Retirement

A pension may be the last thing on your mind when you are starting your job at CUNY, but it is one of the first things you’re asked to think about. You have 30 days from the date of appointment to choose a retirement program, and the choice is irrevocable.

Retirement Plans for New Hires

Retirement Plans

Depending upon your title at CUNY (refer to your offer letter), you are eligible for a specific retirement pension plan. Below are retirement plans you can choose from.

• Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association of America (TIAA)
• Teachers’ Retirement System of the City of New York (TRS)
• New York City Employees’ Retirement System (NYCERS)

For Instructional/Non-Instructional Staff, you have 30 days from your start date to choose a retirement program. The choice is irrevocable. If you do not enroll within 30 days, your enrollment will default to Teachers’ Retirement System of the City of New York (TRS).

For Classified Civil Service Staff who are appointed from a civil service pool, you have six months from your start date to choose a retirement program. For other titles, enrollment in a pension plan is voluntary.

Resource

• PSC-CUNY: Full-Timer Pension Benefits
• Video: Learn more about Optional Retirement Plan (ORP) and Defined Benefit (DB) programs

If you have any questions, contact the Benefits Office.

Thinking About Retiring?

The day has finally come. You have decided to retire, or at least you’re thinking about it. The process may seem daunting, and you may have many questions as you prepare for that chapter in your life. Information and forms are available to assist you in understanding the process and answer many of the questions you may have.

CUNY University Benefits Office Retirement Planning Recordings and Presentations

• Pre-Retirement Seminar for Instructional Staff 2020 (recording)
• Pre-Retirement Seminar Breakout Session for TRS Members 2022 (recording)
• Pre-Retirement Seminar Pension and TIAA 2022 (recording)
• Pre-Retirement Seminar Instructional Staff 2022 (PDF)
• Pre-Retirement Seminar Classified Staff 2020 (PDF)

Helpful Resources

• CARES Act Provisions Affecting Retirement Plans (PDF)
• Retirement FAQ
• New York City Employees’ Retirement System (NYCERS)
• Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association (TIAA)
• Teachers’ Retirement System of the City of New York (TRS)
• DC37: Health and Security Plan Benefits
• PSC-CUNY Pensions

Contact Information

Jean Garthaffner
HR Manager for Benefits

Donna Corbin
HR Specialist for Benefits

1219 Boylan Hall
E: benefits@brooklyn.cuny.edu
P: 718.951.4255