Separation Benefit

If you leave employment with the WRS before reaching minimum retirement age, you may keep your money with the WRS or take a separation benefit. Learn about the key things to consider before taking a separation benefit.

The cover image of the Annuity Options brochure:  Wisconsin trees in fall colors.

Annuity Payment Options

Use the information provided on this page to choose the retirement benefit payment option that fits you best.

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Active Employee / Retiree / Local Employer / State Employer

WRS Distribution of All Retirement Benefits Fact Sheet

The WRS covers employees of the state of Wisconsin and employees of local government employers who elect to participate, and Milwaukee Public School District teachers.

Required Minimum Distribution

Once you stop working for a Wisconsin Retirement System employer, federal law requires you to begin receiving your benefit payment(s) by a certain date, depending on your age. This is called a required minimum distribution (RMD). 

Video
15 minutes
Retirement Planning for Women title slide.

Retirement Planning: An Action Plan for Women

See retirement from a woman's perspective. Find out why retirement is different for women and the factors that put women at a disadvantage when it comes to planning and saving for retirement. A presentation by the Wisconsin Deferred Compensation Program.

Video
17 minutes
Wisconsin Retirement System topic pic.

WRS Benefits for New and Mid-Career Employees

Are you a new employee or someone who still has at least 5 years to go before you can retire? It's never too early to start planning for a secure retirement. Learn how to maximize your WRS benefits. Watch this video about the topic on demand 24/7.