Buyback – Service
Buyback allows you to purchase uncredited full- or part-time service rendered in the public sector of New York City or State prior to your NYCERS membership date.
Generally, in order to purchase previous service, you must have been on the payroll of a public entity in a position that would have allowed you to become a member in a public retirement system in New York City or New York State.
Purchased Service does not change your Membership Date but is included as Credited Service, which may enhance your retirement benefit.
To apply for buyback of pre-membership service:
- Log in to your MyNYCERS account at mynycers.org.
New to MyNYCERS? Register - Click Apply for: Buyback and follow the instructions.
- Provide details about your employment during the time-period you are purchasing. (You may be required to upload supporting documentation verifying your earnings and service history for the time-period you are purchasing. Learn more about requirements.)
Alternatively, you can print and complete an Application to Purchase Credit for Service Rendered Prior to Membership Date in NYCERS (Buyback) Form #241, available below.
Please note that you must be in active payroll status to apply for Buyback unless you are only purchasing enough service to vest and already have two years of membership service.
Once your application is processed and NYCERS verifies your service history you will receive a Buyback Cost Letter in your MyNYCERS Message Center and via mail. The cost letter will outline the total amount due, starting date for payroll deductions and amount, and provide options for lump-sum payments via check, credit or debit card, and rollover from a tax-deferred account.
To learn more about Pre-membership Service Buyback, please refer to Buyback Brochure #901 or your Tier’s Plan Description.
Please visit our Military Buyback page if you served in one of the military branches of the Armed Forces of the U.S.A.
Buybacks for Layoff Time and Child Care Leave are also available to members in certain titles and/or retirement plans. If you are eligible for the type of buyback and wish to apply, please download and complete the appropriate form, available below.
