What You Need to Know When Thinking About Retirement
- AFT 1828
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Thinking about retirement:
What You Need to Know
The following is a brief description of how to retire, how to sign up for your benefits, and the resources you can access when your retirement begins. We encourage you to also contact the benefits department as all employees have unique circumstances that can be addressed by the benefits team.
Retirement Application Forms (CalSTRS or CalPERS)
Please complete your pension application forms (CalSTRS or CalPERS).
Contact your pension plan for current guidance on timeframes to apply.
Faculty Retirement
• Learn about the CalSTRS Service retirement application process. https://www.calstrs.com/service-retirement-application-process
• Submit your application online through your my.CalSTRS.com.
• Or download and print the CalSTRS Service Retirement Application paper form to submit by hand delivery, fax, or mail.
• Access your CalSTRS member information. https://www.calstrs.com/members
• Watch CalSTRS videos and webinars. https://www.calstrs.com/videos-and-webinars
• Complete your FT Academic Resignation Form (PDF) and submit to your supervisor for signatures. https://www.vcccd.edu/sites/default/files/media/pdf_document/2025/Academic%20Resignation%20Full-Time%20-%2009.26.24.pdf
• Complete your PT Academic Resignation Form (PDF) and submit to your supervisor for signatures. https://www.vcccd.edu/sites/default/files/media/pdf_document/2025/Academic%20Resignation%20Part-Time%20-%2009.26.24.pdf
Retiree Health Benefits
Retirement benefits provided by the VCCCD vary based on your full-time hire date with the District. To see the retirement benefits you are entitled to review your Collective Bargaining Agreement.
Faculty - 2022-2025 AFT CBA, Article 4 (PDF) (updated agreement 9/1/2023)
Medicare
Learn about your Medicare plan options, how to sign up, and more in the Medicare and You Handbook: o 2026 Medicare and You (English) (PDF) https://www.medicare.gov/publications/10050-medicare-and-you.pdf
2026 Medicare and You (Large Print English) (PDF) https://www.medicare.gov/publications/10050-le-medicare-and-you.pdf
2026 Medicare y Usted (Español) (PDF) https://www.medicare.gov/publications/10050-s-medicare-and-you.pdf
2026 Medicare y Usted (Edicion en letra grande) (PDF) https://www.medicare.gov/publications/10050-ls-medicare-and-you.pdf
Tier I and Tier II Retirees: Watch this video to learn how to find your Medicare premium amounts. https://www.brainshark.com/1/player/burnhambis?pi=zGyzpFOOBzNYr9z0&intk=943667935&r3f1=&fb=0
For more information about Medicare, go to www.medicare.gov or call 800-633-4227.
Health Benefits Resources
2025 Part D Annual Notice (PDF) provides information about your prescription drug coverage choices. https://www.vcccd.edu/sites/default/files/media/pdf_document/2026/2025%20Part%20D%20creditable%20coverage.pdf
Health Insurance Counseling (HICAP) provides free unbiased counseling and community education on Medicare A, B, C, & D https://vcaaa.venturacounty.gov/our-services/medicare-help/
HICAP informational brochure (PDF) https://www.vcccd.edu/sites/default/files/media/pdf_document/2025/AAA5548-HICAP%20broch3-05%202010.indd_.pdf
HICAP information, English and Spanish (PDF) https://www.vcccd.edu/sites/default/files/media/pdf_document/2025/HICAP%20postcard.pdf
As a reminder, we strongly encourage you to contact the benefits department at benefits@vcccd.edu to discuss your specific retirement questions at least 4-6 months in advance.
Questions?
Contact the Benefits Department
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