Active Member Publications

A variety of publications to educate you on your NYSTRS membership and your eligibility for benefits are available here. If you are unable to view or print PDFs, you may need to download a free copy of Adobe Reader. To request that a publication be mailed to you, call our Hotline at (800) 782-0289.

Be sure to also take advantage of other System resources that will help you prepare for retirement, including the Pension & Retirement Education Program (PREP) and a benefits consultation. Access your personal NYSTRS information at your convenience with a MyNYSTRS account. You may also print System forms.

Your First Look at NYSTRS
A pamphlet for new members and part-time or substitute teachers who have the option of joining NYSTRS. (PDF)

Active Members' Handbook
A comprehensive resource for active members. (updated online 4/13) (new window)

Pension & Retirement Education Program (PREP)
An overview of our program to help members of all ages prepare for retirement. PREP meetings are organized into modules so participants can tailor the program to their needs. (PDF)

Looking to the Future
A guide to NYSTRS' services and publications at each stage of a member's career. (updated online 5/12) (new window)

You Deserve the Credit
A look at various types of service credit that members may be eligible to claim. (updated online 3/13)

Military Service
A guide to obtaining military service credit. (posted 4/12) (new window)

NYSTRS Membership Information for Teaching Assistants
Fact sheet explaining the pension choices available to teacher aides who were reclassified as teaching assistants. (PDF)

Borrowing From Your NYSTRS Contributions
Questions and answers about taking a NYSTRS loan. (updated online 1/13)

Your Source Newsletter

Subscribe to receive Your Source electronically. MyNYSTRS account holders can subscribe on the Manage Account > E-newsletter Subscription page. Don't have a MyNYSTRS account? Register for one today and subscribe during the process.

Spring 2013: PDF | Web
Fall 2012: PDF | Web
Summer 2012: PDF | Web
Winter 2012: PDF | Web
Fall 2011: PDF
Spring 2011: PDF

Note to Members: We are obligated by law to ensure members receiving a benefit from NYSTRS are informed of additions to, or changes in, their benefits. We keep active members informed through Your Source. Toward that end, we are unable to honor member requests to be removed from our distribution list.

For Those Nearing Retirement

Countdown to Retirement
A look at the steps a member should take in the year leading up to retirement. (updated online 11/12)

Retirement Countdown Video
A tutorial on the tasks members should complete during their last year of employment. (posted online 5/07)

If You Are No Longer Able to Work
A summary of NYSTRS benefits that may be available to members who must stop working due to a serious illness or injury. (updated online 5/12)

Maximum or an Option: Choosing a Benefit Payment Right for You
An explanation of the benefit payment choices members have at retirement.  (updated online 4/13)

General Income Tax Information
A fact sheet of taxes as they apply to loans, annuity savings funds, and death benefits. Common withholding questions as they relate to your retirement benefit are also addressed. (PDF)

Service Retirement Application (RET-54) (PDF)

Disability Retirement Application Package (RET-54.1) (PDF)