As retirement approaches, many individuals seek a smoother transition from full-time work to retirement. To support this gradual shift, updated Phased Retirement Guidelines are now available for participants of the WSU Retirement Plan (WSURP), managed by TIAA. These guidelines provide an opportunity to ease into retirement while aiding in the transition and succession of management roles.

Eligibility for Phased Retirement

To be eligible for a Phased Retirement agreement, participants must meet the following criteria:

  • Age Requirement: Must be at least 55 years old.
  • Service Requirement: Must have at least 10 years of service with the organization.

The Phased Retirement agreement allows participants to reduce their work hours gradually while preparing for full retirement. This phased approach benefits both the employee and the organization by facilitating a smoother transition and succession planning for management positions.

Key Benefits of Phased Retirement

  1. Gradual Transition: Participants can ease into retirement by reducing their workload and responsibilities over time.
  2. Succession Planning: This arrangement helps organizations manage transitions more effectively by allowing time for knowledge transfer and preparation for new leadership.
  3. Work-Life Balance: A phased retirement can offer greater flexibility and balance as employees prepare for their retirement years.

For detailed information on the Phased Retirement Guidelines, including how to apply and the specifics of the agreement, please visit the Phased Retirement Guidelines page.

If you do not meet the eligibility criteria for the Phased Retirement program, consider reviewing the “Alternative to Phased Retirement” section within the guidelines for other options available to you.

Exploring phased retirement opportunities paves the way for your transition into retirement as smooth and beneficial as possible!

Content Credit: Ann Monroe, HRS Benefits Director; Carey Musburger, Learning and Organizational Development Assistant