The Employees’ Retirement System (ERS) was established and began administering retirement benefits for State of Georgia employees on January 1, 1950, as provided by laws enacted through the Georgia General Assembly.

Laws governing ERS provide for service retirements, death and disability benefits, or refunds of contributions and interest to members who leave State employment. Employee and employer contributions are paid into the retirement fund for the welfare of members and their beneficiaries. All benefits are paid from this fund.

An independent actuarial firm that specializes in pension and retirement plans examines the fund every year. The actuarial firm prepares an annual valuation on the ability of the fund to meet future obligations, and every five years performs an actuarial experience study. The System is also examined annually by an independent accounting firm.