Retirement Benefits

Gathering With Loved Ones? Share Your CalPERS Wishes With Them.

There’s never an easy time to talk to your family about your final benefit arrangements. But the holiday season can provide a unique opportunity to gift your loved ones — and yourself — peace of mind by preparing and discussing your wishes with them. 

Who’s Your CalPERS Beneficiary? 

Active members can name, review, or change a beneficiary through myCalPERS (go to Retirement, then Beneficiaries; visit Using myCalPERS for details on how to sign up for myCalPERS).  

If you’re retired, you designated your beneficiary for your death benefits at the time you retired, but there are limited situations after retirement when you can choose a new option or beneficiary. To learn more, review Changing Your Beneficiary or Monthly Benefit After Retirement (PUB 98) (PDF). 

Who’s 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 — ours is specifically designed for CalPERS retirement issues.  

Share Your Plans With Loved Ones 

Discuss your CalPERS arrangements with your beneficiary and designee and share copies of any forms and paperwork with them so they can ensure your plans and wishes are honored. If you need help making your beneficiary and special power of attorney arrangements, call us at 888 CalPERS (or 888-225-7377).  

Preparation Means Peace of Mind 

Making these and other final arrangements now can make things easier in the future for both you and your loved ones. Learn about addressing other life tasks as well as reporting a CalPERS member’s death