The San Mateo County Employees’ Retirement Association (SamCERA)
is a defined benefit pension plan providing retirement,
disability and death benefits for its eligible members and
beneficiaries. SamCERA is an independent government entity,
separate from the County of San Mateo.
SamCERA was founded in 1944 by the San Mateo County Board of
Supervisors. Today, the association administers benefits for all
permanent employees of the County of San Mateo, the San Mateo
County Superior Court, and the San Mateo County Mosquito and
Vector Control District.
SamCERA operates under authority granted by the County
Employees Retirement Law of 1937, also known as the ‘37 Act. In
addition, SamCERA is governed by the California
Constitution, the California Public Employees’ Pension Reform Act
of 2013 (PEPRA), and the regulations, procedures and policies
adopted by the SamCERA Board of Retirement. The Board of
Supervisors may also adopt resolutions and ordinances which may
affect the benefits of certain groups of SamCERA members.
Mission
SamCERA exists to serve as a loyal fiduciary for its members and
as a prudent administrator of the retirement system.
Goals
Provide high quality services and information to members and
other stakeholders.
Manage assets prudently and cost-effectively to assure the
retirement system is adequately funded and all earned benefits
are paid timely.
Improve operating efficiency and effectiveness to minimize cost.
Vision
To be a well-governed and financially sound public retirement
system through effective management, prudent investment, and
efficient administration of benefits.
