CERTIFYING OFFICER LETTER — December 15, 2008 TO: Certifying Officers, Police and Firemen’s Retirement System (PFRS) FROM: Wendy Jamison SUBJECT: Training Requirements for PFRS Eligibility and Enrollment The attached Certifying Officer Letter has been issued by the Division of Pensions and Benefits to inform employers of rules adopted by the PFRS Board of Trustees that address training requirements for members of the Police and Firemen's Retirement System (PFRS). DISTRIBUTION OF THIS LETTER Certifying Officers should forward this letter to their Human Resources staff, benefit administrators, and any other staff members responsible for the administration of employee training and pension enrollment. The letter is in PDF format and requires Acrobat Reader which is available free from Adobe at: http://www.state.nj.us/acrobat.htm If you are unable to open the PDF file, current and archived Certifying Officer Letters are available for viewing on the Division’s Web site (or from the Pensions and Benefits home page: http://www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions go to “Links for Employers” and then select “Certifying Officer Letters” from the “Letters, Laws, Boards & Other Resources” drop down list). Please note: It is important that the Certifying Officer’s e-mail address is kept current with the Employer Pensions and Benefits Information Connection (EPIC) to assure the accurate and timely delivery of this information. For more information about EPIC or to update your information contact the Division’s Employer Education Unit at (609) 292-7524 or send e-mail to the Division of Pensions and Benefits at: https://www.state.nj.us/treas/pensions/epicmail.shtml CERTIFYING OFFICER LETTER — December 5, 2008 TO: Certifying Officers, Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS), Teachers' Pension and Annuity Fund (TPAF), and Defined Contribution Retirement Program (DCRP) FROM: Florence J. Sheppard, Deputy Director, Division of Pensions and Benefits SUBJECT: Chapter 89, P.L. 2008, Public Employee Benefits Reform Act The attached Certifying Officer Letter has been issued by the Division of Pensions and Benefits to inform employers of the changes to the retirement systems brought about by the passage of Chapter 89, P.L. 2008, the Public Employee Benefits Reform Act of 2008. DISTRIBUTION OF THIS LETTER Certifying Officers should forward this letter to their Human Resources staff, benefit administrators, and any other staff members responsible for the administration of employee pension enrollment, retirement, and related benefits. The letter and attachments are in PDF format and require Acrobat Reader which is available free from Adobe at: http://www.state.nj.us/acrobat.htm If you are unable to open the PDF file, current and archived Certifying Officer Letters and individual attachments are available for viewing on the Division’s Web site (or from the Pensions and Benefits home page: http://www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions go to “Links for Employers” and then select “Certifying Officer Letters” from the “Letters, Laws, Boards & Other Resources” drop down list). Please note: It is important that the Certifying Officer’s e-mail address is kept current with the Employer Pensions and Benefits Information Connection (EPIC) to assure the accurate and timely delivery of this information. For more information about EPIC or to update your information contact the Division’s Employer Education Unit at (609) 292-7524 or send e-mail to the Division of Pensions and Benefits at: https://www.state.nj.us/treas/pensions/epicmail.shtml CERTIFYING OFFICER LETTER — December 5, 2008 TO: State Health Benefits Program and School Employees' Health Benefits Program Participating Employers FROM: Florence J. Sheppard, Deputy Director, Division of Pensions and Benefits SUBJECT: Dependent Eligibility Verification Audit The attached Certifying Officer Letter has been issued by the Division of Pensions and Benefits to inform employers of the pending audit of health benefits dependent status and discuss documentation now required for health benefits program enrollment. DISTRIBUTION OF THIS LETTER Certifying Officers should forward this letter to their Human Resources staff, benefit administrators, and any other staff members responsible for the administration of health benefits for employees. The letter and attachment are in PDF format and require Acrobat Reader which is available free from Adobe at: http://www.state.nj.us/acrobat.htm If you are unable to open the PDF file, current and archived Certifying Officer Letters and individual attachments are available for viewing on the Division’s Web site (or from the Pensions and Benefits home page: http://www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions go to “Links for Employers” and then select “Certifying Officer Letters” from the “Letters, Laws, Boards & Other Resources” drop down list). Please note: It is important that the Certifying Officer’s e-mail address is kept current with the Employer Pensions and Benefits Information Connection (EPIC) to assure the accurate and timely delivery of this information. For more information about EPIC or to update your information contact the Division’s Employer Education Unit at (609) 292-7524 or send e-mail to the Division of Pensions and Benefits at: https://www.state.nj.us/treas/pensions/epicmail.shtml CERTIFYING OFFICER LETTER — December 2, 2008 TO: Certifying Officers, State and County Colleges and Universities FROM: Joseph Zisa, Manager 1, Fiscal Resources, Division of Pensions and Benefits SUBJECT: Supplemental Questions and Answers – Adjunct Faculty and Part-Time Instructors The attached Certifying Officer Letter has been issued by the Division of Pensions and Benefits to provide supplemental information regarding the enrollment eligibility of adjunct and part-time instructors at State and County Colleges and Universities. DISTRIBUTION OF THIS LETTER Certifying Officers should forward this letter to their Human Resources staff, benefit administrators, and any other staff members responsible for the administration of pension enrollment for employees. The letter is in PDF format and requires Acrobat Reader which is available free from Adobe at: http://www.state.nj.us/acrobat.htm If you are unable to open the PDF file, current and archived Certifying Officer Letters are available for viewing on the Division’s Web site (or from the Pensions and Benefits home page: http://www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions go to “Links for Employers” and then select “Certifying Officer Letters” from the “Letters, Laws, Boards & Other Resources” drop down list). Please