The web-based system for Department of Defense employees, also used by Army employees, is the Employee Benefits Information System. The telephonic system is the Interactive Voice Response System. Of course we can expect an increase in calls from employees who need assistance accessing the electronic systems. The Point of Entry Screen in the web based program continues to be a challenge for some employees to use and create their Personal Identification Number. Changes in the Interactive Voice Response System are also planned which will reduce the time a caller must spend listening to various messages.
Updates are in place to make both systems easier to access and more user friendly .
Unfortunately the Thrift Savings Plan open season change requirements took priority over these enhancements to the electronic systems and they will not be in place before the open season this month. Employees may also elect two new funds in addition to the current three funds available. Employees will now manage their fund distribution through direct contact with the Thrift Savings Plan. The Thrift Investment Board has asked that we encourage employees to make these elections through the Thrift Savings Plan web site or the Thriftline. However, hard copies of the new Thrift Savings Plan form 50 are being distributed and may be used by employees to manage their fund distribution as the board does not yet require all elections to be made through automated systems.