Frequently Asked Questions
Optional Retirement Plan for Political Appointees

General

• What is the Optional Retirement Plan for Political Appointees?
• Who’s eligible to enroll?
• What does the Plan do for me?

What is the Optional Retirement Plan for Political Appointees?
The Optional Retirement Plan for Political Appointees (ORPPA) is a defined contribution plan regulated by Section 51.1-126.5 of the Code of Virginia and Internal Revenue Code Section 401(a). The Plan provides retirement benefits for eligible employees in consideration of their services. This Plan is in lieu of the VRS defined benefit plan.

The Plan does not provide any disability coverage other than the protection provided by the funds in your account, which are available to you at retirement or termination of employment. If you choose this Plan you may wish to purchase your own disability insurance.

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Who’s eligible to enroll?
Employees who are employed in eligible positions as described in Subdivision 3, 4, or 20 of Section 2.2-2905 of the Code of Virginia are eligible to enroll. Officers or employees appointed by the Attorney General or Lieutenant Governor to positions of deputy, counsel or director also are eligible.

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What does the Plan do for me?
The Plan provides you with income to be used during your retirement. The Plan is not designed for short-term savings.

In determining the suitability of the ORPPA to your situation, read "Choosing Your Retirement Plan" (Comparison Guide) found online at www.varetire.org. Select Optional Retirement Plan for Political Appointees under the Defined Contribution Plans tab. Carefully compare the features of the ORPPA with the features of the VRS defined benefit plan to determine which will better meet your needs. If you currently have VRS service credit, request an estimate of what your retirement benefit will be if you continue in VRS.

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