Member Programs
Member Programs
Whether you just started your public service career or you are close to retirement, PERA’s educational programs will give you valuable information about your pension plan. PERA currently offers live webinars for our Ready to Retire and From Hire to Retire programs. We also offer individual phone counseling.
Check the description of each program below, and then see the Program Calendar to find an upcoming session. PERA requires registration by using the link on each event, or by calling our Member Service Center at 651.296.7460 or 1.800.652.9026.
Ready to Retire
Who should attend?
Ready to Retire is an educational option for PERA members who plan to retire within one year. The program is designed to empower members and make them comfortable enough to make PERA pension decisions and self-serve the application process. The program also sets the stage for using PERA’s online tools now and after retirement. You will also receive supplemental handouts that provide starting points for other retirement decisions.
Recommended for: Within one year from retirement
Length: One hour (presentation) + 15m for questions (total run time 1hr 15m)
Registration: Register on myPERA or call our member services center
What does it cover?
- PERA benefit options
- Paperwork
- Payments
- Self-service
- After retirement
From Hire to Retire
Who should attend?
From Hire to Retire is the perfect place for members to begin and to continue education on PERA benefits. The program is designed for new PERA members, those who are close to retirement, and everyone in between. The PERA pension is discussed in detail, including how it fits into an overall retirement plan. PERA’s pension benefit options, life changes that affect PERA, decisions members must make, and self-service tools are highlighted.
Recommended for: For all PERA members
Length: One hour (presentation) + 15m for questions (total run time 1hr 15m)
Registration: Register on myPERA or call our member services center
What does it cover?
- What is PERA?
- Your PERA Pension
- What affects your pension?
- Self-service and Resources
Individual Counseling
Who should attend?
Individual counseling is for members who are ready to apply for retirement and need one-on-one assistance, or members who have unique situations, such as service with more than one fund, disability, or when divorce impacts their pension. An estimate will be prepared for you and a benefit counselor will call you to review your estimate and the retirement process. PERA representatives are unable to provide financial planning or advice on other retirement topics.
Recommended for: Members ready to apply for retirement
Length: 45 minutes
Registration: Register on myPERA or call our member services center
What does it cover?
- Your estimate and benefit options
- Paperwork
- Payments
- Self-service
- After retirement
On Demand Webinar - Defined Contribution Plan
Who should attend?
This educational program is intended for members who are currently enrolled—or are eligible to enroll—in PERA’s Defined Contribution Plan (DCP). Eligibility is exclusive to physicians, public officials, city managers, certain ambulance service and rescue squad personnel, and certain volunteer firefighters.
The plan is discussed in detail, including the enrollment process, investment options, and withdrawal guidelines.
Recommended for: Members eligible for participation in one of PERA’s Defined Contribution Plans
Length: 30 minutes
Registration: Register on myPERA or call our member services center
What does it cover?
- Your estimate and benefit options
- What is the DCP?
- Eligibility and enrollment
- Investment options
- How and when to withdraw funds