If you’re getting ready to retire, this is your one-stop shop for NY pension plan information
Retirement is a big life change, and preparing for retirement requires a lot of planning and financial strategy.
For over 50 years, our advisors have been helping clients navigate the unique aspects of 403(b) accounts. We have helped hundreds of educators navigate all their retirement options and are familiar with the many choices you will face. Your advisor can provide you with information about your state retirement plan and how to coordinate your pension plan, social security, and 403(b) to plan for the retirement you envision and deserve.
Use this information below as a guide to help you in your retirement planning process, or you can CONTACT US today to schedule a retirement review.

As a school employee, you enjoy the benefit of a guaranteed lifetime income through your pension plan that many people don’t have access to. Did you know that most pension plans do not provide enough coverage alone for most retirees?
The good news is you have access to other ways to supplement your pension check to plan for a comfortable retirement.

Most NYSRS members will receive a service retirement benefit upon completion of their public service careers.
Eligibility for retirement, disability, and death benefits for members depends on factors such as tier of membership, age, earnings and service credit. We help explain how you can calculate your maximum annual pension.
MEMBERSHIP
Membership in NYSTRS is mandatory and automatic for all full-time teachers, teaching assistants, guidance counselors and administrators employed in (1) New York State public schools (excluding those in New York City), (2) BOCES or (3) charter schools that opted to participate as an employer in NYSTRS.
Membership for teachers employed less than full time is optional. Employers are required to notify part-time teachers in writing of their right to membership.
Teachers employed by a New York State community college or SUNY may elect membership in NYSTRS, the New York State and Local Employees’ Retirement System or the Optional Retirement Program.
ELIGIBILITY
There are six tiers of membership, based upon date of membership, with different benefit calculations and eligibility requirements for each tier.
Tier 1 members may retire at any age with 35 years of New York State service credit, or at age 55 with five or more years of service. Retirement may also occur at age 55 with less than five years of service, if two years are credited since age 53.
Tier 2, 3 and 4 members may retire at age 55 with five years of credited state service.
Tier 5 and 6 members may retire at age 55 with 10 years of state service credit.
BENEFITS
Membership tier, service credit, age, and earnings are factors that determine the benefits members are eligible for while working and in retirement.
Most members will receive a service retirement benefit.
A member who becomes disabled and cannot continue to work may qualify for a disability retirement benefit. When a member dies prior to collecting a retirement benefit, a death benefit will be paid to a beneficiary if eligibility requirements are met.
NYSTRS information taken from the Learning About NYSTRS brochure from November 2020
Rest assured, we are here to help you every step of the way. Retirement planning takes knowledge and experience. Please don’t hesitate to contact us. One of our financial professionals will be happy to help answer any questions you have about your retirement plan.
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The Lincoln Investment Companies nor any of its representatives is affiliated with the New York State Teachers' Retirement System (NYSTRS); and NYSTRS does not sponsor, authorize or endorse the retirement educational services described in this or other communications of The Lincoln Investment Companies.