note: It is important that the Certifying Officer’s e-mail address is kept current with the Employer Pensions and Benefits Information Connection (EPIC) to assure the accurate and timely delivery of this information. For more information about EPIC or to update your information contact the Division’s Employer Education Unit at (609) 292-7524 or send e-mail to the Division of Pensions and Benefits at: https://www.state.nj.us/treas/pensions/epicmail.shtml E-MAIL MESSAGE to Participating State Health Benefits Program and School Employees' Health Benefits Program Employers — December 1, 2008 TO: Certifying Officers and Benefit Administrators FROM: New Jersey Division of Pensions and Benefits SUBJECT: Required Notices to SHBP/SEHBP Enrollees — Updated for Plan Year 2009 This message is being sent as a reminder to employers that the Required Notices for State Health Benefits Program (SHBP) and School Employees' Health Benefits Program (SEHBP) enrollees was updated for the 2009 plan year and mailed to SHBP and SEHBP participating employers in November 2008. The notice addresses information required for compliance with the federal COBRA program and Health Insurance and Portability Accounting Act (HIPAA), as well as provisions for the coverage of over age children under Chapter 375, P.L. 2005, as modified by Chapter 38, P.L. 2008. The Required Notices are also available for employers in the Employers Pensions and Benefits Administration Manual (EPBAM) in PDF format and require Acrobat Reader which is available free from Adobe at: http://www.state.nj.us/acrobat.htm Certifying Officers should forward this information to Benefit Administrators, Human Resource Representatives, and to any other individuals on your staff who would require this health benefits information in their administrative duties. Current and archived messages are also available for viewing on the Division’s Web site at: www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions. At the home page, go to “Online Employer Services - EPIC ” and then select “Archive of E-Messages” link at the lower left portion of the page. NEW APPLICATION ON EPIC — October 30, 2008 TO: Certifying Officers FROM: The New Jersey Division of Pensions and Benefits SUBJECT: NEW APPLICATION AVAILABLE ON EPIC The Division of Pensions and Benefits is pleased to announce a new application that is now accessible through the Employer Pension and Benefit Information Connection (EPIC). ABP ONLINE ENROLLMENT APPLICATION This new online application allows you to enroll new eligible ABP employees. After successfully completing the application, you can print the enrollment application and payroll certification. A payroll certification will also be sent from the Division of Pensions and Benefits within 5-10 days. Beneficiary designation is no longer included in the enrollment process. The member’s Estate will automatically be nominated as the beneficiary until the member completes the Designation of Beneficiary Form, which is available on the Members Benefit Online System (MBOS). If the member does not complete this online form, the Estate will remain the named beneficiary on file with the Division of Pensions and Benefits. Adobe Acrobat Reader is required in order to print the ABP enrollment application and payroll certification. Adobe Reader 9 or higher is recommended for use with this application. Older versions of Acrobat Reader will not support printing of the ABP enrollment application and payroll certification. Acrobat Reader is available free from Adobe. Information about using EPIC applications is available in the EPIC User’s Guide at: http://www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions/epickit.htm A link to the User’s Guide is also found on the EPIC home page. ASSIGNING ACCESS TO NEW EPIC APPLICATIONS Your designated EPIC Security Officer must assign access to new applications to EPIC users registered through your employing location. (Note: the Certifying Officer can assign the applications to the Security Officer.) For information about how to assign access to new applications, see the EPIC Security Help Page at: http://www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions/epic-security.htm A link to the EPIC Security Help Page is also found in the EPIC User’s Guide. If you experience problems logging onto or using EPIC, you may also call the Division's Employer Education Unit at (609) 292-7524 or e-mail the EPIC Help Desk at: https://www.state.nj.us/treas/pensions/epicmail.shtml CERTIFYING OFFICER LETTER — October 28, 2008 TO: Certifying Officers, State and County Colleges and Universities FROM: Joseph Zisa, Manager 1, Fiscal Resources, Division of Pensions and Benefits SUBJECT: Pension Eligibility — Adjunct Faculty and Part-Time Instructors The attached Certifying Officer Letter has been issued by the Division of Pensions and Benefits to address changes to the enrollment eligibility of adjunct and part-time instructors at State and County Colleges and Universities. DISTRIBUTION OF THIS LETTER Certifying Officers should forward this letter and flier to their Human Resources staff, benefit administrators, and any other staff members responsible for the administration of pension enrollment for employees. The letter and attachments are in PDF format and require Acrobat Reader which is available free from Adobe at: http://www.state.nj.us/acrobat.htm If you are unable to open the PDF file, current and archived Certifying Officer Letters and individual attachments are available for viewing on the Division’s Web site (or from the Pensions and Benefits home page: http://www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions go to “Links for Employers” and then select “Certifying Officer Letters” from the “Letters, Laws, Boards & Other Resources” drop down list). Please note: It is important that the Certifying Officer’s e-mail address is kept current with the Employer Pensions and Benefits Information Connection (EPIC) to assure the accurate and timely delivery of this information. For more information about EPIC or to update your information contact the Division’s Employer Education Unit at (609) 292-7524 or send e-mail to the Division of Pensions and Benefits at: https://www.state.nj.us/treas/pensions/epicmail.shtml CERTIFYING OFFICER LETTER — October 28, 2008 TO: Local Certifying Officers of the Public Employees’ Retirement System FROM: Florence J. Sheppard, Deputy Director, Division of Pensions and Benefits SUBJECT: Enrollment of Elected Officials in the DCRP, exceptions for PERS members, and PERS waiver by Non-Veteran Elected Officials The attached Certifying Officer Letter has been issued by the Division of Pensions and Benefits