Retirement Checklist - Support Staff

If you are considering retirement, contact the HR Benefits Service Center at 212-851-7000 or email us at [email protected] to schedule a retirement facilitation with a Benefits Specialist to review your eligible benefits in retirement.

The checklists below also outline what you should do before and after you retire, to avoid a gap in your benefits.

Before You Retire

  • Notify your department or school in writing at least 90 days before your retirement date.

  • Contact the Columbia Benefits Service Center for a retirement counseling appointment. 

  • Contact any retirement plan carriers where you have your retirement assets to discuss options 90 days before retirement. To inquire if any necessary forms are required, please contact TIAA and/or Vanguard.

  • If eligible for a defined benefit pension, request final calculation of your benefit and return the completed forms.

  • Complete the beneficiary designation form for the life insurance benefit provided by Columbia University.

  • If you are age 65 or older, 90 days prior to your retirement, contact Social Security Administration at 800-772-1213 to request enrollment into Medicare Part A & B and inquire about Social Security payments.

    • If you are over age 65, you are eligible for Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield as a secondary insurance to Medicare. Medicare would be your primary insurance and Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield would be secondary.

  • If you are under age 65, you are eligible for Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield at no cost to you.

    • If you are under age 65 at the time of retirement, be sure to contact Social Security at least three months prior to your 65th birthday.

How to enroll in retiree medical benefits:

After Retirement:

  • FSA, Transit and Parking benefits should be reviewed in order to submit reimbursement for expenses incurred prior to retirement. Submit claims for reimbursement within 90 days of your retirement.

  • Life Insurance benefits can be continued after retirement. Respond to mailings received at home promptly.
     

  • If you are enrolled in one of the voluntary benefit plans, you will receive materials directly from the carrier regarding coverage continuation.