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Death of a Retiree
Upon the death of a retiree, TRS should be contacted as soon as possible (404-352-6500 or 800-352-0650), with the following information
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Tags: Retiree
Published: September 28, 2021
Published: September 28, 2021
Death of a Beneficiary
As a retiree, should your beneficiary predecease you, you can make new beneficiary designations according to the provisions of the retirement plan under which you retired.
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Tags: Retiree
Published: September 28, 2021
Published: September 28, 2021
Plans A or B Option 1
If the retiree chose retirement Plan A or Plan B – Option 1, the deceased retiree’s beneficiary(ies) could be eligible for a lump sum refund, and will need to provide TRS the following
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Tags: Retiree
Published: September 28, 2021
Published: September 28, 2021
Plan B All Other Options
If the retiree chose Plan B-Option 2, 2 Pop-up, 3, 3 Pop-up, or 4, the deceased retiree’s beneficiary(ies) are eligible for a monthly benefit, and TRS will need the following
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Tags: Retiree
Published: October 5, 2021
Published: October 5, 2021
Board of Trustees' Sets:
In its annual meeting held today, May 11, 2022, the Board of Trustees adopted the following maximum IRS Salary Limits that can be used by the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia (TRS) to compute a member’s highest two-year average salary
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At 40 Years of Service
If you have at least forty years of service credit, you may elect to discontinue your contributions to TRS, as 40 years is the maximum number of years your retirement calculation can be based upon. Per Georgia law, this election is irrevocable.
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Annual Audit of Employment of TRS Retirees
Department of Audits will be performing detailed audits of employment records searching for TRS retirees.
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Payment of TRS Contributions Done by ACH Only
For your convenience and the security of payments, you must submit your monthly payment to TRS by ACH.
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Published: October 5, 2021
Leave of Absence
TRS will allow you to extend the normal four-year period in which you may be out of covered employment and still retain an active account by submitting a notice for a leave of absence.
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Out of State Service
After completing six years as a contributing member of TRS, you may establish one year of credit for service rendered in a public educational institution of another state. With the completion of each additional year of Georgia service thereafter, you may establish an additional year of out-of-state service, to a maximum of ten years.
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State of Georgia Employment
If you were previously a member of the Employees’ Retirement System of Georgia (ERS) and withdrew your funds, you may establish this service with TRS. You are eligible to purchase your ERS withdrawn service after you have completed the required number of years of active TRS membership.
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Awarding of Credit
To have your unused sick leave credited toward your retirement you must complete the member section of the Sick Leave Certification Form during the online retirement application process
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Hiring Employees Vested In ERS of Georgia
Legislation (HB 661) was passed and became effective July 1, 1998, that allows any vested member of the Employees’ Retirement System (ERS) who becomes an employee of an employer normally covered by TRS to remain a member of the ERS
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Published: October 6, 2021
Video: Economic Impact of Teacher Pensions in Georgia
A detailed look at how TRS retirees contribute to the economic success of Georgia.
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Published: November 20, 2019
Social Security Offset
Your TRS retirement benefit is not reduced, or affected in any way, by a benefit you are eligible to receive from the Social Security Administration (SSA).
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Tags: Pre-Retirement
Published: October 5, 2021
Published: October 5, 2021
Board Meetings
Regular meetings are held by the TRS Board of Trustees bi-monthly on the fourth Wednesday of January, March, May, July, September and November of each year, or on such other dates as the Board shall decide.
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Published: September 18, 2021
Dr. Jason L. Branch
Dr. Branch is the superintendent of Oconee County Schools. He has more than 20 years of experience in education including roles as a teacher, coach, athletic director and principal.
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Published: September 18, 2021
Mr. Kenneth Dyer
Mr. Kenneth Dyer was selected in February 2017 by the Dougherty County Board of Education to become the district’s superintendent after having served as Associate Superintendent and Chief Financial Officer.
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Published: September 18, 2021
Dr. Marion Fedrick
Marion Ross Fedrick was appointed as the 10th president of Albany State University on August 14, 2018, by the University System of Georgia Board of Regents.
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Published: September 18, 2021
Mr. Greg S. Griffin
Mr. Griffin currently serves as the State Auditor of Georgia. He was appointed to that position by Governor Nathan Deal.
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Published: September 18, 2021
Mr. Steve McCoy
Steve McCoy is the Georgia State Treasurer. The Treasurer serves as cash management officer for Georgia on behalf of the State Depository Board responsible for managing over $30 billion of state and local government investments
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Published: September 18, 2021
Dr. William G. Sloan, Jr.
