b'RETIREMENT RESOURCESConsidering retirement in 2022? The steps you take now can ensure a smooth transition. GETTING STARTED If you have not done so within the last year, request a pension estimate from Member Services and download the 2022 Retirement Application. Read through the form, start collecting your required documentation, and make a list of questions you need answered.CTPF hosts retirement webinars which feature presentations from CTPF staff, the Chicago Public Schools, and the Social Security Administration. The next webinars will be April 12 at 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Recorded versions along with the presentation materials are posted on the retirement resources page at ctpf.org/retirement resources.THINGS TO CONSIDER Retirement involves many steps and considerations. Before applying to retire with CTPF, consider the following: Retirement is a two-step process and you must terminate/retire from your employer and anyreciprocal system, if applicableCTPF cannot process your retirement benefits until that process is complete.Make sure you receive the credit you deservedo you have credit in another Illinois public pension system? If you qualify and retire under reciprocity, your benefit will be based on your highest final average salary (FAS) and each system pays a proportion of your pension. You must apply with each retirement system to take advantage of this benefit. Can you increase your benefit through a service purchase from an unpaid leave, refunded or other public teaching service, or military service?What pension percentage will be applied to your benefit? Review your estimate to determine if your benefit will be paid at the maximum rate (2.2%)? If not, are you eligible to pay to upgrade to the higher percentage? THINK THROUGH HEALTH INSURANCEEmployer-sponsored group health, dental, and vision insurance coverage will end at retirement. Now is the time to research your options and decide on a plan so your coverage continues without interruption. CTPF does not auto-matically enroll you in any post-retirement health insurance coverage. Dental insurance can be purchased through a private source or through a group plan offered by the Retired Teachers Association of Chicago (rtac.org).ANSWERS TO YOUR QUESTIONS Retirement webinars offer an overview of the retirement process. The next webinar will be April 12. The webinars and the presentation materials have now been posted on the Retirement Resources page for on-demand viewing. The webinars cover the CPS and CTPF retirement process and can help you jump start (or complete) your retirement application. Members who need retirement counseling can schedule virtual appointments with CTPF Member Services Counselors. Appointments are available, Monday - Friday from 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Call: 312.641.4464 to schedule. Have a quick question? Try emailing MemberServices@ctpf.orgSTAY IN TOUCH Contact us!Your CPS email will expire when you retire, so its important to keep a personalCTPF Member email on-file with CTPF. Find a registration link at ctpf.org. Register for myCTPFServicesthe Member Self-Service portal at myctpf.org and follow CTPF on social media.312.641.4464Not only will you find retirement information and important dates, but also news and facts about pension funding. . __________________MemberServices@ctpf.org5'