There may be periods of time during your employment when you were not contributing to the pension plan. The following gaps in pensionable service are eligible to be purchased:
- Non-permanent service worked in the two years immediately prior to becoming a member
- Previously refunded contributions, if non-vested
- Maternity/parental/adoption leave
If you purchase an eligible period of time, it will increase the pension benefit amount you receive at retirement.
To do so, you must apply by submitting a Purchase of Service Application (PDF) to the Pensions and Benefits office. Once you apply to purchase service, the cost will be calculated and you will be provided with payment options. The cost to buy service is based on one- or two-times contributions, depending on the service type.
Service can only be purchased within the following time limits:
| Type of Service | When Application Must be Submitted |
|---|---|
| Service Worked Before Becoming a Member (up to 2 years) Calculated at 2x contributions |
Within 24 months of becoming a member of the PSPP |
| Buyback of Non-Vested Refund * Cost is the original gross refund plus effective interest at date application is submitted |
Within 24 months of the refund date |
| EARLY election Maternity/Parental/Adoption Leave Calculated at 1x contributions |
Within 12 months of the end of the leave |
| LATE election Maternity/Parental/Adoption Leave Calculated at 2x contributions |
After month 12 and up to month 24 following the end of the leave |