The Division of Retirement and Benefits has been working on a major project to modernize its data system and improve the administration of pension and insurance benefits for its members and participating employers. This system, known as BEARS (Benefits and Retirement System) will feature secure, timely, accurate, and consistent data, allowing the Division to provide enhanced customer service to its members, including self-service tools to accommodate on-demand requests.

Part of the BEARS project is the development of an improved Employer Services Portal. This portal will support consistent processes, enhanced accuracy, and security for our participating employers. The effect of these updated features will be increased efficiency in work management for both Division staff and you, the employer.

We anticipate the BEARS system, including the Employer Services Portal, will launch in the latter part of 2025. Prior to launch, the Division will support employers with instruction and training in using the new BEARS features. We will provide regular updates about the progress of the BEARS project, including training sessions, in future issues of Employer News and other communications.

If you have any questions regarding the BEARS implementation and the new Employer Services Portal, please contact the Division through the dedicated email set up for that purpose: .