MyPTO Maximization Program

Each week, we’re highlighting important details about the MyPTO Maximization Program to ensure you feel informed and supported throughout the transition. 

Prioritizing Your Well-Being

One of the best ways to care for yourself is by regularly using your PTO. Taking time off can make a meaningful difference in how you feel and how you perform at work and at home.

  • It strengthens your physical and mental health. Time away from work gives your body and mind a chance to reset. Even short breaks can improve your sleep, lower stress, lift your mood, and build resilience.
  • It boosts productivity and focus. Time off helps you return to work refreshed and ready to take on new challenges. You are often more creative, engaged, and productive.
  • It prevents burnout. Working without enough recovery time can lead to fatigue, frustration, and decreased motivation.
  • It contributes to your long-term success. When you feel well-rested, you are better able to care for others and collaborate on departmental and institutional goals.

UTMB also offers a variety of wellness resources to support your overall health.

Whether you are managing a chronic illness, navigating a stressful situation, or working on your fitness, these services and programs are designed to help you thrive.

Click here to explore the resources available to you. 

Maxed Out Mondays Archive

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  • Paid Parental Leave – Nov. 10, 2025

    Beginning in 2026, you will have access to Paid Parental Leave through the MyPTO Maximization Program. This new benefit provides 100% income protection following the birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child.

    Support When You Need It
    PPL offers up to 160 hours of paid leave (prorated for FTE status) to care for and bond with your child during one of life’s most significant transitions. It allows you to focus on what matters most while helping to maintain your family’s financial stability.

    How PPL Works

    • You may qualify for PPL if you are on approved Family and Medical Leave or Parental Leave and have exhausted all your PTO and other paid leave accruals.
    • PPL can only be used once within a rolling 12-month period.
    • It can be coordinated with other leave types, but the total combined leave period cannot exceed
      the 12-week parental leave entitlement.
    • While on PPL, you will continue to receive your full hourly or monthly base pay rate. However, you will not receive new PTO and EIB grants, holiday credit, or longevity pay.
    • Any unused PPL hours will expire upon your return to work.

    No Application Needed
    HR Leave Management will automatically review your eligibility for PPL if you are on approved leave and have less than 40 hours of paid leave remaining. PPL hours will be granted if you meet the necessary requirements.

    Visit the MyPTO Maximization Program website to learn more about Paid Parental Leave and other benefits designed to support you and your family.

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  • How Well Do You Know Your EIB? – Nov. 3, 2025

    Understand how your Extended Illness Bank will work under the MyPTO Maximization Program? Take this quick quiz to find out!

    When can you use your EIB?
    A) When you have a cold or stomach bug
    B) When you have an extended illness or injury and need more time away from work
    C) When you want to take a personal day

    Answer: B – Your EIB provides income protection when you experience extended periods of illness or injury. It is not intended to cover short-term or minor health issues.

    What is the annual EIB grant under the MyPTO Maximization Program?
    A) 40 hours
    B) 60 hours
    C) 80 hours

    Answer: C – The annual EIB grant under the new program will increase from 40 to 80 hours. The hours are prorated based on your FTE status and will be credited in full at the beginning of each calendar year. Unused EIB hours may carry forward into the next calendar year with no limit.

    What happens to the EIB hours you have already accrued?
    A) The hours will be lost when the MyPTO Maximization Program begins
    B) The hours will move with you into the new program
    C) The hours will be paid out when the new program begins

    Answer: B – You will be able to keep all previously accrued EIB hours, and they will be managed according to the provisions of the MyPTO Maximization Program.

    What steps must be taken before you can access your EIB hours?
    A) You must complete a 16-hour unpaid waiting period
    B) You must use all available PTO and other paid leave accruals
    C) You must speak with your team lead

    Answer: Both A and B – Before accessing your EIB hours, you will have to exhaust all your available PTO and other paid leave accruals and complete a 16-hour unpaid waiting period (prorated for FTE status). A new waiting period will be required for each illness-related absence.

    Are there any situations when you can immediately access your EIB hours?
    A) No
    B) Yes

    Answer: B – You will be able to immediately access your EIB hours in certain situations, including overnight hospital stay for you or an immediate family member; leave approved or pending approval by HR Leave Management; and illness/injury of a graduate assistant or their immediate family member.

    Visit the MyPTO Maximization Program website for more information about your EIB.

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  • Top 5 Questions About the MyPTO Maximization Election Process – Oct. 27, 2025

    The MyPTO Maximization Program election period closes at 11:59 p.m. on Oct. 31, 2025. If you have not yet completed your Vested PTO Hours Enrollment Form, please take a few minutes to review the top five questions employees are asking about the election process.

