Maine Public Employees Retirement System – Augusta, ME

Public Pension Administration

The Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS), located at 139 Capitol Street, is an independent public agency responsible for administering retirement plans, disability benefits, and death benefits for Maine’s public workforce. Established in 1942, the system serves state employees, public school teachers, legislators, judges, and employees of participating local districts (municipalities and counties). Its mission is to ensure that these retirement plans are funded based on sound actuarial standards and to safeguard the assets of the trust.

Member Services

MainePERS provides a comprehensive suite of services to both active contributors and retirees. Key functions include:

• Retirement Planning: Assisting members in understanding their defined benefit plans, calculating estimated benefits, and processing retirement applications.
• Disability Retirement: Managing the application and review process for members who are unable to perform their job duties due to illness or injury.
• Group Life Insurance: Administering life insurance coverage for eligible employees and retirees, including the processing of beneficiary claims.

Governance and Funding

The system is overseen by a Board of Trustees, which sets policy and investment strategy. MainePERS operates as a qualified tax-exempt trust, meaning its assets are held separately from state funds and are used exclusively for the benefit of members and their beneficiaries. The agency also manages MaineSTART, a tax-deferred defined contribution program that allows public employees to save additional funds for retirement.

Operational Hours

Please note that MainePERS has implemented revised business hours. The office and telephone lines are open to the public Monday through Thursday. Visitors are encouraged to check the official website for holiday closures or changes to this schedule before planning a visit.