Returning to Work

Returning to work after retirement may jeopardize your retirement income. Carefully review the limitations on post-retirement employment under your retirement plan.

Typically, retirement plans will limit the number of hours that you can work for CWU or for another state agency, and may require a period of separation prior to returning to work. Additionally, Social Security may limit your post-retirement employment income.

Social Security

If you are receiving Social Security retirement income and are between age 62 and your full retirement age (65 or above), your Social Security benefit will be reduced if your earned income from employment exceeds a certain amount. The amount changes each year based on inflation. Please see the Social Security web page about working after retirement for more information.

CWURP Retirees

The CWU Retirement Plan for faculty and exempt staff limits post-retirement employment to no more than 40% of full-time.

PERS, TRS and LEOFF Retirees

These retirement plans require a period of separation of at least one full calendar month prior to accepting a job with an agency of the state. Additionally, there are limits to the number of hours you can work each year without jeopardizing your retirement income. Please read the rules under your retirement plan carefully before returning to work.

Click on a link below for more information from DRS about working after retirement:
PERS 1
PERS 2 & 3
TRS 1
TRS 2 & 3
LEOFF 1
LEOFF 2