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General


Contacting TRS

Where is TRS located?

TRS is located in lower Manhattan at 55 Water Street, New York, NY 10041.

Our second-floor Member Services Center is easily accessible through the entrance at the southeast corner of the building, next to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza. Visitors will need a valid government-issued photo ID that includes a signature to enter the building. 

 


When is TRS open?

TRS is open 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except on official New York City holidays. Appointments are not required. An online form may be used to schedule a video appointment. You can also contact us by phone, at 1 (888) 8-NYC-TRS (869-2877) during our normal business hours.


Do I need an appointment to speak to a Member Services Representative in person?

Appointments are not required for in-person visits. However, you can schedule a video appointment if you prefer.


What is the best way to reach a TRS Member Services Representative?

The most convenient way is to schedule a virtual appointment with a representative through our website. You can pick a 30-minute appointment time that works for you, and you won’t need to travel to TRS or wait in a call queue to speak to someone.


How can I schedule a virtual appointment with a TRS Member Services Representative?

Our website’s homepage features a link to schedule an appointment. When you schedule an appointment, you will receive a confirmation email with a link to join your meeting. Here are some tips to make your virtual appointment go smoothly:

  • Meetings are in Microsoft Teams, but no special software is needed—just choose “Join Your Appointment” on the confirmation email.
  • You may use any device (computer, tablet, or mobile phone) as long as its camera and audio are working properly.
  • Join your appointment a few minutes early, if possible, to avoid connection problems.
  • For security purposes, TRS requires that you present a valid photo ID when connecting with the TRS representative and that you keep your camera on throughout the call.
  •  If you are not on the call 10 minutes after the scheduled start time, the assigned TRS representative will call you. If we cannot reach you, the appointment will be canceled, and you will need to schedule a new appointment.
  • If you would prefer a phone call instead of a video appointment in Teams, please note this in your request.


If I would like to put an inquiry to TRS in writing, where should I send it?

If you would like to write TRS, you may send your inquiry to TRS' Correspondence Unit, 55 Water Street, New York, NY 10041.


What information should I have available when I contact TRS, or when I submit written correspondence?

In order for TRS to promptly respond to your inquiry, you should have the following information available when you contact TRS, or include this information when you send us correspondence: your TRS membership number, a phone number at which you can be reached during business hours, copies of correspondence you are questioning, and documentation to support your claim. If you are visiting TRS, you should also bring a photo ID that includes a signature. Acceptable forms of identification include a driver's license, state-issued non-driver's license identification, passport, or school ID; unacceptable forms of identification include a credit card or store card with a photo, gym card, or a library card.


Should I notify TRS if I change my address?

Yes. It is essential that TRS have your current address on file. If your address changes, please update the information through the Profile feature in the secure section of our website. You may also file a paper Member's Change of Address Form (code DM13), but the change will not be made as quickly.


Should I notify TRS if I change my name?

In-service members who change their name should notify their employer (the Department of Education, the City University of New York, or the participating Charter School). After the employer updates the information, TRS’ records will also be updated. TRS cannot process name changes for in-service members.

Retirees must submit the Retiree's Change of Name Form (code RP1)  or the online equivalent in the secure section of our website. The legal document that effects the name change (for example, a divorce decree or a marriage license) must also be submitted.The legal document that effects the name change (for example, a divorce decree or a marriage license) must also be submitted. For quicker service, please file online.

 


Will TRS help me complete an application?

Yes. Member Services Representatives can help you by answering inquiries over the phone or in person. In fact, if you are submitting a paper retirement application, we recommend that a Member Services Representative review it with you in person first.


How do I block phone/online access to my personalized TRS account information?

You may block access to your account information by calling TRS or by filing an Account Information Access Form (code DM11) with TRS. (Please be aware that, by placing this block, you will be unable to obtain your TRS account information by phone or through TRS' website.) You may restore access at any time by filing a new Account Information Access Form. TRS would process your request to block or restore access within seven business days of the receipt of your properly completed form.


How do I submit a request to TRS under the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL)?

The Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) provides a means for the public to access copies of certain government records. A FOIL request should clearly and specifically describe the records you are seeking, including titles, dates, file designations, etc., and it should include your contact information. TRS will charge a fee, as set forth in the law, for preparation of copies.

To submit a FOIL request to TRS, send a letter to TRS, Attn: Records Access Officer, 55 Water Street, New York, NY 10041, or email

RecordsAccessOfficer@trs.nyc.ny.us

Please note: This email address is specifically for information requests under the FOIL. This email address cannot be used for inquiries on individual member issues (account updates, correspondence, benefit statements, etc.). To contact TRS in writing about such issues, you must instead write to TRS' Correspondence Unit at 55 Water Street, New York, NY 10041.


How do I submit a media inquiry to TRS?

Members of the press may submit an inquiry by email to TRS’ Public Information Office at PublicInfoOffice@trs.nyc.ny.us.

Please note: This email address is specifically for media inquiries. This email address cannot be used for inquiries on individual member issues (account updates, correspondence, benefit statements, etc.). To contact TRS in writing about such issues, you must instead write to TRS' Correspondence Unit at 55 Water Street, New York, NY 10041.


Definitions

What is the ABS?

A-B-S stands for the Annual Benefits Statement. In-service members and members on a leave of absence for up to seven school years can view their ABS by logging in to the secure section of our website. The statement summarizes the members' Total Service Credit and lists their designated beneficiaries. Benefit estimates and benefit projections are also provided to certain retirement-eligible members. This information is reported as of the previous June 30.


What is my ASAF?

A-S-A-F stands for Annuity Savings Accumulation Fund. This account contains the monthly supplemental contribution the Department of Education provides to certain Tier III, IV, and VI members who reach the maximum of their salary schedule. This amount is $550 per year for supervisors and administrators, and $400 per year for other eligible members. This contribution is not provided to adjuncts, college employees, Charter School employees, or paraprofessionals.


What is my ASF?

A-S-F stands for your Annuity Savings Fund. This account contains a Tier I or II member's Qualified Pension Plan (QPP) contributions, and reflects investment results and/or interest and any withdrawals.


What is EAR?

E-A-R stands for Earnings After Retirement. This is a general term for the rules governing the amount that certain TRS service retirees are permitted to earn while they are also receiving retirement allowances. These earnings restrictions impact individuals under the age of 65 who work in public employment in New York State or any of its political subdivisions, such as New York City.


What is EFT?

E-F-T stands for Electronic Fund Transfer. This service enables TRS retirees to have their monthly benefit payments (and other distributions) electronically forwarded to their checking or savings account. In-service members who are paid on the City of New York payroll through direct deposit may choose EFT for their QPP and TDA loans and TDA direct withdrawals. EFT allows members' accounts to be credited on the payment date and safeguards against delayed, lost, or stolen checks.


What is my FAS?

Final Average Salary, or FAS, is a calculation used to compute the retirement allowances of TRS members. The method for calculating FAS is based on your tier status; to learn how your FAS is calculated, please see the FAQ for your tier.


What is ITHP?

I-T-H-P stands for Increased-Take-Home Pay. The City of New York contributes 2.5% of Tier I and II members' gross salary toward their retirement allowance. This reduces the contributions that the members would have to make to the QPP and thereby increases their take-home pay. Members have the choice of waiving their ITHP, which would reduce their take-home pay, but provide them with a higher annuity benefit upon retirement. In any case, the City will make the same contribution to their ITHP account.


What is my MCAF?

M-C-A-F stands for Member Contributions Accumulation Fund. This account contains a Tier III, IV, or VI member's Qualified Pension Plan (QPP) contributions with interest, and includes any contributions that the member paid to purchase credit for optional service.


What is the QAS?

Q-A-S stands for the Quarterly Account Statement. In-service members, members on a leave of absence for up to seven school years, and retired members can view their QAS by logging in to the secure section of our website. The statement summarizes a member's account balances, contributions, investment elections, loan status, and account activity for the reporting period. Members with Qualified Pension Plan (QPP) and Tax-Deferred Annuity (TDA) Program accounts will have one statement for about both accounts.