to address requirements and exceptions to the enrollment of certain elected officials into the PERS and DCRP. DISTRIBUTION OF THIS LETTER Certifying Officers should forward this letter and flier to their Human Resources staff, benefit administrators, and any other staff members responsible for the administration of pension enrollment for elected officials. The letter and attachments are in PDF format and require Acrobat Reader which is available free from Adobe at: http://www.state.nj.us/acrobat.htm If you are unable to open the PDF file, current and archived Certifying Officer Letters and individual attachments are available for viewing on the Division’s Web site (or from the Pensions and Benefits home page: http://www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions go to “Links for Employers” and then select “Certifying Officer Letters” from the “Letters, Laws, Boards & Other Resources” drop down list). Please note: It is important that the Certifying Officer’s e-mail address is kept current with the Employer Pensions and Benefits Information Connection (EPIC) to assure the accurate and timely delivery of this information. For more information about EPIC or to update your information contact the Division’s Employer Education Unit at (609) 292-7524 or send e-mail to the Division of Pensions and Benefits at: https://www.state.nj.us/treas/pensions/epicmail.shtml REMINDER TO CERTIFYING OFFICER LETTER — October 17, 2008 TO: Certifying Officers FROM: Frederick J. Beaver, Director SUBJECT: Online Application Requirement for Pension Loans This message is being distributed as a reminder that, effective November 1, 2008, an eligible member who wishes to borrow against their pension account, must submit the loan request through the Pension Loan Application in the Member Benefits Online System (MBOS). — The attached flier Adobe PDF (36K) is being distributed to State biweekly employees with the October 17 payroll. — Local government and education employers as well as State colleges, universities, and other State agencies are also encouraged to distribute the attached flier Adobe PDF (36K)to their employees. For additional details please review the Certifying Officer Letter from September 8, 2008, which announced these significant changes to pension loan application procedures. DISTRIBUTION OF THIS MESSAGE Certifying Officers should forward this message and flier to their Human Resources staff, benefit administrators, and any other staff members responsible for the administration of pension benefits. The attachment is in PDF format and requires Acrobat Reader which is available free from Adobe at: http://www.state.nj.us/acrobat.htm Current and archived messages are available for viewing on the Division’s Web site at: http://www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions. At the home page, go to “Online Employer Services - EPIC ” and then select “Archive of E-Messages” link at the lower left portion of the page. Please note: It is important that the Certifying Officer’s e-mail address is kept current with the Employer Pensions and Benefits Information Connection (EPIC) to assure the accurate and timely delivery of this information. For more information about EPIC or to update your information contact the Division’s Employer Education Unit at (609) 292-7524 or send e-mail to the Division of Pensions and Benefits at: https://www.state.nj.us/treas/pensions/epicmail.shtml MBOS Loan Flier Adobe PDF (36K) CERTIFYING OFFICER LETTER — September 26, 2008 TO: School Employees' Health Benefits Program Participating Local Education Employers FROM: New Jersey School Employees' Health Benefits Program (SEHBP) SUBJECT: SEHBP Open Enrollment 2008 — Local Education Employers The attached Certifying Officer Letter has been issued by the Division of Pensions and Benefits to announce the School Employees' Health Benefits Program (SEHBP) Fall Open Enrollment. Open Enrollment dates are October 1 - 31, 2008, with plan changes effective January 1, 2009 for local education employees. DISTRIBUTION OF THIS LETTER Certifying Officers should forward this letter and flier to their Human Resources staff, benefit administrators, and any other staff members responsible for the administration of health benefits for employees. The letter and attachments are in PDF format and require Acrobat Reader which is available free from Adobe at: http://www.state.nj.us/acrobat.htm If you are unable to open the PDF file, current and archived Certifying Officer Letters and individual attachments are available for viewing on the Division’s Web site (or from the Pensions and Benefits home page: http://www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions go to “Links for Employers” and then select “Certifying Officer Letters” from the “Letters, Laws, Boards & Other Resources” drop down list). Please note: It is important that the Certifying Officer’s e-mail address is kept current with the Employer Pensions and Benefits Information Connection (EPIC) to assure the accurate and timely delivery of this information. For more information about EPIC or to update your information contact the Division’s Employer Education Unit at (609) 292-7524 or send e-mail to the Division of Pensions and Benefits at: https://www.state.nj.us/treas/pensions/epicmail.shtml CERTIFYING OFFICER LETTER — September 15, 2008 TO: State Health Benefits Program Participating Local Government Employers FROM: New Jersey State Health Benefits Program SUBJECT: SHBP Open Enrollment 2008 — Local Government Employers The attached Certifying Officer Letter has been issued by the Division of Pensions and Benefits to announce the SHBP Fall Open Enrollment. Open Enrollment dates are October 1 - 31, 2008, with plan changes effective January 1, 2009 for local government employees. DISTRIBUTION OF THIS LETTER Certifying Officers should forward this letter and flier to their Human Resources staff, benefit administrators, and any other staff members responsible for the administration of health benefits for employees. The letter and attachments are in PDF format and require Acrobat Reader which is available free from Adobe at: http://www.state.nj.us/acrobat.htm If you are unable to open the PDF file, current and archived Certifying Officer Letters and individual attachments are available for viewing on the Division’s Web site (or from the Pensions and Benefits home page: http://www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions go to “Links for Employers” and then select “Certifying Officer Letters” from the “Letters, Laws, Boards & Other Resources” drop down list). Please note: It is important that the Certifying Officer’s e-mail address is kept current