Dr. Sloan has been the Executive Director of the Georgia Retired Educators Association since 2005. He retired in 2005 after serving as principal of East Hall High School for more than 17 years.
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Published: September 18, 2021
Mr. Christopher M. Swanson
Mr. Swanson is an AP Economics teacher at Newnan High School and the chair of the Social Studies department in Meriwether County.
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Published: September 18, 2021
Board Meeting Minutes
The TRS Board of Trustees meet six times a year at the TRS office in Atlanta. Meeting minutes for items discussed during open session are provided below:
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Published: September 18, 2021
The Current Financial Stability of the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia
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Published: March 18, 2021
Important Topics for New Members Part 3 of 4: TRS Benefit Formula & Being Vested
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Published: August 16, 2021
The Mission, Core Values, & Vision of TRS
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The Best of Your Retirement in Focus - Highlights of 2021
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Ms. Deborah K. Simonds
Ms. Simonds is a retired teacher from Georgia. She was a High School Special Education teacher for 27 years at Berkmar High School in Gwinnett.
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Published: September 18, 2021
The History of TRS
The Teachers Retirement System of Georgia (TRS) was established in 1943 by an act of the Georgia General Assembly to provide retirement security to those citizens who choose to dedicate their lives to educating the children and adults of Georgia.
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Retirement Plans Offered
TRS offers a defined benefit plan of retirement, also known as a 401(a). As its name implies, your retirement benefit is “defined” by calculation using your years of membership service, the average of your highest 24 consecutive months of salary*, and a 2% multiplier.
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Published: September 16, 2021
Changing Your Plan of Retirement
After you begin receiving a monthly retirement benefit, if you have chosen Plan A (Maximum Plan) or Plan B Option 1, you cannot change to a survivorship plan, which allows a monthly benefit to be passed to a beneficiary at your death.
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Tags: Retiree
Published: October 5, 2021
Published: October 5, 2021
The Funding of Your TRS Account
All members of TRS currently contribute 6.00% of earnable compensation* to TRS by payroll deduction. Earnable compensation is defined as the full regular compensation payable to a member for his full normal working time. Contributions are made on a before-federal tax basis.
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At Your Death – Survivor’s Benefits
Should you die prior to retirement, TRS offers survivor benefits to your surviving beneficary(ies).
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Published: October 5, 2021
The Life of a Wealthy Teacher with Special Guest Danny Kofke
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Tags: Pre-Retirement
Published: November 1, 2021
Published: November 1, 2021
Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLAs)
In addition to your TRS membership, you may be eligible for a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) if the cost of living increases as determined by the CPI.
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Tags: Retiree
Published: September 20, 2021
Published: September 20, 2021
Auditing of Retiree Accounts
TRS reviews all retiree employment on a monthly basis, just as it does all active members. Additionally, TRS performs detailed audits of TRS retirees’ employment records from both the Department of Audits and the Department of Labor.
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Tags: Retiree
Published: September 20, 2021
Published: September 20, 2021
TRS Awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA)
The Teachers Retirement System of Georgia is pleased to announce that the annual comprehensive report for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2021, received the GFOA’s Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting.
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Published: July 11, 2022
The Economic Impact of the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia
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Published: May 5, 2020
Employees’ Retirement System of Georgia
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Published: April 28, 2021
Important Topics for New Members Part 4 of 4: TRS Benefit and Contribution Plans & Additional Resources
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Published: August 16, 2021
Teachers are Amongst the Wealthiest Retirees! Featuring Dale Alexander of Alexander & Company
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Published: September 28, 2021
Important Things To Consider During Open Enrollment And The End Of The Year
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Published: November 4, 2022
Beneficiary Information
At your death, Georgia law requires that the settlement of your account be made in accordance with the beneficiary information on file with TRS.
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Board of Trustees & Investment Committee Meetings
Upcoming board and/or committee meetings information and agenda(s).
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Pre-Retirement Workshop @ TRS Atlanta Office
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Tags: Pre-Retirement
Published: September 8, 2022
Published: September 8, 2022
Membership Exceptions
Any vested member of TRS who becomes an employee of an employer normally covered by the Employees’ Retirement System (ERS) can elect to remain a member of TRS.
