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Top Member Questions

How do I get a pension estimate?

Try our Retirement Income Estimator. You can estimate your future retirement income, including your OMERS pension.

If you have a specific retirement date, or dates, in mind, we would be happy to provide you with an estimate of your OMERS pension. There are several ways to request an estimate:

I've received my pension estimate from OMERS. Why are there less than 12 months in some years used to calculate my pension?

We always look at the average of your "best-five" years – specifically, your best 60 consecutive months of earnings (not necessarily calendar years). Your best five earnings may include partial years at the beginning and end of the 60 consecutive months so your best five could span more than five calendar years.

Why did my figures change on my new estimate, compared to information I received earlier?

Your estimate is based on earnings and service reported by your employer. We also estimate future earnings and service based on what has been previously reported. Your estimate may change as new information is provided by your employer.

I've received my Benefit Application Form and I am looking at my options. What are some of the things I should consider in making my decision?

One important factor is your comfort level regarding investment risk. If you keep your pension with OMERS, you are guaranteed a stream of future pension income for life. If you choose to transfer your OMERS entitlement out of the plan – for example to a locked-in RRSP – you assume all responsibility for the management and risk of your investment. There may be front-end or ongoing costs related to your investment in this case. *

Also, keep in mind that your OMERS pension comes with excellent survivor benefits, and is fully protected against inflation. You should also think about estate planning, life expectancy and other important issues in making your decision.

Need more info?

For clarification on your options outlined on your Benefit Application Form or for general information, contact OMERS Client Services. *

For specific financial advice, we recommend you consult with an independent financial advisor.

How do I request a new Benefit Application Form?

If you’ve lost your Benefit Application Form or it has expired, contact OMERS Client Services to request another one. We can take requests by telephone or in writing, by e-mail, fax, or letter.

If you send a written request, include:

  • * your name
  • * your OMERS membership number or social insurance number
  • * your mailing address
  • * your signature.

I would like to change my beneficiary

There are several ways to change your beneficiary:
  • Print Form 206 – Beneficiary information . Complete the form and fax or mail it to OMERS.
  • Request the change through your employer.
  • Send us a letter requesting a change of beneficiary. Be sure to include your name, membership or SIN number, your new beneficiary(ies), your employer’s name and your signature.

OMERS order of entitlement

When a member dies, OMERS provides benefits in the following order of entitlement:
  • An eligible spouse is first in line for survivor benefits.
  • If there is no eligible spouse, a benefit would be paid to any eligible dependent children.
  • If there is no eligible spouse or children, the beneficiary on file with OMERS may be entitled to a refund.
  • If there is no beneficiary on file with OMERS, any refund would be paid to the member’s estate.

How do I get a separation (marriage breakdown) benefit estimate?

There are several ways to request a separation (marriage breakdown) estimate:

Fax: 416-369-9704 or 1-877-369-9704

The letter must include:
  • your full name (printed)
  • your OMERS membership number (or social insurance number)
  • your employer’s name
  • your marriage date and your separation date
  • your signature.
We can provide separation estimates for OMERS members. (We cannot take requests from a member’s current or former spouse.) For more information see the Marriage breakdown and your OMERS pension information page.

What types of service can I buy back to increase my credited service with OMERS?

There are certain types of past service and leaves (e.g., pregnancy/parental leave with an OMERS employer) that you can choose to purchase. Check out the Buy-back Estimator for more information on buybacks, and to estimate the cost of a buy-back.

When am I eligible to retire?

You become eligible to retire and receive an OMERS pension within 10 years of your normal retirement age – regardless of how many years of service you have. For most members, this is age 55. For police and fire members, this is age 50. If you're thinking of retiring, please request an OMERS pension estimate.

What are the current contribution rates?

2009 and 2010 contribution rates.

I'm getting ready to retire. How do I apply for a pension?

First, check out our special Getting ready to retire section. In it, you'll find useful instructions and advice - things to consider before you retire.

Advise your employer (active members)

If you are an active OMERS member and you have decided to retire, advise your employer. They will complete and send us a pension application form (Form 143 - Request for an OMERS plan benefit). This form advises OMERS that you are retiring and reports your final earnings, service and contributions.

Complete an application form (inactive members)

If you are no longer employed by an OMERS employer, complete Form 144 – Application for retirement pension (deferred members) and send it to OMERS to apply for your pension.

How long does it take to receive a pension estimate?

Our current service standard to provide an estimate is three business days. Please check our Customer service monitor to see our current turnaround time.

I've left my employer and have received my Benefit Application Form from OMERS. Who can I talk to about my options?

For general information about your pension options, please contact Client Services.

For specific financial advice, we recommend you consult with an independent financial advisor.

Does the Ontario government’s legislation ending mandatory retirement at age 65 affect my OMERS pension?

This legislation does not affect your OMERS pension. The normal retirement age of OMERS members is 65 (or 60 for most members of the police sector and firefighters), but some members, with the consent of their employer, continue to work past their normal retirement age.

If you continue to work for an OMERS employer, or are paid past age 65 (or age 60 for police and firefighters), your active membership in OMERS will continue.

However, the OMERS Act requires that you start your pension in the year in which you turn 71. At that time, OMERS will provide you with a monthly pension whether or not you are still working, and you will no longer make contributions. More information.

Should I notify OMERS of my name change?

If you are an active member and still employed by an OMERS employer, you do not need to notify OMERS of name changes. Your employer will do this for you. *

If you are no longer an active member, please advise OMERS immediately if your name changes. This applies if you kept your pension with OMERS when you stopped working or if you are on OMERS disability waiver benefit and have also terminated employment with your OMERS employer.

To notify OMERS of a name change, send a signed letter and proof of your name change, by fax or mail, with your new information to:

OMERS
One University Avenue
Suite 800
Toronto, ON
M5J 2P1

Fax: 416-369-9704 or 1-877-369-9704

In the letter include:

  • your former full name (printed)
  • your new full name (printed)
  • your OMERS reference number (or social insurance number)
  • a photocopy providing proof of the name change (e.g., marriage certificate)