{"response":{"docs":[{"id":"dlg_ggpd_i-ga-bt400-b-pp1-br4-b2017-swinter-belec-p-btext","title":"TRS retirement report, a bi-annual newsletter for retired members, Winter 2017","collection_id":"dlg_ggpd","collection_title":"Georgia Government Publications","dcterms_contributor":["Teachers' Retirement System of Georgia, issuing body."],"dcterms_spatial":["United States, Georgia, 32.75042, -83.50018"],"dcterms_creator":["Teacher's Retirement System of Georgia"],"dc_date":["2017-12"],"dcterms_description":["This bi-annual newsletter contains information for retirees in the TRS of Georgia"],"dc_format":["application/pdf"],"dcterms_identifier":null,"dcterms_language":["eng"],"dcterms_publisher":["Atlanta, Ga. : Teachers' Retirement System of Georgia"],"dc_relation":null,"dc_right":["http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/"],"dcterms_is_part_of":null,"dcterms_subject":["Teacher's Retirement System of Georgia--Periodicals","Retirement System of Georgia","Retired teachers--Georgia--Periodicals","Retired teachers","Georgia","Periodicals"],"dcterms_title":["TRS retirement report, a bi-annual newsletter for retired members, Winter 2017","Teacher's Retirement System retirement report","TRS retirement report, a bi-annual newsletter for retirees"],"dcterms_type":["Text"],"dcterms_provenance":["University of Georgia. Map and Government Information Library"],"edm_is_shown_by":["https://dlg.galileo.usg.edu/do:dlg_ggpd_i-ga-bt400-b-pp1-br4-b2017-swinter-belec-p-btext"],"edm_is_shown_at":["https://dlg.galileo.usg.edu/id:dlg_ggpd_i-ga-bt400-b-pp1-br4-b2017-swinter-belec-p-btext"],"dcterms_temporal":null,"dcterms_rights_holder":null,"dcterms_bibliographic_citation":null,"dlg_local_right":null,"dcterms_medium":["serials (publications)"],"dcterms_extent":null,"dlg_subject_personal":null,"iiif_manifest_url_ss":null,"dcterms_subject_fast":null,"fulltext":"w w w. T R S G A . c o m 404-352-6500 \nHappy Holidays From TRS! \n \nTRS RETIREE RETIREMENT REPORT \n \nOne of the greatest joys of the holiday season is the opportunity to show our appreciation for those who brighten our lives and communities throughout the year. TRS is very grateful for members like you! After dedicating your careers to educating future generations, our retirees continue to positively impact our communities! We hope you enjoy this holiday season and we look forward to continuing to serve you in 2018! \nTRS Highlights (as of June 30, 2017) \n \nINSIDE \n \nP1 \nThank You Members! \n \nP1 \nUpdate Your Beneficiaries \n \nP2 \nMid-Career Events \n \nP2 \nMember Statements \n \nP2 \nNeed Help? \n \n STAY IN TOUCH! FOLLOW US! \nWorking After Retirement \nWhat You Need to Know \nOnce you are a TRS retiree, you may be re-employed in a TRS-covered position on either a full or part-time basis, under certain terms and conditions, and continue to receive your TRS pension. This applies to both service retirees and disability retirees. Before you accept any position with a TRS-covered employer, you should contact TRS to ensure the employment does not adversely affect your retirement. In order to ensure a TRS retiree working in a TRS-covered position is in compliance with Georgia law, TRS must approve the employment prior to the retiree starting the job. It is your responsibility to inform the employer that you are a TRS retiree, and it is the employer's responsibility to report your employment to TRS. If you do return to work, you MUST have a break-in-service of at least one month after your effective date of retirement. Salary and Service Limitations All employment in a TRS-covered position, whether directly or indirectly (i.e. independent contractor, private temporary company, etc.) with a TRS employer, is subject to salary and service limitations as outlined in Georgia law and TRS policy. No Pre-Existing Agreement Georgia law requires employers to certify to the TRS Board of Trustees the date on which the employee's employment is or will be severed and that no agreement exists to allow the employee to return to service. This includes service as an independent contractor. Any return to employment or rendering of any paid service, including service for an independent contractor, for any TRS employer during the calendar month of the effective date of retirement shall render the retirement invalid and void the application for retirement. To learn more, please visit our website or review our Member's Guide. \nNEED HELP? CONTACT TRS FOR ASSISTANCE. \n404-352-6500 | 800-352-0650 | www.T R S G A .com \n \n "},{"id":"dlg_ggpd_i-ga-bt400-b-pp1-br4-b2016-ssummer-hfall-belec-p-btext","title":"TRS retirement report, a bi-annual newsletter for retired members, Summer-Fall 2016","collection_id":"dlg_ggpd","collection_title":"Georgia Government Publications","dcterms_contributor":["Teachers' Retirement System of Georgia, issuing body."],"dcterms_spatial":["United States, Georgia, 32.75042, -83.50018"],"dcterms_creator":["Teachers'","Retirement System of Georgia"],"dc_date":["2016-08"],"dcterms_description":["This bi-annual newsletter contains information for retirees in the TRS of Georgia"],"dc_format":["application/pdf"],"dcterms_identifier":null,"dcterms_language":["eng"],"dcterms_publisher":["Atlanta, Ga. : Georgia