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SAM II Agencies: Transfer or Break in Service? Determining SEBES Entry Requirements
Jul 16, 2025, 10:45 AM By MOSERSIn situations where an employee transfers between MOSERS-covered employers without a break in service, SEBES enrollment is typically not required. The guidance below explains how to identify a transfer, defines what qualifies as a break in service, and clarifies when SEBES entry is necessary.
What is a Transfer?A transfer occurs when an employee moves from one benefit-eligible position with a MOSERS-covered employer to another MOSERS benefit-eligible position within 30 calendar days of their termination, meaning there is no break in service.
- Employees who meet these criteria are eligible to maintain their existing MOSERS benefits without interruption.
- As a result, when an employee transfers between most SAM II agencies, you do not need to enter them into SEBES.
What is a Break in Service?A break in service is defined as a period of 30 days or more during which the employee is not actively working in a benefit-eligible position between termination and rehire. Employees returning to a benefit-eligible position after a break in service must be enrolled in SEBES.
How to Report a Transfer to MOSERS- Terminating Agency: Update the ESMT with the appropriate resignation or dismissal status.
- Hiring Agency: Update the ESMT with the appropriate hire status. Do not enter the employee into SEBES. The transfer will be captured automatically via the ESMT update and reported to MOSERS through the SAM II Daily File.
When is SEBES Entry Required?Employees must be entered into SEBES if they are eligible to make new benefit elections. This includes employees who:
- Are hired for the first time into a benefit-eligible position.
- Transition from a non-benefit-eligible position to a benefit-eligible position.
- Are returning to state employment after a break in service.
- Are newly employed by your agency, but were most recently employed by one of the following:
- Department of Conservation
- Department of Transportation
- Highway Patrol
- A state college or university (excluding State Tech & Lincoln University)
Helpful Tips- Use the Retirement Plan Look-Up under Tools to help determine whether an employee has a break in service requiring SEBES enrollment.
- Refer to the Transfer Flow Chart – SAM II Agencies for step-by-step guidance on SEBES entry requirements.
Need Help?If you have any questions, contact Employer Services at (800) 827-1063, option 2, or email employers@mosers.org.