Who is covered, by plan
- Hybrid members are covered by Social Security.
- Noncontributory members are covered by Social Security.
- Contributory members may also be covered by Social Security. Police, fire and certain other Contributory members are not covered.
ERS annual report 2024 p. 11, Plan Summary; p. 47 and p. 48, Note A.3
The ERS plan provisions for teachers and most State and County employees are the Hybrid, Noncontributory and Contributory (general employee) provisions; the 2% and 1.75% Contributory multipliers are stated 'for employees covered by Social Security'. ERS annual report 2024 p. 11, Plan Summary; p. 47 and p. 48, Note A.3
The Noncontributory pension is designed as a 'supplement' to your retirement income, to be added to Social Security, savings and other sources. Noncontributory handout (Oct. 2026) PDF p. 1 (cover)
Medicare at 65
EUTF retirees reaching age 65 must enroll in Medicare Part B to be enrolled in EUTF retiree medical or prescription drug coverage. The EUTF runs Medicare Part B enrollment webinars that also cover Part B premium reimbursement (register at eutf.hawaii.gov/learning-center). Holomua Spring 2026 PDF p. 7, EUTF news: Medicare Part B Enrollment Webinar for EUTF Retirees Who qualifies for EUTF retiree coverage, and the Part B reimbursement, are on retiree health.
Planning your retirement income
ERS's checklist for choosing a retirement option asks whether you have income besides your pension, such as Social Security, investment income or a part-time job or business, and whether you could live on your pension income. Hybrid handout (Oct. 2026) p. 10, Choosing the Best Retirement Option for You, A. Monthly Income The answer shapes which payment option fits: a bigger check for you alone, or a smaller one that keeps paying a beneficiary.
ERS must verify your birth date, and your beneficiary's if you choose a joint survivor option. Besides a birth certificate or Real ID credentials, it accepts a written statement from Social Security that shows the date of birth. Hybrid handout (Oct. 2026) p. 2, (4) Proof of Birth Documents
From the sources
- Hybrid and Noncontributory members are covered by Social Security. Contributory members may also be covered.ERS annual report 2024 p. 11; p. 48, Note A.3
- ERS describes the Noncontributory pension as a supplement to Social Security, savings and other income.Noncontributory handout (Oct. 2026) PDF p. 1
Questions
Do Hawaii teachers pay into Social Security?
ERS's annual report says Hybrid and Noncontributory members are covered by Social Security. Contributory members may also be covered.
Will my ERS pension reduce my Social Security?
ERS's sources don't discuss how the two interact. Ask the Social Security Administration about your own record.
Do I need Medicare Part B to keep EUTF retiree coverage?
Yes. EUTF retirees reaching 65 must enroll in Medicare Part B to be enrolled in EUTF retiree medical or drug coverage. The EUTF reimburses Part B premiums; ask the EUTF for current amounts.
Can a Social Security statement prove my birth date when I retire?
Yes. ERS accepts a written statement from Social Security that shows your date of birth, among other documents.
Source: Hawaii ERS Hybrid Retirement Information, October 2026, pp. 2, 10. Also: ERS annual report 2024 pp. 11, 47, 48; Noncontributory handout (Oct. 2026) PDF p. 1; Holomua Spring 2026 PDF p. 7. Last reviewed .