What is the QPP?

Q-P-P stands for the Qualified Pension Plan. This defined-benefit plan, administered under Section 401(a) of the Internal Revenue Code, enables TRS members to receive a monthly retirement allowance upon meeting certain eligibility requirements.


What is an RMD?

R-M-D stands for a Required Minimum Distribution. This is the amount that certain participants in TRS' TDA Program must receive from their TDA funds in a given year to meet the distribution regulations of the Internal Revenue Service. RMDs apply only to TDA participants who have separated from service, reached age 73 in 2023 or later, and have TDA Deferral status. It is important to note that the IRS imposes an excise tax on any amounts that are required to be distributed for a given year, but are not.

Also, certain members who are vested and inactive may become subject to RMD requirements for their Qualified Pension Plan accounts.


What is an SPD?

S-P-D stands for a Summary Plan Description. TRS provides this booklet, containing important information about TRS membership and benefits, to each member upon enrollment. (The Tier I and II SPD is not currently available.)


What is the TDA?

T-D-A stands for the Tax-Deferred Annuity Program. This defined-contribution program, established under Section 403(b) of the Internal Revenue Code, provides TRS members with the opportunity to save additional funds for retirement on a tax-deferred basis. Contributions and the investment return they earn can grow quickly because taxes are deferred until the member receives the funds. For more information, you may refer to TRS' Your Tax-Deferred Annuity Program booklet.


Enrollment

What documentation can I use as proof of my date of birth?

The following items are considered acceptable date-of-birth documentation: birth certificate, passport, or naturalization document.

If none of the above is available, you can submit two of the following: driver's license, certificate of military record, Confidential Social Security Benefit Information Form SSA2458, or other government-issued identification.

Please note that any date-of-birth documentation in a language other than English must be accompanied by a translation. Puerto Rico birth certificates are valid only if issued July 1, 2010 or later. Photocopies of all documents are acceptable.

You may upload your date-of-birth documentation in the secure area of our website or mail it to TRS.

Please submit your documentation as early in your membership as possible. TRS cannot process any withdrawal-related requests (e.g., loans) or calculate your retirement benefits if we do not have proof of your date of birth.


Can regularly appointed teachers in New York City public schools join TRS?

Yes. If you are appointed as a teacher or pedagogue in a public school maintained by the New York City Department of Education, you would automatically become a TRS member as of your appointment date.


Can full-time faculty or professors with the City University of New York join TRS?

Yes. Full-time instructional staff of CUNY must join either TRS or the Optional Retirement Program offered by TIAA. If you do not join the Optional Retirement Program within 30 days of your appointment to the CUNY position, you would automatically become a TRS member. Your TRS membership would be effective as of your appointment date.


Can paraprofessionals in New York City public schools join TRS?

Before October 29, 2021, TRS membership was optional for paraprofessionals. However, as of October 29, 2021, paraprofessionals in the following titles are automatically members of TRS: Auxiliary Trainer, Bilingual Professional Assistant, Educational Assistant, Educational Associate, and Teacher Aide.

Paraprofessionals should not submit an enrollment request on the TRS website; instead, TRS will automatically enroll them as members based on information from their employer.


What paraprofessional titles are eligible for TRS membership?

As of October 29, 2021, paraprofessionals in the following titles are automatically members of TRS: Auxiliary Trainer, Bilingual Professional Assistant, Educational Assistant, Educational Associate, and Teacher Aide. For new paraprofessionals in an eligible title, your TRS membership would be effective as of your appointment date.

Paraprofessionals in other titles are no longer eligible to join TRS, but they may be eligible for membership in another City retirement system.

Note: Paraprofessionals in other titles who enrolled in TRS before October 29, 2021 retain their membership in TRS.


Can adjuncts with the City University of New York join TRS?

Yes. TRS membership is optional. You may enroll at any time by accessing the "Enroll Now" link on our homepage. Your membership would begin on the day that TRS receives your enrollment request. Once you enroll, you must maintain your membership for as long as you are in a TRS-eligible position.