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Published: October 7, 2021
Pre-Retirement Workshop @ TRS Atlanta Office
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Tags: Pre-Retirement
Published: September 6, 2022
Published: September 6, 2022
Pre-Retirement Workshop @ the Atlanta TRS Office
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Tags: Pre-Retirement
Published: January 11, 2023
Published: January 11, 2023
Pre-Retirement Workshop @ the Atlanta TRS Office
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Tags: Pre-Retirement
Published: January 11, 2023
Published: January 11, 2023
Pre-Retirement Workshop @ the Atlanta TRS Office
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Tags: Pre-Retirement
Published: February 6, 2023
Published: February 6, 2023
Mid-Career Events
As you continue your career as an educator, it is important to revisit your retirement plan and stay abreast of new information and legislation that may affect your retirement benefit. This workshop will provide you with an overview about the services TRS offers, along with an update on what’s going on in the retirement arena-both at TRS and in the state legislature.
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Published: August 31, 2021
Beneficiary Designees
As you retire and select your plan of retirement, you will also be selecting primary and secondary beneficiaries. If you choose a beneficiary who is more than ten years younger than you, who is not your spouse, your benefit may be subject to the required minimum distribution incidental benefit (MDIB) rules of the Internal Revenue Service
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Published: September 27, 2021
Life Changes
Events, or life changes, occurring during the course of your TRS membership may necessitate you contacting our office to report beneficiary changes or name changes.
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Published: September 27, 2021
Mid-Career Workshop
As you continue your career as an educator, it is important to revisit your retirement plan and stay abreast of new information and legislation that may affect your retirement benefit.
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Tags: Mid-Career
Published: October 6, 2021
Published: October 6, 2021
Enrolling Employees in TRS
New employees are automatically enrolled as members of TRS based on the information you submit in the monthly employee detail file. Each new member receives a welcome letter, which includes instructions on how to register for an online TRS account.
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Published: October 6, 2021
Shining the Light on Your TRS Beneficiary
At all stages of your career, it is very important to keep your TRS beneficiaries updated. The beneficiaries you select for your TRS account are different than beneficiaries selected at open enrollment and the information in your TRS account supersedes information in will, divorce decrees, etc.
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Published: September 20, 2022
Plan B
Plan B provides members with 6 survivorship options: Option 1 allows you to possibly leave a lump-sum payment, but no monthly benefit, to a beneficiary(ies) after your death; and Options 2-4 allow you to provide a continuing monthly benefit to a beneficiary(ies) after your death.
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Published: September 17, 2021
Pension Calculator
The TRS pension calculator is an educational tool designed to help members, who are more than 5 years from retirement, estimate their monthly benefit for service retirement. You may use this calculator far in advance of your retirement to help you develop your personal retirement strategy by experimenting with various retirement scenarios.
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Published: September 3, 2021
Privacy Policy
Welcome to the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia’s (TRS) website (the/this “Site”). Please read this visitor agreement and terms of service; by visiting and using this Site, you accept the following terms:
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Published: August 27, 2021
Accessibility Statement
The Teachers Retirement System of Georgia is committed to ensuring digital accessibility for people with disabilities. We are continually improving the user experience for everyone, and applying the relevant accessibility standards in an effort to meet the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.1 AA).
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Published: August 27, 2021
Governance
A Board of Trustees administers the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia (TRS). State statutes provide that the administration of the System be vested in a ten-member Board of Trustees
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Published: August 30, 2021
FY2021 Annual Membership Statements Are Available
Active members may now access their membership statements online via their TRS account. The statements provide valuable account information, such as an account balance, the lump-sum value of an account, estimated projections, as well as beneficiary and service credit information.
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A Message to Our Members About the Coronavirus from Executive Director L.C. Buster Evans
We are grateful to have the opportunity to serve our members by ensuring that you have a benefit that you can count on. There is a lot of uncertainty right now but I want to assure you that we are closely monitoring important developments.
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Residency Maps
New residency maps are now available to view populations of TRS retirees and active members by City, County, State Senate District, State House District, or U.S. Congressional District.
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Published: July 30, 2019
Legislative Update 2019
During the legislative session, TRS posts legislative updates from the Georgia General Assembly that may affect the teachers pension system. Pending legislation is sponsored by members of the Georgia House or Senate, and does not become law until the Governor signs the bill. TRS does not draft or lobby for/against any legislation.
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Published: February 25, 2019
Economic Impact
Teacher pensions play a vital role in Georgia's economy. This brochure provides a detailed look at how TRS retirees contribute to the economic success of this great State.
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Published: September 17, 2021
Hello, Retirees!
