An official State of Texas website.
Revision 20-1; Effective March 1, 2020
HHSC matches the names of active recipients with the benefits records of the Texas Teachers Retirement System (TRS) and the Employees Retirement System (ERS). The TRS/ERS tape match is conducted quarterly and generates a report with the gross and net income amount and any deductions. TIERS automatically updates the appropriate income record. If unable to update the income record automatically, TIERS creates tasks for staff to verify the income.
Matches are conducted during the first week of the following months:
- March;
- June;
- September; and
- December.
The system will also provide information when ERS/TRS issues a one-time supplemental payment (13th check) for cost-of-living increases or other adjustments of benefits. This one-time payment (13th check) from ERS/TRS is countable income and considered an irregular payment.
The ERS/TRS match is considered acceptable verification. If the information received differs from the information in the case record, TIERS will generate alerts indicating additional action is needed from staff to clear the discrepancy.
To verify income for new applicants, send Form H1297, Request for Information from Teacher Retirement System of Texas, to request verification of the TRS income or Form H1214, Request for Pension Information, to request verification of ERS income. The form must be annotated to indicate the person is a new applicant.
Related Policy
Documentation and Verification Guide, Appendix XVI
Other Annuities, Pensions and Retirement Plans, E-4400
Infrequent or Irregular Income, E-9000
When to Apply the Infrequent or Irregular Exclusion, E-9300