If you’re getting ready to retire, this is your one-stop shop for NY pension plan information

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.

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.

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.