Employer Update

Every so often, employers report that their staff members received unsolicited calls or emails from companies offering retirement counseling. Since all VRS members have access to free counseling services from VRS, there’s potential for confusion.

One point is clear: Those making unsolicited counseling pitches may be targeting members of VRS, but they are not with VRS.

VRS works hard to maintain trusted relationships with members of the retirement system. As an employer, you can help reinforce the integrity of VRS programs—and protect your employees—by educating them about VRS free counseling opportunities.

VRS Touchpoints

Start by reinforcing how VRS reaches out:

• Educational offerings are posted on the VRS website.
• Correspondence from VRS will arrive by U.S. mail on official letterhead.
• Emails from VRS are sent from a “varetire.org” address.
• VRS does not sell services; all benefit counseling is free to members and retirees.
• VRS does not use unsolicited calls to contact members to offer services.
• VRS staff do not go to members’ homes to discuss benefits.

Flexible Options

Members have multiple opportunities, in a variety of formats, for retirement counseling assistance.

Counseling services are free, whether by phone, online or in-person at the VRS counseling center and are available by contacting VRS.

VRS also offers free retirement planning and benefit education sessions throughout the state at colleges, universities, other public locations and the VRS offices in Richmond. Members may receive occasional invites to these sessions via email. Live and recorded webinars to assist with retirement planning are also available at varetire.org/education.

Finally, VRS is here to help if a member has a question about whether a phone call, email or mailing came from VRS or another company. Just call VRS at 888-827-3847 for assistance.