A Note from Jeff:
Dear Retirees,
As the days grow longer and the weather begins to warm, I want to take a moment to wish you a wonderful and refreshing spring season. Spring is a time of renewal and a time for us to reconnect with you.
RetireMinute is your quarterly newsletter aimed to keep you informed, engaged, and connected to your benefits and your retiree community. Our goal is to provide you with timely updates about your pension, helpful reminders, and resources that support you in retirement. We also want this newsletter to reflect your interests.
What would you like to see in future issues? Whether it’s financial topics, health and wellness, retiree stories, or how-to guides—we welcome your feedback. Please feel free to email retirementcommunications@fairfaxcounty.gov with your ideas.
Thank you for your continued engagement, and for the many years you dedicated in service to our community.
Warm regards,
Jeff Weiler
Executive Director, Retirement Systems
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Updates and Reminders
💻MyRetirement Portal: Accessing your online account is a quick and convenient way to stay informed and ensure your information is accurate. Through the MyRetirement portal you can view payment history, access 1099-R forms, and review benefit details and direct deposit information. View the step-by-step instructions on how to access your account.
🧾1099-R Tax Forms: Tax forms were mailed at the end of January. If you did not receive yours, please contact our office or access your form anytime through your secure online account.
ℹ️ Keep your Information Current: Recently moved, changed banks, or need to update your beneficiary information? Be sure to submit the appropriate forms to keep your account up to date. Find the forms here.
Did You Know?
💲Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA): Each year, the Cost of Living Adjustment helps your pension keep up with inflation. While the COLA has not been announced, it's important to understand how it is calculated. The COLA is applied to your base benefit plus any accumulated COLAs from prior years.
When the COLA is determined:
- It will take effect on July 1st
- You will see the increase on your July 31st benefit payment
- If you have been retired for less than a year, your COLA will be prorated
- Your updated benefit amount will be reflected on your monthly pay advice available on your MyRetirement portal.
Protect Yourself from Scams
The best way to protect yourself from scams is by being alert. Stay abreast of current scams, like the ones listed here, and know the common warning signs. Experts recommend you pause and verify the situation if you encounter any of the following:
1. “Too Good to Be True” Deals: Scammers love to promise “big paydays” by offering misleading deals on social media or through unsolicited calls and emails.
2. Threatening Calls or Texts: Scammers use scare tactics to force victims into compliance and may impersonate government agencies or officials.
3. Suspicious Websites: Scammers frequently use fake websites to try to get your personal information. They may post flyers with QR codes or send emails or text messages with links to sites designed to capture your financial information.
Sometimes taking an extra five minutes to verify the situation can save the day. When in doubt, disconnect and go to the source directly.
Attend the 9th Annual Fairfax Scam Jam
Join AARP Virginia and Fairfax County’s Silver Shield Anti-Scam Program to learn how to spot and stop two fast growing threats: romance-based investment schemes and cryptocurrency fraud.
Get practical tools for recognizing red flags, talking with loved ones, reporting fraud, and beginning recovery. Whether you’re new to digital safety or already informed, Scam Jam will help you stay one step ahead.
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Spring Into Wellness
Spring is the perfect time to refresh your routine and focus on your well-being. Here are a few simple ways to “spring into wellness” this season:
🏃Get moving: Take advantage of warmer weather with daily walks or light outdoor activities
🩺Stay on top of preventive care: Schedule annual check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations
🧠Prioritize mental well-being: Stay socially connected, try a new hobby, or spend time outdoors
📃Review your benefits: Make sure you’re getting the most out of your retiree health resources
Taking small, intentional steps can make a big difference in maintaining your health and independence.
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Get Ready for Gardening and Growing Season
With temperatures rising and spring bulbs poking through the earth, Fairfax County is sharing tips and resources to get your lawn and garden ready for spring. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, there are plenty of ways to make the most of spring. What are some easy ways to get started?
🌹Plant native species to support local wildlife and reduce maintenance
🌱Test your soil before adding fertilizer to protect your lawn and local waterways
🍂Use mulch to retain moisture and control weeds
🌿Remove invasive plants early to protect your garden and local ecosystems
Residents can take advantage of a variety of county programs, including:
🌺Master Gardeners who provide free expert advice and answer questions
🪴Free mulch available at county locations
🪱Composting and recycling programs to reduce waste and improve soil health
🧑🌾Workshops, plant swaps, and farmers markets happening throughout the spring
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