Leaving Employment Before Retirement
What happens if I leave employment before I am eligible to retire?
If you are leaving VRS-covered employment and are not eligible to retire, you have two options:
1. Take a refund of your member contributions and interest. If you choose to take a refund, your membership in VRS is cancelled. If you take a refund and later return to VRS-covered employment, you will start over as a Hybrid member. Learn more at VRS Taking a Refund.
2. Become a Deferred Member. Deferring membership means you are leaving your retirement funds in VRS. If you are vested at the time of separation, you may be eligible for future retirement benefits if you meet the age and service requirements of your plan. Learn more at VRS Becoming a Deferred Member.
It is important to be informed before you make your decision. You will need to register your account in myVRS so you can check your member contribution balance, update your contact information, and secure your account.