Thank you for your service and dedication to the education of the children, youth, and adults of the great state of Georgia! You have worked hard for many years, and now you can count on TRS to provide you with the retirement benefits the State provides you.
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Tags: Retiree
Published: September 20, 2021
Published: September 20, 2021
Welcome, Active Members!
TRS administers the fund from which teachers in the state’s public schools, many employees of the University System of Georgia, and certain other designated employees in educational-related work environments receive retirement benefits.
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Eligibility for Retirement
You are eligible to retire ‘penalty free’ under the following conditions:
Completion of 30 years of creditable service – regardless of your age; or
Completion of 10 years of creditable service, and be age 60 or older.
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Tags: Pre-Retirement
Published: September 27, 2021
Published: September 27, 2021
I’m Ready to Retire
Well in advance of your date of retirement, we recommend you contact TRS for a retirement benefit estimate and to discuss the various plans of retirement. If you are considering retiring within the next two years, we recommend that you speak with one of our retirement counselors.
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Tags: Pre-Retirement
Published: September 27, 2021
Published: September 27, 2021
Part Time Hourly and Salaried
A TRS retiree who retired on a service retirement may return to work as a teacher on a less than half-time basis. If working less than half-time, the hourly rate or salary cannot exceed 49% of the compensation that would normally be paid to you if you worked on a full-time basis in the position.
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Tags: Retiree
Published: September 28, 2021
Published: September 28, 2021
Contractual Employment
If you are engaged in an independent contracting relationship, or employed by a private entity doing business with a TRS covered employer in a position which would normally be held by a teacher as determined by the Board of Trustees, your compensation is limited to one half of the average annual compensation used to calculate your retirement benefit or your final salary at the time of your retirement, whichever is greater.
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Tags: Retiree
Published: September 28, 2021
Published: September 28, 2021
Beneficiary Information – Retirees
As a retiree, there are very limited instances where you can change your beneficiary. Should your beneficiary predecease you, you can make new beneficiary designations according to the provisions of the retirement plan under which you retired.
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Tags: Retiree
Published: September 28, 2021
Published: September 28, 2021
Eligibility For Membership
All personnel employed in a permanent status position, not less than half-time, with local boards of education, charter schools, universities and colleges, technical colleges, Board of Regents, county and regional libraries, RESA’s, and certain State of Georgia agencies are required to be members as a condition of employment.
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Tags: New Hire
Published: September 28, 2021
Published: September 28, 2021
How TRS Benefits You!
Your retirement plan is a defined benefit plan which requires contributions from you and your employer, is determined by a formula based on your years of service and/or age and your final average salary, and will be paid to you throughout your lifetime.
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Contribution Withdrawals
While you are employed in a TRS covered position, as stated in Georgia law, you cannot make withdrawals or borrow funds from your account. If you terminate your TRS covered employment you may apply for a refund of contributions and interest.
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Service Credit Accrual and Purchase
‘Service credit’ is defined as the number of months and/or years of service you have earned toward retirement. You accrue service credit each month you work in a TRS covered position.
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Hello, Mid-Career Members!
You have been an educator for several years now, but you still have a number of years remaining before you can fully plan your retirement. However, now is the perfect time to acquaint yourself with specific details regarding your forthcoming TRS pension benefit.
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Tags: Mid-Career
Published: October 5, 2021
Published: October 5, 2021
Service Credit
The chart below indicates the three types of service that can comprise your total years of creditable service upon retirement. Purchasing service can assist you in attaining vested status, allowing you to retire sooner or increasing your final retirement benefit.
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Tags: Mid-Career
Published: October 5, 2021
Published: October 5, 2021
Helpful Links
Here is a list of websites that we at TRSGA believe may be of interest or use to you.
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Published: October 5, 2021
Unused Sick Leave Credit at Retirement
At retirement, TRS members can establish credit for unused sick leave earned with current and previous employers. Based on Georgia law, a member can receive credit for unused sick leave at retirement only if he or she has not received payment of any kind for the leave
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Tags: Retiree
Published: October 5, 2021
Published: October 5, 2021
Determining Your Retirement Benefit
Your retirement benefit is calculated by using the percentage of salary formula. Simply stated, two percent is multiplied by your years of creditable service, including partial years (not to exceed 40 years).
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Eligibility For Membership
All personnel employed in a permanent status position, not less than half-time, with local boards of education, charter schools, universities and colleges, technical colleges, Board of Regents, county and regional libraries, RESA’s, and certain State of Georgia agencies are required to be members as a condition of employment.
