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Retirement
Start planning now for your retirement down the road. The County offers its employees several opportunities to save for the future, including a pension through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems, a voluntary Deferred Compensation Plan, an HRA VEBA account, and Social Security benefit contributions.
State retirement plans
Most County employees are eligible to participate in one of these three retirement plans through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems (DRS):
- Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS): Plan 1, Plan 2, Plan 3
- Law Enforcement Officers’ and Fire Fighters’ System (LEOFF): Plan 1, Plan 2
- Public Safety Employees’ Retirement System (PSERS): Plan 2
- Elected officials: Retirement plans
DRS offers several options to help you learn about the state retirement plans, including:
Retirement resources and forms
Information and classes
If you are planning to retire soon, download and review the Retirement Guide, which provides information, forms, step-by-step instructions, and resources. If you are planning to retire in the next year or two, use the Retirement Planning Checklist to prepare.
In addition, several classes are offered throughout the year by your Retirement Team to help you prepare for retirement. For details and registration, go to the Benefits and Retirement Events Calendar. For more information, contact King County Orientations.
- Road to Retirement: If you are planning to retire from King County in the next six months, this class covers procedures, forms, medical coverage options, and pension plans.
- Medicare 101: Learn about Medicare and your options as a King County employee.
- Introduction to Social Security: Learn about Social Security and your options as a King County employee.
- Your PERS Pension: Learn about your Washington State Department of Retirement Systems (DRS) pension.
Forms
- DRS Beneficiary Designation Form or update online
- Leaving Employment Form: For anyone leaving county employment.
Medical coverage options
For information about medical coverage for retired King County employees, go to Retiree medical coverage options.
Social Security
For many, Social Security will provide part of their retirement income. To check eligibility, get a benefits estimate, apply for Social Security, and sign up for Medicare:
Visit the Social Security Administration website
General employment separation
Contact Washington State Department of Retirement Systems (DRS)
Phone: 800-547-6657
Email: recep@drs.wa.gov
Visit the DRS website for information and resources, including:
- Find out when you are eligible to retire
- Request an official estimate of benefits when you are six months from retirement
- Obtain information regarding a divorce
- Learn about purchasing service credits due to a temporary duty disability or authorized leave of absence