If you marry or establish a domestic partnership after your ACERA membership entry date, it is essential to update your plan beneficiary information. To do so, complete and return an ACERA Active or Deferred Member Beneficiary Designation Form.
Establishing your partnership early ensures your loved ones are protected and helps streamline your transition into retirement.
Defining an Eligible Domestic Partner
To be eligible for ACERA survivor benefits and retirement options, a domestic partnership must meet one of the following criteria:
- State Registered: A partnership registered with the California Secretary of State.
- Alameda County Designated: For Alameda County employees, a partnership established via the county’s domestic partner designation process.
- Reciprocal County Designated: For members with reciprocity, ACERA accepts domestic partner designations from Marin County. For inquiries about other counties contact ACERA.
Why Your Status Matters for Retirement: The Unmodified Option
Updating your status at least one year prior to retirement is critical for your long-term financial planning.
The Unmodified Option is the highest-paying of ACERA’s five retirement options. It provides a 60% lifetime continuance to an eligible beneficiary upon the member’s death. To qualify your spouse or domestic partner for this 60% continuance, you must have been married or have an established qualifying domestic partnership for at least one year prior to your retirement date.
Required Documentation
All members who marry or establish a domestic partnership must provide ACERA with the following:
- Proof of Partnership: A copy of your Marriage Certificate, State Certificate of Registration of Domestic Partnership, or the specific County designation form (Alameda or Marin).
- Birth Verification: A copy of your spouse’s or partner’s birth certificate.
Submit Your Documents Early
While this information is officially required at the time you retire, we strongly recommend submitting these copies to ACERA as soon as the partnership is established. Having these documents on file ensures that, in the event of your death before retirement, your spouse or partner can receive benefit payments without the added stress of searching for paperwork.
