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D. At the Start of Your Career
Set yourself up for a successful retirement on the first day you join the department. It only takes a few small steps to ensure you’re planning for your future and protecting your loved ones.

- Review the latest SFFHCT Benefits Enrollment Guide to learn about and select your healthcare benefits.
- Create your WA State Department of Retirement Systems (DRS) online account. With an online account, you can review all of your retirement accounts administered by DRS. You can use the DRS online benefit estimator to estimate your future monthly benefit. You can also use your online account to verify the accuracy of your service credit.
- Attend one of the monthly seminars on the DRS Deferred Compensation Program (DCP) hosted by the DRS to learn about the program and the benefits of contributing more than the minimum mandatory amount to your Deferred Compensation account. Remember, you’re automatically enrolled in the DRS Deferred Compensation Program.
- Look for and attend one of the financial wellness seminars hosted by the union, and reach out to the union leadership team if you have questions.
- Sign up for online access to your Social Security account.
- Review and update the beneficiary information for your insurance policies.
- Work with a qualified financial advisor to develop your retirement plan. Even if you’re just starting your career, a qualified advisor can help lay the foundation for your eventual retirement.
- Create a will (using the services of a qualified attorney or an online tool from a reputable vendor).
