SC Teachers & State Employees
Maximize Your SC State Pension & Retire with Total Confidence
The Realities of South Carolina State Retirement (PEBA)
Dedicated Service, Complex Decisions: Years of public service in SC have built a valuable pension, but election choices at retirement are irreversible.
One Size Does Not Fit All: Understanding your classification (Class Two vs. Class Three member rules), average final compensation (AFC) calculations, and years of service requirements.
The Fiduciary Bridge: PEBA administrators can explain the forms, but they cannot legally advise you on which payout option best protects your spouse or minimizes taxes, that's where an independent fiduciary advisor steps in.
Dedicated Service, Complex Decisions
Your pension election is a one-time, irreversible decision. It deserves expert review.
One Size Does Not Fit All
Class Two vs. Class Three rules, AFC calculations, and years of service all shape your outcome.
The Fiduciary Bridge
PEBA can explain the forms. Only an independent fiduciary can advise on what's best for your family.
Critical Decisions Every SC State Employee Must Navigate
SCRS & PORS Pension Option Selection
Analyzing Option A (maximum lifetime payout), Option B (100% survivor payout with reduction), and Option C (50% survivor payout or pop-up benefit) to balance income needs with spousal protection.
State ORP vs. Defined Benefit SCRS
Guidance for CCU faculty, healthcare state employees, and professionals in the State Optional Retirement Program (State ORP) regarding investment selection, fee management, and distribution strategies.
Supplemental Savings Optimization
Harmonizing South Carolina Deferred Compensation (Empower) accounts, school district 403(b) annuities, and Roth vs. pre-tax contributions for optimal tax diversification.
Our 4-Step SC State Retirement Roadmap
Step 1
Complete PEBA & Pension Audit
We calculate your projected SCRS/PORS pension estimates and review your Class Two vs. Class Three rules.
Step 2
Income Gap & Social Security Analysis
We integrate your pension with Social Security timing to map out your guaranteed monthly income floor.
Step 3
Tax Diversification & Supplemental Plan Strategy
We design a customized distribution plan for your 401(k), 403(b), 457(b), and IRAs to minimize your tax bracket.
Step 4
Spousal Protection & Estate Transition
We review Pension Maximization and survivor benefit structures to protect your family in every scenario.
Who We Serve Across the Grand Strand & South Carolina
K-12 Educators & Administrators
Horry, Georgetown, Marion, and statewide school districts.
Higher Education Faculty & Staff
Coastal Carolina University, HGTC, and state colleges.
Law Enforcement & First Responders
PORS members, state troopers, and municipal officers.
State Agency & Healthcare Personnel
DHEC, SCDOT, DSS, and state medical facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions About SC State Retirement
What is the difference between Class Two and Class Three members in SCRS?
Class Two members earned service credit prior to July 1, 2012, and generally qualify for unreduced retirement under the Rule of 28 (28 years of service) or age 65. Class Three members began service on or after July 1, 2012, and require the Rule of 90 (age + service = 90) or age 65 with at least 8 years of service.
How does Option B vs. Option C survivor benefits work under SCRS?
Option A pays the maximum monthly benefit for your lifetime only. Option B provides a reduced monthly benefit, but continues 100% of that payment to your named beneficiary for their lifetime. Option C provides a reduced benefit that pays 50% to your beneficiary upon your passing. Both Option B and C have "pop-up" provisions if your beneficiary predeceases you.
Can I roll over my SC Deferred Comp 401(k) or 457(b) when I retire?
Yes. Upon separating from service or reaching retirement age, you can roll over your South Carolina Deferred Compensation accounts into an independent IRA (held with custodians like Charles Schwab or Altruist) to gain full investment flexibility, customized asset allocation, and dedicated fiduciary management.
When should I start planning my retirement from the state?
The ideal window is 3 to 5 years prior to your targeted retirement date. This gives you ample time to optimize supplemental 403(b)/457 contributions, evaluate pension survivor options, and build a tax-efficient retirement income strategy.
Ready to Make the Most of Your Years of Service?
Schedule your complimentary, 1-on-1 SC State Pension & Retirement Review with an independent fiduciary advisor.
