DROP provides the ability for an employee to retire for purposes of the pension plan, while continuing to work and receive a salary for a period of up to three years. During the DROP period, the pension plan accumulates the monthly benefit in an account balance identified as payable to the member only at the end of the DROP period. The account balance is credited with 5% interest per year. The monthly benefit that is credited to the DROP participant's account balance is calculated using years of active service and final average salary as of the date of entry in DROP, with increases equal to the annual retiree cost of living adjustment (COLA). The employee does not earn service credit toward retirement during the DROP period.
DROP Entry Timeline and Process
- Use the online Benefit Estimator Tool in MyRetirement.
- Review Understanding DROP and DROP Counseling presentations before scheduling a DROP Counseling Session.
- Contact your retirement analyst to arrange for DROP Counseling, approximately 6-9 months prior to intended DROP entry, where you will provided with a DROP Application Package including:
- Benefit Estimate (prepared by retirement analyst)
- Application Schedule
- DROP Summary Information (ERS, PORS, URS)
- DROP Application Form
- Questions & Answers
- Internet instructions for self-prepared DROP estimates
- Submit your completed DROP application forms at least 60 days prior to DROP entry.
- Receive a 'Welcome to DROP' letter and a calculation worksheet via mail within 45-60 days after DROP entry date.
- Access DROP Statements through MyRetirement portal.
- Make DROP Exit arrangements with Carmen Solis (Catalina.Solis@fairfaxcounty.gov or 703-279-8236) at least 60 days prior to retirement/DROP Exit date.
Need More Information?
- Review the DROP Fact Sheet (all plans)
- Watch DROP Counseling Group Session online or on FCTN
- Contact your retirement analyst
Members of all three Retirement Systems can calculate their own DROP Benefit Estimates, by logging into MyRetirement account.