Your ERS Connection Retiree Newsletter


October 2024 Your ERS Connection

PDF Version - Fall 2024

Topics Include:

  • Fall Enrollment begins Oct. 28 for Medicare-eligible retirees
  • Message from the executive director:  Requesting state funds to secure you benefits
  • ERS Board to take action related to COLA in next meeting
  • Annuity payment dates
  • Timely response to Express Scripts could help you get your prescription sooner
  • Will you see change in you annuity?
  • HealthSelectSM Medicare Advantage offers well-being programs to members at no cost
  • New HealthSelect of Texas programs can help you manage your health
  • Viva la Buena Vida
  • Tell us about how your benefits have helped you in retirement
  • HealthSelectSM MA PPO participants: Get over-the-counter essentials today!
  • New for 2025 The all-in-one UCard for HealthSelect MA PPO participants


June 2024 Your ERS Connection

PDF Version - Summer 2024

Topics Include:

  • Summer Enrollment is almost here
  • Message from the executive director: Finding purpose in retirement
  • Two-factor authentication for ERS OnLine is here
  • How to cope with summertime blues
  • Annuity payment dates
  • Did you forget to take your medication?
  • Term life vs. permanent life insurance: What’s the difference?
  • ERS’ 5 most common FAQs about Medicare

March 2024 Your ERS Connection

PDF Version - Spring 2024

Topics Include:

  • Your prescription drug FAQs answered
  • Message from the executive director: The ERS difference
  • Annuity payment dates
  • Tax season can be scam season for retirees
  • ERS Board appoints new advisory committee members
  • RSV vaccine now covered at 100% for Consumer Directed HealthSelectSM participants
  • Have you received Form 1099-R?

December 2023 Your ERS Connection

PDF Version - Winter 2023

Topics Include:

  • Know your tax facts
  • Reminder: Express Scripts transition on Jan. 1
  • Possible changes in annuity amounts for Medicare-eligible retirees
  • Add resistance to your workout to stay strong
  • Deductible, out-of-pocket maximums reset Jan. 1
  • RSV vaccine now available for adults over 60
  • Message from the executive director: Take advantage of your wellness benefits
  • Turning 70 could impact your life insurance benefit
  • ERS Trust Fund a top performer

September 2023 Your ERS Connection

PDF Version - Fall 2023

Topics Include:

  • Fall Enrollment begins Oct. 30
  • Express Scripts transition Jan. 1
  • Message from the executive director: Staying connected, staying informed
  • Annuity payment dates: Possible changes in annuity amounts for non-Medicare retirees
  • New State of Texas VisionSM administrator
  • Medicare Preparation webinars
  • Staying Connected retiree fairs

June 2023 Your ERS Connection

PDF Version - Summer 2023

Topics Include:

  • Retirees not eligible for Medicare: Summer Enrollment is your time to change your benefits
  • Life-changing support through your health plan
  • Message from the executive director: Legislative support to return all retirement plans to actuarial soundness
  • New administrator for prescription drug programs beginning Jan. 1, 2024
  • New State of Texas VisionSM administrator starting Sept. 1
  • ERS Board of Trustees election: voting ends June 16

March 2023 Your ERS Connection

PDF Version - Spring 2023

Topics Include:

  • Non-emergency transportation benefit for HealthSelectSM Medicare Advantage participants
  • Who will be our next trustee?
  • Message from the executive director: The constancy of change—and ERS' commitment to change for the better
  • Take a "glance" at what ERS has accomplished
  • Search the ERS website for these upcoming events
  • The one thing we can all do today
  • Many Texans have unclaimed property. Are you one of them?

December 2022 Your ERS Connection

PDF Version - Winter 2022

Topics Include:

  • 1099-R Form and 1095-B reminder
  • Mental health support and resources
  • Message from the executive director: Celebrating accomplishments and continuing our important work
  • Deductibles, out-of-pocket maximums reset Jan. 1
  • ERS Board of Trustees election and call for nominations
  • Healthy holiday mindset: finding awe
  • Avoiding scams

September 2022 Your ERS Connection

PDF Version - Fall 2022

Topics Include:

  • Medicare-eligible retirees: Fall Enrollment begins October 31
  • John R. Rutherford joins ERS Board of Trustees
  • Message from the executive director: 75 years of vital benefits - an eye to the future
  • Upcoming annuity payment dates
  • Life Insurance for Retirees
  • Fall savings
  • 75 Years - looking back and looking forward

June 2022 Your ERS Connection

PDF Version - Summer 2022

Topics Include:

  • Retirees not eligible for Medicare: Summer Enrollment is your time to change your benefits
  • Message from the executive director: Approaching 75 with a spirit of engagement
  • Focus on vision before the plan year ends
  • ERS reconnects in person with retirees
  • Summer Savings

March 2022 Your ERS Connection

PDF Version - Spring 2022

Topics include:

  • ERS benefits after death: Important information for your survivors
  • Message from the executive director: Staying connected
  • Taking care of your health? Don't forget to get rewarded!
  • Home health care: Understanding types and coverage
  • Listen up: Not all hearing aids are equal
  • What are value-added benefits?