When should an employee apply for retirement?
Employees should apply for retirement 60 to 120 days before their retirement date. Most can apply online through myVRS, which provides step-by-step guidance and resources. Encourage employees to review VRS retirement resources and begin planning early.
Example: An employee retiring January 1 should apply by November 1. The first payment is typically issued February 1 for the month of January, provided all requirements are met.
Guide Employees With This Timeline
Six to eight months before retirement: Employees should review the Retirement Readiness Checklist and other VRS retirement resources and schedule a one-on-one appointment with a VRS member counselor. A counselor can help employees understand their retirement options and answer questions before they apply.
Two to four months before retirement: Apply online through myVRS, if eligible. The process takes about 30 minutes and provides guidance at key decision points. Review payout options and beneficiaries before applying.
Before retirement: Submit any required documentation. Employers will certify retirements in myVRS Navigator as they receive them.
At retirement: Retirement is effective on the first of the month. Members begin receiving their monthly benefit after completing a bona fide break-in-service of at least one full calendar month from their retirement date during a period they would normally work. Once the retirement application is approved, the member receives a letter confirming their selections and benefit payment amount.