Teachers' Retirement System"],"dc_relation":null,"dc_right":["http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/"],"dcterms_is_part_of":null,"dcterms_subject":["Teachers'","Retirement System of Georgia--Periodicals","Teachers--Pensions--Georgia--Periodicals","Teachers--Pensions","Georgia","Periodicals"],"dcterms_title":["TRS retirement report, a bi-annual newsletter for retired members, Summer-Fall 2016","Teachers'","Retirement System retirement report","TRS retirement report, a bi-annual newsletter for retirees"],"dcterms_type":["Text"],"dcterms_provenance":["University of Georgia. Map and Government Information Library"],"edm_is_shown_by":["https://dlg.galileo.usg.edu/do:dlg_ggpd_i-ga-bt400-b-pp1-br4-b2016-ssummer-hfall-belec-p-btext"],"edm_is_shown_at":["https://dlg.galileo.usg.edu/id:dlg_ggpd_i-ga-bt400-b-pp1-br4-b2016-ssummer-hfall-belec-p-btext"],"dcterms_temporal":null,"dcterms_rights_holder":null,"dcterms_bibliographic_citation":null,"dlg_local_right":null,"dcterms_medium":["serials (publications)"],"dcterms_extent":null,"dlg_subject_personal":null,"iiif_manifest_url_ss":null,"dcterms_subject_fast":null,"fulltext":"www.TRSGA.com 404-352-6500 \n \nTRS RETIREE RETIREMENT REPORT \nA BI-ANNUAL NEWSLETTER FOR RETIREES \nSummer/Fall 2016 \n \nMeet Dr. L.C. (Buster) Evans \nTRS is excited to introduce our new Executive Director, Dr. L.C. (Buster) Evans! Buster brings a vast amount of experience to the job. Not only is he a husband, father and grandfather, but he was a teacher, coach, Superintendent, and TRS Board member from 2006-2014, including serving as the Board Chair for the last 2 years of his tenure. Buster was an active TRS member for much of his career and is also currently a TRS retiree, so he brings to the position a unique perspective. Prior to accepting his new position with TRS, he served as Assistant Commissioner for Inmate Services at the Georgia Department of Corrections. Buster was appointed to this position by Governor Nathan Deal in 2014 with the specific goal to design and implement educational programs to support Georgia's criminal justice reform initiative. Please help us welcome Buster to the TRS team...we are excited to have him leading the way. \nHere are some questions we asked Buster to help everyone get to know him a little better: \nWhat do you enjoy doing when you are not working? We live on a farm, so there are always things to do. I enjoy working outside especially during the fall and spring. \nWhat are the values that drive you? Helping other people through hard work. I believe \"being nice\" to others matters. \nWhere did you grow up? I grew up in Macon during the 60s and 70s when Macon was famous for southern rock bands like the Allman brothers. \nContinues on PG 2 \n \nWe've Gone Social! \nWe are excited to announce that The Teachers Retirement System of Georgia has gone social! Please follow us on Facebook and Twitter for up-todate news and information. \nWe will use Facebook and Twitter to publish important news, generate discussions, tell interesting and helpful stories about our members and retirees, and highlight successes at TRS! \nwww.facebook.com/trsgeorgia/ \n@TRSGeogia \nTeachers Retirement System of Georgia (State of Georgia) \n \nP1 \nMeet Buster \n \nP2 \nWorking After Retirement \n \nP3 \nEFT: No More Late Checks \n \nP3 \n2016 EFT Payment Schedule \n \nP3 \nOnline TRS Account \n \nP4 \nHealth Care Coverage in Retirement \n \nP4 \nHelpful Links and Contact Information \n \nINSIDE \n \nTRS Retirement Report 1 \n \n Meet Buster, cont. \nChoose a movie title for the story of your life. Taken from the song by Bob Seger \"Against the Wind.\" \nCan you play any instruments? I can play the guitar, but don't count on a public performance! \nWhat is the strangest talent you have? I am a trained potter. After having more pieces than we can ever do anything with, I retired from that hobby. \nWhat is something left on your bucket list? I really want to visit the grape growing regions of Italy. \nWho was your favorite teacher and why? I had several teachers who made a difference in my life. My favorite though is my wife Debbie. Her enthusiasm for education played a huge role in my decision to become an educator. \nWhat is your favorite sport and who is your favorite sports team? My favorite sport is golf and my favorite sports team is the UGA Bulldogs. \nWhere is your favorite place to vacation? Every year, for the past 22 years, we have visited Jekyll Island. I would have to say Jekyll would be that place. \nIf you could meet any historical figure, who would you choose and why? I'd say George Washington. I've visited Mt. Vernon, and I could see myself having lived there. \nWhat's your motto? People don't care how much you know, until they know how much you care. \nWhat is the one thing you cannot do without? Family, books, and coffee! \nWhat's the greatest bit of advice a parent or mentor has given you? Compare yourself to the best, not the worst. \nWhat technology innovation made the most impact on your life? Clearly the personal computer. I have files dating back to the 1980's! \n \nWorking After Retirement \nOnce you are a TRS retiree, you may be reemployed in a TRS-covered position on either a full or parttime basis, under certain terms and conditions, and continue to receive your TRS pension. This applies to both service retirees and disability retirees. Before you accept any position with a TRScovered employer, you should contact TRS to ensure the employment does not adversely affect your retirement. \nIn order to ensure a TRS retiree working in a TRS-covered position is in compliance with Georgia law, TRS must approve the employment prior to the retiree starting the job. It is your responsibility to inform the employer that you are a TRS retiree, and it is the employer's responsibility to report your employment to TRS. If you do return to work, you MUST have a break-in-service of at least one month after your effective date of retirement. \nSalary and Service Limitations \nAll employment in a TRS-covered position, whether directly or indirectly (i.e. independent contractor, private temporary company, etc.) with a TRS employer, is subject to salary and service limitations as outlined in Georgia law and TRS policy. \nNo Pre-Existing Agreement \nGeorgia law requires employers to certify to the TRS Board of Trustees the date on which the employee's employment is or will be severed and that no agreement exists to allow the employee to return to service. This includes service as an independent contractor. Any return to employment or rendering of any paid service, including service for an independent contractor, for any TRS employer during the calendar month of the effective date of retirement shall render the retirement invalid and void the application for retirement. \nTo learn more, please visit our website or read our Member's Guide. \n \n2 Winter 2016 \n \n No More Late Benefit Checks: Sign Up for Direct Deposit \nAre you a retiree who is currently receiving a paper check delivered to you by the United States Postal Service (USPS)? Don't forget, you can take advantage of having your benefit deposited directly into your bank account each month through Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT). \nThe option to have your check delivered to you electronically has many benefits, including knowing when you will receive your check and a safer delivery. When you sign up for EFT, your money is deposited into your account on the first business day of the month, preventing your check from becoming delayed, lost, or stolen in the mail. \nTo sign up to receive payment through EFT, you just need to log into your TRS account. \n1. Go to www.TRSGA.com and click on the Account Login button. \n2. Click the Retiree link. 3. Sign in to your existing TRS account by \nproviding your User ID and Password. If you do not have a TRS online account, you will need to create one. Simply click on the Click to Register link under the Sign UpNew Account Registration box on the left of your screen. You will then be asked to provide information to validate your identity and create an account 4. Once you have signed in, click on the Update My EFT Information on the right side of the screen. 5. Complete the online form. You will receive a confirmation letter in the mail after you submit your information. By signing up for EFT you will be joining over 112,000 TRS retirees who know when their check will be directly deposited to their bank accounts. TRS has no control over the USPS and its delivery time, so please take a moment and enroll in EFT. If you have any questions please call (404) 352-6500 or (800) 352-0650. \n \n2016 EFT BENEFIT PAYMENT SCHEDULE \n \nMONTH \n \nPAYMENT DATE \n \nJanuary.......................................................... 4th February.........................................................1st March.............................................................1st April...............................................................1st May...............................................................2nd June................................................................1st July.................................................................1st August............................................................1st September......................................................1st October.......................................................... 3rd November ......................................................1st December.......................................................1st \n \nRetirement \u0026 Your Online TRS Account \nDon't forget about your online account! After retirement, your online TRS account is a useful tool to find information you may need. Login to access your payment information, update contact information, update EFT information, as well as view your 1099R and account details. \n \nTRS Retirement Report 3 \n \n Health Coverage in Retirement \nTRS does not administer health care benefits for retirees, or determine eligibility during retirement. Retirees should direct all questions regarding health insurance to their plan provider. \nFor retirees eligible to participate in Georgia's State Health Benefit Plan (SHBP), TRS will deduct the monthly premium