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.
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 do I know if I am eligible to make a retirement plan selection?
You will be notified by STRS Ohio if you are eligible to make a plan selection.
What are my 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 retirement plan options?
Yes. You will automatically receive a packet of information from STRS Ohio. For more information, check out our K–12 Educator page.
Is there a deadline to make my 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 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 a 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 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.