Mandatory Retirement Plans
The Commonwealth offers two distinct retirement plans for certain employees of its institutions of public higher education. AFSCME members are enrolled in the MSERS plan. APA, MSCA, NUP, and NUC employees may choose a plan that best aligns with your needs, expectations, and career objectives.
Massachusetts State Employee Retirement System (MSERS)
Administered by Massachusetts State Retirement Board
Offered to APA, MSCA, NUP, NUC, AFSCME employees
Optional Retirement Program (ORP)
Administered by the Department of Higher Education
Offered to APA, MSCA, NUP, NUC employees
Important Note:
Newly hired employees are automatically enrolled in the MSERS but eligible employees may elect ORP within 180 days from the date of hire. Commonwealth ensures full funding of benefits after 10 years of creditable service.
Voluntary Retirement Plans
Participating in an optional retirement savings plan provides an opportunity to supplement your core retirement plan.
Massachusetts 403(b) Supplemental Retirement Plan
Administered by the Department of Higher Education
Massachusetts Deferred Compensation SMART Plan
Administered by Empower Retirement
Important Notes About Voluntary Retirement Plans:
- There is no enrollment period, accounts may be opened, changed, and closed at any time.
- Offer pretax and after-tax (Roth) contribution options.
- Provide a variety of investment options.
- Contribution limits do apply.