Do I have to contribute to STRS Ohio?
Generally, membership is required for Ohio public school teachers and administrators as well as college and university faculty. New full-time faculty will have a one-time opportunity to chose between participating in STRS Ohio or electing an alternative retirement plan (ARP).
Can I change the amount I am contributing?
No. The contribution rate is set by law and cannot be changed. Both members and employers contribute 14% of annual gross earnings to the system.
Do I also contribute to Social Security?
You will not pay into Social Security for an STRS Ohio qualifying position.
How long do I have to decide whether I want to participate in an ARP or an STRS Ohio retirement plan?
Eligible members have 120 days from their first day of paid service to choose between STRS Ohio and an ARP. If you do not respond, you will participate in STRS Ohio. You will then have an additional 60 days to choose your STRS Ohio plan. If STRS Ohio does not receive your plan selection within 180 days, you will be automatically enrolled in the Defined Benefit (DB) Plan and this will be your plan for the duration of your STRS Ohio membership.
How do I indicate my selection between STRS Ohio and an ARP?
Complete the Retirement Plan Election form available from your employer to choose between participating in STRS Ohio or an ARP.
What are my STRS Ohio retirement plan options?
New members can select between a Defined Benefit (DB), Defined Contribution (DC) or Combined (CO) Plan.
Will STRS Ohio send me information regarding my STRS Ohio retirement plan options?
Yes. You will automatically receive a packet of information from STRS Ohio. For more information, check out our Higher Education Faculty Member page.
Is there a deadline to make my STRS Ohio retirement plan selection?
Yes. You have 180 days from your first day of paid service to choose your plan. If STRS Ohio does not receive your plan selection within 180 days, you will be automatically enrolled in the DB Plan and this will be your plan for the duration of your STRS Ohio membership.
How do I make my STRS Ohio retirement plan choice?
First you must register for an Online Personal Account. After you register, log in to your Online Personal Account, click the “Member Information” tab and then click “Retirement Plan Selection” under the Useful Links section.
What happens if I do not select an STRS Ohio retirement plan?
Under Ohio law, members who do not select a plan within 180 days will automatically enrolled in the DB Plan. If you choose or are automatically enrolled in the DB Plan, there is no reselection option and you will remain in this plan for the duration of your STRS Ohio membership.
Will I be eligible to change my STRS Ohio retirement plan?
If you select the DC or CO Plan as a new member, you will be eligible to reselect your plan in your fifth year of membership.