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  • Electronic Signatures for the ASRS 65+ Membership Waiver

    What Employers Need to Know

    As employers continue to modernize onboarding processes, the use of electronic signatures has become increasingly common and often encouraged. However, when it comes to the ASRS 65+ Membership Waiver, it is essential that digital signatures meet specific standards to ensure the form is valid and can be accepted without delay.

    This article outlines acceptable electronic signature methods, employer responsibilities, and key compliance requirements to help prevent rejected forms and support a smooth onboarding experience.

  • Don't Put All Your Access In One Basket

    Why Every ASRS Employer Needs More Than One Administrator—Especially Right Now

    Administrators are the unsung heroes of your ASRS account. They work behind the scenes to keep things moving, grant access, update information, and make sure your organization can do business without a hitch.

    But here’s the catch: when only one person holds the keys, things can get complicated… fast.

    The “What If?” Scenario

    What if your only administrator goes on extended leave?

  • Membership Status and Its Effect on LTD Eligibility 

    If a member of the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) has retired and is actively receiving a pension benefit, that individual is not eligible for Long-Term Disability (LTD) coverage upon returning to work in any capacity. Receipt of a retirement benefit constitutes a termination of active membership status for purposes of LTD eligibility.

  • Important Employer Roles in Long Term Disability Process

    To ensure smooth communication and timely processing, each employer is required to designate at least one LTD Associate and one LTD Signer. We also strongly recommend identifying a backup for the LTD Associate role, which helps prevent delays when your primary contact is unavailable. These roles are most commonly filled by members of your human resources or payroll teams, though employers may assign other knowledgeable staff as needed. 

  • Why Members Should Contact ASRS Directly

    To protect member privacy and ensure accurate service, members should contact ASRS directly when they have questions about their own accounts and use their personal, secure ASRS online account to submit inquiries.

    ASRS has seen an increase in employers calling, emailing, or sending secure messages on behalf of members. While employers play an important support role, ARS §38-755 limits the information ASRS can share with third parties, including employers.

    When members contact ASRS directly:

  • LTD Tax Documents Reminder

    While members are receiving Long-Term Disability (LTD) benefits, Broadspire will issue a W-2 for these benefits, which will be mailed by January 31st. W-2 forms will be sent to the member’s address on file with Broadspire. If a member contacts the Employer regarding a missing LTD W-2, please direct them to their Disability Specialist for assistance. 

    Additionally, please note that updated claim packets will be available through the employer's secure account by January 31, 2026.

  • Reduction in Force (RIF): What ASRS Employers Need to Know and Why Accuracy Matters

    Workforce changes like a Reduction in Force (RIF) can be difficult for employers and employees alike. When a RIF affects ASRS–covered employees, employer reporting isn’t just a formality.  It has real consequences for a member’s retirement records and how quickly a member can access benefits such as refunds or retirement disbursements.

  • Start the New Year Strong: Prepare Your ASRS Employer Account for Upcoming Security Enhancements

    A new year is the perfect time to review, refresh, and strengthen your ASRS Secure Employer Account. In the coming months, the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) will transition to ID.me multi-factor authentication (MFA) to further protect employer and member information.

    To ensure a smooth transition and avoid any interruption to your ability to conduct business with ASRS, employer action is essential.

  • What if you need to Terminate an Employee on Long Term Disability?

    An Employee's resignation or termination does not affect their Long-Term Disability (LTD) claim or its processing. If the Employee is no longer employed when they begin the application process, they may still be eligible, provided they were an active contributing member of the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) as of the potential date of disability. 

    If the LTD claim is approved and the Employee begins receiving LTD benefit payments, they will continue to accrue ASRS service credit toward their retirement.

  • Your Guide to Managing the ASRS 65+ Membership Waiver

    As an employer with ASRS-participating members, you play a crucial role in ensuring compliance and giving eligible new hires all the information and tools they need. One of the most important, but sometimes overlooked, items is the 65+ Membership Waiver. Understanding this waiver, and having the right processes in place, benefits both your organization and your employees.

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