Update: Agreement Over Disability Retirement Protocols

Union members who participate in the State Employees Retirement System (SERS) who can no longer work due to a disability depend on a lifetime retirement allowance and health insurance. SEBAC and the State of Connecticut have recently agreed to clear protocols for disability retirement that ensures the protection of members’ benefits while creating a transparent process for everyone involved.

The disability pension provisions of the SEBAC agreement have always contained provisions requiring outside income to be reported.  Previously, there was confusion about the consequences of not responding to annual income surveys from the Retirement Services Division, which led to the risk of legal actions against some retirees or benefits being suspended summarily and entirely until the information is provided.   The new agreement aims to eliminate this confusion by establishing a straightforward process for maintaining eligibility for your benefits.

What You Need to Know

Annual Survey Requirement: Each year, if you are not exempted under Item 4, below, you will receive a survey from the Retirement Services Division asking for information and documentation to confirm your continued eligibility for benefits.

Notice System: If you do not respond to the survey, the Division will follow a clear notice system:

  • Initial Notice: A letter explaining the importance of responding and the risk of temporary benefit reduction.                                                                                                       

  • Second Notice: A follow-up letter if no response is received within 30 days.

  • Final Notice: Another follow-up letter 30 days after the second notice.

  • Notice of Temporary Reduction: If no response is received within 90 days, your benefits will be temporarily reduced to cover only your health insurance premium until the required information is provided.

Enhanced Communications: To ensure everyone receives these notices, the Division will ask for an alternative contact person. They will also use all available resources to confirm your mailing address if you do not respond.                                                               

Exemptions: These procedures will not apply if you are receiving Social Security Disability benefits or have reached the age of 70.