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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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  • When am I eligible to retire?

      Members may retire at any time provided they meet these minimum eligibility requirements: General Members (Tier I and Tier II) may retire:
      • at age 50, or older, with 10 or more years of service credit;
      • at any age with 30 or more years of service credit;
      • at age 70 or older with any amount of service credit.
      Safety Members (Tier I and Tier II) may retire:
      • at age 50, or older, with 10 or more years of service credit;
      • at any age with 20 or more years of service credit;
      • at age 70 or older with any amount of service credit.

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    Do I choose a Benefit Option when I turn in my Retirement Application?

      Eight to eleven weeks after your retirement begins (which is the day after your last day on payroll) you will receive a package from ACERA. In the package will be your final option papers and some other information on retirement. The option agreement is a contract and cannot be changed after you have signed for your option choices.

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    How often and when will receive my checks?

      Retirement benefit allowances are paid on a monthly basis. You may choose to have your checks directly deposited into your bank account (via direct deposit) or have a check mailed to your home. Checks will be mailed and funds transferred to retirees on the last business day of each month.

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    Do I have to make an appointment with a retirement specialist?

      Yes, in order to properly counsel you on your retirement benefit options and your account, you should call ACERA to schedule a counseling session.

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    When Does My Retirement Actually Begin?

      Retirement begins the day after your last day on paid status with the County.

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    Is It Possible To Withdraw My Retirement Contributions Without Terminating Employment?

      No. There are no provisions for an emergency withdrawal of funds from your ACERA account. Internal Revenue Service regulations and ACERA plan provisions prohibit the withdrawal of funds except when a member terminates employment.

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