CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT ASSOCIATION

CCCERA will receive notification of your termination from your employer's Human Resources department. The Retirement Office will send you a packet explaining the options concerning your retirement account and possible tax liability. A "Distribution Election Form" and instructions for filling out the form are included. Return the completed forms to CCCERA.

If you need assistance with any aspect of the termination process and your options, call CCCERA and speak with a counselor. Counselors are not able to advise you on tax issues; if you are considering a refund of your contributions and interest, we strongly recommend you contact a tax professional for advice on handling your funds.

Deciding whether to take a refund or defer your retirement is a very important decision.

Termination decisions have potential impact on tax liability, reciprocity with other public employers, and future income. Please consider your options. We encourage you to consult a tax professional before deferring your retirement or requesting a refund.

You will find additional information about tax considerations in:

• IRS Publication 575, Pension and Annuity Income
  
• IRS Publication 590, Individual Retirement Arrangements