1. Make Sure Your CalPERS Beneficiary Is Current
Make sure your benefits go to the correct beneficiaries by checking your myCalPERS account (choose Retirement then Beneficiaries), by filling out and mailing in a Pre-Retirement Lump Sum Beneficiary Designation (PDF) form, or by calling us at 888 CalPERS (or 888-225-7377) for assistance.
2. Implement Your CalPERS Special Power of Attorney
A CalPERS Special Power of Attorney form lets you designate a representative to conduct your retirement business if you’re unable to do so. Remember, not all power of attorney forms are the same — the CalPERS Special Power of Attorney form is specifically designed for CalPERS retirement issues. Learn more and download the form from our website.
3. Complete an Advance Health Care Directive
An advance health care directive lets your doctor and loved ones know your health care preferences, including the types of special treatment you want or don’t want at the end of life, and your desire for diagnostic testing, surgical procedures, CPR, and organ donation. The California Office of the Attorney General offers a checklist and resources to help you.
4. Find an Attorney
The State Bar of California’s website includes a certified lawyer referral service search by county, specialty, and language, plus a certified specialist search and a bar number check to make sure your attorney is in good standing.
5. Work With a Professional Financial Advisor
Ensure you get financial advice from a real financial professional with help from the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI). Check out DFPI’s questions to consider (PDF) when working with a financial professional, as well as an advisor search.
6. Find an Accountant
Don’t trust your hard-earned money to just anyone: Make sure you use a state-certified public accountant (CPA). The California Board of Accountancy has information on how to select a CPA, how to verify a CPA’s license, FAQs, and more.
7. Make Funeral Arrangements
By making arrangements now, you can provide your loved ones peace of mind while controlling costs. The California Cemetery and Funeral Bureau offers tips (PDF) as well as a guide to funeral and cemetery purchases (PDF), both available in English and Spanish.
8. Learn About Estate Planning
Estate planning is for everyone. That’s why the Judicial Branch of California created its online self-help guide featuring advice and materials to help get you started.
9. Get to Know Senior Services
The California Department of Aging is your one-stop shop for senior programs of all types right in your neighborhood. Together with the Area Agencies on Aging and other partners, the department connects seniors with a wide variety of community-based supports and services.
10. Check Professionals’ Licenses
Don’t get scammed — before doing business, always check professional and company licenses with help from the California Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA). Use DCA’s license-search website, contact DCA’s Consumer Information Center, or check out consumer resources in multiple languages.
And one more adulting task: Always share current copies of all important forms and paperwork with your loved ones so they can ensure your wishes are followed.