    Why do I need to complete the form?
    Completing the form allows you to choose how your vested PTO hours—those PTO hours you have accrued and not used as of 11:59 p.m. on Jan. 2, 2026—will be managed under the MyPTO Maximization Program.

    If you do not submit the form by the Oct. 31 deadline, you will be defaulted into the Immediate Enrollment option, which may not align with your preferences.

    How do I know which enrollment option is best for me?
    You have three enrollment options to choose from:

    • Immediate Enrollment
    • Deferred Enrollment
    • Draw Down Enrollment

    Each enrollment option offers different benefits depending on your financial goals and how you plan to use your PTO. Visit the MyPTO Maximization Program website for resources to help you compare and choose the one that best supports your needs.

    Will I still be able to use my previously accrued PTO hours after the election period closes?
    Yes. You will still be able to use your accrued PTO hours after the election period closes, regardless of which enrollment option you choose. You should continue working with your manager to plan and schedule your time off.

    Your selected enrollment option and any changes will not take effect until the MyPTO Maximization Program officially launches on Jan. 3, 2026.

    How long does it take to complete the form?
    The form is simple and only takes a few minutes to complete. You can make your election now by logging in to the PeopleSoft HCM system with your UTMB user ID and password and then clicking on MyPTO Max Enrollment.

    Can I change my election after submitting the form?
    Yes. You can update your selected enrollment option any time before 11:59 p.m. on Oct. 31, 2025. Once the deadline passes, your election will be final and can no longer be changed.

    Have more questions about the election process? The HR Support Team is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to assist you. You can reach them at mypto@utmb.edu, (409) 772-2630, or toll-free (866) 996-8862.

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  • Completing Your Enrollment Form Is as Easy as 1-2-3 – Oct. 20, 2025

    The Vested PTO Hours Enrollment Form plays a key role in the transition to the MyPTO Maximization Program. Completing the form ensures your vested PTO hours are handled the way you want when the new program begins on Jan. 3, 2026. Here’s how to submit your election in three simple steps:

    1. Review the Program Resources

    Start by exploring the resources below to better understand the new program and the enrollment options for managing your vested PTO hours:

    You will also find additional information and resources on the MyPTO Maximization Program website to support your decision-making.

    2. Decide Which Enrollment Option Works Best for You

    Consider how each enrollment option aligns with your needs:

    • Immediate Enrollment Option: May be a good fit if you want to receive cash payouts for your vested PTO hours and an annual, upfront grant of new PTO hours
    • Deferred Enrollment Option: May work well if you prefer to use your existing PTO balance until it is fully exhausted and then receive a prorated grant of new PTO hours for the remainder of the calendar year
    • Draw Down Enrollment Option: May be the right choice if you want continued access to your existing PTO balance over three calendar years while also receiving annual grants of new PTO hours

    3. Log In and Make Your Election

    Once you have chosen your enrollment option, log in to the PeopleSoft HCM system with your UTMB user ID and password to complete the form. It only takes a few minutes, so don’t wait until the Oct. 31, 2025, deadline to make your election. Anyone who does not complete the form by the deadline will be defaulted into the Immediate Enrollment option.

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  • Explore Your MyPTO Maximization Dashboard – Oct. 13, 2025

    The dashboard provides clear, personalized data to help you prepare for the MyPTO Maximization Program. It includes your current PTO balance, projected PTO balance as of Jan. 2, 2026, total years of state service, hourly pay rate, FTE status, and other key details.

    This data can be used to guide your enrollment decision and support your time-off planning before and after the transition to the new program. Check out your dashboard today at https://utmb.us/q.

    Complete Your Enrollment Form by Oct. 31, 2025
    After reviewing your data, don’t forget to take the next step and complete your Vested PTO Hours Enrollment Form. Employees who do not submit the form by the deadline will be defaulted into the Immediate Enrollment option.

    Max Out Your Benefits
    Did you know that all UTMB employees have access to legal support through the UT Employee Assistance Program? You can receive one free 30-minute consultation per legal issue with a network attorney or mediator, plus a 25% discount on hourly rates if you choose to continue their services. You also have access to customizable documents, fillable forms, and a digital resource library to help you navigate common legal matters. Click here to learn more about the UTEAP legal resources available to you.

  • Complete Your Vested PTO Hours Enrollment Form Today – Oct. 6, 2025

    The election period for the MyPTO Maximization Program is now open and will continue through Oct. 31, 2025. 

    Submitting your Vested PTO Hours Enrollment Form is a key step in the transition process. It will ensure your vested PTO hours are managed in the way that best fits your needs when the new program begins on Jan. 3, 2026.

