Clergy who are eligible for CPP (death and disability) benefits most likely received a mailing recently from UNUM. Generally, clergy who are appointed full-time in a local church or conference-responsible appointment are eligible for CPP.

The invitation is to increase the amount of your clergy death benefit by buying up additional coverage. UNUM is working in partnership with the General Board of Pensions.

The CPP death benefit for active clergy is currently $50,000. By enrolling and paying the required premium, a clergy person can increase his/her death benefit by $10,000 to $500,000. Death benefit buy-ups can also be purchased for the spouse and dependent children.

An important feature of the UNUM plan is that clergy have Guaranteed Issue up to $100,000 of additional coverage - as long as you enroll before Feb. 27, 2009. Guaranteed issue for spouse & children is up to $25,000. Guaranteed Issue means that you cannot be denied coverage for a medical condition.

You may enroll by returning the forms enclosed in the mailing or by enrolling on-line. Follow the instructions in the letter for secure Internet enrollment.

If you have questions about this program, please call 1-800-985-0242.