VRS Gets High Marks in Peer Benchmarking Study

November 2022
VRS provides efficient service.

VRS remains in the high-service, low-cost category compared to its peers, according to an annual study from CEM Benchmarking, which compares retirement systems in the United States and around the world.

VRS’ total service score of 81 was above the peer median of 79.

A bar graph showing Virginia Retirement System's Total Service Score.

CEM measures service quality from a member’s perspective. For example, a pension fund that offers more communications channels for its members generally is perceived to resolve issues more quickly.

Recent design upgrades to VRS websites and the addition of self-service tools, such as online retirement, enhance VRS’ services for members and boosted its overall score.

VRS’ total pension administration cost is $81 per member, compared to a peer average of $107.

A bar graph showing Virginia Retirement System's cost per active member as compared to its peers.

CEM attributes VRS’ lower administrative cost to efficient staffing and support strategies.

VRS participates in the benchmarking comparison each year to identify opportunities to further improve service and reduce costs.