Tier 1

Tier 1 members in Teachers' Retirement System of the State of Illinois first contributed to TRS before Jan. 1, 2011 or have pre-existing creditable service with a reciprocal pension system prior to Jan. 1, 2011.

Missed the Fall Benefit Information Meeting? 

You can still watch the video online - it's not too late! TRS hosted statewide Benefit Information Meetings and webinars for active TRS members from September through early November that were designed to explain the TRS benefit structure, including retirement, disability and death benefits. The retirement process, the Supplemental Savings Plan, health insurance benefits and post-retirement employment were also discussed.

Watch our online video. 

Download the Benefit Information Meeting booklet at this link. 

Private School Service Credit

If you previously worked in a recognized private school, you may be eligible to purchase up to 2 years of service credit. Call us at (877) 927-5877, Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, to request a Recognized Illinois Non-public Service Certification form. Retired members are not eligible for this credit.

TRS Benefits Reports Online

Active and inactive members may sign in online to view their service credit, refundable contributions, beneficiary refunds, beneficiaries, sick leave service, and 2.2 upgrade information. Every effort has been made to provide accurate information in your report. While believed correct, unintended errors may occur. It is your responsibility to carefully review all information. If you find any discrepancies, please contact our Member Services Division at (877) 927-5877 so that your record may be corrected.

Retirement Eligibility

In addition to terminating service, you must meet one of the following age and service credit requirements to be eligible to retire:

* If you are eligible to receive a retirement annuity of at least 74.6 percent of the final average salary and will reach age 55 between July 1 and Dec. 31, we consider you to have attained age 55 on the preceding June 1.

* If you are a TRS member currently employed by a state of Illinois agency, you may retire under the Rule of 85 if you meet eligibility criteria. Contact TRS to see if you qualify.