VSIP Guidance for Employees

The Voluntary Separation Incentive Program is a completely voluntary program being offered as part of a strategic plan to create opportunities for organizational adjustments to meet future needs.

We've answered some of the frequently asked questions below, but if you have more specific questions related to the VSIP please reach out to vsip@csusm.edu.  For questions related to retirement or benefits, please reach out to hrbenefits@csusm.edu.  

Frequently Asked Questions

• What information do I need to complete the VSIP Application?

  To complete and submit the VSIP application, you will need the following information:

  • Manager/Appropriate Administrator (MPP) email address 
  • Employee ID 
  • Division 
  • Department 
  • Requested Separation Date (Separation must occur on June 30, 2025. By exception, requests for separation later than June 30, but no later than August 31, 2025, will be considered based on institutional need and by mutual agreement.) 
  • Intended Separation Type (resignation or retirement) 

  View the sample VSIP Application.

• When can I submit my application?

  The application period opens at 8:00 a.m. on Monday, April 7, 2025 and will end no later than 12:00 noon on Friday, April 18, 2025. 

  Completed applications will be processed on a first come, first served basis. The date and time the employee submits the completed application is tracked in AdobeSign and will be used to determine the order in which completed applications are submitted. 

• Do I need to discuss my decision with my manager?

  Although you do not need to discuss your decision with your manager, if you decide to participate in the Voluntary Separation Incentive Program, your manager will receive a copy of your completed VSIP Application.   Please note that a request for a separation date after June 30, 2025, but no later than August 31, 2025, must be based on institutional need and may require review and input by your manager.      

  If your application to participate in the VSIP is approved, you and your manager will work to together to form a transition plan for your work and responsibilities.    

• What happens to my benefits?
  If separating, your benefits will continue through the end of the following month, and you will be provided with a COBRA Continuation notice.  If you are retiring with CalPERS and your retirement date is within 30 days of separation, the OHR Benefits office will assist with the transition of benefits into retirement.
• What happens to my accrued vacation time and/or CTO?

  Upon separating from the University, you will receive payment for any remaining accrued, unused vacation and/or CTO with your final paycheck. 

• Is retirement a condition of participating in the program?
  No, an employee is not required to retire after separating CSUSM through the Voluntary Separation Program.  Note that an employee separating from the University must retire within 120 days of their separation date to maintain eligibility for earned retiree health benefits. 
• How do I know if I am CalPERS service retirement eligible?

  Employees should contact CalPERS directly for information regarding retirement, eligibility, and/or to apply for retirement. You can also view your current retirement information by creating an account at www.calpers.ca.gov.  

• Can faculty who have already submitted a notice of intent to FERP for AY 25/26 participate in the VSIP without needing to rescind and resubmit their notice of intent?
  Yes.
• Will I be eligible for unemployment benefits after voluntarily separating from the University?

  The California Employment Development Department manages all unemployment claims and determines eligibility. We recommend contacting their office directly with specific unemployment questions. 

• If I participate in the program, am I able to be rehired by CSUSM?
  If you participate in VSIP, you are not eligible for re-employment at CSUSM for a minimum of 18 months after your separation date. The only exception is for those faculty that elect to participate in FERP.   
• Will this program be offered in the future?
  This is a one-time, non-precedent setting program.