Life doesn’t always slow down, but summertime can provide a natural pause and the benefits of renewed energy. Take advantage of this time to ensure everything tied to your CalPERS benefits is still accurate and avoid delays, missed communications, or unexpected surprises — especially as Open Enrollment approaches.
Whether you’ve recently moved, changed jobs, welcomed a new family member, or haven’t logged in for a while, a mid-year review can keep your retirement and health benefits (if applicable to you) on track. Here are a few important areas worth checking.
Review Your Beneficiary Designations
Life changes, and your beneficiary information should keep pace.
Keeping this information current helps ensure your benefits are distributed according to your wishes and can make things easier for your loved ones in the event of your passing.
If you’ve gotten married, divorced, welcomed a child, or experienced another major life event, review the beneficiaries on file for your CalPERS account.
Learn more in Who Is Your Beneficiary, and Are They in the Loop?
Make Sure You Have a Power of Attorney on File for Your CalPERS Benefits
Unexpected situations can happen at any time, which is why it’s vital that your CalPERS benefits are protected in case you aren’t able to make decisions for yourself.
A CalPERS Special Power of Attorney allows someone you trust to conduct retirement-related business with CalPERS if, for whatever reason, you’re unable to do so. Preparing and filing this document now can provide peace of mind and help ensure your affairs can be managed if needed.
Learn more in Secure Your Retirement: Assign a CalPERS Power of Attorney Today.
Confirm Your Information in myCalPERS
The best way to stay informed about your benefits is to make sure we can reach you.
Log in to myCalPERS today and verify that your mailing address, email address, and phone number are all current.
Learn more in 15 Fantastic Features of myCalPERS.
Review Your Retirement Information
While you’re logged in to myCalPERS, review your retirement account and make sure everything — like your service credit — looks accurate.
This would also be a great time to:
- Run a retirement estimate
- Verify your employment and membership information
Even if nothing has changed, periodically reviewing your account can help you understand your benefits, spot potential issues early, and feel more prepared for retirement planning.
Get Ready for Open Enrollment
Open Enrollment for CalPERS health plan members will be here soon — September 14 through October 9 — and preparing now gives you more time to compare plans, understand your options, and make informed decisions.
The good news is much of this check-in can be done directly on your myCalPERS account.
If you’re a United Healthcare Basic HMO member, learn about your options in What the UnitedHealthcare Basic HMO Removal Means for You in 2027.
A Few Minutes Today Can Make a Big Difference Tomorrow
Staying on top of your CalPERS account doesn’t have to take long, but it can make a meaningful difference.
Log in to your myCalPERS account to get started. And if you need assistance, call us at 888 CalPERS (or 888-225-7377) or send us a secure message through myCalPERS.