with the Employer Pensions and Benefits Information Connection (EPIC) to assure the accurate and timely delivery of this information. For more information about EPIC or to update your information contact the Division’s Employer Education Unit at (609) 292-7524 or send e-mail to the Division of Pensions and Benefits at: https://www.state.nj.us/treas/pensions/epicmail.shtml CERTIFYING OFFICER LETTER — September 15, 2008 TO: State Departmental Certifying Officers, State Human Resources Directors, State Biweekly Human Resources Representatives FROM: New Jersey State Health Benefits Program SUBJECT: SHBP Open Enrollment 2008 — State Biweekly Employers The attached Certifying Officer Letter has been issued by the Division of Pensions and Benefits to announce the SHBP Fall Open Enrollment. Open Enrollment dates are October 1 - 31, 2008, with plan changes effective January 3, 2009 for State Biweekly employees. DISTRIBUTION OF THIS LETTER Certifying Officers should forward this letter and flier to their Human Resources staff, benefit administrators, and any other staff members responsible for the administration of health benefits for employees. The letter and attachments are in PDF format and require Acrobat Reader which is available free from Adobe at: http://www.state.nj.us/acrobat.htm If you are unable to open the PDF file, current and archived Certifying Officer Letters and individual attachments are available for viewing on the Division’s Web site (or from the Pensions and Benefits home page: http://www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions go to “Links for Employers” and then select “Certifying Officer Letters” from the “Letters, Laws, Boards & Other Resources” drop down list). Please note: It is important that the Certifying Officer’s e-mail address is kept current with the Employer Pensions and Benefits Information Connection (EPIC) to assure the accurate and timely delivery of this information. For more information about EPIC or to update your information contact the Division’s Employer Education Unit at (609) 292-7524 or send e-mail to the Division of Pensions and Benefits at: https://www.state.nj.us/treas/pensions/epicmail.shtml CERTIFYING OFFICER LETTER — September 15, 2008 TO: State Monthly Certifying Officers, State Monthly Human Resources Representatives FROM: New Jersey State Health Benefits Program SUBJECT: SHBP Open Enrollment 2008 — State Monthly Employers The attached Certifying Officer Letter has been issued by the Division of Pensions and Benefits to announce the SHBP Fall Open Enrollment. Open Enrollment dates are October 1 - 31, 2008, with plan changes effective January 1, 2009 for State Monthly employees. DISTRIBUTION OF THIS LETTER Certifying Officers should forward this letter and flier to their Human Resources staff, benefit administrators, and any other staff members responsible for the administration of health benefits for employees. The letter and attachments are in PDF format and require Acrobat Reader which is available free from Adobe at: http://www.state.nj.us/acrobat.htm If you are unable to open the PDF file, current and archived Certifying Officer Letters and individual attachments are available for viewing on the Division’s Web site (or from the Pensions and Benefits home page: http://www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions go to “Links for Employers” and then select “Certifying Officer Letters” from the “Letters, Laws, Boards & Other Resources” drop down list). Please note: It is important that the Certifying Officer’s e-mail address is kept current with the Employer Pensions and Benefits Information Connection (EPIC) to assure the accurate and timely delivery of this information. For more information about EPIC or to update your information contact the Division’s Employer Education Unit at (609) 292-7524 or send e-mail to the Division of Pensions and Benefits at: https://www.state.nj.us/treas/pensions/epicmail.shtml CERTIFYING OFFICER LETTER — September 8, 2008 TO: Certifying Officers FROM: Frederick J. Beaver, Director SUBJECT: Online Application Requirement for Pension Loans The attached Certifying Officer Letter has been issued by the Division of Pensions and Benefits to announce significant changes to pension loan application procedures. Effective November 1, 2008, an eligible member who wishes to borrow against their pension account, must submit the loan request through the Pension Loan Application in the Member Benefits Online System (MBOS). DISTRIBUTION OF THIS LETTER Certifying Officers should forward this letter and flier to their Human Resources staff, benefit administrators, and any other staff members responsible for the administration of pension benefits. The letter and attachments are in PDF format and require Acrobat Reader which is available free from Adobe at: http://www.state.nj.us/acrobat.htm If you are unable to open the PDF file, current and archived Certifying Officer Letters and individual attachments are available for viewing on the Division’s Web site (or from the Pensions and Benefits home page: http://www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions go to “Links for Employers” and then select “Certifying Officer Letters” from the “Letters, Laws, Boards & Other Resources” drop down list). Please note: It is important that the Certifying Officer’s e-mail address is kept current with the Employer Pensions and Benefits Information Connection (EPIC) to assure the accurate and timely delivery of this information. For more information about EPIC or to update your information contact the Division’s Employer Education Unit at (609) 292-7524 or send e-mail to the Division of Pensions and Benefits at: https://www.state.nj.us/treas/pensions/epicmail.shtml CERTIFYING OFFICER LETTER — August 18, 2008 TO: State Biweekly Certifying Officers, State Monthly Agency and Authority Certifying Officers, State College and University Certifying Officers, State Human Resource and Benefit Administrators FROM: John D. Megariotis, Deputy Director, Finance SUBJECT: TAX$AVE 2009 — Open Enrollment for the New Jersey State Employees Tax Savings Program The attached Certifying Officer Letter has been issued by the Division of Pensions and Benefits to announce the Open Enrollment for the New Jersey State Employees Tax Savings Program (Tax$ave 2009). The dates for the Open Enrollment are October 1 — 31, 2008 with plan benefits and changes effective January 1, 2009. Fringe Benefits Management Company (FBMC),is the administrator for the Tax$ave Flexible Savings Account Plans. Read more about FBMC, the FSA plans, and the other benefits available to your employees through Tax$ave in the letter and related attachments.