from your benefit payment, once your enrollment form is approved by the SHBP. TRS does not determine your eligibility for participation in the SHBP and does not provide information on the filing of claims. \nHealth plan questions should be addressed to the State Health Benefit Plan: (800) 610-1863. You can also visit http://dch.georgia.gov/ \nHelpful Links and Contact Information \nGeorgia Department of Community Health www.dch.georgia.gov 800-610-1863 \nInternal Revenue Service www.irs.gov \nVisit the website to locate your local IRS office phone number \nSocial Security Administration www.ssa.gov 800-772-1213 \nGeorgia Breeze www.gabreeze.ga.gov \n877-342-7339 \nTeachers Retirement System of Georgia www.TRSGA.com 404-352-6500 800-352-0650 404-352-4885 (fax) \n \nPost Retirement Workshops \nDid you know TRS offers a post-retirement workshop to our retirees? This workshop is aimed at keeping you informed throughout your retirement about what is going on at TRS, a financial update, as well as any legislation that may affect you. TRS proudly partners with the Georgia Retired Educators Association (GREA) and the Georgia Association of Educators (GAE-Retired) to host a post-retirement workshop. \nIn addition to uniting retired educators for fellowship, support and service, one area of concentration for GREA is focusing on the needs of Georgia's retired educators by distribution of valuable information. Every summer, GREA hosts a \"tour\" of their area meetings across Georgia. TRS met with over 1,000 GREA retirees during these area meetings during the summer of 2015. For information on GREA, please visit their website at www.garetirededucators.org. \nGAE-Retired supports and promotes GAE programs and services to retiring and retired GAE members and other retired educational employees. One program offered by GAE-Retired is their PreRetirement Seminar where TRS is a presenter. For information on GAE-Retired, please visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/GAERetired. \nIf you are a member of a local GREA or GAERetired unit, TRS would be happy to present our post-retirement workshop to your group. To schedule a TRS representative for your local GREA or GAE-Retired unit, please contact Mike Zarem at 404-425-6616. \n \n4 Winter 2016 \n \n "},{"id":"dlg_ggpd_i-ga-bt400-b-pp1-br4-b2016-swinter-belec-p-btext","title":"TRS retirement report, a bi-annual newsletter for retired members, Winter 2016","collection_id":"dlg_ggpd","collection_title":"Georgia Government Publications","dcterms_contributor":["Teachers'","Retirement System of Georgia"],"dcterms_spatial":["United States, Georgia, 32.75042, -83.50018"],"dcterms_creator":["Teachers'","Retirement System of Georgia"],"dc_date":["2016"],"dcterms_description":["This bi-annual newsletter contains information for retirees in the TRS of Georgia"],"dc_format":["application/pdf"],"dcterms_identifier":null,"dcterms_language":["eng"],"dcterms_publisher":["Atlanta, Ga. : Teachers'","Retirement System of Georgia"],"dc_relation":null,"dc_right":["http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/"],"dcterms_is_part_of":null,"dcterms_subject":["Teachers'","Retirement System of Georgia--Periodicals","Retirement System of Georgia","Retired teachers--Georgia--Periodicals","Retired teachers","Georgia","Periodicals"],"dcterms_title":["TRS retirement report, a bi-annual newsletter for retired members, Winter 2016","Teachers'","Retirement System retirement report","TRS retirement report, a bi-annual newsletter for retirees"],"dcterms_type":["Text"],"dcterms_provenance":["University of Georgia. Map and Government Information Library"],"edm_is_shown_by":["https://dlg.galileo.usg.edu/do:dlg_ggpd_i-ga-bt400-b-pp1-br4-b2016-swinter-belec-p-btext"],"edm_is_shown_at":["https://dlg.galileo.usg.edu/id:dlg_ggpd_i-ga-bt400-b-pp1-br4-b2016-swinter-belec-p-btext"],"dcterms_temporal":null,"dcterms_rights_holder":null,"dcterms_bibliographic_citation":null,"dlg_local_right":null,"dcterms_medium":["serials (publications)"],"dcterms_extent":null,"dlg_subject_personal":null,"iiif_manifest_url_ss":null,"dcterms_subject_fast":null,"fulltext":"www.TRSGA.com 404-352-6500 \n \nTRS RETIREE RETIREMENT REPORT \nA BI-ANNUAL NEWSLETTER FOR RETIREES Winter 2016 \n \nLegislative Update \nFebruary 29th completed the 30th day of the 2016 Georgia General Assembly. Also known as \"Crossover Day\", legislation must have passed either the House or the Senate by day 30 to have a realistic chance of final passage this year. TRS will continue to monitor the following legislation during the final 10 legislative days. \nFor detailed information on how retirement legislation becomes law, please visit www.trsga.com/legislation. \nHB 250 is a non-fiscal bill that allows a TRS retiree to assign their benefit payment to a self-settled, supplemental needs trust. This bill will further allow assignment of benefits to a spouse for a retiree that is Medicaid eligible and institutionalized in a nursing home, hospital, skilled nursing facility, intermediate care home, assisted living community, personal care home or hospice care. By allowing a retiree to assign their benefit payment to a trust or