Can New York City Charter School employees join TRS?

Yes, if their Charter School has selected pension coverage from TRS. Appointed teachers and pedagogues in participating Charter Schools are required to become TRS members. As of October 29, 2021, certain paraprofessionals (Auxiliary Trainers, Bilingual Professional Assistants, Educational Assistants, Educational Associates, and Teacher Aides) at participating charter schools are also required to become TRS members. Check with your school administrator to learn if your Charter School provides TRS coverage for employees.


Can substitute teachers and per diem teachers in New York City public schools join TRS?

No. But, depending on your title, you may be eligible for membership in the Board of Education Retirement System or the New York City Employees’ Retirement System.

If you are a substitute teacher employed by the City University of New York (CUNY), you are eligible to join TRS.


What are the benefits of TRS membership?

As a TRS member, once you have completed the minimum requirements, you will be entitled to receive a retirement allowance from the Qualified Pension Plan. You may also enroll in the Tax-Deferred Annuity Program, which enables you to save money from your salary on a tax-deferred basis; at retirement, these savings could fund a separate annuity. As a TRS member, you may also be eligible to take out loans from the Qualified Pension Plan and the Tax-Deferred Annuity Program. In addition, if you die while you are an in-service member, your beneficiary may be eligible to receive a death benefit.


How do I enroll in TRS?

If your TRS membership is mandatory, you will be automatically enrolled in TRS, and will not need to submit an enrollment request. (However, you must provide other documentation; see What documentation must I provide to TRS as a new member?)

If your TRS membership is optional, you may enroll by accessing the "Enroll Now" link on our homepage.

For more information about enrolling in TRS, please refer to the Enrolling in TRS brochure.


What documentation must I provide to TRS as a new member?

Members must provide the following to TRS:

Documentation Method
Beneficiary designations under the QPP
  • Secure section of our website;
Information about membership in a public retirement system within New York State or in TIAA (if applicable)
Information about previous work for a public employer within New York State (if applicable)
Information about military service (if applicable)
Proof of your date of birth (see below for more details)
  • Secure section of our website; or
  • Paper documentation


When will I be assigned a membership number?

You will be assigned a membership number once we have completed processing your enrollment. This number will appear on your paystubs, EFT statements, and TRS correspondence.


Why is the pension number box on my pay stub blank?

If your TRS membership is mandatory, the box may be blank because TRS has not completed processing your enrollment. If your TRS membership is optional, the box may be blank because you have not enrolled in TRS, or TRS has not completed your enrollment.


I seem to have two different TRS numbers. Which one should I use?

All in-service members have a membership number that begins with an introductory code "00T" and is followed by six numbers. For TRS' filing purposes, the first of those six numbers may vary on different correspondence. For example, a "0" and a "5" are considered interchangeable, as are a "1" and a "6", or a "2" and a "7." You may use either of these numbers when you correspond with TRS. Please also note that the introductory code on TDA correspondence may begin with an "AOT."


How do I enroll in the TDA Program?

You may enroll in the TDA Program at any time by accessing the secure section of our website. When you enroll in the TDA Program, you should also designate your beneficiaries under the TDA Program.


Login & Registration

How do I log in to my TRS account?

  • If you have already registered for access to your online account: In the upper right-hand corner of the screen, click "Login/Register." In the Username field, enter the username you created during the registration process and click "Next" then enter your password. If you would like to see your password, click the tiny eye icon. Click "Next" to login.
  • If you have not registered for access to your online account: See the question below.


How do I register for a TRS account?

In the upper right-hand corner of the screen, click "Login/Register." Begin by clicking the "Register Now" button. You will be required to enter your TRS membership number, Social Security number, date of birth, and last name. Once you have entered your personal information click the "Next" button. You will then be required to pick a security image that will be associated with your username and password. Click the desired image and click "Next." Your security image will appear on the next page where you will be required to select a username and password. Once you have created both, click "Next." You are required to enter an email address and phone number. You may choose to provide more than one. You must also agree to TRS’ Privacy Statement located at the bottom of the page. After this is complete, click "Finish." A green confirmation will appear and prompt you to verify your email account. Check your personal email account for the verification email. Click the link in the verification email to finish the registration process. You will then receive confirmation of your registration on the TRS website and an additional confirmation will be sent to the verified email provided.


