Service Purchases

What is a service purchase and how do I apply?
A service purchase allows you to buy service time in IPERS that you do not already have, which will increase your IPERS benefits. When purchasing service, you make a payment to IPERS to receive additional service credits. IPERS requires you to complete an application for service purchase to verify the time you are eligible to purchase and to calculate what the cost will be for your service purchase. It is important to determine if the added benefits you receive from a service purchase outweigh the cost of making the service purchase. Read more about purchasing service and download the application.

How is the cost of a service purchase determined?
The cost is based on actuarial tables as certified by IPERS’ actuary. After you apply, you will receive a cost quote and notification of when the quote expires, which will be six months after the date on the cost quote. If you do not purchase before your expiration date, a new cost must be calculated.

Am I obligated to purchase service by submitting an application?
No. After you submit the application, IPERS will make sure you are eligible and calculate your cost. You may then decide if you’d like to purchase the service.