Some CalPERS actions — like applying for service or disability retirement or assigning a Special Power of Attorney — are governed by state law. Notaries and witnesses may be required to make these documents legally binding.
A notary verifies your identity and acts as an impartial state official to administer oaths and prevent fraud. Witnesses simply watch you sign and confirm your identity.
Examples of CalPERS Business Requiring Witnesses or Notaries
- Survivor (Death) Benefits Forms: When a CalPERS member, retiree, or other benefit recipient dies, CalPERS typically sends a survivor benefit application package to the eligible survivor(s). Some of the forms in that package may require a witness or notarization, depending on the document.
- Service and Disability Retirement: You may need documents witnessed or notarized in the service and disability retirement process to help verify identity, confirm your signature, and reduce the risk of fraud or disputes.
- Refunds and Benefit Payment Elections: When you officially elect to retire, especially if you are married or in a registered domestic partnership and name someone other than your spouse/domestic partner as a beneficiary for certain benefits, a witness or notary may be required. This is also the case if you leave public service and take a refund of your CalPERS contributions and interest.
- Power of Attorney: If you submit a Special Power of Attorney form to allow someone else to manage your CalPERS account, the document must be notarized. This confirms you understand and agree to the arrangement. However, if a notary is not used, two witnesses must sign it.
We Can Help You
- You can visit one of our Regional Offices to have your signatures witnessed free of charge, rather than paying for a notary.
- For additional help, reach out to the Contact Center, send an inquiry via myCalPERS, or schedule an appointment at your nearest Regional Office for hands-on assistance.