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Your Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Retirement Guidelines

Everything you need to know to plan and execute a smooth transition into retirement.

Quick Links

Purchase of Service
Step 1
PSERS Application
Step 2
Domestic Relations
Step 3
Processing Timeline
Step 4
PSERS Estimate
Step 5
Health Insurance
Step 6
Notification
Step 7
Exit Counseling
Step 10

Overview

Important Information Before You Begin

Keep Copies of Everything

Throughout the retirement process, make sure to keep copies of all documents you submit. This is critical for your records and may be needed for reference.

This guide outlines the 13 essential steps to retirement. Each step is designed to help you navigate the process smoothly and ensure you don't miss any critical deadlines or requirements.

The retirement process involves coordination between you, PSERS (Pennsylvania Public School Employees' Retirement System), the School District of Philadelphia, and the PFT Health & Welfare Fund. Following these steps in order will help ensure a seamless transition.

13 Steps to Retirement

Follow these steps for a smooth retirement transition

Working After Retirement

Important information about post-retirement employment

General Rule

According to the Retirement Code, you may not be employed by a Pennsylvania public school employer and receive a PSERS retirement benefit at the same time unless you meet certain exceptions.

Employment Emergency or Shortage

Employment Emergency:

An increase in workload which creates a serious impairment of service to the public. The Pennsylvania public school employer makes the initial determination that an emergency exists.

Shortage of Personnel:

A public school employer may hire a PSERS retiree if no other appropriate certified teachers or other personnel are available within the required subject or work area.

The school employer is expected to make a "good faith" effort to secure non-retired personnel first before hiring a PSERS retiree.

Employment may continue throughout the school year so long as the emergency or shortage of personnel exists. PSERS reserves the right to review an employer's determination.

Extracurricular Employment

A PSERS retiree may work for a Pennsylvania public school entity in an extracurricular position provided the employment:

  • Is performed primarily outside regular instructional hours
  • Is not part of the mandated educational curriculum

Required Contract Provisions:

You must have a separate written contract with the school employer which must contain both:

  1. A waiver by you of any potential retirement benefits that could result from the post-retirement employment
  2. A release of both the employer and PSERS from any liability for benefits related to the post-retirement employment

Questions About Retirement?

PFT Health & Welfare Fund Office
1816 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
(215) 561-2722
Contact Page

The PFT Health & Welfare Fund is here to help you navigate your retirement. Contact us for personalized assistance and counseling.