Frequently Asked Questions
Following are answers to the most frequently asked questions concerning the Staff Service Awards program at The University of Texas as Austin. If you have a question about the program that is not addressed here, please contact us.
What does Service Awards mean to me?
Now is the time of year to count up how many years you have worked for the university. If you have worked at the university for 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, or even 50 years, you are eligible to receive a certificate and lapel pin from Human Resource Services.
When and where do I get my certificate and my lapel pin?
Your certificate is presented to you by your department and you receive your lapel pin at the annual Staff Recognition Program and President's Reception. If you are receiving an award of 30 years and above, your certificate will be presented to you at the Staff Recognition Program.
What do I need to do to help ensure my time is counted correctly or if I feel I should be receiving an award?
Work with your HR Contact in your department and that person may contact Regina Garza at regina.garza@austin.utexas.edu if any changes need to be made.
Why does it look like my State Service time and my Service Awards time don't match?
Service Awards time is calculated differently than State Service time. So to have a difference is a very common occurrence.
Why does it look like my Retirement time accrued and my Service Awards time don't match?
Service Awards time is calculated differently than Retirement time. It is a very common occurrence to have a difference.
How are Service Awards, State Service, and Retirement times calculated?
Please see the following Service Comparison table.
| Type of Service | Who is Eligible | What Service is Eligible | Service Calculation Method | Information Contact | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| State Service | All employees, including faculty, staff and student employees regardless of the percent time appointed. | Includes service with all Texas state agencies and institutions of higher education. | Actual months and days appointed. | HRSC Employee Records Services 512-471-5127 |
Determines annual leave accrual, refer to Annual Leave Policy. Determines rate of longevity pay, refer to Longevity Pay Policy. |
| Service Awards | Classified and Administrative and Professional (A&P) staff appointed at least 20 hours per week in an eligible position. | Service with any University of Texas component prior to 9-1-01 is included. Only University of Texas at Austin service is included if earned 9-1-01 or later. | One month of service is given for each month or fraction of a month of an active appointment in an eligible title. Eligible service is computed through May 31, 2007. | HRS Administration Regina Garza 512-475-9060 |
University-wide recognition through the annual Employee Service Awards Program, refer to Service Recognition Policy. |
| Retirement Service | Benefits eligible employees. | Only service in a benefit eligible position for which a contribution to a retirement system was made. Contact the specific retirement system for details. | Dependent upon participation in Teacher Retirement System or Optional Retirement Program. | Teacher Retirement System of Texas OR |
Access to retirement programs available through the Teacher Retirement System or the Optional Retirement Program. Retiree health care for employee and eligible dependents. |
If you have a question about State Service not relating to Service Awards, please call Employee Records at 512-471-5127. If you have a question about retirement not relating to Service awards, please call the Human Resource Service Center at 512-471-HRSC (4772).
