Retirement Benefits

New to CalPERS? Don’t Wait to Take These 5 Steps.

As a new CalPERS member, it’s likely comforting to know you’re building a foundation for your retirement just by working. But accessing and managing your CalPERS retirement benefits now can mean the difference between a sustainable retirement vs. one that involves a side hustle. 

1. Register for myCalPERS  

First, register for your myCalPERS account, your electronic portal to conduct business with us.  

Visit Using myCalPERS for step-by-step instructions on how to register for your account and get secure, confidential, 24/7 access to: 

  • View your personal account information, such as service credit, health plan statements, member contributions, and more. 
  • Create a retirement estimate. 
  • Choose your beneficiaries. 
  • Make an appointment or sign up for a retirement education class. 
  • Download member publications. 
  • Send us questions through our secure message center. 

2. Visit Our CalPERS Members Webpage 

If you’ve just joined CalPERS membership, visit New to CalPERS to learn about your benefits, forms to complete, and additional savings plans available. 

3. Enroll in Our “Your CalPERS and You” Class  

Get a basic understanding of your CalPERS benefits at no cost. Learn about: 

  • How your retirement benefit is calculated 
  • How to set aside money for retirement in addition to your pension 
  • What happens if you pass away or leave your employer before you retire 
  • The importance of having a power of attorney on file 
  • What you can find and do in your myCalPERS account, and more  

To enroll, log in to myCalPERS and select the Education tab. 

4. Access These Informational Videos 

We’ve curated a list of some of the most valuable videos for new CalPERS members. 

Learn about everything from understanding your benefits to choosing a health plan in this series of short “Quick Tip” videos. 

Get the facts on Social Security, tax-deferred savings, health care costs, and more in this series that will help you prepare for retirement. 

Purchasing service credit can increase your retirement income. In this webinar, learn about the different types of service credit purchases that may be available to you.  

5. Subscribe and Follow Us  

Stay informed of upcoming CalPERS webcasts, instructor-led classes, and CalPERS Benefits Education Events by subscribing to our Member Education Bulletin and following us on social media.