IPERS is a $40+ billion retirement plan designed to provide secure, lifetime pension benefits for Iowans who choose careers in public service. IPERS provides a defined benefit pension plan to Iowa's teachers; city, county, and state employees; certain university employees and elected officials; and others. One in ten Iowans is an IPERS member. IPERS returned $2.1 billion to Iowa's economy in fiscal year 2021 through benefits paid. Mission: Administer a cost-efficient retirement plan that provides lifetime pension payments to public employees and serves to attract and retain a quality workforce.