Retire, Collect Your Pension, and Return to Work
You've worked hard to earn your retirement. Encore provides an option for eligible retirees to return to work while collecting their retirement pension.
Encore (formerly RetireRehire) is ESI's return-to-work program designed for individuals who retire through their state retirement system and later choose to return to work through ESI. Participants receive both their retirement pension and a paycheck from ESI.
Encore offers a way to remain engaged in meaningful work while enjoying the financial benefits of retirement.
What Is Encore?
Encore is a return-to-work program that allows eligible retirees to:
- Retire and begin collecting their pension
- Return to work through ESI
- Earn a paycheck while receiving retirement income
Encore supports public organizations by connecting experienced professionals with opportunities to return to work in schools, municipalities, colleges, and other public agencies.
Why Retirees Choose Encore
Increase Your Retirement Income
Encore allows retirees to receive both their retirement pension and employment income, which can increase overall financial flexibility in retirement.
Stay Engaged in Meaningful Work
Many retirees choose to return to work in roles that allow them to continue contributing their knowledge and experience.
Support Public Organizations
Encore helps public organizations benefit from the experience of professionals who return to the workforce after retirement.
Who Is Eligible?
Encore may be an option for individuals who:
- Are eligible to retire through their state retirement system
- Retire from their current employer
- Are interested in returning to work through ESI
- Work with an organization that partners with ESI
Eligibility and opportunities may vary depending on the organization and position.
How the Program Works
Encore generally involves the following steps:
- Retire from your current employer and begin collecting your pension.
- Complete any requirements required by your state retirement system.
- Apply for employment with ESI.
- If hired, return to work through ESI and receive a paycheck while collecting your retirement pension.
ESI helps guide individuals through the process and provides information about program participation.
Compensation
Individuals who return to work through Encore typically receive:
- A monthly pension payment from their state retirement system
- A biweekly paycheck from ESI
Pay is determined by the organization and position and may vary depending on the role and responsibilities.
Health Insurance Options
Retirees considering returning to work may evaluate several healthcare options, including:
- COBRA coverage from their previous employer
- Coverage through a spouse's plan
- Retiree health plans offered through the state retirement system
- Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans
- Medicare, when eligible
- Veterans benefits, when applicable
- ESI health plan options, including medical, dental, vision, and supplemental plans
Individuals are encouraged to review their options carefully to determine what best fits their needs.
Planning Your Retirement
When Should You Retire?
Deciding when to retire is a personal decision. Many individuals find it helpful to:
- Review their retirement benefits through their state retirement system
- Speak with a financial advisor
- Consult with their employer's HR department
- Gather information about return-to-work opportunities
Taking time to understand your options can help you make an informed decision about retirement and potential future employment.
Getting Started
If you are interested in learning more about Encore, the following steps can help you begin exploring the option:
- Speak with Your Employer
Confirm whether your organization participates with ESI and whether your position may be eligible for participation. - Connect with Your State Retirement System
Review retirement eligibility, retirement timelines, and separation requirements. - Apply with ESI
Individuals who wish to return to work may apply for employment with ESI and complete the standard hiring and onboarding process.
Connect With Us
We are happy to help you through the process.
.Attend a Live Virtual RetireRehire Session
Available to everyone! ESI hosts a live RetireRehire Q & A session the first Wednesday of every month at 4pm. Bring your questions!
Get Personalized Support
You can schedule a 1:1 phone call with a RetireRehire expert who can answer all your questions.
If you have questions at any point during your information gathering phase or application process, please reach out to us!
Feel free to contact us any time--we're here for you. Email contracts@esiaz.us | Call or Text (480) 719-3271
Important to Know
Your retirement pension is subject to the terms of the Internal Revenue Code and applicable state statutes. ESI does not, and cannot, control any impact to your pension resulting from employment with ESI.
It is your responsibility to ensure that your retirement, separation from employment, and potential re-employment comply with IRS regulations and state retirement system requirements. ESI does not provide legal or tax advice.