'Ask' or 'Tell' - plus another Question

[Westernskies]

I agree that in your shoes, I would give my notice on my 55th birthday, then go around grinning like a maniac for the next couple of weeks.

+1

 

[pb4uski]

If remaining on payroll through age 55 is critical in terms of your benefits and you have concerns that your employer might discharge you early if they learn of your plans, then I would suggest that you keep your cards close to the vest until you turn 55, then provide notice and plan to work for a couple weeks more. A couple weeks or even a month is not much to ask to leave on good terms after a long career.

Alternatively, you could provide notice in early April 2013 and let them know that you intend to leave efffective April 26, 2013.

Depending on how much you trust those who you work with you could always "informally" let them know about your plans so that they can begin planning for your absence.

If there is any question in your mind that they might not do the right thing, as always, look out for number one.

 

[cj]

We've had several ERs who've announced their plans far in advance, primarily for the purposes of identifying & training their reliefs. In almost every case corporate couldn't figure out how to do either task until well after the ER had left the building. In some cases they were calling them up months later begging them to return on a consulting basis to do the turnover they'd offered to do while they were still employed.

This is exactly what is happening to me. Gave essentially 8 months' notice. I have just over 2 months to go, and they are no more ready for me to leave than they were 6 months ago. Well, I gave them the chance.

I agree with other posters; if you think something could happen and the 55 mark is a non-negotiable, I say your 55th birthday gift to them should be your 2 weeks' notice. Good luck with that!!