FAQ - Purchasing Service Credit

  1. Who is eligible to purchase service credit?

    Active members in the Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS) and the Police and Firemen’s Retirement System (PFRS) may purchase service credit. "Active" is defined as having made contributions to the retirement system within two years of a purchase request.

  2. Who is not eligible to purchase service credit?

    Members of the Alternate Benefit Program (ABP) and retired members.

  3. How much time can be purchased?

    Members may purchase all eligible time up to 10 years. Veterans may purchase an additional 5 years of wartime military service. Partial purchases are permitted.

  4. Can I purchase time if I haven’t worked in an eligible position?

    No, only eligible service. See below.

  5. What types of service are eligible for purchase?

    Temporary service (Type 4)                   Leave of absence without pay
    Former membership service                  Out-of-state public service
    U. S. government service                      Military service before enrollment
    Military service after enrollment             Uncredited service
    Local retirement system service            Layoff (PFRS police only)
    Employment with other agencies (PFRS only)

  6. How do I purchase previous time at Rutgers?

    Complete member’s section of Application to Purchase Service Credit Application
    and submit your application to: University Human Resources, 57 US Highway 1, New Brunswick, NJ 08901-8554.

  7. How do I apply to purchase credit for non-state service?

    Complete member’s section of Application to Purchase Service Credit. Submit your application to your previous employer for completion.

  8. How do I pay for the purchase?

    You can make a lump sum payment or elect payroll deductions.

  9. Where can I find more information about purchasing service credit?
  10. The New Jersey Division of Pensions and Benefits Fact Sheet #1 has further information.