State Retirement Benefits
As a condition of employment, eligible employees of the University of South Carolina are required to become members of the South Carolina Retirement System (SCRS) or the Police Officers Retirement System (PORS), as applicable, unless the State Optional Retirement Program (State ORP) is elected within 30 days of initial eligibility.
Certain employees may opt out of state retirement by electing non-membership; however, the election must be exercised within 30 days of initial eligibility. If a timely election is not exercised, the employee will be automatically enrolled into the applicable retirement system (SCRS or PORS), which is irrevocable. Generally, employees with an active SCRS account cannot elect State ORP or non-membership.
Active employees who participate in a PEBA-administered retirement plan may take advantage
of PEBA’s voluntary, supplemental retirement savings program – the South Carolina Deferred Compensation Program.
State Retirement Plans
Defined Benefits Plans
Defined Contribution Plan
Voluntary Supplemental Retirement Savings Progam
General Eligibility
All paid employees, except students are eligible for state retirement benefits.
Membership Effective Dates
If you are eligible to switch from State ORP to SCRS during retirement open enrollment (Jan 1 – Mar 1), your SCRS membership effective date will be April 1 of that same year.
Member Contributions
| Retirement Plan | Member Contribution Rate |
|---|---|
| SCRS and State ORP | 9.00% of earnable compensation |
| PORS | 9.75% of earnable compensation |
USC Supplemental Retirement Benefits
The 403(b) Program is sponsored by the University of South Carolina and has many providers to meet your individual retirement goals.
USC's 403(b) program is administered by the Payroll Office. Please contact the Payroll Office at 803-777-4227 to inquire about enrolling or making changes to a 403(b) plan.
Enroll and Make Changes
Employees are only allowed to enroll or make changes to retirement benefits during specific time periods throughout the year. Learn more about the enrollment process and some exceptions that may apply.
Helpful Resources
Use the resources listed below to get quick access to more information about your retirement benefits.