DISTRIBUTION OF THIS LETTER Certifying Officers should forward this letter and flier to their Human Resources staff, benefit administrators, and any other staff members responsible for the administration of pension or health benefits. The letter and attachments are in PDF format and require Acrobat Reader which is available free from Adobe at: http://www.state.nj.us/acrobat.htm If you are unable to open the PDF file, current and archived Certifying Officer Letters and individual attachments are available for viewing on the Division’s Web site (or from the Pensions and Benefits home page: http://www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions go to “Links for Employers” and then select “Certifying Officer Letters” from the “Letters, Laws, Boards & Other Resources” drop down list). Please note: It is important that the Certifying Officer’s e-mail address is kept current with the Employer Pensions and Benefits Information Connection (EPIC) to assure the accurate and timely delivery of this information. For more information about EPIC or to update your information contact the Division’s Employer Education Unit at (609) 292-7524 or send e-mail to the Division of Pensions and Benefits at: https://www.state.nj.us/treas/pensions/epicmail.shtml E-MAIL MESSAGE to State Human Resource Representatives — July 8, 2008 TO: State Human Resource Representatives for PERS Prosecutors Part Members FROM: The New Jersey Division of Pensions and Benefits SUBJECT: Prosecutors Part of the PERS – Member Pension Contribution Rate Change July 1, 2008 At the meeting held on March 19, 2008, the Board of Trustees of the Public Employees’ Retirement System, per the recommendation of the system’s actuary, Buck Consultants, adopted an increase in the contribution rate for those members covered under Chapter 366, P.L. 2001 – Prosecutors Part. This action was taken as authorized by N.J.S.A. 43:15A-157(b) and required by N.J.A.C. 17:2-8.3(b) which states that the “rate of contribution shall be reviewed by the System's actuaries periodically and adjusted by the Board as necessary.” Effective with any salary reported after June 30, 2008, the member contribution rate will increase from 7.50% of salary to 8.50% for employees enrolled in the Prosecutors Part of the PERS. For State prosecutors paid through the Centralized Payroll System, this change takes effect during Pay Period 14 and is reflected in the pay check dated July 11, 2008. Certifying Officers and Human Resources Representatives are asked to make Prosecutors Part members aware of this change. Any retroactive increases in base salary paid on or after July 1, 2008, will have corresponding pension contributions deducted at the 8.50% rate; including any portion of the retroactive salary that covered a period prior to July 1, 2008. If you have questions regarding any of the information contained in this letter, contact the Division’s Office of Client Services at (609) 292-7524, or e-mail the Division at: www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions/epicmail.html Current and archived messages are available for viewing on the Division’s Web site at: www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions. At the home page, go to “Online Employer Services - EPIC ” and then select “Archive of E-Messages” link at the lower left portion of the page. CERTIFYING OFFICER LETTER — June 30, 2008 TO: Certifying Officers of Local Employers FROM: Frederick J. Beaver, Director SUBJECT: Early Retirement Incentives The attached Certifying Officer Letter addresses the procedures required of local governmental entities when considering the proposal of Separation of Employment Agreements and/or Early Retirement Incentives for their employees. Certifying Officers should forward this letter to any appropriate staff members responsible for the administration of retirement benefits for your employees. The letter is in PDF format and requires Acrobat Reader which is available free from Adobe at: www.state.nj.us/acrobat.htm If you are unable to open the attachment, current and archived Certifying Officer Letters are available for viewing on the Division’s Web site at: www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions. At the home page, go to “Links for Employers” and then select “Certifying Officer Letters” from the “Letters, Laws, Boards & Other Resources” drop down list. Certifying Officers should watch for future Certifying Officer Letters in their e-mail. Please note: It is important that the Certifying Officer’s e-mail address is kept current with the Employer Pensions and Benefits Information Connection (EPIC) to assure the accurate and timely delivery of this information. For more information about EPIC or to update your information contact the Division’s Employer Education Unit at (609) 292-7524 or send e-mail to the Division of Pensions and Benefits at: www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions/epicmail.html E-MAIL MESSAGE to State Certifying Officers — June 25, 2008 TO: State Certifying Officers FROM: The New Jersey Division of Pensions and Benefits SUBJECT: Update to 2008 State Early Retirement Incentive On June 24, 2008, Governor Corzine signed the 2008 Early Retirement Incentive (ERI) program into law for certain full-time employees of the Executive and Judiciary Branches of New Jersey State government. Please note the following updates that are being provided in addition to the information that was distributed in the Certifying Officer Letter of June 18, 2008. APPLICATION DATES AND DEADLINES The provisions of the ERI require eligible employees to retire by August 1, 2008. New ERI Applications for Retirement Allowance are being accepted from eligible members for the August 1, 2008 date only. The completed ERI Application for Retirement Allowance must be received by the Division of Pensions and Benefits no later than July 15, 2008. Applications received after the July 15, 2008 deadline will not be honored. If a member has applied for regular PERS or TPAF retirement as of July 1, 2008, and is now eligible for the incentive benefit, the member must submit an ERI Application for Retirement Allowance to the Division of Pensions and Benefits no later than July 15, 2008 to change to the ERI retirement. The ERI also provides an incentive for eligible members who retired from March 1, 2008 through August 1, 2008. Eligible members who have already retired with retirement dates between March 1, 2008 and June 1, 2008 will be contacted by mail and offered the incentive for which