Check Out The Latest (and Previous) Newsletters for Retirees
(For Members Only)
Check out “Ask the Retirees’ Connection” (formerly Ask NJPERC) and all of our “Special Tips for Members Only”
If you would like the Retirees’ Connection to research an issue regarding pensions, benefits, or other public employee retiree matter; please write to us at njpercorg@gmail.com. If we can help, we will publish the answer in an upcoming newsletter.
“Ask the Retirees’ Connection” (formerly Ask NJPERC) – Click Here
Social Security 2026 Cost-of-Living Announced
(November 30, 2025)
The new cost-of-living adjustment for 2026 is 2.8%, slightly above last year’s increase, according to the Social Security Administration. Be aware that Medicare is increasing at the same time.
Medicare Part B Premium to Increase in 2026
(November 30, 2025)
Medicare Part B Premiums for 2026 increase 9.7% for 2026 with base premium going from $185 to $202.90
Murphy Adopts Changes That Require Orthotic Coverage for All Insurance Plans
(July 7, 2025)
The Governor adopted S1439 that mandates coverage for orthotics for all insurance (and other plans). While the law does not specify how many orthotics are covered – recent conversations with Aetna indicate that they will cover 2 pairs per year.
We will continue to track compliance with the law – let the Retirees’ Connection know if you have problems going forward.
IRMAA Claim Submission
(January 31, 2025)
IRMAA refers to the income-related monthly adjusted amount for Medicare Part B and D that may be charged if your income exceeds the upper income for basic Medicare. For 2024 that income was $103,000 for an individual, $206,000 for a joint return, and $103,000 for married filing separate (based on your 2024 adjusted income.)
As we discussed previously, depending on your contract, you may be eligible to receive reimbursement of all of Part B and Part D. Most State employees are only eligible for Part D reimbursement.
The official IRMAA package will be sent in February 2025 and you may go online to file for your claim at mynjbenefitshub.
SPECIAL REPORT – AARP Study of NJ Pension System
(October 30, 2024)
AARP has prepared a detailed overview of NJ’s pension system – this study has a lot of useful facts.
SPECIAL REPORT – The Economic Impact of NJ Pension
(September 30, 2024)
This report, prepared by the National Institute on Retirement Security, identifies the benefits of the pension on NJ’s economy.
Social Security Requires New Login
(September 30, 2024)
Social Security is requiring all account holders to establish a new login.
Fight for Our COLA’s
Senators Turner, (D), Stack (D), and Polistina (R), and 31 other legislators have sponsored S260 and A2758 which would enable the reinstatement of the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for all of the State-administered pension systems, in accordance with the “Pension Adjustment Act,” P.L.1958, c.143.9 (C.43:3B-1 et seq.).
This would return authority for COLA’s to the Pension Board of Trustees and allow for future COLA’s.
Click below to send an automated email to your legislators – (for NJ residents only)!
You should also sign the statewide petition – CLICK HERE (for NJ residents and out of state.)
What is the”mynjbenefitshub”?
Recently retirees were sent a brochure from the NJ Division of Pensions and Benefits about a new service called mynjbenefitshub. This site provides online tools and information so that you can get the most out of your benefits. The site has a Guide to Benefits (Guidebook), Change Benefits, Information on Wellness Program, Find a Provider, List of Plan Contacts, Additional Benefits (Concierge Service, Nurseline, Telemedicine), Change Address or Email, Plan Benefits Summary, Benefits Fact Sheets, Flu Shot and Covid Information, and “Hot Topics.” In effect this site is a “centralized hub” of different information sources regarding your benefits in one site.
Pensions and Benefits has added “mychoice” which enables you to find a provider and book appointments on the platform. You access this service through the mynjbenefitshubv site.
We recommend that you register at mynjbenefitshub.nj.gov.
NJ Income Tax Pension Exclusion
You worked hard during your career to provide income through your retirement. The State of New Jersey offers some retirement income exclusions you may qualify to use that can reduce your taxable income. Beginning with Tax Year 2021, the income limit for a Retirement Income Exclusion increases to $150,000. (Source: NJ Division of Taxation)
TIP: If you have a spouse with a pension or other retirement income, consider filing “Married, Filing Separate” since the income exclusion is the same whether an individual or joint. (Be aware that this might change your Medicare Part B premium.) Check with an accountant.
For More Information Click Here.
NJ Seniors Eligible for FREE Lifetime State Park Pass
If you enjoy swimming in crisp, cool waters, hiking the Batona Trail through the Pinelands National Reserve, climbing the Appalachian Trail into the Kittatinny Mountains or touring historic sites and villages, a New Jersey park pass is for you.
New Jersey has 43 parks, forests and recreation areas as well as 57 historic sites, representing New Jersey’s natural and cultural legacy, covering more than 450,000 protected acres.
Senior Citizen Pass Qualification
Age 62 or older.(NJ Residents only)
Benefits
Provides free entrance to all state park, forest, recreation area and historic site facilities that charge daily walk-in or parking fees, as well as a $2 per night discount on campsite fees (excluding group campsites).
The senior citizen pass is valid for your lifetime.
How to Apply
To obtain a senior citizen pass, either visit any park office or mail the completed application (below) with supporting documentation: