The University of Alabama is moving eligible nine-month faculty to a single 9-over-12 pay schedule beginning August 16, 2027. These FAQs explain what is changing, who will be affected and what faculty can expect as the University prepares for the transition.
What is changing?
Beginning August 16, 2027, eligible nine-month faculty will move to a single 9-over-12 pay schedule, and the 9-over-9 option will no longer be offered.
What is the difference between 9-over-9 and 9-over-12?
Under 9-over-9, the full academic-year salary is paid during the academic year, from August through May. Under 9-over-12, the academic-year salary is distributed evenly throughout the year, providing pay across all 12 months.
Who will be affected?
Faculty who currently receive their academic-year salary on a 9-over-9 schedule will be most affected by this change. Beginning August 16, 2027, their academic-year salary will instead be distributed across 12 months.
What if I am already paid on a 9-over-12 schedule?
If you are already paid on a 9-over-12 schedule, there will be no change in how or when you receive your pay.
When will the change take effect?
The change will take effect August 16, 2027.
Why is this changing?
This change will create a more consistent approach to pay and benefits, with several key advantages:
- Consistent monthly income: You will receive pay each month of the year, including the summer months, supporting more consistent financial planning.
- Predictable benefit deductions: Benefit deductions will be distributed evenly throughout the year, providing greater predictability in pay and benefit costs.
- Continuity of benefits coverage: Under the 9-over-9 schedule, faculty who separate from the University during the summer months may have benefits coverage end retroactively as of May 31. The 9-over-12 schedule helps prevent such lapses in coverage.
- Improved accuracy through Workday: As the University transitions from Banner to Workday, a single pay schedule will reduce manual processes, minimizing the potential for errors and supporting accurate, timely processing of pay and benefits.
Why is the University communicating the change so far in advance?
The University recognizes this represents a meaningful change. Many faculty have established personal budgets and financial plans around their current pay schedule, and adjusting to a new schedule will require time and preparation. For this reason, the University is providing notice well in advance of the effective date so that you have the opportunity to understand the change, plan accordingly and take advantage of the resources available to you.
What resources will be available to help me prepare?
Faculty are encouraged to check the Payroll website regularly for updates and review the FAQs for answers to common questions. Additional support and resources, including information sessions and financial planning guidance, will be available as the transition approaches. Faculty who need additional or individualized assistance can contact HR at hris@ua.edu.
Will this change affect compensation for summer or additional assignments?
No. Compensation for summer and additional assignments is not eligible for deferred compensation and will not be affected by the 9-over-12 schedule. Only your primary nine-month assignment will be distributed over 12 months. You may still be eligible for additional summer assignments, based on your unit’s needs and you will be paid supplemental compensation as you are now. Deferred compensation that you receive over the summer months on a 9-over-12 pay schedule does not count toward maximum allowable supplemental compensation over the summer terms.
How will the change to the 9-over-12 pay schedule affect faculty whose salaries are funded by grants?
Faculty salaries funded by grants may continue to be charged to the grant during the period in which the work is performed, even though a portion of the salary is deferred and paid over 12 months. The change does not affect how grant-funded salaries are allocated or charged.
How will the change in pay distribution affect my taxes?
Tax withholdings will continue to be based on the federal and state withholding elections you have made through the Employee Dashboard. Taxes are calculated on wages paid rather than wages earned. As the University is unable to provide individual tax advice, we encourage you to consult a qualified tax advisor regarding your specific circumstances.
What happens if my employment ends before the end of the academic year?
Upon separation, any earned but unpaid (deferred) compensation will be paid in a lump sum, less applicable deductions and tax withholdings, as soon as administratively possible. Benefits coverage will continue through the last day of the month in which separation occurs.
What happens next?
The University will continue sharing information and resources as the August 16, 2027, transition approaches. Faculty currently on 9-over-9 will receive information about preparing for the transition, while faculty already on 9-over-12 will receive information confirming what the change means for them.
Where should I go if I have questions?
Visit the Payroll website for the latest information and review the FAQs for answers to common questions. For additional or individualized assistance, contact UA HR at hris@ua.edu.