund admistrator.
FAQ's and Answers
What happens when I retire?
Membership continues as a retiree. You must inform the Pension fund (if applicable) or the Fund Administrator to continue the payroll deduction of your membership dues when you visit their office to sign your retirement papers.
I recently became aware of the JFDBF. Can I still be a member?
Yes, Even though you are employed over a year, it is possible for you to join the Fund. During a period of open enrollment the Board of Directors can make exceptions to the “first year of employment” rule.
How does my beneficiary received their benefit check?
They should notify the Fund administrator of your passing. Upon notification simple verification will take place and a check will be hand delivered within 24-48 hours, if your beneficiary lives in the Jacksonville area. Checks are mailed to out of town beneficiaries.
How does the individual account work?
Your payroll deducted membership dues are credited to your individual account. For the first six months of membership no payments are deducted from your account in order to allow your account to build. Upon your death all funds in your account are paid to your beneficiary.
How is the death benefit determined?
When a Fund member dies $5.00, is withdrawn from all of the mem- ber accounts to create the death benefit. Additionally, whatever funds remain in the deceased member’s individual account are added to the benefit amount. The JFDBF does not keep any funds from a deceased member.
How can I obtain a beneficiary form?
Visit the Fund website at www.jfdbf.org. There you will find a down- load for a beneficiary form. After completing the form mail it to the Fund Administrator at the address at the top of the form.
FAQ's and Answers
What happens if I decide to stop being a member?
If you make that decision you should contact the Fund Administrator and contact City Payroll to stop your payroll deductions (Pension Fund if you are a retired member). The Fund will retain all dues, there are no refunds.
I am a retiree, can I join?
Unfortunately No. Retirees cannot join or re-join if they ceased paying dues after retiring.
Note: As long as a retiree that is a member before retirement continues to pay into the Fund, they can retain their membership.
The Board of Directors retain the right to determine membership status into the fund.
Am I limited to one beneficiary?
No, multiple beneficiaries are allowed as long as you clearly indicate such on your beneficiary form. Be sure to submit a new beneficiary form anytime there is a change in your beneficiary.