What should I do if I forgot my username?

Click "Forgot Username." In the Retrieve Username field, enter your TRS Number and the last four digits of your Social Security number and click "Submit." Once the required information is verified you will receive an email that contains your username.


What should I do if I forgot my password?

Click "Forgot Password" to begin the password retrieval process. Enter your personal information and click "Next." Select how you would like to verify your identity and click "Next." Check your email for the verification code and enter it on this screen. Click "Submit." You will then be required to enter a new password. You may not use a password that you have previously used. A green confirmation message will appear at the top of the screen and an email confirmation with the password change will be sent to the email address on file.


What should I do if I forgot my TRS Membership Number?

Your TRS membership number is located on all TRS correspondence sent to you via mail. You can also find your TRS membership number on the top left of your paystub you receive from your employer.


What are the rules for choosing a password?

  • Your password must be between 8 and 50 characters long.
  • Your password must include at least one number and one letter.
  • Your password cannot contain any spaces.
  • Your password can contain any of the following special characters: @ # $ % ^ & * _ ~ - = { } [ ] ? ! . :
  • Your password is case-sensitive.
  • Your password cannot be the same as your username.


How do I change my current password?

From the Profile page, select the Password tab. In the Current Password field, enter your current password. In the New Password field, enter your new password. Confirm the new password and then click "Save." Upon clicking "Save," the new password automatically goes into effect and can be used immediately.


How do I change my current username?

To change your username, you need to contact TRS at the toll free number 1 (888) 8-NYC-TRS (869-2877).


I just logged in but I got a message telling me to verify my identity. What should I do?

When logging in for the first time or logging in from a new device, you will be asked to verify your identity through email before you are given access to secure information. Upon logging in, the website will display a message explaining why you must verify your identity. Click "Next" to continue. You will then choose if you would like a verification code sent to your email account or phone via text message. Click "Next." Check your email for the verification code. You will then be prompted to enter it on the next screen. Enter the verification code from your email and click the "Submit" button to complete the process.


What should I do if I didn’t receive a verification code when trying to verify my identity?

If a verification code is not sent automatically, click the "Resend" option. If you are still having difficulty verifying your identity online, you should call TRS and provide further proof through documentation.


What should I do if I am locked out of my account?

If your account is locked, you have the option to reset your password by clicking “Forgot Password” or contact TRS to unlock your account.


How do I log out of my account?

Click "Logout" located on the upper right corner of the screen to securely logout of your account.


How do I know if my account is set up yet?

Enter your username in the login window, then click "Next." On the next page you will see the image you selected and enter your registered password. Click "Enter" and you will see your name welcoming you to your Homepage. If you attempt to login, and you view an error stating the password entered does not match, you still have successfully registered the account. Attempt to sign in again, or if you forgot the password, please click "Forgot Password" to reset your password.


After registering my account, how long does it take to receive a confirmation email?

The confirmation email should be no longer than 30 seconds to a minute after submitting your information on the final page. Please view the email in your inbox.


I reset my password successfully but I'm still having trouble logging in. What should I do?

Please make sure the caps lock on your device is not on as you are entering your password.


How do I know the site has a secure connection when I log in?

In the address bar, you will see a padlock next to website to indicate a secure connection.


Membership Status

Who is eligible for Tier I status?

In general, you would qualify for Tier I status if you last joined TRS before July 1, 1973. You may also qualify in the following situations: if you switched from Tier II to Tier I during the period that was available for tier changes, or if you transferred your Tier I membership from another eligible retirement system to TRS.

In addition, you can apply for reinstatement to your previous membership and tier status if you are in active membership status and previously lost your Tier I membership rights in TRS or another New York City or New York State public retirement system.

