FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Am I Eligible For Social Security Benefits Even If I Am A Member Of ACERA?

All new General members are covered by Social Security as are most General members who have worked for the County during the last thirty years. Some employees who have been continuously employed with Alameda County for a number of years may have had a choice many years ago to opt out of Social Security. Most Safety members are NOT covered under Social Security. If you are unsure of your coverage ask your payroll clerk. If you have Social Security (FICA) deducted from your pay check, you are a Social Security integrated employee. Most General members are considered Social Security integrated employees. Most Safety members do not have FICA deductions and are therefore not considered Social Security integrated employees and may not be eligible to receive Social Security unless they have contributed to Social Security in other employment. The Social Security Retirement, Survivors, Medicare and Disability benefits available for you under the Social Security Act are benefits provided by the Federal Government and are separate from your contributions and benefits from ACERA. Eligibility for Social Security benefits is set by Federal law. Contact the nearest Social Security Office for information about your rights and benefits under that system. For the Social Security Administration's web site, go to http://www.ssa.gov. The SSA has a form for estimating your Social Security Benefits, go to our downloads page to get it.