How to Apply

You've made the decision and set the date. Write, email, fax, or call ORS to request a retirement application packet. It will include forms and information regarding insurance, taxes, and electronic funds transfer (direct deposit). You should mail your completed retirement application forms to ORS at least three months, but not more than six months, before your retirement effective date.

Note: Don't forget to notify your human resource office of your termination.

What You Will Need

ORS cannot process your retirement until you submit a completed, error-free application. Make sure all forms requiring notarization are signed in the presence of a notary public. 

In addition to the forms in the retirement packet, you will need to provide the following:

• Proof of age. Click here for a list of proofs we can accept. If you elected a survivor option, you will also need to furnish proof of your beneficiary's age.  

• Proof of dependent's insurance eligibility. If you enroll dependents under your insurance plan, you must provide birth certificates as proof of age and relationship. For any child 19 or older, we will also need tax returns as proof of dependency and school records that prove the child meets the school's attendance standards.

If your dependent is a disabled child age 19 or older, we will also need a current letter from the attending physician stating the child is disabled and incapable of self-sustaining employment, along with any medical record or reports that substantiate the disability.

For anyone enrolling in health insurance who is covered under another plan, including Medicare, include copies of the insurance cards.

• HMO application. The packet includes an enrollment form for the State Health Plan PPO, but if you are enrolling in one of the HMOs you will need to contact the HMO for an enrollment form. Submit the enrollment form with your retirement application. ORS will arrange for premium deductions from your pension and then forward the information to the HMO.
• Social Security Statement. If you elect an equated plan, you must provide a statement from the Social Security Administration that estimates your full retirement age benefit. When you request the statement, be sure to include any projected earnings through the date you retire - it makes a big difference in your estimate, and therefore your equated pension amount.

Note: We suggest you write the member's name and last four digits of the social security number at the top of any documents or proofs you submit.