The Account Information Management division (AIM) is the keeper of member data and the primary point of contact for PERA employers. AIM assists employers with eligibility and enrollment, contributions and status changes, and compliance with reporting and data integrity requirements. The division offers a variety of resources to employers, including a quarterly newsletter, web-based Employer Response Information System (ERIS) tool, and an online employer manual. In addition, AIM serves members by validating new benefit applications and provides internal support by securing, categorizing, and maintaining member records used in processes throughout the agency. 

The Benefit Services Center  is organized into two departments:     

Calculations 

The Calculations department is the source of technical expertise on member benefits. This team is responsible for providing retirement, disability, refund, divorce, and survivor benefit estimates. They also compute the value of refunds and the actual member payments at the time of retirement, disability, or death. The team is responsible for training PERA staff on benefit calculations, interpreting statutes, and resolving disputed cases.   

Claims  

The Claims department is responsible for administering several important programs for our members and retirees. The team coordinates the disability benefits program from application to approval/denial, and coordinates disability continuations as well as disability annual earnings and offsets.   

The department also evaluates, documents, and approves the issues related to divorce, member deaths, and survivor benefits. Additionally, they provide support to the Calculations and Member Services departments with expertise related to complex and unique estimate requests. 

The Communications & Stakeholder Engagement (CSE) department works to connect with PERA members and employers through a wide variety of publications, outreach efforts and education initiatives. From handbooks and newsletters to videos and web content, the team is committed to producing communications that are effective and accessible. CSE is also responsible for the development and delivery of PERA’s ongoing educational programs, including webinars and in-person sessions for both members and employers. 

The Finance division manages the financial reporting and accounting activities for all funds PERA administers. The team coordinates incoming and outgoing transactions for member and employer accounts and reports accurate financial information to support PERA. The division directs the planning, financial reporting, and risk management for the agency to ensure sustainable retirement plans.  They are responsible for producing the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report.

Our accounting team deals with analyzing, recording, and tracking PERA’s financial resources. This includes payroll, cash receipts, accounts payable, and everyday essential accounting services. They also coordinate financial reporting with our internal departments and external partners.

Our Information Systems (IS) division designs and implements technology solutions that add business value and keep our member data secure. The department develops and maintains PERA’s automated systems, oversees the operations of our computer systems and equipment, sets the information security direction of the agency, and researches and evaluates new technology products.

When a PERA member calls, the Member Service Center (MSC) answers. This team is dedicated to providing excellent customer service, conducting every call with professionalism, helpfulness, patience, and respect. With extensive knowledge about all subjects related to PERA, the MSC is well positioned to help members understand their benefits and options.  

Member Services is committed to explaining all aspects of being a PERA member (while always being mindful of data privacy laws and PERA policy). They help every member—from new hires to those entering retirement, as well as those already retired, those disabled, and survivors of deceased members. They troubleshoot and assist members who are having issues with myPERA, including the registration process. Our Benefit Counselors conduct individual appointments with members,  and encourage members to take advantage of the PERA education programs.