Retirement Benefits

Keep CalPERS Informed Through Life’s Changes

4 weeks ago
African American happy family is enjoying in living room

If there’s one thing you can count on in life, it’s change. Whether it’s a new job, a new home, or a new baby, be sure to let CalPERS know.

Check out the following links to learn how certain events can impact your coverage or benefits in CalPERS programs, and what you need to do.

Family Changes

  • Birth or Adoption — Welcoming a child through birth or adoption may change your health coverage needs and may require you to update your dependent information or enroll your new family member in benefits.
  • Domestic Partnership — If you enter into or end a domestic partnership, your CalPERS benefits and eligibility for certain coverage options may be affected. Be sure to review what documentation or updates may be required.
  • Marriage or Divorce — Getting married or divorced can impact your beneficiary designations, health benefits, and other CalPERS-related records. Updating your information promptly helps ensure your benefits stay accurate.

Personal Information Changes

  • Name or Address Changes — Changes to your personal details, such as your name, mailing address, phone number, or email address, should be reported so CalPERS can keep your records current and reach you when needed.

Employment Changes

  • New CalPERS Member — If you are newly enrolled in CalPERS, you should learn how your membership works, what benefits you may be eligible for, and what actions you may need to take early on.
  • Leave of Absence — Taking a leave of absence may affect your service credit, contributions, and benefit eligibility. Depending on the type and length of leave, you may need to take specific steps to protect your benefits.
  • Leaving CalPERS-Covered Employment — If you leave a CalPERS-covered job, your retirement and health benefit options may change. It’s important to understand what happens to your account and what choices you may have.
  • Retirement — When you retire, you’ll need to make important decisions about your pension, health coverage, and beneficiary information. Planning ahead can help make the transition smoother.
  • Returning to Work — If you return to work after retirement or a break in service, your CalPERS benefits may be affected. Be sure to understand how reemployment rules apply to your situation.

Death/Illness/Injury

  • Death or Terminal Illness — If a member is diagnosed with a terminal illness or passes away, CalPERS may need to update benefits, process survivor claims, or provide information to eligible family members or beneficiaries.
  • Injury/Disability — An injury or disability may affect your ability to work and may make you eligible for certain CalPERS disability benefits or other support options.

With You for All of Life’s Changes

CalPERS is there to help you navigate major life events and understand how they may affect your benefits, coverage, and retirement planning.

For additional assistance with these life changes and more, call us at 888 CalPERS (or 888-225-7377) or send us a secure message via your myCalPERS account (find out about Using myCalPERS).