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START Button*START Project|

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|Start Button| START Project
Frequently Asked Questions for Employers


FAQs For Employers


Q: What does START mean to me as a participant?
A: As an employer, you will be able to electronically submit payroll reports, automatically calculate and verify contribution amounts, and transfer funds. You will be able to contact staff with questions and receive a response within days if not hours or even instantly (as you will have direct access to your agency's account).   TopGraphic: Top of Page


Q: When will I notice changes?
A: Given the magnitude of the START Project, it is expected to take approximately three years to complete. As a result, changes in the way KRS operates will be implemented in phases.
START Phases
As an employer , you will first notice changes in Phase Six of the START Project, scheduled to be completed in the fall of 2009.   TopGraphic: Top of Page


Q: What steps are being taken to make sure my account information is secure?
A: KRS remains focused on security because of the sensitivity of the information that KRS maintains on behalf of its membership. KRS hired an Information Security Officer (ISO) in 2006. The ISO has been working to improve security by updating security tools and educating staff. KRS continues to make improvements to its organizational policies and procedures, and is actively taking steps to address security risks in the organization. The new START system features technology to help protect the safety of every member through secure member log-in, which uses a unique member ID and password for data access. KRS will continue to improve security measures in non-START technology and make appropriate changes to business operations to improve security.  TopGraphic: Top of Page


Q: With increased incidents of identity theft, will my social security number (SSN) continue to be used as my KRS account number?
A: No. When the new START system is implemented, KRS will use a unique member number to identify your account. This will decrease reliance on SSNs and better protect the information that KRS receives from its employers. However, KRS will need to use SSNs for tax purposes.   TopGraphic: Top of Page


Q: Will I experience an interruption in the services I receive from KRS?
A: No, we do not anticipate any interruption to the services we provide. KRS remains committed to providing the same one-on-one quality service while converting to the START system.   TopGraphic: Top of Page


Q: What company has KRS contracted with to implement START?
A: KRS has contracted with BearingPoint, Inc. to implement the START Project. BearingPoint has been in business for over 100 years. BearingPoint, Inc. is one of the world's largest providers of management and technology consulting services to Global 2000 companies and government organizations in 60 countries worldwide. Based in McLean, Va., the firm has over 17,000 employees and major practice areas focusing on the Public Services, Financial Services and Commercial Services markets.   TopGraphic: Top of Page


Q: What is BearingPoint's experience with public pension systems?
A: BearingPoint's retirement industry experience reflects a number of state clients, including (but not limited to):

  • Florida Division of Retirement
  • Georgia Teachers Retirement System
  • Georgia Employees Retirement System
  • North Carolina Public Employees Retirement
  • Louisiana State Employees Retirement System
  • Pennsylvania State Employees Retirement System          Top Graphic: Top of Page

Q: How did KRS select BearingPoint to implement START?
A: In February 2006, KRS issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) inviting companies to provide a proposal for the modernization of the line of business solution used by KRS to provide services and benefits to our active members, recipients, and employers. After a significant review process, KRS selected BearingPoint as having the solution and experience that would best position KRS to provide enhanced services in the "digital age." The KRS Board of Trustees approved this selection and authorized KRS to move forward in the process.   TopGraphic: Top of Page


Q: Does the cost of START effect the KRS pension funds?
A: The funding of the START Project represents approximately 15/100ths of 1% (about 0.0015%) of assets managed by KRS. Thus the effect is minimal on the overall funding of KRS. It is also important to note that the START Project was approved by the Capital Planning Advisory Board and was designated as a high value Project for the Commonwealth of Kentucky.  TopGraphic: Top of Page


Q: What training and support will be provided to Recipients for START?
A: The START project team will develop a detailed training plan to ensure your agency is prepared prior to the system going live. This process will include the development of training materials and exercises to be utilized in the training of KRS Employers.

  • Training will be a combination of instructor-led and web-based.
  • In addition to on-line support tools, there will be Help Desk support for KRS employers after the START system is implemented.
  • The KRS Call Center will continue to be a resource for KRS Employers.        TopGraphic: Top of Page


Q: How will I receive updates about the START Project?
A: Communication is a vital component to the success of START and KRS is committed to providing the right information at the right time to effectively meet the needs of our recipients. You may obtain updates regarding START on the START Web Site, at conferences, and in the KRS Newsletter.  TopGraphic: Top of Page