Columbia University retirees continue to be valued members of the University community.
To review the benefits available to Columbia retirees, visit Planning for Retirement or scroll down for links to benefits, forms, and Medicare information you may need as a current retiree.
Important Reminders
In 2027, Columbia University is increasing the HRA amount to $3,250 for an individual retiree and $1,625 for their covered spouse. In 2026, it is $2,100 for individuals and $1,050 for spouses.
Your initial HRA contribution will be based on your retirement date:
- January 1 – June 30, 2027: You will receive the full $3,250 annual HRA contribution.
- July 1 – November 30, 2027: You will receive 50% of the annual contribution, or $1,625.
- December 1 – December 31, 2027: You will receive the full $3,250 annual contribution, which will be deposited on January 1 of the following calendar year.
HRA contributions will be deposited the 1st of the month following your retirement date.
One-on-One Consultation Sessions
All Columbia faculty and staff are eligible to register for a one-on-one retirement consultation, either in person at Columbia or over the phone.
You will need all your investment account statements, including any retirement investments outside of the retirement plans and your most recent Social Security statement, if available.
A consultant will use this information to understand your current financial situation and develop an action plan. To schedule a session, go to:
If you are actively planning for retirement, you can also schedule a retirement facilitation with a staff member in the University's Benefits Service Center. Schedule an appointment by emailing [email protected] or call 212-851-7000.
Resources for Retirees
Learn about the benefits that will help you thrive in retirement.
Learn more about benefits available to currently retired Officers.
Learn more about benefits available to currently retired Support Staff members.
Columbia partners with Via Benefits Insurance Services to help you and your spouse or domestic partner choose supplemental individual Medicare coverage.
Columbia offers a tax-free Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) if you enroll in a medical plan through Via Benefits.
Medicare Part A and B is your primary medical insurance coverage once you retire from Columbia on or after age 65.
Learn about continued access to email, campus locations, and related services for Columbia University retirees.
Retirement Resources
Events & Workshops
Retirement Planning Workshop for Officers Ages 40-54
How to Get the Most From Your Employee Retirement Plan (TIAA)
Retirement Planning Workshop for Officers Ages 55+
Disclaimer
This website summarizes certain features of the Voluntary Retirement Savings Plan (VRSP) and the Officers’ Retirement Plan. The information provided is only an overview of these plans and is not intended to provide full details, which are contained in the official plan documents. If any statements on this website or verbal representations are inconsistent with the official plan documents, the official plan documents will always govern. Columbia University reserves the right to change or terminate any plan, at any time, for any reason. This is in no way intended to imply a contract of employment or a guarantee of returns on savings and investments.