An improved myCalSTRS is coming this fall with a fresh and easy-to-navigate site, enhanced features, added self-service tools and more. These upgrades will make it simpler to keep track of your retirement progress and plan for your financial future. Look for announcements on our website and follow us on social media for the latest launch information.

If you haven’t designated your one-time death benefit recipient yet, complete and submit your Recipient Designation form online with your myCalSTRS account—it only takes a few minutes.

Nicholas Miller, a Sacramento City College sociology professor, created a program for current and formerly incarcerated students that now spans 50 colleges. "So many of my adult students are actually trying to work and manage families and take classes. And I just feel really lucky that I get to be part of this adult learning process."

Many CalSTRS retirees return to work after retiring. If you take a job outside the California public school system, you can continue to receive your full CalSTRS service retirement benefit with no earnings limitations. However, there are restrictions under state and federal law if you return to work within the California public school system.

Our Pension Sense blog keeps you informed about CalSTRS customer service offerings, legislation that impacts educators, and more. Sign up today.

If you leave the education field and keep your money with CalSTRS, you’ll be eligible for a monthly benefit at age 55 if you’re vested. But if you choose a refund, you’ll give up all rights to your retirement benefit, as well as survivor and disability benefits. Make sure you understand the consequences of cashing out before you make your decision.

The Teachers' Retirement Board recently approved an increase to CalSTRS members' lump-sum death benefit payments. Learn more about this and other updates from the May board meeting in Board Highlights.