Cost of Living

Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA)

COLA is an annual cost-of-living increase beginning the second calendar year after retirement and helps your retirement benefit keep up with the rate of inflation. Eligible retirees, including survivors and beneficiaries who receive a monthly benefit, receive COLA in their May 1 retirement check.

Purchasing Power Protection Allowance (PPPA)

Your PPPA is a benefit designed to maintain the original purchasing power of CalPERS retirees to a predetermined limit when accumulated cost-of-living adjustment has not maintained pace with inflation.