Q: Can I complete my retirement application online? Filling out all that paperwork is a chore.
A: You can now. An online retirement application is the latest addition to MyNYSTRS, the New York State Teachers' Retirement System's secure, self-service member portal. Although the traditional eight-page paper application is still available, the online format is a welcome addition. It cuts out snail mail and features built-in logic to ensure you don’t make the type of mistake that would cause a paper application to be rejected. Unfortunately, if you're filing for disability retirement, are not at least 54, requesting a non-standard payment option, or can meet certain other criteria, you can't use the online application. Remember, the earliest you can apply is 90 days prior to your effective date of retirement, so you’ll be unable to submit the application any sooner.
Contact NYSTRS at 800-348-7298, ext. 6250, or visit www.nystrs.org for further information.
Q: An online application sounds great. Can I save my work over several sessions, or do I have to complete the entire retirement application in one sitting?
A: You can complete your application over several sessions since the system automatically saves and stores your answers as you go. A big plus is that when you do return, you can quickly see the application sections you've already completed, and the sections that still need filling in. You can also modify previously answered parts. A "review & submit my application" button will appear only when the form has been fully completed. After you submit your application, check your inbox for an email confirming that NYSTRS received it.
Did you know?
For MyNYSTRS account holders, 2017 tax statements (1099-R) are available online.