Separation From Employment

Staffing Reductions Due to Funding Loss

We recognize that changes to your employment can be challenging, especially when they result from circumstances beyond your control, such as a loss of funding. The resources and information provided below are to support you through this transition.

We are actively developing additional resources and will update this page as new information becomes available. Please check back regularly, and we will aim to announce new resources when they are available.

Note: Some information may differ depending on your employment classification. For details specific to your situation, please refer to the notification memo you received.

Health Benefits

Q: How long do my benefits extend?

A:Health plan coverage (including prescription drug coverage) will end on the last day of the month in which employment ends. You may qualify to continue your MSU health plan coverage benefits either through COBRA or by self-paying for up to two years from your effective layoff date. For additional benefit information, please contact Michigan State University Human Resources at 517-353-4434 (toll-free at 800-353-4434) or SolutionsCenter@hr.msu.edu. Please identify yourself as a MSU Extension employee and have your notice memo available.

For job loss due to SNAP-Ed, coverage continues through September 30, 2025

Unemployment

Q: Am I eligible for unemployment?

A: Current and former university employees who meet the eligibility and qualification requirements may draw state unemployment insurance benefits during periods of unemployment or underemployment. Eligibility for benefits under the Michigan Employment Security Act is determined solely by the Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA).

Information and assistance regarding unemployment insurance benefits are available on the Unemployment Insurance Agency’s website (www.michigan.gov/uia) or by calling the toll-free number 866-500-0017. You may be asked for the information below when applying for benefits.

Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN): 38-6005984
Employer Account Number (EAN): 0800416-000
Employer Name: MICH ST UNIVER UNMPL COMP DIV
Employer Address: 1407 S Harrison Rd, Ste 240, East Lansing, MI 48823-5246

Payroll

Q: When will I receive my final paycheck?

A: You will receive your final paycheck on the normal bi-weekly or monthly pay schedule following your last day of work. Please refer to the MSU Payroll Schedules.

Q: How can I update my address prior to or after separation?

A: You can update your address by visiting the MSU Change Address Information site. This page provides step-by-step guidance on how to submit your new address prior to or after leaving the university.

Q: When will I receive my W-2 Form?

A: W-2 forms for all employees (current and former) will be mailed to the employee’s home address on or before the January 31st deadline. For more information you can visit the MSU Payroll website.

Q: How long will I have access to my W-2 forms and earning statements?

A: The MSU Enterprise Business System (EBS) is accessible for 18 months past the last date of employment with MSU to access your W-2 forms and earning statements. After 18 months you can request copies of your W-2 Forms by contacting the MSU Payroll Office by calling (517) 355-5010 or emailing CTLR.PAYROLL@ctlr.msu.edu.

Leave Payout

Support Staff Employees

Q: Will I be paid out for my vacation time?

A: Please refer to the MSU policy regarding vacation time.

Q: Will I be paid out for my sick time?

A: Please refer to the MSU policy regarding sick time.

Q: When will I receive my accrual payout if I’m eligible?

A: Payouts of accrued time may take four to six weeks. When the payout is completed, the employee will be paid out on the normal bi-weekly or monthly pay schedule.

Academic Employees

Q: Will I be paid out for my Annual Leave time?

A: Annual leave is not eligible for pay out upon separation, however, annual leave can be used until the date of separation on a prorated basis. Academic staff who received a separation notice on July 31, 2025 have 6-days of annual leave available to them through September 30, 2025.

Retirement

Q: What if I am eligible to retire from MSU?

A: If you believe you are eligible for retirement, may be eligible for an Optional Leave to Retirement, or if you would like additional information regarding retirement, please refer to this website: https://hr.msu.edu/benefits/retirement/prepare-to-retire.html and contact the MSU Human Resources Solutions Center at 517-353-4434 (toll-free at 800-353-4434) or SolutionsCenter@hr.msu.edu.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Q: Can I use the MSU Employee Assistance Program?

A: Yes, the Employee Assistance Program (MSU EAP) is a free, confidential counseling service available to you and your benefit-eligible dependents. The MSU EAP is available for up to six visits per person for six months after your date of separation. To connect with the MSU EAP, please call 517-355-4506 or email eap@msu.edu. Additional information and resources may be found on the MSU EAP website at www.eap.msu.edu.

Letter of Recommendation

Q: Can I receive a letter of recommendation?

A: Yes, staff and supervisors can provide a factual letter of recommendation on their personal letterhead or act as a reference at their discretion.

General

Q: I have additional questions, who should I contact?

A: Additional questions should be directed to MSU Human Resources at 517-353-4434 (toll-free at 800-353-4434) or SolutionsCenter@hr.msu.edu.

Q: How can I verify my employment and income with Michigan State University?

A: Verification of specific employment and income information including but not limited to hire date, termination date, length of employment, job title, and rate of pay can be confirmed via the MSU Employment and Income Verification process. More information is available here: https://hr.msu.edu/the-work-number/index.html.

Voluntary Resignations

Q: What should I do if I’ve decided to resign?

A: Submit a formal letter of resignation, either email or written, to your supervisor and msue.hr@msu.edu. The letter needs to include the last day you will be working.