Retirement Benefits

For Current Retirees - Please Visit 2026 Retirement Benefits

 

 

Tarrant County is committed to helping employees prepare for a secure and confident retirement. We offer both a mandatory retirement plan through the Texas County and District Retirement System (TCDRS) and a voluntary retirement savings plan to help you build additional retirement income for the future.

Mandatory Retirement Plan – Texas County and District Retirement System (TCDRS)

Participation is mandatory for all full-time, benefits-eligible employees. TCDRS provides a reliable source of income at retirement, with Tarrant County matching employee contributions 2-to-1.

  • Employee Contribution: seven percent of pay, deducted each pay period
  • County Match: $2 for every $1 contributed, applied at retirement
  • Vesting: Achieved after eight years of service
  • Retirement Eligibility:
    • Rule of 75 – Age + years of service = 75
    • Age 60 with at least eight years of service
    • 30 years of service at any age

Not Eligible: Temporary or project-based employees do not participate in TCDRS.

Getting Started and Managing Your Account

  • Benefit Calculator: Estimate your monthly retirement income based on current contributions.

  • Counseling Sessions: Schedule one-on-one consultations with a TCDRS representative.

Voluntary Retirement Savings – 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan

The 457(b) plan is a great way to save extra for retirement, in addition to your pension.

  • Minimum Contribution: $10 per pay period

  • Flexible Contributions: Start, stop, or change amounts at any time

  • Contribution Types:

  • Traditional (Pre-tax): Lowers your taxable income today

  • Roth (After-tax): Contributions taxed now; withdrawals tax-free in retirement

  • Vendors: Choose from the approved vendors to manage your account

  • Enrollment: Available year-round

Tip: If you are not TCDRS-eligible (e.g., temporary project employees), the 457(b) plan is a great way to begin saving for retirement.

Educational Videos and Resources

Retirement Planning Checklist

When you’re ready to retire:

  1. Choose a Retirement Month
  2. Submit Retirement Application: Complete online at TCDRS.org
  3. Meet with HR-Benefits: Discuss retiree health benefit options
  4. Notify Your Department: Provide at least two weeks’ written notice
  5. Apply for Medicare: If age 65+, apply for Medicare Parts A and B three months prior to retirement.
  6. Plan for Leave Payouts: Unused vacation/sick leave is paid out and taxed at 22 percent.
  7. You may defer some or all of your payout into your 457(b) account (IRS limits apply).
  8. Update Your Contact Info: Ensure payroll has your correct mailing address.

Important Notes

  • Processing Times:
    • Allow 30 days for TCDRS processing
    • Allow 90 days for Medicare Part A and B processing (if applicable)
  • Confirmation Letter: TCDRS will send you a letter confirming retirement date, option selected, and first payment
  • First Payment: Paid on the last business day of the month following retirement month
  • Retiree Premiums: If enrolling in retiree medical, dental, or vision coverage, payment is due by the first of each month. Consider setting up automatic bank draft to prevent coverage lapses.