FAQ ON STRIKES AND UAW STRIKE ASSISTANCE

What is a strike?

A strike happens when workers collectively decide to withhold their labor, after authorization from the International.  In the UAW, strikes are governed by the UAW Constitution, including Articles 12, 16 and 50.

How much is UAW Strike Assistance and how often is it paid?

Weekly strike assistance is $500 per week ($100 per day, Mon-Fri). Strike assistance pay is available after the first day of the strike. A bonus check is paid the week prior to the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays.

For each day’s pay from the employer missed due to the strike (Monday through Friday), an eligible member shall receive one day’s Strike Assistance at the prorated daily amount.

What medical benefits are covered?

The UAW Strike and Defense Fund covers certain benefits such as medical and prescription drugs.  Benefits not covered include:  dental, vision, hearing and sick and accident.

These benefits are either paid directly by the Fund according to the company’s current plan or by having the Strike and Defense Fund make COBRA payments to the company plan.

Who is eligible for strike benefits?

To be eligible for strike pay and benefits, members must be:

• In good standing (current on dues and initiation fees, if any) on the day before the strike starts
• On active pay roll at start of strike: members laid off, on workers compensation or receiving sick and accident benefits are not eligible
• Member must participate in the strike: picket assignments, strike committee, etc.

Eligible members include temporary employees as well as anyone who is current in their union security obligations such as fee payers or objectors.

Are probationary employees and new hires entitled to strike assistance?

Probationary and new hires may become eligible for strike benefits if they join the Union and pay the initiation fee and dues prior to the strike taking place.  In the event a worker has completed an application for membership and paid dues, he/she would be considered a member in good standing and would be entitled to strike assistance.

Are temporary employees entitled to strike assistance?

All dues paying members, including temporary members, are eligible for strike assistance.

How do I apply for strike benefits?

You must register and make application for strike benefits on the day and time assigned to you by your local union.

If I get another job, can I still receive strike assistance?

Members must continue to participate in the strike to receive strike assistance.  If members receive gross pay from outside work that is equal to or greater than $500, then the member will not receive weekly benefits but will continue to receive medical and prescription drug assistance.

Can I collect unemployment insurance while on strike?

The law varies by state, but in many states participation in a strike will disqualify a worker from eligibility for unemployment insurance.

My wages are garnished for child support.  Will that happen with strike pay?

If the UAW receives a court order, we will garnish the strike assistance.

Can the strike pay be mailed to me?

No, members must pick up their own benefit on the assigned date from their local union with ID.

Are strike benefits taxable?

Yes.  After $600 in a given year, the UAW will issue an IRS Form 1099-MISC.

What happens if I cross a picket line?

All strike benefits cease immediately and appropriate action may be taken under the UAW Constitution.

Do I owe union dues on strike benefits?

No.