At KDOT, we understand that our employees are our greatest asset. That’s why we provide a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial security, and overall well-being.
Why doesn't my membership date on my annual KPERS statement change when I purchase my first year of service?
Your KPERS membership date stays the same no matter how many years of service credit you purchase. However, you should notice the total years of service credit increase by an amount equal to your purchase.
Why am I required to participate in KPERS?
State law requires all state employees on permanent positions requiring 1000 hours or more per year to become members of KPERS upon employment. See SOM 2.2.4.
How do I change or add a beneficiary for KPERS?
To add or change a primary beneficiary(ies), an employee must complete a KPERS-7/99, Designation of Beneficiary form, and forward to the Bureau of Human Resources through your personnel clerk. Initial designation of a beneficiary and contingent (if applicable) is done on the KPERS-7/99, and submitted at time of employment. See SOM 2.2.4.
If I quit State service, do I have to take my contributions out of KPERS?
You are a vested KPERS member after five (5) years of participating service. If you have not vested at the time you resign from State employment, you have five (5) years to withdraw your contributions. If you do not withdraw or return to employment in a KPERS covered position during this five year period, KPERS will notify you by mail that it is time to withdraw. If you are vested at the time you resign from State employment, you may leave your contributions in KPERS until you are ready to retire. See SOM 2.2.4.
How much life insurance coverage does the State provide for me?
The State, through KPERS, provides a basic group life insurance referred to as an insured death benefit that is currently 150 percent (150%) of an employee's annual rate of compensation at the time of death. This benefit is only available to those employees who are in (regular) KPERS eligible positions, which includes unclassified benefits eligible temporaries, but excludes regular (classified) temporary employees. Additional coverage is available through KPERS with Minnesota Life, at a minimal monthly rate. See your personnel transaction processing clerk for information about Optional Life Insurance.
How do I obtain an estimate of my retirement benefit?
Retirement estimates are prepared by Karla Thies in the Bureau of Human Resources. You may call 785-296-3519 and discuss possible retirement dates and an estimate will be prepared for you.
When do I receive my first retirement check after I retire?
Your first retirement check would be received one month following your KPERS retirement date. For example, if your last day on the payroll is September 21, 2001, your KPERS retirement date would be October 1, 2001, and your first retirement benefit check would be dated on the last working day of October.
After I retire from KDOT, can I be rehired on a temporary basis?
Yes, you can be rehired on a temporary basis sixty (60) days after your KPERS retirement date. Example: Last day at work 6-12, KPERS retirement date, 7-1, May be hired on a temporary appointment on 9-1 or after. Maximum earnings allowed when returning to work for the same employer is $20,000. [Same employer for KDOT employees is the State of Kansas.]
When can I add a newborn child to my health insurance?
A newborn child can be added the day of the birth. Group health insurance forms adding the newborn must be completed within 31 days of the date of birth. See your personnel transaction clerk for the necessary forms.
Do I have immediate health insurance coverage on the date I begin employment?
No, your health insurance coverage will become effective the first day of the month following the completion of a 30 day waiting period.
What is a Flexible Spending Account (FSA)?
The Flexible Spending Account is an Internal Revenue Code (IRS) Section 125 cafeteria plan which allows an employee to pay for unreimbursed health care expenses, and dependent day care expenses with pretax dollars.
What is Deferred Compensation?
Deferred Compensation is a voluntary 457 (b) retirement plan, established by the State to help employees provide a supplement to their KPERS retirement benefit. ING is the contracted provider for this benefit. Money which is deferred from your paycheck is done so prior to taxes. Information about Deferred Compensation is available from a Tandem (ING) representative at 785 296-7094 or outside of Topeka call 1-800-232-0024.