Working for the state? (Pierre: how much, income, income tax)

[no8fann]

Does anyone on this forum work for the state of SD? I know what their website tells me, and I know what the HR folks will tell me, but I would like some first person input.

What are benefits like? How much is your contribution per paycheck? Is it, overall, a good system to work in? How is management? I know it probably varies a lot by agency. I am just looking for a general feel...is it a good career choice, or are people in general unhappy working for the state?

Also, with paid leave (annual/sick) is it use or lose, or can you accumulate it?

[Jammie]

I don't work for the state, but know several people who do. It's a fairly desired place here because of the benies.

You'll be in the SDRS~South Dakota Retirement System and they have always done very well. I believe the state does up to a 5% match for SDRS.

The state and county both seem to have a limitation on sick leave and it's four hundred and some hours. Don't remember the exact number, but it's up there fairly high.

There is no limit on accrued vacation. Also, when you retire, you can roll your vacation $$ and your unused sick $$ (up to a certain amount as stated before) over into a fund in Pierre. You then have the option of taking it all out at once or receiving a certain amount per year.

Of course, there are also the paid holidays that state workers receive.

If I left anything out that you can think of, just ask and if I don't know the answer, I'll find out for you.

[no8fann]

Thank you, Jammie! I am putting in for another state position today, and I still have several federal ones pending...I hope to find something soon!

[Jammie]

Originally Posted by no8fann

Thank you, Jammie! I am putting in for another state position today, and I still have several federal ones pending...I hope to find something soon!

Hey, good luck to you!!!!

[debey]

Work for Us - South Dakota Bureau of Personnel

[no8fann]

Now, if I can just find a position that will pay to relocate me, I will be set! That seems like a pretty decent benefits package!

[debey]

It may be pretty hard to get a state job, with relocation reimbursement........isn't there a way, to deduct relocating from Income Tax?

[Chris19]

Without going longform, there is.

I have moved two and half years ago and took advantage of the moving expenses.

My advices is to keep track of your mileage and expenditures and report it when you claim the moving expense deduction. It will definitely help in getting a better tax return.

With living several states away, one would easily qualify for the distance test.

I would suggest going to the IRS website and see information relating to moving expenses. It is not hard to do and it would not be hard for an accountant or tax preparer to do (depends on who you go with).

[debey]

Originally Posted by Chris19

Without going longform, there is.

I have moved two and half years ago and took advantage of the moving expenses.

My advices is to keep track of your mileage and expenditures and report it when you claim the moving expense deduction. It will definitely help in getting a better tax return.

With living several states away, one would easily qualify for the distance test.

I would suggest going to the IRS website and see information relating to moving expenses. It is not hard to do and it would not be hard for an accountant or tax preparer to do (depends on who you go with).

thank you, Chris!!

[no8fann]

Thank you for the reminder!