Employees and employers will have new contribution rates for the WRS starting Jan. 1, 2025. The required contributions go to the WRS Trust Funds which, combined with investment returns, help fund employee’s WRS benefits. Read more >
Planning to retire in the next five years? Learn about your steps to retire with the WRS. Get your questions answered by an ETF benefits specialist. View scheduled webinars >
In-person Group Retirement Appointments
ETF benefits specialists may be in your area to conduct appointments for up to 12 members and their guests. Before registering, you must have received a Retirement Benefit Estimates and Application (ET-4301). See locations and schedules >
The 2025 open enrollment period, set for Sept. 30 to Oct. 25, 2024, is when you can make changes for next year, including switching health plans, changing coverage levels, adding new insurance such as dental or vision, and adding or removing dependents. What's new > | Health premiums for 2025 >
Online Vendor Forums
ETF will host online vendor forums during the open enrollment period, where you can ask questions directly to health plan representatives. Schedules will be posted here >
High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) for State and UW Employees
HDHPs usually offer lower monthly premiums than traditional health plans by using your Health Savings Account to pay for expenses before reaching your deductible. Watch for open enrollment info for plan year 2025. How HDHPs work > | Video: Choosing a Plan Design >
Group Insurance Board Reviews Weight-Loss Drugs Coverage
In its August 2024 meeting, the Group Insurance Board discussed ETF's analysis of insurance coverage considerations for weight-loss drugs. Know the Board's next steps >
Empathy, a New Service for Bereavement Support
Free for members and beneficiaries enrolled in the accident plan or Group Life Insurance Program, Empathy provides personalized guidance for the administrative and emotional challenges when preparing for a loss and after a loved one passes on. How Empathy works > | Watch video >
New Insurance Help Webpage
Learn how to find resources, who to contact for help, and how to navigate an insurance topic through ETF's new Insurance Help webpage. Bookmark and share this page >
Flu vaccines are available to Group Health Insurance Program members at in-network doctors' offices and pharmacies and the Well Wisconsin flu vaccine clinic.Get vaccinated >
It's Your Health: Diabetes
Group Health Insurance Program subscribers and spouses with diabetes can take part in a WebMD diabetes program with a dedicated coach. In exchange, you will receive lower prescription drug copays. Read more >
$150 Well Wisconsin Incentive Deadline on Oct. 11
Group Health Insurance Program subscribers and spouses can earn their $150 Well Wisconsin prepaid card by completing their health assessment, health check, and well-being activity by Oct. 11, 2024. Learn how > | See Well Wisconsin upcoming events >
Regardless of your age or level of experience, here are two ways you can actively manage your Wisconsin Deferred Compensation Program (WDC) investments for retirement readiness.Read more > | Not enrolled? Attend a WDC webinar >
Looking for Info on WDC Fees?
Information on Wisconsin Deferred Compensation Program (WDC) fees can be found on the WDC website. Click the “About the WDC” menu in the top navigation, then select “Program highlights & fees.” Download the Program Highlights document >
In the latest episode, SWIB’s Head Economist and Asset and Risk Allocation Chief Investment Officer Todd Mattina shares his thoughts on the first half of 2024 and the economic outlook for the remainder of the year. Read more > | Listen to The SWIB Podcast >
SWIB Staff Appointed to Industry Boards, Win Awards
SWIB staff were recently appointed to various boards of industry associations and recognized by investment publications. Read more >
The vacant seat on the Teachers Retirement Board will have a five-year term starting May 2025 and must be filled by an active (not retired) Milwaukee public school teacher. Self-nomination is the first step in the election process. Deadline to submit nomination paperwork is on Oct. 11, 2024.Get more details > | Download instructions and forms >
Wayne Koessl (1929-2024)
The former ETF Board Chair and member, who served the Board until March this year, passed away on Aug. 12. Earlier this summer, Koessl granted an interview for a profile feature article. Read the article >
Jodi has been a WRS member for more than 20 years. Read her inspiring words on why she is in public service.
“It's all about helping others. I am a Benefits Counselor with the Universities of Wisconsin. Benefits can be confusing and overwhelming to employees when they first start, during a life event, at open enrollment, or when they are considering retirement.
"I work with a team that offers support to employees when they are going through times of joy such as a birth or marriage, sadness such as an unexpected medical condition or death, and other impactful moments of their lives. Empathy and caring are integral to what we do. Helping employees navigate the complexities and offering support are what this journey is all about.”
Why Are You in Public Service?
Share your personal journey in public service, and you might be featured in the next issues of WRS News Online and other ETF publications. Share your story >
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