Eligible employees may chose an Optional Retirement Plan (ORP). The ORP must be selected during the first 90 days of employment, and is a one-time irrevocable choice. New employees are notified of their eligibility for the ORP option when hired.

If you chose the Optional Retirement Plan (ORP) and are nearing retirement, you should contact your ORP provider 60 days prior to your anticipated retirement date.

You will want to notify your vendor of your retirement date and discuss options for withdrawals or investments for your account. You will work directly with your vendor regarding retirement with ORP.

• Contact UNT System Benefits at 1-855-878-7650, Option 2, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or email Benefits to verify your eligibility for retiree medical insurance. To receive insurance benefits in retirement, you must have 10 years of service credit with the Group Benefits Plan through ERS, and either be 65 years of age or meet the Rule of 80 (service years + age = 80). Learn more about Texas state service calculation.

• If retirement is in the future and you want to change your ORP contribution, find a guide to changes.

• If you would like to meet with a UNT System Benefits Representative, schedule a retirement appointment 30 days before your retirement date to complete ERS Retiree Insurance Enrollment and complete exit forms for your campus or system location. You can contact representatives by phone at 1-855-878-7650, Option 2, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or email a Benefits Coordinator.

• Download contact information for ORP vendors. (Fidelity, TIAA, Valic, Voya).