Frequently asked questions
What Benefits Do Teamsters Offer?
Below are some of the great Teamster Benefits offered to the members of Local 688, including:
- Mortgage & Real Estate
- Health Discount
- Vision Care
- Vacations
- AT&T Wireless Service
- Insurance
- Life
- Home
- Renters
- GMAC Auto
- Accidental Death and Dismemberment*
*Upon completion of membership, Local 688 members receive no cost Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance through Anthem Income Life Insurance. Please visit: Teamster Benefits Page and/or Union Plus Website for additional Teamster benefit information.
How Much Are Union Dues?
There is a one-time initiation fee that ALL members must pay. Following that, Local 688 dues are 2.5 times the hourly wage rate, plus an additional $1.00 rounded up to the nearest dollar, if your hourly wage is more than $11.00/hour.
For example:
Example A: If you make $10/hour, your monthly dues are (2.0 x $10) + $1 = $21.00/month for dues
Example B: If you make $15/hour, your monthly dues are (2.5 x $15) + $1 = $39.00/month for dues
Note: This is not an indication of the complete payment schedule or calculated totals for Local 688. Initiation fees, wages, and situations may vary.
What Is ‘Collective Bargaining’?
Collective bargaining (also called “contract negotiations”) is the heart and soul of the labor movement. It is when workers band together to negotiate workplace matters with their employer. The end result is a collective bargaining agreement or contract that spells out in detail all of the terms both parties agree to, from pay rates to time off and more.
What Does My Contract Cover?
Contract specifics will vary based upon employers and worksites, but generally include:
- Wages
- Hours
- Safety
- Discipline
- Seniority
- Union Security
- Union Dues Collection
- Grievance Procedures,
- And more
What Is the Difference Between a ‘Business Agent’ and a ‘Steward’?
The Business Agent is the union representative who acts on behalf of the employees in the collective bargaining unit.
The Steward is the go-to union representative on the job site. Stewards are elected each year to help enforce the contract and represent members on the shop floor. He or she assists in grievance procedures and keeping members informed.