individual, the retiree would be able to circumvent the rules and regulations regarding eligibility to receive governmental assistance. Did Not Pass Crossover Day. \nHB 344 is a non-fiscal bill that would create the Georgia Public Retirement System Trustee Training Council (the Council) effective January 1, 2016. The Council would be comprised of six members and would develop training requirements for public retirement system trustees. Trustees would be required to complete eight hours of a training course established by the Council within one year of appointment. TRS already provides in-house, high-level, executive training to our trustees, including ex-officio trustees, and continuing trustee education with nationally recognized retirement programs on an annual basis. Did Not Pass Crossover Day. \nContinues on PG 2 \n \nIRS 1095-C Form \nTRS retirees whose health insurance is administered by the State Health Benefit Plan were issued a 1095-C tax form by the State of Georgia. These forms were not issued by TRS. The 1095-C form is a new requirement of the Federal Affordable Care Act and provides required health care information. \nThe State of Georgia contracted with the firm of Ernst and Young to handle the disbursement of the 1095-C forms. The forms require a valid employer identification number (EIN). Because retirees no longer have an employer contributing to SHBP on their behalf, the vendor defaulted completion of this field to the largest state employer (\"Department of Corrections\"). Though this has created some confusion, the form you received can be used to complete your tax filing. \nYou may call the Ernst and Young helpdesk at 1-855-3144222 in you have additional questions or need corrections made to other parts of the Form 1095-C. \n \nP2 \nRetiree Statistics \n \nP2 \nWorking After Retirement \n \nP3 \nEFT: No More Late Checks \n \nP3 \n2016 EFT Payment Schedule \n \nP3 \nOnline TRS Account \n \nP4 \nHealth Care Coverage in Retirement \n \nP4 \nHelpful Links and Contact Information \n \nINSIDE \n \nTRS Retirement Report 1 \n \n Legislative Update, cont. \nSB 335 is a non-fiscal bill that would allow retirement systems to invest in commingled funds and collective investment funds that are maintained by state chartered banks or trust companies. Passed the Senate 02/26/16. \nSR 725 proposes an amendment to the Constitution prohibiting investments in foreign state sponsors of terrorism. Public retirement systems shall not invest in a security issued by or on behalf of a foreign state designated as a state sponsor of terrorism by the U. S. Secretary of State. Public funds shall not be used to directly, or indirectly through an account or fund in which shares have been bought by public funds, purchase a security of an entity that engages in for-profit activities related to the provision of supplies or services including military equipment, oil or mineral extraction, or the generation or supply of electricity. Upon ratification of the constitutional amendment, public retirement systems shall divest from all such investments in a manner prescribed by the Georgia General Assembly. SR 725 is not subject to the Crossover Day procedures and remains active even though it has not passed either chamber. \nSupporting Legislation To express your support for legislation currently being \nconsidered, please contact your State Representative or Senator, as the Legislature is responsible for enacting Georgia law. Please visit www.legis.ga.gov for more information. z \n \nRetiree Statistics As of March 1, 2016 \n \nTotal Number of Retirees \n \n114,649 \n \nAverage Monthly Benefit for All Service Retirees \n \n$3,198 \n \nRetirees receiving paper check \u0026 subject to postal delays \n \n2,033 \n \nWorking After Retirement \nOnce you are a TRS retiree, you may be reemployed in a TRS-covered position on either a full or parttime basis, under certain terms and conditions, and continue to receive your TRS pension. This applies to both service retirees and disability retirees. Before you accept any position with a TRScovered employer, you should contact TRS to ensure the employment does not adversely affect your retirement. \nIn order to ensure a TRS retiree working in a TRS-covered position is in compliance with Georgia law, TRS must approve the employment prior to the retiree starting the job. It is your responsibility to inform the employer that you are a TRS retiree, and it is the employer's responsibility to report your employment to TRS. If you do return to work, you MUST have a break-in-service of at least one month after your effective date of retirement. \nSalary and Service Limitations \nAll employment in a TRS-covered position, whether directly or indirectly (i.e. independent contractor, private temporary company, etc.) with a TRS employer, is subject to salary and service limitations as outlined in Georgia law and TRS policy. \nNo Pre-Existing Agreement \nGeorgia law requires employers to certify to the TRS Board of Trustees the date on which the employee's employment is or will be severed and that no agreement exists to allow the employee to return to service. This includes service as an independent