Ready to Retire

 

Congratulations! Retirement is just around the corner. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for the big day.

Tip #1: Get an estimate of your SFERS benefit.

You have two ways to get an estimate of your benefit:

Benefits Modeling Calculator – access the online benefit modeler 24/7 via mySFERS secure member portal.

Prepared Benefits Estimate – If you are currently qualified to retire for service or will qualify within 12 months, you can request a prepared estimate of your benefits. Download, complete and submit a Request for Estimate Form. Please allow six (6) to eight (8) weeks to receive your estimate.

Tip #2: Attend a “Ready to Retire” Seminar

In this seminar you will learn about…

• The Retirement Application Process
• Taxes
• Survivor Benefits
• Benefit Payment Options
• SFDCP Payout Options
• Retiree Health Coverage
• Social Security Benefits.

Enroll in a “Ready to Retire” Seminar

Tip #3: Schedule a Counseling Appointment

Once you are eligible and ready to retire, speak to a Retirement Counselor to complete the retirement application process. Schedule your counseling session to take place within six months of your desired retirement date. Log in to mySFERS secure member portal and schedule an appointment using the online Retirement Appointment Scheduler to discuss the following types of benefits:

• Service Retirement
  (for members who according to credited service and age, are qualified for service retirement)

• Disability Retirement
  (for members incapacitated due to illness or injury)

• Vesting Allowance
  (for members separated from City employment with contributions on account and age eligible)

 Your effective retirement date cannot be earlier than the first day of the month in which you file your retirement application with SFERS.