Fort Belvoir, Va. — In an effort to enhance efficiency and streamline processes for the workforce, the U.S. Army Benefits Center-Civilian (ABC-C), under Consolidated Services Division supporting the U.S. Army Civilian Human Resources Agency (CHRA), is adopting a new process for all new retirement applications via the Online Retirement Application (ORA). This initiative, scheduled to be fully implemented by July, is in alignment with the U.S. Office of Personnel Management’s (OPM) recent announcement of a government-wide digital retirement application process.
Applicants will use a Government Retirement & Benefits (GRB) Platform ™, Online Retirement Application Request in lieu of the old process. Users will start an ORA application of retirement paperwork, effectively phasing out the old paper-based method that has been used for decades. With the digital process, ABC-C can offer faster processing times, reduce the potential for errors as the application moves through the different agencies required to process, and provide seamless tracking and transition for employees approaching retirement.
“Embracing this new digital system is more than a technological upgrade—it is about transforming the way we do business with our workforce and reinforcing our commitment to service excellence,” said Karen, Pane, Director of CHRA. “This pivotal move aligns with our vision of fostering a responsive and empowered civilian workforce.”
For our federal civilian employees, this means a more engaged relationship with the benefits center, streamlined access to necessary retirement services, and quicker responses to their submissions and inquiries.
“Transitioning to a digital retirement application process is not just about keeping up with technology—it’s about leading by example in the pursuit of excellence and efficiency,” said Cary Stone, Director of ABC-C. "This system empowers our employees by giving them the tools for better control and more seamless transition into retirement."
The integration of technology into routine processes is expected to significantly boost operational efficiency and improve overall experience for retiring employees. The move also reflects ABC-C’s dedication to excellence through partnership, working closely with OPM, DFAS Defense Civilian Personnel Data System (DCPDS) and other agencies to ensure the process is as smooth and effective as possible.
Both Pane and Stone emphasized the importance of this development for the workforce, highlighting it as a landmark in their continued efforts to enhance the services provided to Army civilians.
“We are excited to roll out ORA and are dedicated to making this transition as smooth as possible for our employees,” Pane added. “Our team is ready to support all personnel through this change and to ensure they feel empowered and informed every step of the way.”
The full digital retirement application system, ORA, will be assessable through the GRB portal will be mandatory for all federal agencies by July 15, at which point paper applications will no longer be accepted. Additional guidance and support for employees navigating the new system are available on the CHRA and ABC-C websites.
For further information, employees are encouraged to contact their local CHRA Civilian HR Service Centers or visit the ABC-C web portal at https://portal.chra.army.mil/ABC.
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