Retirement Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Tax Deferred Annuity (TDA) and who is eligible?
All full- and part-time employees of the District may contribute pre-tax dollars to a TDA. The contributions are made through a salary deduction agreement between you and the district and are excluded from taxable income. More information...
What is the district's retirement program?
All full-time employees must participate in one of two retirement programs - either TRS or ORP.
What is the Texas Teacher's Retirement Program (TRS)?
TRS is a defined benefit plan and is open to all benefit eligible employees of the District. TRS provides retirement benefits based on length of service and salary level, after a minimum of ten years of service. More information...
What is the Optional Retirement Program (ORP)?
The ORP is a defined contribution plan and is open to all eligible contractual employees. The ORP allows participants to select a life insurance company or other financial institution to deposit retirement funds.
The decision to elect TRS or ORP is extremely important. It is a one-time irrevocable decision that can effect the rest of the individual's career in higher education. More information...
When are employees eligible for retirement?
An employee becomes eligible for retirement benefits with at least five years sevice and age 55.
Are there medical benefits available after retirement?
Medical benefits are continued on all employees retiring with at least 10 years of service and age 65 or older. The District pays employee's premiums. At age 65 Medicare becomes the primary coverage and the health insurance become secondary. The employee pays the Medicare premium. Dependent coverage may be continued and the retired employee is responsible for the premiums.
What is the procedure for retirement?
An employee anticipating retirement is urged to contact the Benefits Office at 832.813.6566 or by e-mail.