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Calculating Your Benefit
Your retirement benefit is calculated by using the percentage of salary formula. Simply stated, two percent is multiplied by your years of creditable service, including partial years (not to exceed 40 years).
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Insurance
The main purpose of having insurance is to hedge against risk. There is a small percentage of Americans that are fully self-insurable—meaning that they have enough assets to cover any financial liabilities that may occur due to health issues or damage to property and intangible assets.
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Tags: Mid-Career
Published: October 5, 2021
Published: October 5, 2021
Leaving Funds with TRS or Withdrawing Your Funds
If you are thinking about switching careers, moving out of state, or taking a break from education, it may sound tempting to withdraw your funds and receive a lump-sum payment of your contributions and interest
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Tags: Mid-Career
Published: October 5, 2021
Published: October 5, 2021
Maximizing Your Benefit
As a member of TRS, the amount you contribute is determined by law, so you may not increase your contribution amount in an effort to increase your retirement benefit.
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Tags: Mid-Career
Published: October 5, 2021
Published: October 5, 2021
Retirement Benefit Options
Although you are probably years away from having to select a retirement plan, it doesn’t hurt to have a general understanding of the TRS plans available.
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Tags: Mid-Career
Published: October 5, 2021
Published: October 5, 2021
Federal and State Taxes
All or most of your TRS monthly benefit is subject to federal income tax, with exact details furnished to you at the time of your retirement.
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Tags: Pre-Retirement
Published: October 5, 2021
Published: October 5, 2021
When Are Benefits Paid
If your properly completed application is received by TRS at least 30 days prior to your effective date of retirement, and all your allowable service has been established, you should receive your first benefit payment during your first month of retirement.
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Tags: Pre-Retirement
Published: October 5, 2021
Published: October 5, 2021
Leaving Teaching or TRS Covered Employment
If you terminate your TRS covered employment, you may apply for a refund of your contributions and interest. You can either receive a check from TRS, or move your funds to another qualified plan.
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New Member Workshop
Many people are unable to retire because they started saving too late in life. But not you! You are lucky because as a member of TRS, you and your employer begin contributing toward your retirement your very first day of work.
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Tags: New Hire
Published: October 6, 2021
Published: October 6, 2021
Pre-Retirement Counseling Session
Planning for retirement and choosing the right plan for you and your family can be overwhelming. There is a lot at stake and it is important that you understand all of your options, as well as the laws and regulations governing the distribution of your benefit.
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Tags: Pre-Retirement
Published: October 6, 2021
Published: October 6, 2021
Maternity Leave
You can purchase credit for periods of absence from employment due to pregnancy prior to March 5, 1976. One and one-half months of credit may be awarded for each pregnancy with a maximum of six months allowable for all pregnancies.
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Military Service
Georgia law contains several provisions for the establishment of up to 5 years of retirement credit for periods of active duty military service in the armed forces of the United States. If you have military service prior to 1955, please contact our office.
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Public School Employees Retirement Credit
If you have been a member of the Public School Employees Retirement System (PSERS) and your duties have changed so that you are now a manager or supervisor and are now eligible for membership in TRS, you may be eligible to establish credit for service rendered in a public school system prior to the date you became a member of TRS.
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Study Leave
You may be eligible to establish retirement credit for periods of full-time graduate study.
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Visiting Scholar Credit
A maximum of two years of service as a visiting scholar at a public college or university may be established as service credit by members who were granted a leave of absence from a unit of the University System of Georgia for such purpose.
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Workers Compensation Disability
You may be eligible to establish retirement credit for a temporary disability caused by a job-related disease or accident. The maximum period is twelve months and must be applied for within six months of returning to service following the temporary disability.
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How and When to Use Sick Leave
To have your unused sick leave credited toward your retirement you must complete the member section of the Sick Leave Certification Form during the online retirement application process.
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Workshops and Counseling
TRS understands you may have questions and concerns regarding your retirement future. So we offer a variety of workshops and individual counseling sessions specifically designed to address different career stages.
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Allowable Sick Leave Usage and Attendance Incentive Programs
Employers should notify TRS of all sick leave policies in use for compliance with Georgia law. System policies must be consistent for all employees.
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Published: October 6, 2021
Covered Positions
All employees who are employed one-half time or more in covered positions of the state’s public school systems, regional and county libraries, RESA units, or any other agency of and within this state by which a teacher is paid are required to be members of the TRS as a condition of employment.