the retiree qualifies. To receive the incentive, the retiree will be required to sign and return an ERI Acknowledgement of Terms and Conditions form and abide by the terms and conditions into retirement. CATEGORY THREE RETIREES Eligible employees applying under Category Three of the ERI who wish to avoid the 20% withholding of federal tax should include the completed ERI Rollover Election Form with their ERI Application for Retirement Allowance. The ERI Rollover Election Form is available on the Division’s Web site: www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions and is linked from the ERI information page. PURCHASE OF SERVICE Service credit in the PERS or TPAF established through a purchase completed after the effective date of the ERI legislation shall not be considered in determining a member's eligibility for the ERI. This means that qualification for the ERI, or an ERI category, by submitting a Purchase Application or using a “pending” purchase request is not permitted. However, members who have previously authorized payroll deductions for the purchase of service credit or received a Quotation Letter for the purchase of service credit within 90 days prior to the effective date of the ERI legislation, may complete the purchase to qualify for the ERI, provided that the entire purchase is paid in full within 90 days of the Quotation Letter or by the close of business on July 15, 2008, whichever is earlier. MAILING TO ELIGIBLE MEMBERS The Division of Pensions and Benefits has distributed an ERI mailing to eligible PERS and TPAF members which was mailed to members' home addresses. The mailing includes:
Eligible members must use the ERI Application for Retirement Allowance to apply for the incentive benefits. The regular PERS/TPAF Application for Retirement Allowance or applications made through the Member Benefits Online System (MBOS) will not qualify. (Eligible members are only able to obtain an Estimate of Retirement Benefits using MBOS.) Complete information about the 2008 State Early Retirement Incentive is available and linked from the Division of Pensions and Benefits Web site at: www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions Certifying Officers should forward this message to Benefit Administrators, Human Resource Representatives, and to any other individuals on your staff who would require this information in their administrative duties for employees enrolled in the PERS or TPAF. Current and archived messages are available for viewing on the Division’s Web site at: www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions. At the home page, go to “Online Employer Services - EPIC ” and then select “Archive of E-Messages” link at the lower left portion of the page. CERTIFYING OFFICER LETTER — June 18, 2008 TO: State Department Certifying Officers and Human Resource Personnel FROM: Frederick J. Beaver, Director SUBJECT: 2008 State Early Retirement Incentive The attached Certifying Officer Letter outlines the proposed bills to provide an Early Retirement Incentive (ERI) program for certain full-time employees of the Executive Branch or the Judicial Branch of New Jersey State government. The proposed ERI is only in draft legislative form; this letter describes the proposal and is offered only as guidance. There is no commitment to an ERI until it is enacted and signed into law. Certifying Officers should forward this letter to any appropriate staff members responsible for the administration of PERS or TPAF benefits for your employees. The letter is in PDF format and requires Acrobat Reader which is available free from Adobe at: www.state.nj.us/acrobat.htm If you are unable to open the attachment, current and archived Certifying Officer Letters are available for viewing on the Division’s Web site at: www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions. At the home page, go to “Links for Employers” and then select “Certifying Officer Letters” from the “Letters, Laws, Boards & Other Resources” drop down list. Certifying Officers should watch for future Certifying Officer Letters in their e-mail. Please note: It is important that the Certifying Officer’s e-mail address is kept current with the Employer Pensions and Benefits Information Connection (EPIC) to assure the accurate and timely delivery of this information. For more information about EPIC or to update your information contact the Division’s Employer Education Unit at (609) 292-7524 or send e-mail to the Division of Pensions and Benefits at: www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions/epicmail.html CERTIFYING OFFICER LETTER — May 6, 2008 TO: Certifying Officers of Local Employers FROM: John D. Megariotis, Deputy Director, Finance SUBJECT: Independent Contractors and Professional Services Contracts under Chapter 92, P.L. 2007 The attached Certifying Officer Letter outlines the limits on membership in the Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS) or Teacher Pension and Annuity Fund (TPAF), established under Chapter 92, P.L. 2007, and pertaining to employees performing service pursuant to a professional services contract or as an independent contractor. Certifying Officers should forward this letter to any appropriate staff members responsible for the administration of PERS or TPAF enrollment for your employees. The letter is in PDF format and requires Acrobat Reader which is available free from Adobe at: www.state.nj.us/acrobat.htm If you are unable to open the attachment, current and archived Certifying Officer Letters are available for viewing on the Division’s Web site at: www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions. At the home page, go to “Links for Employers” and then select “Certifying Officer Letters” from the “Letters, Laws, Boards & Other Resources” drop down list. Certifying Officers should watch for future Certifying Officer Letters in their e-mail. Please note: It is important that the Certifying Officer’s e-mail address is kept current with the Employer Pensions and Benefits Information Connection (EPIC) to assure the accurate and timely delivery of this information. For more information about EPIC or to update your information contact the Division’s Employer Education Unit at (609) 292-7524 or send e-mail to the Division of Pensions and Benefits at: www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions/epicmail.html E-MAIL MESSAGE to Certifying Officers of the Public Employees' Retirement System — May 5, 2008 TO: Certifying Officers FROM: The New Jersey Division of Pensions and Benefits SUBJECT: New PERS Enrollment Application Available on EPIC The Division of Pensions and Benefits is pleased to announce that a new online application is now accessible through the Employer Pension and Benefit Information Connection (EPIC). PUBLIC EMPLOYEES’ RETIREMENT SYSTEM (PERS) ENROLLMENT APPLICATION
