Your ERS Connection – Summer 2021

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Summer 2021  •  Volume 24  •  Number 2

Your ERS Connection: Discussing Retiree Benefits and Other News
older couple in deck chairs

Annual benefits enrollment begins soon

Summer Enrollment

Retirees not eligible for Medicare can make changes July 12-23

The annual benefits enrollment period for retirees not enrolled in Medicare is around the corner. See details and learn what’s new for Plan Year 2022

Also, plan to join ERS and plan administrators for Summer Enrollment webinars in June and July. Learn more under Events below.


Headlines from the quarter

Porter Wilson - ERS Executive Director

Message from the Executive Director

The past year has been unusual, but certainly not uneventful. A busy 12 months was capped off by promising moves by the state legislature to shore up the ERS Retirement Trust Fund. Read about recent activities and stay tuned for more information.

Neika Clark

ERS certifies new trustee

Because only one prospective candidate qualified to participate in the planned election for a new ERS trustee, the ERS Board approved a rule that will allow ERS to move forward without an election and certify the eligible candidate. See who will fill the open Board seat.

older woman in vision exam

Don't lose sight of your vision benefits

If you’re enrolled in State of Texas VisionSM, the clock is ticking for you to use your Plan Year 2021 benefits. Don’t miss the opportunity to get a low-cost vision exam or a new pair of glasses. View this reminder about your vision care benefits.

older adult listening to child whispering

UnitedHealthcare hearing health program can help you hear moments that matter 

Did you hear? The Extra Benefits available to HealthSelectSM Medicare Advantage participants include a hearing health program with access to hundreds of hearing aids and a network of credentialed providers. Learn more about UnitedHealthcare Hearing.

Texa$aver_webinar_126x126

Texa$aver introduces flat fee, new investment option

As of May 1, participants in the Texa$averSM 401(k) / 457 Program pay a flat monthly administrative fee, instead of a fee based on their account balance. Accountholders also have a new investment option in the program’s core fund lineup. Read about the changes.

 

COVID-19 vaccine card

Protect yourself from COVID scams

You got your shot? That's good news—just be careful about how you share that news with others, especially online. Read how to protect your personal health information from COVID-related scams.

CFHP and SWCP logos

HMO participants: Learn about new coverage options

ERS is no longer offering Scott and White Care Plans and Community First Health Plans through the Texas Employees Group Benefits Program starting September 1. ERS is sending detailed information to current HMO participants about coverage options. Read the latest information about the change.

 


Staying in Motion logo

Share why your benefits matter to you

We’re always pleased when retirees take the time to tell us how much they value their State of Texas health insurance benefits. Do you have a story to share about how your benefits
are helping you live a healthier retirement? Please email us at story_ideas@ers.texas.gov.

Reminders

Moving?

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

Update your contact information through your ERS OnLine account.

Summer savings from the Discount Purchase Program 

Whether you're hitting the road this summer, or staying put, you'll want to check out the deals available through the Discount Purchase Program.

Log in to the Discount Purchase Program to view summer deals.

Upcoming annuity payment dates

  • June 30
  • July 30
  • August 31

See how to manage your annuity payments.

Events

ERS offers learning opportunities you can enjoy online from the safety and comfort of your home. Many summer webinars focus on annual enrollment and various benefit programs, but don't forget about the great wellness webinars. View the full list of upcoming events at ERS Event Calendars.


Summer Enrollment webinars

Bring your questions to these hour-long sessions with ERS and its plan administrators. See the list of Summer Enrollment webinars and register on the ERS Events page.

 

Wellness webinars

Explore topics related to physical, emotional and financial fitness.

See the schedule on the Wellness Events calendar, and view past sessions on the Wellness Webinars Archives page.

Board meeting

View a livestream of the joint meeting of the ERS Board of Trustees and Investment Advisory Committee.

August 25; 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. CT

Holiday closings

ERS will be closed September 6 for Labor Day.