The University provides full-time regular faculty/staff the opportunity to participate in one of the two University retirement programs. Full-time regular staff/faculty members may choose between the V.I. Government Employees' Retirement System (GERS) and the Teacher's Insurance and Annuity Association (TIAA).
The V.I. Government Employees' Retirement System is a defined benefit program which both the employer and the employee contribute. For current contribution rates, please contact a Benefit Representative. The benefit at retirement is based on the employees' age, years of service, and salary history.
TIAA is defined contribution retirement program to which both employee an employer contribute. Employees choose among several funds to make their contributions. For current contribution rates, please contact a Benefit Representative. The benefit at retirement is based on the total accumulation in the various funds and the payout terms chosen by the retiree. TIAA contributions may be made on a tax deferred basis up to the maximum allowed under IRS regulations.
Employees must enroll in one of the two retirement plans within thirty (30) calendar days of employment. Employees who fail to submit enrollment documents within one month of employment are automatically enrolled in GERS.
In addition to the regular retirement programs, regular full-time employees may participate in supplemental retirement programs offered by TIAA. These programs are funded entirely by employee contributions on a pre-tax basis up to the maximum amount allowed under IRS regulations. Participation in these programs is voluntary.Contact a Benefits Representative for further details.
