Beginning July 1, 2009, Columbia University will convert all University Officers of instruction, research, administration, the libraries and student officers to a semi-monthly pay cycle. The new semi-monthly pay cycle will replace the existing monthly cycle. This change means that while your total monthly earnings will remain the same, you will be paid twice every month rather than once. Please note, fellowships and stipends will continue to be paid on a monthly basis, as they are now.

Changes to New York State law require that all employees below a certain earnings threshold be paid at least semi-monthly. Several pay frequency options were considered and the conversion of all Officers to a semi-monthly cycle was determined to be the most effective way to comply with this law. This change will provide you with earlier and more frequent access to your earnings, giving you more flexibility to manage your money.

Human Resources mailed letters home to all affected Officers on April 29, 2009:

• Letter to Salaried Officers (PDF)
• Letter to $0-Salaried Officers (PDF)

For your reference, we have created several useful materials:

• Working at Columbia
• Officer Pay Cycle Change FAQs
• External Budgeting Resources

We are here to help you think through any issues that may result from this change. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Human Resources Processing Center (HRPC) Helpdesk at (212) 851-2888. For benefits-related issues, please call the HR Benefits Service Center at (212) 851-7000.