Many teachers who have retired and are in receipt of a pension often return to the workforce. This can either be for a short or longer period of time. Returning to the workforce and taking up employment in retirement is a personal choice. Below are some of the most Frequently Asked Questions about working in retirement.
Frequently asked questions
Why do teachers return to the workforce in retirement?
Can I return to the workplace whilst in receipt of a public sector pension?
Can I work as a teacher whilst in receipt of a public sector pension from teaching?
Should I return to the workforce, what could be the impact on my public service pension?
What is meant by abatement?
For example: | |
Working prior to retirement | Working in retirement |
Salary €80,000 | Pension €37,000 |
New Employment €45,000 | |
Total €82,000 |
As this teacher is earning more than what they earned whilst in employment as a teacher, their pension will be subject to abatement.
How is abatement calculated?
Is abatement automatic?
What does the waiver do?
What is the likelihood of abatement being applied?
Teachers who take on more constant work and who advance on the pay scale may find that they are more likely who have abatement applied. Again this will depend on individual circumstances but with the vast majority not subject to abatement.
Should I be worried about abatement?
The DE has a dedicated email address (abatementqueries@education.gov.ie) to assist with any queries on the possible application and impact of abatement should you decide to return to the workplace. The DE has developed a modeller and FAQs.
Does abatement apply to private sector employment?
Where can I get more information about abatement?
What happens if I’m in receipt of an occupational supplementary pension and return to the workforce?
Am I making pension contributions when I return to public sector employment?
If you complete the vesting period of the Single Pension Scheme (contributed to the Scheme for 24 months or more, 730 or more days of substitute work) then you have attained vested status, and cannot claim a refund of your pension contributions, as you have earned an entitlement to some pension benefits under this scheme. This applies to all Public Sector work you might engage in, not just teaching.
Teachers wishing to claim a refund of their pension contributions should complete and return Form R002 to the Department of Education.
What should I do should I wish to return as a teacher?
If your registration has lapsed, the Teaching Council has a tailored registration process in place for those seeking to return to the register.