When I retired two years ago, I received a Voluntary Separation Incentive Payment (“Buyout”). How would re-employment with the Census affect me?
Former Federal employees who accepted such buyouts are subject to repayment of the full amount of the buyout if they return to work for the Federal government within 5 years from the date on which they retired or were otherwise separated. This requirement applies even if your Federal employment is only a short term job of 4-6 weeks with the Census. Generally, those who separated from active duty military service upon acceptance of a Voluntary Separation Incentive or Special Separation Benefit are not subject to these repayment provisions.