Prior service counts toward time needed to become vested, and may increase your future benefit or allow you to qualify for retirement at an earlier date.

Active members of the Virginia Retirement System (VRS) may be eligible to purchase prior service from previous public employment, active duty military service, certain types of authorized leave or VRS refunded service.

You may be able to purchase a portion of this service as creditable service in your plan. There are four payment methods used to purchase prior service:

• Lump-sum payment
• After-tax payroll deduction contract
• Pre-tax salary reduction contract
• Combination lump-sum payment and contract methods

If you are interested in purchasing prior service contact a Human Resources Benefits Specialist or email benefits@jmu.edu to schedule an appointment.