This is your retirement, this is your life, you’re in control! Retirement is a personal decision which effects each individual differently, make sure you’re ready.
The resources below may help guide individuals in gathering information and knowledge prior to retiring. We encourage you to check out the links below and speak with your personal financial adviser prior to retiring as your finances are unique to your individual circumstances. Visiting the list of links to help you with your decision!
- AARP
- California Retired Teachers Association
- CalPERS
- CalSTRS Benefits Planning
- CTA Invest
- CTA Retired
- CTA/NEA-Retired Member Benefits
- CTA Retirement Savings Plan
- NEA Retired
- NEA Retirement Planning
- Retirement Benefits Calculator
Considering retirement this year?
Make sure you can afford to retire
If you are considering retiring this year you should first access your “Retirement Report” at CalSTRS.com. Go to the “My CalSTRS Account” and calculate your anticipated retirement benefits level.
Meet with CalSTRS
Before starting the retirement process meet with your CalSTRS representative and make sure retirement at this time is in your best interest. Make this appointment well in advance as the end of the school year is very busy for CalSTRS and it may be difficult to get booked.
Double Check!
It is helpful to directly call the Sacramento office of CalSTRS (800-228-5453) to verify that your anticipated level of your retirement benefits is correct. This phone call is especially important if you have any potential complications, such as a divorce, bankruptcy or contributions to CalPERS.
Know the steps
Visit the CalSTRS website and make sure you understand the steps for prompt initiation of your pension and the paperwork needed in the retirement process.
Confirm your sick days
Check that the information the District intends to submit to CalSTRS regarding accrued sick leave and supplemental assignments matches the information you have.
Continue District Health Insurance
If you have any questions about how retirement will affect your health coverage, especially if it includes spouse or dependents, you should arrange a meeting with your assigned Benefits Plan Technician at the District Office.
Tell your Principal/Site Administrator
Once you have made the decision to definitely retire, you should meet with your principal and inform them of your intentions.
Complete the forms
Submit a “Letter of Resignation” to Human Resources. A letter of resignation” can be found on the District website under Staff Room/Forms. Remember, resigning from the district is separate from retiring from CalSTRS.
Submit CalSTRS Application
Consider retiring from CalSTRS on line, it is simple and fast. Your application for retirement benefits must be received by CalSTRS in Sacramento no later than the last business day of the month in which your retirement is to become effective. It is suggested that you send your application by certified mail, return receipt requested. The earlier you send in your CalSTRS paperwork the better as the end of the year is a very busy time. (Doing it on line is immediate.)
Questions
If you have any questions about the process contact Human Resources.
Substitute Teaching
Contact CalSTRS about earning limits, so it doesn’t affect your retirement benefits. Then notify the district if you would like to be a substitute teacher for the next year.