A Guide for ASRS Employers & Retiree Checklist
As we approach retirement season, the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) experiences a significant increase in retirement applications and benefit processing. During this critical time, employers play a direct and essential role in ensuring timely and accurate retirement processing.
ASRS relies on employer-reported information to finalize benefits and issue payments. Delays, missing data, or incomplete submissions can directly impact a member’s retirement timeline.
This guide outlines your responsibilities and provides a Retiree Checklist you can share with employees to help support a smooth transition.
Your Role in the Retirement Process
ASRS is responsible for calculating and issuing retirement benefits. However, this process depends on employers providing complete, timely, and accurate information.
Under Arizona Revised Statutes § 38-727, employers are required to ensure proper enrollment, reporting, and participation in ASRS.
These responsibilities extend throughout the employee’s entire lifecycle, including retirement.
Key Employer Responsibilities at Retirement
1. Ensure Accurate Enrollment and Contributions
• Confirm all eligible employees were properly enrolled
• Ensure contributions have been reported and posted accurately and on time
• Resolve any reporting discrepancies prior to retirement
Accurate contributions are essential to ensure correct service credit and benefit calculation.
2. Submit Ending Payroll Verification (EPV)
The Ending Payroll Verification (EPV) is one of the most critical steps in the retirement process.
Employers must:
• Report the employees’ final day worked and last day paid
• Confirm final compensation amounts
• Include any additional compensation, such as payouts or adjustments
Important: Delays in submitting the EPV will delay the member’s retirement benefit processing.
3. Provide Complete Compensation Details
ASRS may require clarification on:
• Additional compensation
• Pay adjustments
• Leave payouts or irregular earnings
Employers must respond promptly to avoid delays in benefit calculations.
4. Respond to ASRS Requests for Information
During the retirement process, ASRS may request:
• Employment verification
• Compensation clarification
• Contribution corrections
Timely responses are essential. Retirement processing cannot be completed without employer verification.
5. Process Return to Work (RTW) Forms When Applicable
If a retiree returns to work:
• A Return to Work form is required
• Employers must ensure compliance with applicable statutes (e.g., A.R.S. § 38-766)
Failure to comply may result in benefit suspension and repayment obligations.
Why Your Role Matters
ASRS cannot finalize a retirement benefit without complete employer reporting.
Timely and accurate employer actions ensure:
• Faster benefit processing
• Accurate pension calculations
• A smooth transition for your employees
Delays or incomplete submissions can result in:
• Payment delays for retirees
• Rework and corrections
• Increased workload for both employers and ASRS
Retiree Checklist to Share with Employees
Employers are encouraged to guide employees through the retirement process. Sharing the checklist below can help employees prepare and reduce delays.
ASRS Retirement Checklist for Employees
Before Applying for Retirement:
• Log into your secure ASRS account (myASRS)
• Review your service credit and account information
• Verify your beneficiary designation
• Use available tools to estimate your benefit
At Least 3–6 Months Before Retirement:
• Submit your retirement application through your secure account
• Review available benefit options
• Contact ASRS with any questions
Coordinate with Your Employer:
• Confirm your retirement date
• Ensure your employer submits your Ending Payroll Verification (EPV)
• Discuss any final payments or leave payouts
After Retirement:
• If returning to work with an ASRS employer, complete a Return to Work form
• Understand how post-retirement employment may impact your benefit
Partnering for a Successful Retirement Season
ASRS values its partnership with employers. Together, we ensure that Arizona’s public servants receive the retirement benefits they have earned accurately and on time.
As retirement volume increases, employer participation becomes even more critical.
Key Reminders:
• Submit all required information promptly and accurately
• Monitor and complete Ending Payroll Verifications without delay
• Respond quickly to ASRS requests
• Encourage employees to prepare early using the checklist above
Need Assistance?
If you have questions or need support, please reach out to the Employer Relations team:
• Use Secure Messaging or Chat through your employer account
By prioritizing accuracy and timeliness, employers and ASRS can work together to ensure a seamless retirement experience for every member.
