As the coronavirus pandemic wreaks havoc across the nation, the unfortunate reality is that some members of the New York State Local and Employees’ Retirement System may become seriously, or even fatally, ill with the virus. It’s important that members have the information they need to make an informed choice when it comes to protecting their loved ones.
If you become seriously ill with COVID-19, consider filing for ERS disability retirement. The choice makes your beneficiaries eligible for a continuing pension benefit rather than a one-time in-service death benefit.
For details about how to file, and an application, visit the NYSLRS “Filing for Retirement During the COVID-19 Emergency” page.
Call the ERS Contact Center at 866-805-0990, or reach out to NYSUT’s ERS consultants, with further questions.