Question :
How Does the Personal Choice Retirement Account (PCRA) work?

Answer :
The PCRA is a self-directed brokerage account (SDBA) designed to complement your CalPERS 457 Plan core investments. PCRA gives you greater access to thousands of additional investment choices. It is different than a typical retail brokerage account because it is part of your retirement plan. Because your assets are part of a retirement plan, your investments are tax-deferred. You can only fund your PCRA through transfers from your CalPERS 457 Plan core investments.

To open an account, a minimum transfer amount of $1,000 applies for initial and $250 for subsequent transfers. In addition, a minimum core fund investment balance of $1,000 must be maintained. The plan charges an annual plan administration fee of 23 basis points and a $50 annual maintenance fee. These fees are deducted pro rata on a monthly basis.

You can enroll in the Charles Schwab PCRA through your online account.

• Navigate to Investments & Research / Self Directed Brokerage Account page
• Choose ‘Open an Account’ on the Self Directed Brokerage Account page
• User is brought to the Terms & Conditions. Read information, check the box and click Continue
• User is brought to Schwab PCRA EAO Terms & Conditions page. Read information and click Accept
• Choose ‘Open new PCRA’ (or, Open new ROTH PCRA)
• Consent to Online App Process – click Continue
• Complete the Schwab PCRA Account Application
• Once Account Application is completed, the PCRA account number is displayed.

Click Continue to register new account access with Schwab