2025 Session Last amended: 1988 session

§ 465.72 — Severance Pay

Plain-Language Summary

Local governments can pay severance to departing employees but cannot pay more than one year of salary. Severance pay is not included in retirement calculations and must be paid out over up to five years. If the employee dies before receiving all payments, the balance goes to their beneficiary or estate.

Practical Notes
If you leave a government job, your employer may offer severance pay, but it is capped at one year’s salary. The payments can be spread over five years and do not affect your pension. Make sure to name a beneficiary for any unpaid balance.