If you’re a faculty or administrative professional participating in the Optional Retirement Program (ORP) through a Texas public university or health science center, your plan gives you more control than most realize.

Unlike a traditional pension, ORP gives you investment ownership and opportunities to act before you retire. But most people — and even most advisors — don’t take advantage of that flexibility. We specialize in helping professionals like you manage ORP assets early, using active, total-return strategies that align with your long-term goals.
 

What is the Optional Retirement Program (ORP) in Texas?

ORP is a defined contribution retirement plan offered to eligible employees of Texas public universities and health science centers. Unlike TRS, it gives you direct ownership and control over your investments — and the opportunity to optimize your plan before you retire.

Who is eligible for ORP?

Faculty members, select administrators, and certain professional staff at Texas public institutions typically qualify. ORP is chosen at the time of hire and is usually an irrevocable lifetime election.

Can I actively manage my ORP account while I'm still working?

Yes — and this is one of our key differentiators. Most advisors can’t access ORP accounts until you retire — or they take a passive, hands-off approach. We're approved to actively manage ORP assets before retirement for accounts held at Fidelity and TIAA, using a total return investment strategy tailored to your goals. This level of access is rare and only available to advisors approved through specific platforms. We currently manage ORP accounts for professionals at: UTHealth Houston, University of Houston, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Texas State University, Sam Houston State University, and many more...

Can I roll over my ORP while still employed?

In some cases, yes. Certain plans allow in-service distributions (typically after age 59½), depending on your employer and investment provider. We help you determine if you're eligible to roll over funds early — opening the door for strategic moves like Roth conversions and active portfolio management.

What happens to my ORP when I leave or retire?

Upon separation from service, you gain full control of your ORP account. You can keep it with your provider, roll it into an IRA, or restructure your income plan. We help you evaluate your options and avoid tax traps or high-fee mistakes.

What makes your approach to ORP different from other advisors?

We don’t just wait until retirement to help — we engage early and actively. Our clients benefit from: Direct in-plan management before retirement (when allowed), a total return strategy vs. passive buy-and-hold, and personal access to an advisor who understands both investment performance and pension coordination.

Can I contribute to other retirement accounts if I’m in ORP?

Yes. In addition to mandatory ORP contributions, you can also contribute to a 403(b), 457(b), or IRA. This allows you to diversify your tax buckets and build flexibility into your retirement plan.

What’s the biggest mistake ORP participants make before retiring?

Waiting too long to plan. Many assume they have to retire before taking action, missing out on years of optimization opportunities. Pre-retirement planning allows for smarter tax strategies, lower fees, and better investment control — and it starts earlier than most people realize.

Ready to take control of your ORP?

✅ Find out if your ORP can be actively managed 
✅ Discover whether you qualify for in-service rollover 
✅ Build a smarter retirement strategy before you separate

�� Schedule your ORP Strategy Session today.