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Published: October 6, 2021
Event Worksheet
Thank you for hosting an outreach event with the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia! We appreciate the opportunity to come to your location and meet with TRS members from your location and from locations nearby.
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Published: October 6, 2021
Hiring TRS Retirees
Retired members of the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia (TRS) have the ability to be employed on either a full or part-time basis under certain terms and conditions.
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Published: October 6, 2021
Member Account Information Requests
At the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia (TRS), we are committed to honoring the privacy of our customers. In an effort to protect our members, we have tightened our policy regarding the release of confidential information.
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Published: October 6, 2021
Preparing Your Employees For Retirement
In an effort to assist your employees, TRS has developed a list of things you can do to help ease the retirement process-for both of you.
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Published: October 7, 2021
Late Payment Penalty
As provided for in section 47-3-42 of Georgia law, a late payment penalty of 1.5% per month (or fraction of a month) may be assessed on reporting employers whose monthly contribution payments are not received by the 10th day of the reporting month.
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Published: October 7, 2021
Updating Membership Information
If a member needs to correct a social security number, date of birth, name, or beneficiary, he/she will need to follow the instructions below.
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Published: October 7, 2021
Your Responsibilities
As an employer in the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia, we know that you want the best for your employees.
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Published: October 7, 2021
Your TRS Representative
View a list of employers and their TRS assigned representative
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Published: October 7, 2021
Important Updates About Your 2021 Benefit!
Happy 2021 retirees and we hope that this year is off to a great start! You may have noticed a difference in your January, 2021, benefit.
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Tags: Retiree
Published: January 5, 2021
Published: January 5, 2021
Georgia is Counting on You
Census data powers much of what we do. Government, business, and many social activities and programs are affected by Census data.
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Published: September 14, 2020
Salary Limitations
In a TRS board meeting held on June 24, 2020, the TRS Board of Trustees adopted the following maximum salary increases for FY 2021 that can be used by the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia (TRS) to compute a member’s highest two-year average salary
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Published: July 1, 2020
Furloughs and TRS Earnable Compensation
Current economic conditions and reduced revenue collections due to the Covid-19 pandemic have resulted in employers planning for reducing budgets in FY 2021 by several methods such as furloughs, salary reductions and reductions of contracted work days, which will have an impact on the amount of earnable compensation to be reported to TRS
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Published: June 5, 2020
FY 2020 Salary Limit & FY 2021 Contribution Rate Memo
In its annual meeting on May 15, 2019, the TRS Board of Trustees adopted maximum salary increases for fiscal year 2020 along with the employee and employer contribution rates for fiscal year 2021.
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Published: May 29, 2019
TRS Launches New Website
The Teachers Retirement System of Georgia is pleased to announce the launch of our new website!
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Published: April 30, 2018
2022 Federal Income Tax Withholding Rates
TRS processed January 2022 monthly retirement benefits using the federal income tax withholding rates for 2021, the federal rates publicly available at the time. The IRS released the 2022 rates in the second half of December, after the deadline for timely payment processing.
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Published: January 27, 2022
Partial Lump Sum Option Plan (PLOP)
At retirement, in addition to selecting Plan A (maximum plan) or Plan B (survivorship plan), you may also elect to receive a one time lump-sum distribution (cash payment) in addition to your monthly retirement benefit.
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Published: September 18, 2021
How Contributions Work
In order to successfully plan for your retirement, you need to understand how contributions are made to your TRS account. Your pension is funded by 3 sources: member contributions, employer contributions, and investment earnings.
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Beneficiary Information – Active Members
When you joined TRS, you were instructed to go online and provide TRS with your beneficiary designations. It is important to keep accurate beneficiary information on file with TRS.
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Beneficiaries
It is critical that you designate at least one primary and one secondary beneficiary with TRS. To do so, you must log in to your online TRS account and complete the Designate Beneficiary section.
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Retiree Events
We have created a workshop aimed at keeping you informed throughout your retirement, including information about what’s new at TRS, membership statistics, a financial update, as well as any legislation that may affect you.
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Tags: Retiree
Published: August 31, 2021
Published: August 31, 2021
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding COVID-19
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding COVID-19 and Teachers Retirement System for Members, Retirees, and Employers
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Social Security
Your TRS retirement benefit is not reduced, or affected in any way, by a benefit you are eligible to receive from the Social Security Administration (SSA).
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Tags: Retiree
Published: September 20, 2021
Published: September 20, 2021
Working After Retirement
All employment as a teacher, whether directly or indirectly (i.e. independent contractor, private temporary company, etc.) with a TRS employer is subject to salary and service limitations as outlined in Georgia law and TRS policy.