contractor. Any return to employment or rendering of any paid service, including service for an independent contractor, for any TRS employer during the calendar month of the effective date of retirement shall render the retirement invalid and void the application for retirement. \nTo learn more, please visit our website or read our Member's Guide. \n \n2 Winter 2016 \n \n No More Late Benefit Checks: Sign Up for Direct Deposit \nAre you a retiree who is currently receiving a paper check delivered to you by the United States Postal Service (USPS)? Don't forget, you can take advantage of having your benefit deposited directly into your bank account each month through Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT). \nThe option to have your check delivered to you electronically has many benefits, including knowing when you will receive your check and a safer delivery. When you sign up for EFT, your money is deposited into your account on the first business day of the month, preventing your check from becoming delayed, lost, or stolen in the mail. \nTo sign up to receive payment through EFT, you just need to log into your TRS account. \n1. Go to www.TRSGA.com and click on the Account Login button. \n2. Click the Retiree link. 3. Sign in to your existing TRS account by \nproviding your User ID and Password. If you do not have a TRS online account, you will need to create one. Simply click on the Click to Register link under the Sign UpNew Account Registration box on the left of your screen. You will then be asked to provide information to validate your identity and create an account 4. Once you have signed in, click on the Update My EFT Information on the right side of the screen. 5. Complete the online form. You will receive a confirmation letter in the mail after you submit your information. By signing up for EFT you will be joining over 112,000 TRS retirees who know when their check will be directly deposited to their bank accounts. TRS has no control over the USPS and its delivery time, so please take a moment and enroll in EFT. If you have any questions please call (404) 352-6500 or (800) 352-0650. \n \n2016 EFT BENEFIT PAYMENT SCHEDULE \n \nMONTH \n \nPAYMENT DATE \n \nJanuary.......................................................... 4th February.........................................................1st March.............................................................1st April...............................................................1st May...............................................................2nd June................................................................1st July.................................................................1st August............................................................1st September......................................................1st October.......................................................... 3rd November ......................................................1st December.......................................................1st \n \nRetirement \u0026 Your Online TRS Account \nDon't forget about your online account! After retirement, your online TRS account is a useful tool to find information you may need. Login to access your payment information, update contact information, update EFT information, as well as view your 1099R and account details. \n \nTRS Retirement Report 3 \n \n Health Coverage in Retirement \nTRS does not administer health care benefits for retirees, or determine eligibility during retirement. Retirees should direct all questions regarding health insurance to their plan provider. \nFor retirees eligible to participate in Georgia's State Health Benefit Plan (SHBP), TRS will deduct the monthly premium from your benefit payment, once your enrollment form is approved by the SHBP. TRS does not determine your eligibility for participation in the SHBP and does not provide information on the filing of claims. \nHealth plan questions should be addressed to the State Health Benefit Plan: (800) 610-1863. You can also visit http://dch.georgia.gov/ z \nHelpful Links and Contact Information \nGeorgia Department of Community Health www.dch.georgia.gov 800-610-1863 \nInternal Revenue Service www.irs.gov \nVisit the website to locate your local IRS office phone number \nSocial Security Administration www.ssa.gov 800-772-1213 \nGeorgia Breeze www.gabreeze.ga.gov \n877-342-7339 \nTeachers Retirement System of Georgia www.TRSGA.com 404-352-6500 800-352-0650 404-352-4885 (fax) \n \nPost Retirement Workshops \nDid you know TRS offers a post-retirement workshop to our retirees? This workshop is aimed at keeping you informed throughout your retirement about what is going on at TRS, a financial update, as well as any legislation that may affect you. TRS proudly partners with the Georgia Retired Educators Association (GREA) and the Georgia Association of Educators (GAE-Retired) to host a post-retirement workshop. \nIn addition to uniting retired educators for fellowship, support and service, one area of concentration for GREA is focusing on the needs of Georgia's retired educators by distribution of valuable information. Every