REDUCTION IN FORCE

This Question and Answer below is intended to help members of the Employees’ Retirement Fund (ERF) of the City of Dallas understand how a Reduction in Force (RIF) may affect their retirement benefits.

Your rights and benefits are governed by Dallas City Code Chapter 40A. If your question is not answered here, please contact ERF Member Services at 214-580-7700.

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EDUCATIONAL SESSION FOR RIF AFFECTED EMPLOYEES

Q: Is ERF offering any in-person support for employees affected by the RIF?
A: Yes. ERF, along with Human Resources and the City’s Civil Service Department, will host an educational session for RIF-affected employees. Lunch will be provided:

Date: Wednesday, September 9th, 2026  
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.  
Location: 1920 McKinney Avenue, 10th Floor, Dallas, TX

Q: What will be covered during the educational session?
A: ERF staff will explain retirement and refund options and provide guidance on the Refund process, using RetireNow, and will be available to answer your questions. Representatives from the City’s Civil Service Department will also attend to explain options available before termination, including seniority status and potential employment opportunities within the City.

NON-VESTED MEMBERS (LESS THAN 5 YEARS OF CREDITED SERVICE)

Q: What do I need to do if I am not vested?
A: You must request a refund of your employee contributions within thirty-six (36) months of your last day of employment.

Q: What happens if I do not request my refund within 36 months?
A: If you do not request a refund within this time limit, your contributions will be forfeited under the provisions of Chapter 40A.

Q: What can I expect for the refund process?

  • Your termination must be processed in Workday.
  • Any lump sum vacation or sick leave payments much be processed by the City Controller’s Office.
  • Your final paycheck must be issued by the City.
  • If you have worked for the City for more that five years, sign, notarize and submit the Release/Waiver form.
  • You must submit a signed and notarized Refund of Contributions application to ERF.

The refund application and release/waiver are on the ERF website and, www.dallaserf.org/forms. All refunds are issued on the last business day of each month, provided all necessary steps are completed by the 15th of that month.

Q: Why can’t ERF issue my refund before my termination is processed in Workday?
A: ERF relies on the City’s official termination record in Workday to confirm your last day of employment and eligibility for a refund.

VESTED MEMBERS (5 OR MORE YEARS OF CREDITED SERVICE)

Q: What happens to my benefit if I am vested and my employment with the City ends due to a RIF?
A: You will remain eligible for a retirement benefit once you reach the applicable retirement age. Even though your employment with the City has ended. Your credited service and vesting rights remain intact.

Q: Do I need to withdraw my contributions if I am vested?
A: No. As a vested member, you are not required to withdraw your contributions. Your service credit and vesting rights remain in place.

Q: I am a Tier B employee. Does vesting affect anything else for me?
A: Yes. Vested Tier B employees may also be eligible for Restricted Prior Service Credit. Contact ERF Member Services for details specific to your service history.


RETIRING THROUGH RETIRENOW

Q: I am eligible to retire. How do I complete my retirement paperwork?
A:Yes.If you are impacted by a RIF and eligible to retire, you will need to submit your retirement documents using ERF's retirement portal, RetireNow.

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GETTING HELP

Q: Who do I contact for immediate assistance?
A: For immediate assistance, call ERF Member Services at 214-580-7700 or email at retirement_fund@dallaserf.org.

Q: Where can I find more information or access Retire Now?
A: Visit www.dallaserf.org/retire-now-resources