This section answers common questions about service retirement for those close to retirement, those in the process of retiring, and those who have recently retired and have questions about their benefits.

If you’re beginning your career with the department or catching up on your retirement planning, read the “Road to Retirement” section. It includes helpful checklists you can use throughout your career to help you continuously build toward the retirement you envision. 

If you’re ready to inform the department of your decision to retire, the “Retiring” section will guide you through your retirement from the service, help you choose and use your health care benefits, and help you use the other retirement benefits you’ve earned.

Unfortunately, some members are forced to temporarily stop working or retire earlier than planned due to a debilitating injury, illness, or other life-changing event. The “Injury, Illness, and Leave,” “Workers’ Compensation,” and “Long-Term Disability” sections address these situations. 

We’ve also included a glossary and a list of contact information for our primary providers of retirement-related benefits.