summer, GREA hosts a \"tour\" of their area meetings across Georgia. TRS met with over 1,000 GREA retirees during these area meetings during the summer of 2015. For information on GREA, please visit their website at www.garetirededucators.org. \nGAE-Retired supports and promotes GAE programs and services to retiring and retired GAE members and other retired educational employees. One program offered by GAE-Retired is their PreRetirement Seminar where TRS is a presenter. For information on GAE-Retired, please visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/GAERetired. \nIf you are a member of a local GREA or GAERetired unit, TRS would be happy to present our postretirement workshop to your group. To schedule a TRS representative for your local GREA unit, please contact Mike Zarem at 404-425-6616. \n \n4 Winter 2016 \n \n "},{"id":"dlg_ggpd_i-ga-bt400-b-pp1-br4-b2015-sfall-belec-p-btext","title":"TRS retirement report, a bi-annual newsletter for retired members, Fall 2015","collection_id":"dlg_ggpd","collection_title":"Georgia Government Publications","dcterms_contributor":["Teachers'","Retirement System of Georgia"],"dcterms_spatial":["United States, Georgia, 32.75042, -83.50018"],"dcterms_creator":["Teachers'","Retirement System of Georgia"],"dc_date":["2015"],"dcterms_description":["This bi-annual newsletter contains information for retirees in the TRS of Georgia"],"dc_format":["application/pdf"],"dcterms_identifier":null,"dcterms_language":["eng"],"dcterms_publisher":["Atlanta, Ga. : Teachers'","Retirement System of Georgia"],"dc_relation":null,"dc_right":["http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/"],"dcterms_is_part_of":null,"dcterms_subject":["Teachers'","Retirement System of Georgia--Periodicals","Retirement System of Georgia","Retired teachers--Georgia--Periodicals","Retired teachers","Georgia","Periodicals"],"dcterms_title":["TRS retirement report, a bi-annual newsletter for retired members, Fall 2015","Teachers'","Retirement System retirement report"],"dcterms_type":["Text"],"dcterms_provenance":["University of Georgia. Map and Government Information Library"],"edm_is_shown_by":["https://dlg.galileo.usg.edu/do:dlg_ggpd_i-ga-bt400-b-pp1-br4-b2015-sfall-belec-p-btext"],"edm_is_shown_at":["https://dlg.galileo.usg.edu/id:dlg_ggpd_i-ga-bt400-b-pp1-br4-b2015-sfall-belec-p-btext"],"dcterms_temporal":null,"dcterms_rights_holder":null,"dcterms_bibliographic_citation":null,"dlg_local_right":null,"dcterms_medium":["serials (publications)"],"dcterms_extent":null,"dlg_subject_personal":null,"iiif_manifest_url_ss":null,"dcterms_subject_fast":null,"fulltext":"www.TRSGA.com \n \nTRS RETIREE RETIREMENT REPORT \nA BI-ANNUAL NEWSLETTER FOR RETIREES Fall 2015 \n \nBoard News \nWe are pleased to welcome our newest Trustees to the Board. \nMarion Ross Fedrick, a Board of Regents appointed board member for a three year term, is successful human resources executive with over twenty years of HR management and strategic business expertise in the private, public and higher education sectors. Mrs. Fedrick currently serves in the role of Vice Chancellor for Human Resources for the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia. Previously, Mrs. Fedrick has served as Assistant Commissioner of Total Rewards for the State of Georgia at State Personnel Administration. She has also held various HR leadership positions including at Bellsouth Corporation, Emory University Hospital and Clark Atlanta University. Additionally, she worked eight years for the Athens-Clarke County Government in various functions. She has also served on the board of directors for Communities in Schools of Atlanta, is a previous board member for Girls Inc., and is a committee member for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Atlanta. Mrs. Fedrick earned both her Bachelor and Master Degrees from the University of Georgia and is a graduate of Leadership Athens, Leadership Georgia and Leadership Atlanta. Christopher M. Swanson was appointed to the board for a term of three years by Governor Deal. He is in his second decade of teaching and teaches both economics and AP economics. Mr. Swanson's career began in sales, but he took a turn towards education when he was offered an opportunity to teach economics. While he has worked in education, he has chaired the Social Studies Department and coached within Meriwether County. Mr. Swanson earned his Bachelor degree in History from Brigham Young University and has continued to further his education, earning a Master of Educational Leadership from Columbus State and a Master of Science in Finance from Georgia State. Mr. Swanson and his wife Sarah reside near Newnan and jointly own an art gallery in Hogansville. z \n \nUpdate: \nGeorgia Retired Educators Association (GREA) \nThe summer \"tour\" of GREA's nine area meetings across the state wrapped up in August. These meetings are a great way for TRS to stay in touch with its retired members. This year, TRS met with over 1,000 GREA retirees during the area meetings. \nTRS is more than happy to meet with retirees via their organizations. A representative will provide an update on TRS and answer any questions you may