2704 - CalPERS 1959 Survivor Benefit Program
Category
Retirement
Audience List
- Employee Relations Officers
- Personnel Officers
- Personnel Transactions Staff
- Personnel Transactions Supervisors
Synopsis
This policy:
- Provides the 1959 Survivor Benefit Program Eligibility
- Provides the 1959 Survivor Rate Determination
Introduction
The 1959 Survivor Benefit Program, 5th Level is administered by the California Public Employee’s Retirement System (CalPERS). This program provides a monthly allowance to eligible survivors of CalPERS members who are not covered by Social Security and dies prior to retirement.
The purpose of this policy is to outline the most current 1959 Survivor Benefit Program eligibility and premium rates for state employees and employers.
Statement
Eligible Members
State employees who are in classes or positions designated state safety, peace officer/firefighter, and patrol are subject to the 1959 Survivor Benefit Program, 5th Level. State employees who are eligible for this program are automatically enrolled upon appointment to the eligible class or position.
Premium Rate Determination
The state employee and employer monthly premium rates are determined annually by CalPERS actuarial staff and requires approval by CalPERS Board of Administration prior to implementing any premium rate changes.
Pursuant to CalPERS law, Government Code section 21581(c), the contribution for state employees may be $2.00 per month as long as the combined employee and employer cost for this benefit is $4.00 per month. If the total cost of this benefit exceeds $4.00 per month, the employer and employee shall share equally the cost of the benefit.
The State Controller’s Office will implement the contribution rate changes for all state employees subject to the 1959 Survivor Benefit Program upon receiving notice from CalPERS and CalHR. Employers will receive annual premium rate changes via CalPERS Circular Letters.
Application
Departments should notify state employees of the premium rate changes upon receiving notice from CalPERS.
Authorities
Resources
Related Policies
- 2701: CalPERS Contribution Rates and Benefit Formulas
- 2702: State Safety Retirement
- 2703: Peace Officer/Firefighter Retirement (POFF)
Web Pages
- 1959 Survivor Benefit Program: CalPERS 1959 Survivor Benefit Program Information and Publication
- CalPERS Circular Letters: List of CalPERS Circular Letters
Authorized By
Benefits Division
Benefits Division Inquiries
Benefits Division
Contact Person
Policy Retirement
CalHR
, Retirement Policy
Phone: 916-909-2863
Email: Retirementrequests@calhr.ca.gov
Superseded Policies
Not Applicable.History
Please note that some PDF Forms may not be opened directly in your browser. These PDF forms may be downloaded and saved to your computer to be opened with Adobe Reader.