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About SamCERA

Overview

About SamCERA

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.