Defined Benefit Supplement Program

The Defined Benefit Supplement is a hybrid cash balance plan for Defined Benefit members that provides additional savings for retirement.

Funds come from compensation earned from service in one school year in excess of one year of service credit and limited-term salary increases. From January 1, 2001, through December 31, 2010, funds came from 25% of your monthly CalSTRS contribution.

Accessing your funds

Your Defined Benefit Supplement funds are yours when you begin receiving a monthly retirement or disability benefit, or six months after you terminate CalSTRS-covered employment and receive a refund of your Defined Benefit contributions.

Funding your Defined Benefit Supplement account

As a Defined Benefit member, you have a Defined Benefit Supplement account that provides additional savings for your retirement.

Two benefit structures

The California Public Employees’ Pension Reform Act of 2013 made significant changes to the benefit structure that primarily affect members first hired to perform CalSTRS creditable activities on or after January 1, 2013. As a result, CalSTRS has two benefit structures.

Defined Benefit Supplement Program

Frequently asked questions