b'CTPF members participate in a defined-benefit retirement plan, which offers a secureWretirement income for life. Once earned, a pension does not lose value or change withEinvestment or market conditions.CTPF members do not contribute to Social Security during employment. Instead, each pay period,Lpension contributions are withheld by the employer and sent to CTPF. At retirement, CTPF calculates a pension for retirees that meet the eligibility requirements.CYour retirement pension is: Obased on service credit, final average salary (FAS), and the pension multiplierpaid throughout your lifetimeprotected from inflation with an annual increaseMESTIMATING A PENSION EWondering what your retirement could look like? CTPFs online Monthly Pension Planner offers a rough estimate of your future monthly income. Visit ctpf.org/pensioncalculator and plug in your information.RECIPROCAL PENSION Have you worked for another Illinois public pension system? The Illinois reciprocal act may allow you to combine your service credit. Visit the Reciprocal Systems section on ctpf.org for more information.SURVIVOR BENEFITSIf the unthinkable happens, your pension can protect your family. Your surviving spouse and/or dependent minor children of both active and retired members may qualify to receive survivor benefits which include: a portion of the deceased members pension NEWa lump-sum death benefit based on the members service and status as an active or retired employeeMEMBERSDuring Your Teaching Career Make Sure YouComplete a CTPF Designation of Beneficiary form and update it as important life events occur (marriage, civil union, birth of a child, divorce, etc.). The lump-sum death benefit is paid according to the Designation on file at CTPF at the time of a members death. This form is available on ctpf.org under Forms & Publications.Keep your employer up-to-date with any changes in your demographic information, such as change of address or marital status. CTPF receiveschanges from the employer while you are an active teacher. Register for myCTPF the Funds self-service portal where you can review your Annual Member Statement, which gives a snapshot of your pension benefits at the end of the prior fiscal year and in the portal you request a pension estimate (when you are eligible). Review pay stubs to ensure pension contributions are deducted. Call your employers payroll department in case of an error.Share your voice. Vote in CTPFs Annual Trustee Elections, conducted in the fall.Read Pension News and register for email updates at ctpf.org. Follow us on social media and register your email address so you receive important updates and stay informed. 5'