Member Education Hub
We want to help all members prepare for a financially secure future, no matter where you are on your financial journey. For help along your path, check out our resources below.
Attended an event recently?
Below are the resources you will need if you have attended the Beyond the Classroom or Retirement Countdown programs.
Trivia question
Check answer
Money
matters
“Remember that time is money.” — Benjamin FranklinWhere to begin
These are the building blocks to your financial freedom. Select the item(s) you have completed so far and utilize the resources below to help you complete more!
Spend less than you earn
Create a budget
Track monthly spending
Establish an emergency savings account
Get out of debt
Improve your credit
Solve your retirement income gap
Maximize retirement savings
Insure against the unexpected
Create a retirement plan
Save for major purchases
Organize your financial affairs
Do you have a retirement income gap?
Your STRS Ohio pension may represent a substantial piece of your retirement income, but additional financial resources can help you achieve the retirement lifestyle you envision.
Retirement expenses
Your life circumstances and financial situation play a key role in determining the retirement savings you will need.
Hypothetical expenses you should consider (select a category to expand and collapse):
A budget allows you to take a closer look at your spending habits, clarifies your financial goals and even helps you prepare for unexpected emergencies. To create a budget and start tracking your monthly spending, download and fill-out our Personal Monthly Budget spreadsheet.
By keeping track of your monthly expenses now, you can more easily plan the amount of money you will need after retirement.
Retirement income
Now that you have an idea of what your lifestyle may cost, it is time to determine your income. The more income sources you have, the easier you can adapt to change and the more secure your retirement will be.
Possible sources of income in retirement:
Even though STRS Ohio may provide a substantial amount of your retirement income, other investments are a good idea for additional income. Even if you do not project a gap, your income will still need to keep up with inflation if you are to maintain your chosen lifestyle.
Supplemental retirement plans for gap coverage
The earlier you start saving, the more time your money has to compound and grow. A little can go a long way!
Hypothetical annual earnings assuming 5% interest (select a bi-weekly contribution amount):
To generate a personalized retirement planning report, check out the My Interactive Retirement Planner through Ohio Deferred Compensation.
Organize your financial affairs
If you die or become unable to manage your personal affairs, having your important personal papers finalized and documented will be extremely helpful to your family and friends. Check-off the item(s) you have completed so far and utilize our Important Personal Papers form to record all the details as you complete more!
Document
Finalize and document
Almost time to celebrate your retirement