Certifying Officers should forward this message to Benefit Administrators, Human Resource Representatives, and to any other individuals on your staff who would require this information in their administrative duties when enrolling employees under the PERS. ACCESSING NEW EPIC APPLICATIONS
Current and archived messages are available for viewing on the Division’s Web site at: www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions. At the home page, go to “Online Employer Services - EPIC ” and then select “Archive of E-Messages” link at the lower left portion of the page. CERTIFYING OFFICER LETTER — May 1, 2008 TO: Local Government Certifying Officers of the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) FROM: John D. Megariotis, Deputy Director, Finance SUBJECT: Prosecutors Part of the PERS – Member Contribution Rate Change July 1, 2008 The attached Certifying Officer Letter is a reminder for local government employers that employees enrolled in the Prosecutors Part of the PERS are subject effective July 1, 2008 to a member contribution rate change from 7.5% to 8.5%. Certifying Officers should forward this letter to any appropriate staff members responsible for the administration of Prosecutors Part benefits for your employees enrolled under the PERS. The letter is in PDF format and requires Acrobat Reader which is available free from Adobe at: www.state.nj.us/acrobat.htm If you are unable to open the attachment, current and archived Certifying Officer Letters are available for viewing on the Division’s Web site at: www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions. At the home page, go to “Links for Employers” and then select “Certifying Officer Letters” from the “Letters, Laws, Boards & Other Resources” drop down list. Certifying Officers should watch for future Certifying Officer Letters in their e-mail. Please note: It is important that the Certifying Officer’s e-mail address is kept current with the Employer Pensions and Benefits Information Connection (EPIC) to assure the accurate and timely delivery of this information. For more information about EPIC or to update your information contact the Division’s Employer Education Unit at (609) 292-7524 or send e-mail to the Division of Pensions and Benefits at: www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions/epicmail.html CERTIFYING OFFICER LETTER — April 23, 2008 TO: Certifying Officers of the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) FROM: John D. Megariotis, Deputy Director, Finance SUBJECT: Member Contribution Rate Change under Chapter 103, P.L. 2007 The attached Certifying Officer Letter is a reminder for employers whose employees are subject effective July 2008 to the 5.5% PERS member contribution rate change under Chapter 103, P.L. 2007. Certifying Officers should forward this letter to any appropriate staff members responsible for the administration of PERS enrollment or payroll for your employees. The letter is in PDF format and requires Acrobat Reader which is available free from Adobe at: www.state.nj.us/acrobat.htm If you are unable to open the attachment, current and archived Certifying Officer Letters are available for viewing on the Division’s Web site at: www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions. At the home page, go to “Links for Employers” and then select “Certifying Officer Letters” from the “Letters, Laws, Boards & Other Resources” drop down list. Certifying Officers should watch for future Certifying Officer Letters in their e-mail. Please note: It is important that the Certifying Officer’s e-mail address is kept current with the Employer Pensions and Benefits Information Connection (EPIC) to assure the accurate and timely delivery of this information. For more information about EPIC or to update your information contact the Division’s Employer Education Unit at (609) 292-7524 or send e-mail to the Division of Pensions and Benefits at: www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions/epicmail.html E-MAIL MESSAGE to State Biweekly Employers — April 3, 2008 TO: State Biweekly Certifying Officers, Benefit Administrators, and Payroll Staff FROM: State Health Benefits Program SUBJECT: SHBP Plan Listed on Paychecks Dated April 4, 2008 For State employees subject to the 1.5% of salary contribution for State Health Benefits Program (SHBP) coverage, some confusion may arise regarding the SHBP plan listed on the paycheck stub for pay period 07 2008 (checks dated April 4, 2008). The Health coverage listed is the coverage in effect for the pay period 07 2008, which is from March 15, 2008 though March 28, 2008. It is not the coverage in effect as of April 4, 2008. The new medical plan under the SHBP went into effect March 29, 2008 for State Biweekly employees and will be reflected on paychecks for pay period 08 2008 (checks dated April 18, 2008). Certifying Officers should forward this message as soon as possible to Benefit Administrators, Human Resource Representatives, and to any other individuals on your staff who would require this information in their administrative duties. Current and archived messages are also available for viewing on the Division’s Web site at: www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions. At the home page, go to “Online Employer Services - EPIC ” and then select “Archive of E-Messages” link at the lower left portion of the page. CERTIFYING OFFICER LETTER — March 3, 2008 TO: Certifying Officers FROM: John D. Megariotis, Deputy Director, Finance SUBJECT: Defined Contribution Retirement Program (DCRP) Eligibility Information and Enrollment Procedures The attached Certifying Officer Letters outline the procedures for employers when addressing eligibility and enrollment of certain employees into the Defined Contribution Retirement Program (DCRP). The letters individually address 1.) the eligibility and enrollment of Elected and Appointed Officials; and 2.) the eligibility and enrollment of PERS or TPAF members who earn in excess of established “maximum compensation” limits for PERS or TPAF pension contributions. Certifying Officers should forward these letters to any appropriate staff members responsible for the administration of PERS and/or