Post-Retirement Benefits

Retiree Health Insurance and Other Benefits For GRS Retirees

Health Insurance

Health insurance is the only benefit provided through the State. This benefit can be continued for life at retirement. As a retiree, you have an opportunity each year to change your health insurance options during the Retiree Option Change Period (ROCP).  For details regarding change requirements, please contact State Health Benefit Plan (SHBP) at 1-800-610-1863.  Learn more about SHBP.

Be aware of a change in the State Health Benefit Plan (SHBP) subsidy policy for retirees that took effect on January 1, 2017. Please visit the SHBP website for information about the Annuitant Years of Service Subsidy Policy, including Retiree Rate Calculators. This change could have a substantial impact on the cost of healthcare in retirement.   Which rate structure applies to me?   Learn more about retiree rates.

Attaining Age 65

If you are retired with health insurance through SHBP, you must enroll in only Medicare Part A and Part B three months prior to attaining age 65.  This should be completed through a local Social Security office.  You must contact SHBP/ADP (1-800-610-1863) 31 days prior to the first of the month in which you turn 65 to elect a Medicare Advantage Plan for anyone on your plan age 65 or on Medicare due to disability.  Failure to do so will result in increased monthly premiums.  

Dental, Vision, Life, Legal, Hospital Indemnity, Accident, Critical Illness, Automobile/Home Owner's Insurance, etc.

In addition to the State of Georgia sponsored health plan, Gwinnett County Public Schools also provides other benefits, such as life insurance, dental, vision and cancer insurance. These benefits may be continued by retirees, provided the coverage was in effect at the time of retirement and commencement of GRS benefits. Please note, your life insurance coverage terminates at age 70.  GCPS benefits will automatically rollover during the ROCP.  No action is necessary unless you desire to drop or decrease coverage.  If you want to keep your coverage the same, you do not need to make an election.  Current coverage will automatically rollover and continue.

Please contact benefit carrier for details regarding coverage.  Insurance Carrier Contact Information.

Rules and Requirements

Benefits Continued In Retirement

All benefits to be continued in retirement must be in place the year prior to retirement. Deductions must be coming out of active paychecks prior to retirement in order to continue an optional benefit after retirement.  Flex spending may not be taken into retirement.

Benefits Dropped Prior To Or After Retirement

Any benefits dropped prior to or after retirement cannot be picked back up during retirement (this includes health insurance).

Retiree rates are subject to increases as rates are increased for active employees.