State Public Pensions in California
California public-employee pensions are administered by CalPERS for state and local government workers and by CalSTRS for public school educators. Survivor and death benefits range from a return of contributions to a monthly allowance, depending on whether the member was active or retired and the option they elected. Benefits are not paid automatically — a survivor must apply.
OverviewWhen someone dies
State Public Pensions in California: key facts
- Systems
- CalPERS (California Public Employees' Retirement System) and CalSTRS (California State Teachers' Retirement System).
- CalPERS benefits
- Range from a return of contributions plus interest to a monthly allowance; the beneficiary on file receives the benefit, or CalPERS applies the statutory beneficiary order.
- CalSTRS coverage
- The Defined Benefit Program provides survivor benefits before or after retirement under Coverage A (family allowance) or Coverage B (survivor benefit).
- Contacts
- CalPERS 888-225-7377; CalSTRS 800-228-5453 (8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific time, Monday through Friday). Report the death and apply — benefits are not automatic.
When someone dies
Steps after a death in California
4-step process for CalPERS and CalSTRS.
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Sources
Data sourced from State Public Pensions in California primary sources (5 pages reviewed). How we research.