Members often tell us they wish they started preparing for retirement earlier. Retiring is a major life event with a lot to consider – so why not start planning now?

Assign yourself some summer homework to plan ahead and think of your future financial needs. Whether you’re new to NYSTRS or nearing retirement, this study guide will help you do just that!

Your Retirement Study Guide 

Reading List

Look through our publications for everything you need to know about your membership – from your first year of service credit to your first pension check.

• Active Members’ Handbook to learn about your NYSTRS benefits.
• You Deserve the Credit for more information on service credit.
• Maximum or an Option: Choosing a Benefit Payment Right for You.
• Retirement Checklist for what to do before you retire.
• The Path to Retirement: What Happens After You File Your Retirement Application.

Watch & Learn

Check out our videos and webinar recordings for more opportunities to learn about your NYSTRS benefits.

• “Retirement Countdown” video series.
• “Ready to Retire” and “Retirement Readiness for Members at Mid-Career” planning webinars on YouTube.

Log in to MyNYSTRS

Log in to MyNYSTRS for secure, online access to your benefit information in one convenient place. Don’t have an account? Sign up for MyNYSTRS today.

• Review your annual Benefit Profile, which includes benefit estimates.
• Claim prior service.
• Check and update your beneficiaries.
•  E-subscribe to Your Source and your Benefit Profile.
•  Send secure messages to NYSTRS.
•  Estimate your pension.

MyNYSTRS is only for use by the Retirement System’s active members, retirees and beneficiaries receiving a continuing benefit.

Explore Our Website

Bookmark these links here on nystrs.org and keep up with the latest information on your benefits and legislation. Refer to our online resources to learn about the strength and stability of the System.

• Retirement Planning/Ready to Retire page.
• Active Members/Service Milestones page.
• Legislation page to stay up to date on pending and recent legislation that may affect you
• Infographics and Annual Report for more on the System’s financial strength.

Further Research

Additional resources will help you as you prepare for your retirement.

• Plan to attend a Pension & Retirement Education Program (PREP) seminar. Topics include NYSTRS benefits, financial planning, Social Security, estate planning, and the retirement process.
• Schedule a benefit consultation (if you are at least age 53 and plan on retiring within three years). You’ll review estimates and benefit payment options, and have the chance to ask questions.