Mandatory Membership - Membership in NYCERS is mandatory for all employees who are appointed and have completed six months in a permanent position in the competitive or labor class. Permanent employees may voluntarily join NYCERS during the first six months of employment. If they do not voluntarily join, membership will automatically be established after six months have lapsed.

Voluntary Membership - Non-permanent employees are free to join NYCERS; they will not be forced in after six months. As long as such employees are on the payroll of their employer and file a membership application with NYCERS, membership can be established.