    Explore these tools and resources to better understand the enrollment options and complete your form with confidence:

    Ready to make your election? Log in to the PeopleSoft HCM system with your UTMB username and password to complete your Vested PTO Hours Enrollment Form. Be sure to submit your form by Oct. 31, 2025, to avoid being defaulted into the Immediate Enrollment option.

    Max Out Your Benefits
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  • Get Ready to Make Your Election – Sept. 29, 2025

    The MyPTO Maximization Program election period begins Wednesday, Oct. 1, and runs through Friday, Oct. 31. This is your chance to determine how your vested PTO hours will be managed under the new program.

    What do I need to do?
    Log in to the PeopleSoft HCM system with your UTMB username and password, select MyPTO Max Enrollment, and complete the Vested PTO Hours Enrollment Form by Friday, Oct. 31. If the form is not completed by the deadline, you will be defaulted into the Immediate Enrollment option.

    What are the enrollment options?
    You will be able to choose from three options:

    • Immediate Enrollment Option: Receive cash payouts for your existing PTO balance and an annual, upfront grant of new PTO hours
    • Deferred Enrollment Option: Continue using your existing PTO balance until it is exhausted and then receive a prorated grant of new PTO hours for the remainder of the calendar year
    • Draw Down Enrollment Option: Use your existing PTO balance over three calendar years and receive an annual, upfront grant of new PTO hours

    Where can I learn more?
    Check out these resources for help with your enrollment decision:

    Who can I contact with questions?
    For questions about the MyPTO Maximization Program or the enrollment options, please reach out to the HR Support Team at MyPTO@utmb.edu, (409) 772-2630, or (866) 996-8862. Representatives are available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to assist you.

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  • Understanding Vested & Unvested PTO Hours – Sept. 22, 2025

    Understanding the difference between vested and unvested PTO hours will help you navigate the transition to the MyPTO Maximization Program with confidence.

    Vested PTO Hours
    Vested PTO hours are the PTO hours you have accrued under the current leave program and not used as of 11:59 p.m. on Jan. 2, 2026. These hours are:

    • Managed according to the enrollment option you select during the October election period: Immediate Enrollment, Deferred Enrollment, or Draw Down Enrollment
    • Not subject to the program’s 40-hour carryforward limit
    • Eligible for payout upon separation from UTMB; the payment is calculated at 100% of your base pay rate at the time of separation and may be contributed to a voluntary retirement account on a pre-tax or after-tax basis

    Unvested PTO Hours

    Unvested PTO hours refer to the PTO hours granted under the MyPTO Maximization Program. These hours are:

    • Credited in full at the beginning of each calendar year based on your total years of state service and FTE status if you select the Immediate Enrollment option or Draw Down Enrollment option
    • Subject to the program’s 40-hour carryforward limit (prorated for FTE status); any hours above this limit at the end of each calendar year will be forfeited
    • Not eligible for payout upon separation from UTMB

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  • Plan Today for a Secure Tomorrow – Sept. 15, 2025

    UTMB Health is offering the following financial education opportunities to help you plan for retirement and make the most of your vested PTO payouts from the MyPTO Maximization Program.

    Your Future, Your Choice: Understanding UTSaver Plans

    Learn about the UTSaver Tax-Sheltered Annuity 403(b) and UTSaver Deferred Compensation Plan 457(b) available through the UT Retirement Program. These plans can lower your taxable income through monthly payroll deductions, and you can even contribute your vested PTO hour payouts to give your savings an extra boost.

    Tuesday, Sept. 16
    11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
    Click here to register

    Wednesday, Sept. 17
    11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
    Click here to register

    Thursday, Sept. 18
    11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
    Click here to register

    Secure Tomorrow: Financial Wellness Series

    Hear directly from UT System approved providers about the importance of voluntary retirement plans and strategies for long-term growth. Each provider offers a broad range of tools and services to help you understand your investment options and how they can work alongside your TRS or ORP retirement contributions.

    Fidelity Investments
    Monday, Sept. 22
    12 – 1 p.m.
    Click here to register

    Corebridge Financial
    Tuesday, Sept. 23
    12 – 1 p.m.
    Click here to register

    Voya Financial
    Wednesday, Sept. 24
    12 – 1 p.m.
    Click here to register

    Lincoln Financial Group
    Thursday, Sept. 25
    12 – 1 p.m.
    Click here to register

    TIAA
    Friday, Sept. 26
    12 – 1 p.m.
    Click here to register

    Secure Tomorrow: Financial Wellness Fairs

    Meet directly with representatives from Fidelity Investments, Corebridge Financial, Voya Financial, Lincoln Financial Group, and TIAA. You will be able to ask questions, compare tools and services, and take the next step toward your retirement goals.