TPAF enrollment for your employees. The letters are in PDF format and require the Acrobat Reader which is available free from Adobe at: www.state.nj.us/acrobat.htm If you are unable to open the attachments, current and archived Certifying Officer Letters are available for viewing on the Division’s Web site at: www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions. At the home page, go to “Links for Employers” and then select “Certifying Officer Letters” from the “Letters, Laws, Boards & Other Resources” drop down list. Certifying Officers should watch for future Certifying Officer Letters in their e-mail. Please note: It is important that the Certifying Officer’s e-mail address is kept current with the Employer Pensions and Benefits Information Connection (EPIC) to assure the accurate and timely delivery of this information. For more information about EPIC or to update your information contact the Division’s Employer Education Unit at (609) 292-7524 or send e-mail to the Division of Pensions and Benefits at: www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions/epicmail.html CERTIFYING OFFICER LETTER — December 25, 2008 TO: State Biweekly and State Monthly SHBP Certifying Officers, Human Resources Representatives, and Benefit Administrators FROM: Florence J. Sheppard, Deputy Director, Benefit Operations SUBJECT: New State Health Benefits Program (SHBP) Medical Plans and Rates The attached Certifying Officer Letter has been issued by the New Jersey State Health Benefits Program to notify State Biweekly and State Monthly SHBP Certifying Officers of the new SHBP medical plans and rates effective as of April 2008. Certifying Officers should forward this letter to their Human Resources staff, Benefits Administrators, and any other staff members responsible for assisting employees with health benefits or related administrative procedures. The letter is in PDF format and requires the Acrobat Reader which is available free from Adobe at: www.state.nj.us/acrobat.htm If you are unable to open the attachment, current and archived Certifying Officer Letters are available for viewing on the Division’s Web site at: www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions. At the home page, go to “Links for Employers” and then select “Certifying Officer Letters” from the “Letters, Laws, Boards & Other Resources” drop down list. Please note: It is important that the Certifying Officer’s e-mail address is kept current with the Employer Pensions and Benefits Information Connection (EPIC) to assure the accurate and timely delivery of this information. For more information about EPIC or to update your information contact the Division’s Employer Education Unit at (609) 292-7524 or send e-mail to the Division of Pensions and Benefits at: www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions/epicmail.html CERTIFYING OFFICER LETTER — December 25, 2008 TO: Participating Local Government SHBP Certifying Officers, Human Resources Representatives, and Benefit Administrators FROM: Florence J. Sheppard, Deputy Director, Benefit Operations SUBJECT: New State Health Benefits Program (SHBP) Medical Plans and Rates The attached Certifying Officer Letter has been issued by the New Jersey State Health Benefits Program to notify State Biweekly and State Monthly SHBP Certifying Officers of the new SHBP medical plans and rates effective as of April 2008. Certifying Officers should forward this letter to their Human Resources staff, Benefits Administrators, and any other staff members responsible for assisting employees with health benefits or related administrative procedures. The letter is in PDF format and requires the Acrobat Reader which is available free from Adobe at: www.state.nj.us/acrobat.htm If you are unable to open the attachment, current and archived Certifying Officer Letters are available for viewing on the Division’s Web site at: www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions. At the home page, go to “Links for Employers” and then select “Certifying Officer Letters” from the “Letters, Laws, Boards & Other Resources” drop down list. Please note: It is important that the Certifying Officer’s e-mail address is kept current with the Employer Pensions and Benefits Information Connection (EPIC) to assure the accurate and timely delivery of this information. For more information about EPIC or to update your information contact the Division’s Employer Education Unit at (609) 292-7524 or send e-mail to the Division of Pensions and Benefits at: www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions/epicmail.html CERTIFYING OFFICER LETTER — December 25, 2008 TO: Participating Local Education SHBP Certifying Officers, Human Resources Representatives, and Benefit Administrators FROM: Florence J. Sheppard, Deputy Director, Benefit Operations SUBJECT: New State Health Benefits Program (SHBP) Medical Plans and Rates The attached Certifying Officer Letter has been issued by the New Jersey State Health Benefits Program to notify State Biweekly and State Monthly SHBP Certifying Officers of the new SHBP medical plans and rates effective as of April 2008. Certifying Officers should forward this letter to their Human Resources staff, Benefits Administrators, and any other staff members responsible for assisting employees with health benefits or related administrative procedures. The letter is in PDF format and requires the Acrobat Reader which is available free from Adobe at: www.state.nj.us/acrobat.htm If you are unable to open the attachment, current and archived Certifying Officer Letters are available for viewing on the Division’s Web site at: www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions. At the home page, go to “Links for Employers” and then select “Certifying Officer Letters” from the “Letters, Laws, Boards & Other Resources” drop down list. Please note: It is important that the Certifying Officer’s e-mail address is kept current with the Employer Pensions and Benefits Information Connection (EPIC) to assure the accurate and timely delivery of this information. For more information about EPIC or to update your information contact the Division’s Employer Education Unit at (609) 292-7524 or send e-mail to the Division of Pensions and Benefits at: www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions/epicmail.html
|
| |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Copyright
© State of New Jersey, 1996-2010
Division of Pensions and Benefits
PO Box 295
Trenton, NJ 08625-0295
Last Updated: May 18, 2010