Injured or sick BMWED members participating in the National Health and Welfare Plan could potentially qualify for The Hartford Supplemental Sickness, an additional benefit negotiated by our Union. There are two important criteria: 1) you must be under a physician’s care for sickness/injury AND 2) you must apply within 60 days of sickness.

The maximum daily benefit rate payable for RRB/RUIA sickness benefits beginning July 2023 is $87, and for biweekly claims, maximum benefits can total up to $870. The daily maximum benefit rate will rise to $94 in July 2024. 

The Hartford is separate and additional to your RRB/RUIA sickness benefits and/or any optional plan you may participate in, but you must file within 60 days of sickness: 

Step 1 – Submit your completed Form SI-1A to the RRB online (rrb.gov), or fax (713-405-2078) within 10 days from when you become sick or injured.

Step 2 – Submit your Notice of Disability Form - Supplemental Sickness Benefit Plan to The Hartford. You do not have to wait for RRB/RUIA approval to apply.

By Mail: The Hartford P O Box 14869 Lexington, KY 40512

By Phone: 1-800-205-7651 (available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST)

Online: https://abilityadvantage.thehartford.com. Registered members have 24x7 access to The Hartford Ability Advantage, The Hartford’s online disability system.

By Fax: 1-833-357-5153

**A claim number will be assigned upon successful completion of the above application.

Don’t miss out on these important benefits while you are away from work. File for The Hartford benefits within 60 days of disability.