You’re a member of the Defined Benefit Plan if:

• You were hired before March 31, 1997, and
• You did not elect to transfer to the 401(k) Defined Contribution Plan during the open enrollment window (Jan. 2, 1998, through April 30, 1998).

The retirement system provides competitive retirement benefits and encourages you to take full advantage of them to plan for your future retirement. ORS manages the retirement system carefully to preserve it for you and other future retirees.

During your career, details from your biweekly payroll are reported to ORS. Your pension plan contributions, wages earned, and hours paid become part of your personal pension record. 

You also can enroll in the State of Michigan 401(k) and 457 Plans (the Plans) to help supplement your pension with additional tax-deferred retirement savings. ORS administers the Plans while Voya Financial takes care of the daily management. 

When it's time to retire, you’ll apply for retirement with ORS before you terminate employment. Please apply 30 to 90 days before your retirement date. Your final wage information will be reported. ORS will become your partner in retirement.