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Tags: Retiree
Published: September 20, 2021
Published: September 20, 2021
Pension Limitations
When calculating and paying retirement benefits, Georgia law and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regulations place certain limitations on salary earned, salary increases received, and retirement payments received.
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Published: September 27, 2021
Unused Sick Leave Credit at Retirement
At retirement, TRS members can establish credit for unused sick leave earned with current and previous TRS employers. If you haven’t been saving your sick leave up until now, you really should start. The more unused sick leave days you have at retirement, the earlier you can retire and the larger your monthly benefit.
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Published: September 27, 2021
Annual Member Statement
Since your employer remits your retirement contributions to TRS, we provide you with the opportunity to review your annual member statement online at any time by logging into your account. You should carefully review your statement at least yearly and report any discrepancies to TRS.
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Published: September 27, 2021
Disability Retirement
A TRS member who is mentally or physically disabled, and who has an active account and at least 10 years service credit is eligible to apply for disability retirement. The inability to satisfactorily perform one’s current work duties, due to health reasons, is the major factor in determining ‘disability.’
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Allowable Employment – Service Retirees
All employment as a teacher, whether directly or indirectly (i.e. independent contractor, private temporary company, etc.) with a TRS employer is subject to salary and service limitations as outlined in Georgia law and TRS policy.
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Tags: Retiree
Published: September 28, 2021
Published: September 28, 2021
Allowable Employment – Disability Retirees
If you retired on a disability retirement, Georgia law imposes salary limitations on disability retirees.
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Tags: Retiree
Published: September 28, 2021
Published: September 28, 2021
Full Time Employment
Private School Teaching
Teaching in a State Other than Georgia
Employment in the Private Sector (See Contractual Employment)
Self-Employment (See Contractual Employment)
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Tags: Retiree
Published: September 28, 2021
Published: September 28, 2021
2021 Retiree Underwithheld Federal Income Tax Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
If you are a TRS retiree with federal income tax withholding for January and February that was lower than the appropriate amount for your monthly benefit, please refer to the frequently asked questions below to find answers about the issue and resources available to you.
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Tags: Retiree
Published: September 28, 2021
Published: September 28, 2021
Establishing Membership Service
During your employment in a TRS covered position, you make monthly contributions to TRS, via employer payroll deductions, and earn service credit.
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Start Retirement Planning
The short answer is now! If you are already asking yourself questions about preparing for your financial future, it’s time to start planning!
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Hello, Pre-Retirement Members!
Congratulations! Retirement is very near for you! We at TRS are ready to guide you through the retirement process, ensuring all your questions are answered, and that you can retire on the date you select!
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Tags: Pre-Retirement
Published: October 5, 2021
Published: October 5, 2021
Designating a Contact Person to Work with TRS
When designating contact persons, you can name one staff member to serve as the contact for more than one TRS division; however, two staff members cannot share one contact position.
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Tags: Retiree
Published: October 5, 2021
Published: October 5, 2021
Suspending or Terminating Benefit Payment
If you return to work in a position that does not allow you to continue receiving your monthly benefit payment, you will have the choice to terminate or suspend your retirement.
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Tags: Retiree
Published: October 5, 2021
Published: October 5, 2021
Additional Steps Needed to Process Your Application
In addition to the information you provide online, there are additional steps you must complete before your application can be processed by TRS.
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Tags: Pre-Retirement
Published: October 5, 2021
Published: October 5, 2021
Post-Retirement Workshop
We have created a workshop aimed at keeping you informed throughout your retirement about what’s going on at TRS, a financial update, as well as any legislation that may affect you.
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Tags: Retiree
Published: October 6, 2021
Published: October 6, 2021
Pre-Retirement Workshop
Retirement is within reach and it’s time to get serious about it! This workshop will provide you with the information and resources you need to help you map out your retirement plan.
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Tags: Pre-Retirement
Published: October 6, 2021
Published: October 6, 2021
Risk & Debt Management
As you move through your career, it is important that you learn how to recognize risks and manage them, along with any debt that you may have, while they can still be managed.
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Private School Service
Georgia law allows TRS service credit to be established for time spent as a teacher employed in an accredited private school within Georgia.
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Withdrawn Accounts
If you have previously terminated your TRS membership, and subsequently you return to service, you may reestablish your withdrawn service.
