Employees are eligible for full retirement benefits when:

If initially enrolled in the Florida Retirement System (FRS) before July 1, 2011 -

• You are vested and reach age 62; or
• You have at least 30 years of creditable service, regardless of your age before age 62; or
• The age after 62 when you become vested

If initially enrolled in the FRS on or after July 1, 2011 -

• You are vested and reach age 65; or
• You have at least 33 years of creditable service, regardless of your age before age 65; or
• The age after 65 when you become vested

If you are vested but have not yet reached your normal retirement date, you may elect to take early retirement. If you do, the amount of your benefit will be reduced by 5% for each year between your age at retirement and your normal retirement age.

FRS will accept retirement applications up to six months before the actual retirement date of an employee. Retirement applications are available in Human Resources, Recruitment and Professional Development (HRRPD). Completed forms must be returned to HR for an authorized signature.

Health Insurance Subsidy (HIS)

Retirees are eligible for a monthly supplemental payment to help pay for insurance. The amount of the health insurance subsidy (HIS) is based on your service credit at retirement ($5.00 for each year of service) and is included with your monthly benefit payment. The minimum monthly subsidy is $30.00 and the maximum subsidy is $150.00.

Employees have the option of continuing health, dental and/or vision insurance through The School Board of Highlands County after retirement. For all insurance information, contact our Insurance Department.

Retirement Incentive

For information on the Retirement Incentive Plan, see the Insurance & Benefits section of the School Board Website.

Sick Leave/Terminal Pay

Accumulated sick leave is covered under School Board Policy 6.912 and is handled through our Payroll Department.

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