When you retire, you may purchase additional service credit to increase your monthly benefit. You may purchase from one to 60 months in whole month increments. The purchased credit may not be used to qualify for retirement. You must submit the Request to Purchase Additional Service Credit form to DRS at the same time you submit your retirement application.
Your benefit increase is based on the number of months you purchase and your average final compensation (AFC). The formula used is:
Months of Service Purchased ÷ 12 × 2 % × AFC ÷ 12 = Monthly Increase
The cost to purchase additional service credit is determined by the annuity factor for your age at retirement and the monthly increase amount. The formula used is:
Monthly Increase ÷ Annuity Factor = Cost to Purchase
For more information, review the DRS publication Purchasing Additional Service Credit. You may also estimate the monthly increase and cost by using Online Account Access. Once you are in your account, select the Purchasing Service link.