What you need to know about Return to Work + One Percent fund delays

September 24, 2026

The South Carolina Legislature has adopted Proviso 108.18 to the 2026-2027 General Appropriations bill, which provides exemptions to the earnings limitation added through a proviso in the budget each year. The following exemption specifically addresses the ability for PORS retirees in the fire service to return to work for the fiscal year 2027 budget and are contingent on continued approval in each year’s budget.

PORS retirees who have been retired for at least 90 consecutive calendar days can return to covered employment under PORS and earn up to $80,000 annually without affecting their retirement benefit. However, if a law enforcement officer held a supervisory rank at the time of retirement, they are not eligible for the increased limitation if they return to a supervisory position. PEBA must be notified of the retiree’s exemption.

*We have been informed that PORS fire service retirees who held a supervisory rank may return following the 90 consecutive calendar days separation in a supervisory rank and earn up to the $80,000 annually without affecting their retirement benefit.

As always, the Association highly encourages those who are under the PORS retirement system to communicate directly with PEBA (SC Public Employee Benefit Authority) to ensure you qualify for this or any other exemptions or general questions concerning your benefits. https://www.peba.sc.gov/

One Percent Funds Delayed

County treasurers are awaiting the 1% funds to be released from the South Carolina Department of Insurance. The delay is most likely from the late passage of South Carolina’s Appropriations Bill (budget).

Once the funds are received by county treasurers, they have 30 days to issue those funds to qualifying fire departments. The Association does not anticipate the current delay will significantly impact departments’ ability to meet the deadline for annual membership requirements.

“While we do not anticipate continued issues with the distribution of 1% funds, we recognize how important these funds are to departments across the state and will continue to monitor the process closely. If additional delays or concerns arise, the Association is here to support our members and advocate on their behalf,” Executive Director Jamie Helms stated.

We will share more information as it becomes available.