Returning to Work After Retirement

University Policy - Returning to work after retirement

Based on the needs of the University, retirees may be appointed without affecting their University retired status. The University requires a 60-day waiting period before a retiree can accept another University appointment. However, these individuals should familiarize themselves with the earnings limitations of both the Social Security Administration and the Oklahoma Teachers’ Retirement System, which could impact adversely on monetary benefits payable from these authorities.

Those who elect to return to University employment will be provided the option to (1) be eligible for those benefits which are provided to other similarly or classified employees of the University and such benefits will be determined in accordance with the terms of the applicable benefits plans, programs and arrangements, or (2) enjoy only those benefits which accrue from University retirement to include: any Supplement awarded, paid health and dental insurance and other benefits set forth in the “University of Oklahoma Retirement Plan”. This election by the Retiree is irrevocable and must be made in writing prior to commencement of reemployment with the University.

Social Security Retirement Benefits

Your salary earned in the fiscal year should not exceed the Social Security limits. The Social Security limits are administered differently during the first year an individual is entitled to draw Social Security benefits. In the first year of your retirement, which Social Security calls the “year of entitlement”, if your employment earnings exceed the limits, then you must meet a monthly earnings limit for the balance of the year. For additional information regarding your annual Social Security earnings limits please visit www.ssa.gov.

Your Social Security benefits will be reduced by $1 for every $3 you earn over the limit if you under 65 years old.

Oklahoma Teachers’ Retirement System

If you are receiving OTRS retirement benefits, you may not return to work in Oklahoma public education during the first 60 days after your retirement. For OTRS purposes your effective date of retirement is the day following your last day at work.

OTRS has certain limitations if you work in public education in Oklahoma. Please note that the OTRS provisions do not apply if you return to work in a field other than Oklahoma public education; however, the Social Security limits apply if you are receiving Social Security benefits.

If you have questions, call OTRS before starting back to work.