NFL Pension Eligibility: How the NFL Player Retirement Plan Works

Three credited seasons earns you a pension for life. Here’s how the NFL Player Retirement Plan calculates it, and when to start it.

Piggy bank labeled Retirement Plan on a calculator: NFL pension eligibility

The Bert Bell/Pete Rozelle NFL Player Retirement Plan pays a monthly pension for life to vested former players. It is funded by NFL clubs and is one of the most valuable NFL retirement benefits a player can earn.

Who is eligible for an NFL pension

You must earn at least three credited seasons to be vested
A credited season generally means at least three games on the active roster, injured reserve or physically unable to perform list
Players alive on March 15, 2020 with three credited seasons who weren’t already vested became vested under the 2020 CBA

How much the NFL pension pays

Your pension is based on your credited seasons and when you earned them, not your salary or position.

Each season before 2012$550/mo

Seasons 2012–2019Prior credit + 10%

Each season 2020–2030$836/mo

These are monthly amounts at the normal retirement age of 55. A player with five credited seasons from 2020 to 2030 would receive $4,180 a month starting at 55.

When to start your pension

As early as 45

You can start a reduced pension early, but the monthly amount is lower for life.

At 55

The normal retirement age, when you receive your full earned credits.

After 55

Waiting increases your monthly benefit. According to the NFL, a five-season player who waits until 65 would receive nearly $11,000 a month.

Check disability first

Starting your NFL pension can end your eligibility for Line of Duty disability. Review your disability options before you file for your pension.

Other retirement benefits for vested players

Vested players may also be eligible for the Player Annuity Program, the Health Reimbursement Account, the 88 Plan and more. See the full NFL Retirement Plan guide →

Frequently asked questions

How many years do you need for an NFL pension?

Three credited seasons to be vested.

How much is the NFL pension per year of service?

$836 a month per credited season for seasons from 2020 to 2030, payable at 55. Earlier seasons have different values.

When can I start my NFL pension?

As early as 45 with a reduction, at 55 for the full amount, or later for a higher monthly benefit.

Figures reflect the 2020 NFL–NFLPA Collective Bargaining Agreement and NFL Player Benefits materials as of 2026. The plan documents govern, and benefits can change. Legacy Pro Sports is not affiliated with the NFL, the NFLPA or the plans.