Benefits at a Glance
Mission: ERS offers competitive benefits to enhance the lives of its members.
The health and retirement benefits programs offered through ERS are an investment in the state workforce, funded by participating members and the state. The benefits help ensure that Texas has the workers needed to provide services Texans rely on daily. State of Texas employees and retirees earn these benefits, in return for helping to make Texas a great place to live, work and visit.
Health coverage and the retirement plan are competitive with what is offered by other government and private sector employers. Optional benefits -- like dental and vision insurance, and the Texa$averSM 401(k) / 457 Program -- are funded entirely by participating members. ERS oversees the benefits and relies on third-party administrators (TPAs) to help manage some aspects of member benefit programs. TPAs help keep administrative costs low to ensure the best value for active and retired members, the State of Texas and the taxpayers who help fund the benefits.
Health Insurance
As health care costs continue to rise nationwide, ERS strives to keep costs reasonable while offering members choice, and high-quality care and service.
Retirement
The state provides an increasingly rare defined benefit retirement plan with lifetime annuities, as well as a low-fee options for personal savings.
Optional Add-on Benefits
ERS members can choose from a variety of optional benefits like dental and vision insurance, at competitive costs.
Texas Employees Group Benefits Program (GBP) Eligibility
Who is eligible for GBP insurance benefits?