Message from the NYSUT Officers
Congratulations! We are certain you have heard that word numerous times since you made the decision to retire and it is truly well deserved. Retirement opens a brand new chapter in your life, and we hope it is filled with good health and wonderful moments that you can share with the people you love. NYSUT has been standing beside you throughout your career, and we want you to know that we will continue to be available for you in retirement.
As a retiree, you will have access to many important retirement related activities, benefits and opportunities that will be provided by your local (if they have a retiree chapter), NYSUT, AFT and NEA. If your local has a retiree chapter, NYSUT requires that you enroll with your chapter to maintain your membership in NYSUT, AFT and NEA. Your local retirement chapter may also require you to pay dues, and it is important that you remain in good standing each year to maintain membership.
If your local does NOT have a retiree chapter, you will automatically maintain your membership with NYSUT and the AFT through a retiree council that is established in your geographic area. Please speak to your local president for guidance on how to communicate with your retiree council so that you are connected to all the latest information.
You must maintain your NYSUT membership if you want to participate in any NEA Member Benefits programs. To be eligible to vote and participate in NEA governance activities, you will need to make a one-time payment of $300 for a lifetime membership. Please contact NYSUT Member Records via email, memberec@nysut.org, to make your one-time payment.
We strongly encourage you to take advantage of all NYSUT and our affiliates have to offer the more than 250,000 retirees that have maintained membership. Here are just a few benefits of being a NYSUT retiree:
- Access to NYSUT Member Benefits including insurance, legal/elder care advice and many cost savings opportunities.
- Staying informed through publications such as NYSUT United and newsletters from retirement chapters and councils.
- Connecting with retirees at multiple social and informational events.
- The ability to remain a strong voice in all educational and pension-related matters through our political action team.
You will continue to receive our popular NYSUT pocket calendar and membership card by mail. The NYSUT Retiree Activist Handbook is available online at nysut.org/retirees.
We look forward to meeting your needs as a retiree member of the largest statewide education and health care union. If you have any questions, please call NYSUT’s Retiree Services at 800-342-9810 or 518-213-6000.