ORP and 403(b) Guidance

Specialized help for Texas college and university faculty making important retirement decisions.

Working with those who serve students is a passion of mine. Over the years, my practice has evolved to focus primarily on faculty members and professors at colleges and universities across Texas. I have specific expertise in the Texas Optional Retirement Plan (ORP). 


As an independent advisor, I work directly for the ORP participants who retain my services. Participants may pay certain investment advisory fees as governed by Texas law under Texas Adminstrative Code, Title 19 Education, undert Part I of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, Chapter 25, Optional Retirement Program, Rule 25.6.

How I Can Help

Understanding the ORP Decision

Investment Selection and Management

Understanding the ORP Decision

Eligible faculty generally must choose between the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) and the ORP and the choice is typically a one-time decision with a limited window. I'll help you understand how the ORP works so you can weigh that choice with a clear picture of both sides.

ORP Provider and Cost Review

Investment Selection and Management

Understanding the ORP Decision

Many participants don't know what they're really paying. I'll prepare a summary of the total costs of your current ORP provider so you can see the full picture.

Investment Selection and Management

Investment Selection and Management

Voluntary 403(b) and Other Savings Plans

I'll help you choose and manage investments within your ORP that fit your goals and risk tolerance, and keep them on track over time.

Voluntary 403(b) and Other Savings Plans

Voluntary 403(b) and Other Savings Plans

Voluntary 403(b) and Other Savings Plans

If you're saving beyond the ORP, I'll help you decide how much to save, which accounts to use, and how everything fits together.

Planning for Retirement and Job Changes

Voluntary 403(b) and Other Savings Plans

Planning for Retirement and Job Changes

Changing institutions, leaving higher education, or retiring? I'll help you understand your options for your ORP and other accounts.

Who I Work With

This service is designed for:

  • New faculty weighing the ORP election
  • Current ORP participants who want a second look at their costs and investments
  • Faculty approaching retirement who need an income plan
  • Faculty changing institutions or leaving higher education

Common Questions

Please reach us at mpeck@amicusadvisors.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

The election window is limited, typically 90 days from the date you become eligible. Check with your institution's benefits office for your exact deadline and don't wait too long to make this irreversible decision.

In most cases, the election is irrevocable. That's why it's worth understanding your options before you decide. For questions about TRS benefits, your institution's benefits office and TRS are the best sources.

Yes. Many of my clients already had a provider when we first met. Your free consultation includes a review of your current provider's total costs and an investment action plan.

Get a Second Look at Your ORP

Your free consultation includes a risk and reward assessment, a summary of the total costs of your current ORP provider, an investment action plan and an overall financial planning assessment.

Schedule Your Free Conultation