Base Benefit & COLA Cap

Where can one find one's base benefit for the purpose of determining the 65% of base benefit when COLA's will end?

Your COLA does not end once you meet your COLA cap*—it is simply calculated differently. If you retire under the MSEP and were hired before August 28, 1997, you will receive a COLA of at least 4% each year (maximum 5%) until you reach your COLA cap. The COLA cap is when the sum of your COLAs equal 65% of your initial benefit amount. Then, your annual COLA will be equal to 80% of the percentage increase in the average Consumer Price Index (CPI) with a minimum of 0% and maximum of 5%.

Your estimated date to reach the COLA cap can be found on your annual benefit statement in the COLA section. It says “Estimated Date to Reach 65% COLA Cap….” and a date. Typically, it is around 12-13 years after you’ve retired.

*The COLA cap does not apply to MSEP 2000 members; it applies only to members of MSEP hired prior to 8/28/97, who receive a minimum 4% COLA until meeting their COLA cap.