A message from Mike Moser
Greetings,
I hope this message finds you well.
Halfway through the first year in our 2026–2030 strategic plan, we are building on a strong foundation by leveraging emerging technologies to strengthen long-term stability, optimize operations, and expand our reach.
In 2025, we saw impressive growth across all markets and exceeded several operational expectations, all due to the hard work and dedication we all gave throughout the year. This consistent production allows us to continue to evolve while staying true to our mission.
We have introduced a new claims system, Benekiva, which went live for our life insurance products in June. We have implemented a new internal phone system, Ring Central, making it easier to get in touch with the AFBA staff. We are in the process of rolling out an updated version of the agent portal, which will help you better serve our members.
Your outstanding work in serving our members is integral to our remarkable growth. We are poised to reach even greater heights through 2026 and beyond. We are grateful for your dedication to our shared mission and, because of your dedication, excited about the future.
Thank you for all that you do to serve those who serve this great nation.
Michael R. Moser
Senior Vice President, Chief Distribution Officer
Leadership Updates
General Craig R. McKinley, USAF (Ret.), has retired from the Board. We extend our sincere appreciation for his six years of dedicated service to both the 5Star and AFBA Boards, including his tenure as Chair of the AFBA Board from 2023 to 2025.
General Larry O. Spencer, USAF (Ret.), has been appointed as the new Board Chair.
General Larry O. Spencer spent more than 40 years in the Air Force, beginning his career in the enlisted ranks and rising to become a four-star general. His last assignment was as the Vice Chief of Staff of the US Air Force where he assisted the Chief of Staff in organizing, training and equipping 690,000 active-duty, Guard, Reserve and civilian forces. After retiring from the Air Force in 2015, General Spencer served as President of the Air Force Association until 2019. General Spencer received his Bachelor of Science Degree in industrial engineering technology from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale and has two Master of Science degrees. He currently serves on the boards of Whirlpool Corporation, Triumph Group, Inc., and Haynes International, Inc. General Spencer was named President of AFBA and 5Star Life Insurance Company in 2020.
We are also pleased to welcome General Joseph L. Lengyel, USAF (Ret.), as the newest member of the Board.
General Joseph L. Lengyel is a retired United States Air Force four-star general who last served as the 28th chief of the National Guard Bureau from August 2016 to August 2020. As chief, he was responsible for ensuring that nearly 460,000 Army National Guard and Air National Guard personnel are accessible, capable and ready to protect the homeland and to provide combat capabilities to the United States Army and the United States Air Force. Lengyel is a command pilot with more than 3,000 flying hours primarily in the F-16. Prior to his last assignment, Lengyel served as the 10th vice chief of the National Guard Bureau. His previous general officer assignments include Senior United States Defense Official; Chief, Office of Military Cooperation; and Defense Attaché, Cairo, United States Central Command, Cairo, Egypt. He retired from the Air Force in 2020, after 38 years of service.
Marketing Updates
Our federal market campaign aims to increase awareness of AFBA and encourage federal employees to sign up for a financial benefits review based on their proximity to retirement. Early‑career employees may want to understand and make the most of their benefits over time. Mid‑career employees are often busy and focused on protecting their families, making early planning important. Employees nearing retirement may want to improve and maximize their benefits. We are also tailoring content for specific groups, including special Provisions employees, dual‑federal‑employee couples, and former military members with additional benefit considerations.
At the same time, we are improving how we manage and nurture leads. This includes clear and consistent communication, a structured process for handling inquiries, and targeted content that helps keep AFBA top‑of‑mind at every stage. The campaign is being developed across social media, email, search, and a six‑part article series with Federal News Network, all driving traffic to a landing page for sign‑ups. We are also working toward offering life insurance online and are coordinating with internal teams to define the requirements needed to launch this capability.
AFBA sponsored dinner at the National Guard Executive Directors’ Association (NGEDA) Annual Meeting in Indianapolis IN on Wed. Jan. 28th. Executive directors for the National Guard Associations of each state and territory were invited to the historic Indiana Roof Ballroom for the NGEDA Academy Awards Banquet. Next year’s NGEDA Annual Meeting will take place in Salt Lake City, Utah between January 5-7, 2027.
Operations Update
Operationally, we exceeded our expectations on several metrics. We saw recent highs in new business enrollments and Google ratings, as well as recent decreases in claims and abandonments. Paying claims and providing benefits are how we carry out our mission, and we hope to continue delivering on our promise to serve those who serve our great nation.
Claims Update: Benekiva
We are also excited about the successful launch of Benekiva’s AI-enabled claims platform for our member benefit insurance. Built in six months, the platform streamlines the benefit payment process from initial notification through reconciliation, advancing AFBA’s commitment to improving service and beneficiary experience. Modernizing the benefit payment process is a key factor in our ongoing efforts to support member families with speed, clarity, and care, especially during difficult times.
Benekiva’s platform improves efficiency and transparency while allowing AFBA to focus more on member connection and compassion. Enhanced workflows and integrations have reduced duplicate data entry and accelerated processing, enabling faster benefitpayouts and better service. By minimizing manual work and preserving existing systems, the solution empowers claims teams to deliver a better experience.
Agent Support
Call
Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 5:30 pm ET
1-800-776-2322 | option 4
Fax
703-548-2536
Supply Orders
AFBA/5Star Life currently uses Chicago IL based supply fulfillment company, BFC, for agent supply print and fulfillment orders. Please contact your sales VP for instructions and standard operating procedures related to supply orders for your individual circumstance and needs.
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