Coverage

Which employers are IPERS-covered?
Generally speaking, most public employers in Iowa are mandated by state law to participate in IPERS. This includes:

• State employers.
• Counties.
• Cities.
• Townships.
• Area agencies on aging.
• Public schools.
• Community colleges and universities.
• Other political subdivisions.

How do I sign up to be an IPERS-covered employer?
For formal consideration of an entity for IPERS coverage, complete and submit an Employer Enrollment Application.

Once an employer has been approved for coverage, are all the employees covered by IPERS?
IPERS coverage is mandatory for permanent full- and part-time employees, regardless of the amount of wages or compensation they receive, unless they are:

• Specifically excluded from coverage by law OR
• Allowed to elect out of IPERS coverage.

As there are many positions that are excluded from or have optional coverage, please see Section 3 (IPERS Membership) of IPERS’ Employer Handbook to determine which positions are IPERS-covered.

I’m a new reporting official—what are my duties?
IPERS’ Employer Relations staff provides training twice a year at our office in Des Moines for new reporting officials. Reporting officials may also attend annual training held by IPERS across the state to review requirements and discuss any law changes. Employer training registration flyers are mailed or e-mailed to IPERS reporting officials. You can also get information from our Web site.