Manatee County Government employees have access to several retirement benefits including automatic enrollment in the Florida Retirement System, access to a supplemental 457b Plan, and retiree health benefits. Age and years of service eligibility requirements may apply.
Florida Retirement System (FRS)
All Manatee County Government employees automatically contribute 3% of their earnings on a pre-tax basis to the Florida Retirement System beginning with their first paycheck. The County also pays a certain percentage on your behalf as a regular employee (currently 10%) and more for Special Risk employees like EMTs and Paramedics. New Employees receive information from FRS within their first 90 days of employment, including information on selecting the pension or investment option and how to access their account.
All employees, no matter what stage of employment, are encouraged to contact FRS to begin building their financial security by utilizing the FRS resources, including professional advice on how to allocate investments through the GuidedChoice Advisor Service. Visit www.myfrs.com or call 866-446-9377.
457b Deferred Compensation
A 457b Deferred Compensation plan is a tax-favored supplemental retirement savings program that allows public service employees to contribute a portion of their salary, before Federal taxes, to a retirement account – much like a 401k. This is completely voluntary. While contributions are not matched by your employer, employees are encouraged to supplement their FRS plan to ensure you achieve the retirement income you desire. The 457b plan is offered to BCC employees through VOYA. Learn more in the Deferred Compensation section and by visiting www.voya.com.
Health Insurance
Manatee County Government and participating agency employees who are enrolled in the YourChoice Health Plan on his/her last day of work are eligible to continue their medical, dental, or vision coverage. Retirees under age 65 may continue enrollment in the Manatee YourChoice Health Plan. Retirees over age 65 and Medicare-eligible may select a supplemental plan or retain Manatee YourChoice as secondary coverage. Retirees may be eligible for a Health Plan Premium subsidy through FRS and/or Manatee County. Contact Employee Health Benefits for more information.
BCC employees - More information available on the Employee Intranet.
Other agencies - please contact your Human Resources department for more information.