By state law, your application cannot be submitted more than 120 days prior to your effective retirement date. 3. 5 years of service and age 60.You can complete an application for retirement up to 120 days before your planned retirement date. Mecklenburg County offers a competitive benefits package to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Health and wellness, retirement and pension plans, time-off and leave, work-life balance and more! You complete 30 years of creditable service, at any age. Early Retirement (Reduced Benefits). Open to all employees, membership is fifty cents per week via payroll deduction. This guide is a summary of benefits. Have at least one U.S. citizen or non-citizen who meets the eligibility criteria.