To apply for reinstatement, file a Membership/Tier Reinstatement Request Form (code SD42) with TRS. To effect the reinstatement, you must pay back the amount of contributions refunded when your membership ended, plus 5% interest compounded annually from the date of the refund to the date of repayment.


Who is eligible for Tier II status?

In general, you would qualify for Tier II status if you last joined TRS after June 30, 1973 and before July 27, 1976. You may also qualify in the following situations: if you switched from Tier III or Tier IV to Tier II during the period that was available for tier changes, or if you transferred your Tier II membership from another eligible retirement system to TRS.

In addition, you can apply for reinstatement to your previous membership and tier status if you are in active membership status and previously lost your Tier II membership rights in TRS or another New York City or New York State public retirement system.

To apply for reinstatement, file a Membership/Tier Reinstatement Request Form (code SD42) with TRS. To effect the reinstatement, you must pay back the amount of contributions refunded when your membership ended, plus 5% interest compounded annually from the date of the refund to the date of repayment.


Who is eligible for Tier III status?

In general, you would qualify for Tier III status if you last joined TRS after July 26, 1976 and before September 1, 1983. You may also qualify if you transferred your Tier III membership from another eligible retirement system to TRS.

In addition, you can apply for reinstatement to your previous membership and tier status if you are in active membership status and previously lost your Tier III membership rights in TRS or another New York City or New York State public retirement system.

To apply for reinstatement, file a Membership/Tier Reinstatement Request Form (code SD42) with TRS. To effect the reinstatement, you must pay back the amount of contributions refunded when your membership ended, plus 5% interest compounded annually from the date of the refund to the date of repayment.


Who is eligible for Tier IV status?

In general, you qualify for Tier IV status if you last joined TRS after August 31, 1983, but before April 1, 2012.


Who is eligible for Tier VI status?

In general, you qualify for Tier VI status if you last joined TRS after March 31, 2012.


How did the Pension Reform Law (Chapter 504 of the Laws of 2009) affect TRS members?

Chapter 504 had broad effects on New York State public retirement systems. Individuals who became TRS members after December 10, 2009, but before April 1, 2012, are affected as follows:

  • Members who are represented by the United Federation of Teachers (UFT) become vested after they have ten years of service credit. (Note: This provision was superseded by Chapter 56 of the Laws of 2022, which changed the vesting requirement to five years.)
  • Members who participate in the Age 55 Retirement Program ("55/27" participants) will make pension contributions of 4.85% of gross pensionable compensation until they have 27 years of service credit, and contributions of 1.85% of gross pensionable compensation after reaching 27 years of service credit

In addition, Chapter 504 affected certain members regardless of their membership date: For all participants in the Tax-Deferred Annuity (TDA) Program who are serving in (or resigned/retired from) UFT-covered titles, the annual interest rate paid by the Fixed Return Fund is 7% as of December 11, 2009.

Note: Chapter 504 also established a new tier—Tier V—for New York State public retirement systems and the Optional Retirement Program (available to CUNY employees). This change did not apply to TRS.


Publications

How may I learn about the impact of new legislation on my TRS membership?

Twice a year, TRS sends a new issue of our newsletter titled In-Service News to our in-service members at their homes. TRS also sends a new issue of our Benefits Report newsletter to our retirees at their homes, generally twice a year. Each newsletter issue is designed to keep you up-to-date on topics that affect your TRS membership. In addition to explaining how your benefits may be impacted by new legislation, these newsletters also update you on the performance of TRS' investment programs, highlight the advantages of using various TRS services, notify you of newly available TRS publications, and remind you of important upcoming deadlines.


Will I still receive information about TRS after I retire?

Yes. In general, twice a year, you will receive a Benefits Report newsletter prepared especially for TRS retirees. If you are a retiree with TDA Deferral status, you can view a quarterly statement of your TDA account balances by logging in to the secure section of our website. In addition, you may always obtain TRS publications such as the annual Investment Portfolios booklet by accessing the Publications section.