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Limitations to Using Sick Leave
Unused sick leave credit is allowed for Georgia teaching service. Eligible service includes withdrawn and repurchased Georgia teaching service as well as service purchased or transferred from local retirement plans.
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Disability Retiree Employment
If you plan to hire a TRS retiree who retired under disability retirement, you must complete the Employment Verification Form and submit to TRS prior to hiring.
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Published: October 6, 2021
Earnable Compensation
Earnable compensation is defined as the full regular compensation payable to a member for full normal working time.
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Published: October 6, 2021
Additional Compensation Information
In addition to earnable compensation listed under Compensation and TRS Contributions, leadership employees’ contracts may include additional components that are considered earnable compensation for TRS purposes
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Published: October 6, 2021
Elective Membership Employer Requirements
Georgia law was amended in 1976 allowing full-time public school lunchroom, maintenance, and warehouse supervisors and managers the option to elect membership in TRS.
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Published: October 6, 2021
Eligibility for Retirement
You are eligible to retire ‘penalty free’ under the following conditions:
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Published: October 6, 2021
Historical Rates
Employer & Member Contribution Rates & IRS Salary Limits
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Published: October 6, 2021
Membership Eligibility
All personnel employed in a permanent status position not less than half-time by a TRS reporting employer are TRS members in accordance with Georgia law.
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Published: October 6, 2021
Non-Covered Positions
Non-covered positions include, but are not limited to, the following
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Published: October 7, 2021
Pension Limitations
When calculating and paying retirement benefits, Georgia law and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regulations place certain limitations on salary earned, salary increases received, and retirement payments received.
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Published: October 7, 2021
Reporting Contact and Address Changes
To report a contact change or an address change for your organization, please log on to the employer desktop and update your information through the employer contact information link.
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Published: October 7, 2021
Reporting Policies and Procedures
In an effort to abide by TRS laws and regulations, maintain accurate records, and provide members with the retirement pensions they’re entitled to, employers are required to submit a detailed member contributions report and Monthly Summarization Report each month.
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Published: October 7, 2021
Suspending or Terminating Retirement
If a TRS retiree returns to work in any capacity other than what is listed above as acceptable employment, he or she may work one-half time or greater in a TRS-covered position and either suspend or terminate his or her retirement benefit.
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Published: October 7, 2021
Tips and Guidelines for Entering Adjustments
Reporting prior period, retroactive and current month adjustments can be tricky at times. This document is intended to provide helpful clarification on the process.
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Published: October 7, 2021
Unused Sick Leave Credit at Retirement
At retirement, TRS members can establish credit for unused sick leave earned with current and previous TRS employers. If you haven’t been saving your sick leave up until now, you really should start. The more unused sick leave days you have at retirement, the earlier you can retire and the larger your monthly benefit.
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Published: October 7, 2021
Verifying/Reporting TRS Retirees
Verifying and Reporting TRS Retirees
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Published: October 7, 2021
Statewide Virtual TRS Pre-Retirement Workshop on YouTube
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Tags: Pre-Retirement
Published: April 14, 2022
Published: April 14, 2022
Post-Retirement Statewide Seminar at Chattahoochee Technical College
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Tags: Retiree
Published: May 11, 2022
Published: May 11, 2022
Mid-Career Statewide Half-Day Seminar at Gwinnett County Public Schools Instructional Support Center
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Tags: Mid-Career
Published: May 16, 2022
Published: May 16, 2022
Statewide Pre-Retirement Counseling Sessions
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Tags: Pre-Retirement
Published: September 16, 2022
Published: September 16, 2022
Half-Day Pre-Retirement Seminar @ Central Georgia Technical College
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Tags: Pre-Retirement
Published: October 25, 2022
Published: October 25, 2022
Fraud Prevention
As a TRS member, you may receive solicitations from financial services companies that are representing themselves as TRS and communicating pension plan information in ways that may be incorrect or aimed at enhancing their own commissions.
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Published: March 15, 2023
New TRS Podcast Episode
In the fall, open enrollment season causes members to reflect on what benefits they currently have and what they will probably need during the upcoming year.
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Published: November 21, 2022
Virtual Pre-Retirement Workshop on YouTube
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Tags: Pre-Retirement
Published: February 20, 2023
Published: February 20, 2023
New Podcast Episode: From the TRS Vault - The Retirement Application Process Revisited
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Tags: Pre-Retirement
Published: February 27, 2023
Published: February 27, 2023
New Podcast Episode: What Makes a Happy Retiree? Featuring Best-Selling Author Wes Moss!
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Published: March 20, 2023