    Galveston Campus
    Thursday, Oct. 2
    10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
    John Sealy Hospital, Hallway Leading to Cafe

    Angleton Danbury Campus
    Tuesday, Oct. 7
    10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
    Angleton Danbury Campus Hospital, Main Hallway

    League City Campus
    Thursday, Oct. 9
    10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
    League City Campus Hospital, Front Lobby

    Clear Lake Campus
    Tuesday, Oct. 14
    10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
    Clear Lake Campus Hospital, Front Lobby

    Max Out Your Benefits
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  • Annual PTO Grants & Carryforward Limit – Sept. 8, 2025

    The MyPTO Maximization Program provides eligible employees with an upfront grant of PTO hours at the beginning of each calendar year. The hours granted are based on your total years of state service and FTE status and are credited in full rather than accrued monthly.

    Total Years of
    State Service     		Hours Granted
    Per Year *     		Days Earned
    Per Year +     		Carryforward
    Hours Per Year *
    0 up to 4 176.0 22.0 40.0
    4 up to 9 196.0 24.5 40.0
    9 up to 14 208.0 26.0 40.0
    14 up to 20 232.0 29.0 40.0
    20 up to 25 256.0 32.0 40.0
    25 up to 30 280.0 35.0 40.0
    30 up to 35 304.0 38.0 40.0
    35+ 328.0 41.0 40.0

    * Hours are prorated based on FTE status.
    + Days reflect an 8-hour work shift and are prorated based on FTE status.

    The program also includes a 40-hour carryforward limit (prorated for FTE status) to promote employee well-being and the regular use of time off. Any unused PTO hours above the limit after Dec. 31 will be forfeited. (Note: This new limit will first be reflected in PTO balances on Jan. 1, 2027. It will not affect PTO balances at the end of this calendar year.)

    Max Out Your Benefits
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  • Institutional Holidays at UTMB – Sept. 1, 2025

    UTMB honors the legacy and contributions of American workers, proudly recognizing Labor Day as one of the 10 paid institutional holidays that employees will continue to enjoy each year through the MyPTO Maximization Program.

    To support the cultural and religious traditions of our workforce, UTMB also offers alternate holidays. You may observe a day of personal significance, such as Rosh Hashanah, Eid-al-Fitr, Good Friday, and others, in place of an institutional holiday that requires staffing with your leader’s approval.

    If you are paid biweekly and required to work on an institutional holiday, you will receive your regular rate of pay for all hours worked plus holiday pay. Holiday compensatory time may be requested in Kronos instead of holiday pay. This time off must be used within 12 months from the date of accrual.

    Visit the MyPTO Maximization Program website to read more about UTMB’s institutional holidays and making the most of your time away from work!

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  • Enrollment Options for Managing Vested PTO Hours – Aug. 25, 2025

    UTMB will launch the new MyPTO Maximization Program on Jan. 3, 2026. As part of this transition, you will be able to choose how to manage your vested PTO hours. These are the PTO hours you have accrued under the current program but not used as of 11:59 p.m. on Jan. 2, 2026.

    You will have three enrollment options to consider:

    Immediate Enrollment Option

    • Vested PTO hours are frozen and paid out over three calendar years: Jan. 16, 2026, Jan. 15, 2027, and Jan. 14, 2028
    • Payments are calculated at 50% of your hourly base pay rate as of Dec. 31, 2025, and may be contributed to a voluntary retirement account on a pre-tax or after-tax basis
    • Receive full grant of new PTO hours on Jan. 3, 2026; hours are subject to the program’s 40-hour carryforward limit (prorated for FTE status)

    Deferred Enrollment Option

    • Continue using existing PTO balance at your own pace
    • Receive prorated grant of new PTO hours for the remainder of the calendar year once the balance is exhausted
    • Program’s 40-hour carryforward limit (prorated for FTE status) only applies to new PTO hours, not your existing balance

    Draw Down Enrollment Option

    • Vested PTO hours are equally divided for your use over three calendar years: 2026, 2027, and 2028
    • Any unused hours from each year’s allocation are paid out at 50% of your hourly base pay rate as of Dec. 31, 2025; payments are issued in January 2027, January 2028, and January 2029 and may be contributed to a voluntary retirement account on a pre-tax or after-tax basis
    • Receive full grant of new PTO hours on Jan. 3, 2026; hours are subject to the program’s 40-hour carryforward limit (prorated for FTE status)
    • New PTO hours can only be used after each year’s vested PTO hours are exhausted

    You will submit your enrollment option in Employee Self-Service during the official election period, Oct.1–31, 2025. If you do not make an election by Oct. 31, you will be defaulted into the Immediate Enrollment option.

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