DROP termination and the 6-month reemployment rule

Ending DROP and going back to work

To receive your DROP payout and monthly benefit you must terminate all employment with all FRS employers, including OPS, temporary and adjunct work. [FRS 2026 DROP Guide, p.9]
For the first six calendar months after your DROP termination date you must not work for or provide services to any FRS employer — including part-time, poll work, substitute teaching, contract work or third-party companies serving FRS employers. [FRS 2026 DROP Guide, p.19]
Violating this may void your retirement, and you and the employer can be held jointly and severally liable to repay all benefits, including the DROP payout. There are no exceptions. [FRS 2026 DROP Guide, p.20]
Since July 1, 2023, a qualifying FRS-employer post-employment volunteer program is allowed during those six months. [FRS 2026 DROP Guide, p.19]
Forms: DP-TERM verifies termination, DP-PAYT selects your payout; the division mails a termination packet three months before your scheduled termination date. [FRS 2026 DROP Guide, p.16]
DROP does not guarantee employment — you can quit or be laid off as before. [FRS 2026 DROP Guide, p.23]