Your ERS Connection – Winter 2019/2020

Employees Retirement System of Texas sent this bulletin at 12/09/2019 07:30 PM CST

View as a webpage.

Winter 2019  •  Volume 24  •  Number 4
your e r s connection - discussing retiree benefits and other news
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Be prepared at tax time

tax time

Tax time is around the corner. Whether you've been retired for awhile or you joined the retiree ranks this year, these reminders will help you be ready when it's time to prepare your tax return. Read about the information you will need and when it will be available.>>

Headlines from the quarter

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Understanding medical screenings for older adults

Practicing preventive health care is wise at any age, particularly as you get older. Use these resources to make informed and proactive health choices. Remember: You shouldn’t have to pay anything out-of-pocket for a covered preventive service. Learn where to find information about recommended medical screenings.>>
Porter Wilson - ERS Executive Director

Message from the Executive Director

Resolving to be healthier in the coming year? Your ERS health plan offers resources to help—some even offer rewards for your efforts. Read how your commitment to a healthy lifestyle supports ERS' mission to offer benefits to enhance the lives of its members.>>
January 2020 calendar

New year, new deductible

A new year can mean a fresh start—that includes some health insurance deductibles and coinsurance, which reset annually on January 1, 2019. Find out where to view deductible and coinsurance rates for various ERS plans.>>
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You should see this: Set your sights on healthy eyes

Good eye health is about more than seeing clearly. An eye exam can detect signs of medical problems such as diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure. See why you'll want to add an annual eye exam to your preventive care.>>
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Traveling for the holidays? Don't forget these essentials (ID cards too)

Holiday travel plans? Be sure to pack the essentials—a toothbrush, healthy snacks, your medication and these important phone numbers. View these reminders to help prevent unexpected medical issues from spoiling your trip.>>
Staying Connected fair

Missed the Staying Connected retiree fair? View the presentations

More than 650 retirees across the state joined ERS at the 2019 Staying Connected retiree fairs. If you didn't make it to a fair, you can still view presentations by ERS Executive Director Porter Wilson and benefit plan representatives. See Staying Connected fair presentations.>>
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For 96-year-old retiree, staying active has no age limit

Lula Marie Sullivan says she loved every minute of her 40 years with the Texas Highway Department (now Texas Department of Transportation). By staying active, she's been able to enjoy almost as many years of retirement. Read how she is still making a difference in the lives of others.>>

Reminders

Stay in touch

Be sure to notify ERS if your address or contact information changes. 

Update your contact information through your ERS OnLine account.>>

Save with the Discount Purchase Program

Skip crowded stores and save on holiday gifts.

View deals from the Discount Purchase Program.>>

Upcoming annuity payment dates

  • December 31
  • January 31
  • February 28
  • March 31

See how to manage your annuity payments.>>

Upcoming events

ERS Board of Trustees meeting

When: Tuesday, December 10, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. CT and Wednesday, December 11, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. CT  
Where: Livestream or attend in person at Teacher Retirement System Building – Board Room, E513 1000 Red River Street, Austin, Texas 78701

Medicare Preparation seminar

When: Wednesday, January 15, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. CT
Where: Corpus Christi TxDOT District Office

Wellness webinars

What: 1 Degree of Difference: Changing One Habit Can Change Your Life
When: Wednesday, January 8, noon – 1 p.m. CT or Thursday, January 9, 10 – 11 a.m. CT
Where: Your computer

For details about these and other upcoming events, view the ERS events calendar.
Note: Events are subject to change; check the calendar regularly for updates.

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ERS offices closed

ERS offices will be closed for the holidays Tuesday, December 24, through Thursday, December 26, and Wednesday, January 1.