have. \nTo schedule a meeting, please call Mike Zarem at 404-425-6616. \n \nP1 \nBoard News \n \nP2 \nFiscal Year 2015 in Review \n \nP2 \nLegislative Update \n \nP3 \nKeeping Your Information Safe \n \nP3 \nWorking After Retirement \n \nP4 \nYour Monthly Benefit Check \n \nP4 \nEFT Payment Schedule \n \nINSIDE \n \nTRS Retirement Report 1 \n \n A NUMBERS RECAP \n \nFiscal Year 2015 in Review \n7,447 \nMembers \u0026 Retirees Individually Counseled \n24,367 \nNew Members Signed Up for Online Account Access \n42,635 \nMember Statements Downloaded \n27th Consecutive Year \nReceived the GFOA Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting \n \n24,367 active members and 3,639 retirees sign up for account access, which led to 53,721 beneficiary changes; 42,635 member statements downloaded; and 11,020 event registrations, just to name a few services our members and retirees took advantage of online. \nAlso, our Information Technology staff has used all the necessary tools to keep all of our members' and retirees' information safe. TRS has worked both internally and externally to ensure our system's integrity. Our dedicated IT specialists have been able to block hacker probes, keeping our system secure. \nInternally, TRS hired 12 new employees and offered numerous opportunities for employee training. TRS also completed the FY 2014 audit within the deadline and we successfully closed FY 2015 under the approved budget. TRS received the GFOA Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the 27th consecutive year. \nWe thank each and every one of you for your continued support and partnership with TRS. We strive to provide the best comprehensive customer service possible. We look forward to continuing to improve throughout the new fiscal year to better serve everyone. z \n \nFiscal Year 2015 came to close on June 30, 2015, and was another successful year at TRS. During FY 2015, TRS offered new ways to make processes more efficient, for both members and employers. \nDuring the year, TRS improved some of our online processes, including the online retirement application, to make applying for retirement easier for the member and finalizing paperwork easier for employers. Also, members now can submit their information online to request a return of contributions. \nOur member education programs have also continued to grow. FY 2015 was the first full fiscal year the new and improved New Member workshop was available and our counselors presented the show 28 times, reaching 735 members. Counseling our members is also very important for us, both in the Atlanta office and around the state. During FY 2015, our trained counselors were able to individually counsel 7,447 members. \nWe are constantly encouraging members to make sure they have access to their online account, which gives them many items, including their annual member statement and ability to make changes to their information. We had \n \nLegislative Update \nThe 2015 legislative session concluded on April 2, 2015 and was the first year of the two-year (2015-16) biennium session. Retirement legislation that has a fiscal impact must be forwarded for an actuarial study in order to remain a valid bill for the 2016 session. \nThe House and Senate Retirement Committees met in a joint meeting on May 7, 2015, to decide which fiscal bills would be forwarded for an actuarial study. TRS had 4 fiscal bills (HB 459, HB 698, SB 152, and SB 246) introduced in 2015. These bills were not forwarded for actuarial studies and have \"died in committee.\" Therefore, these bills are not valid during the 2016 legislative session. All non-fiscal bills will continue the legislative process through the 2016 session. \nFor detailed information on pending non-fiscal bills and how retirement legislation becomes law, please visit www.trsga.com/legislation. \n \n2 Spring 2015 \n \n Keeping Your Information Safe \nWith the growing reliance on technology, security is of utmost the importance. Everyone must be aware of the information they are providing via computers and smart phones 24/7. Hackers are working faster and becoming more creative when it comes to getting the information they want. In 2014, many high-profile cyber crimes took place, including many corporate hacks, showing the increasing importance of companies constantly working to keep hackers out. Approximately 317 million pieces of malware (computer viruses, malicious software) were created in 2014. According to Verizon's 2015 Data Breach Report, cyber attacks are happening quickly, with spam emails duping their first victims within 82 seconds of the email being sent out. \nSecurity is an especially important issue at TRS. Our Information Technology division takes every step necessary to protect all of our members and employers. They are is constantly working to keep our system secure so your information is safe with us. \n \nWorking After Retirement \nOnce you are a TRS retiree, you may be reemployed in a TRS covered position on either a full or part-time basis, under certain terms and conditions, and continue to receive your TRS pension. \nIn order to ensure a TRS retiree working in a TRS covered position is in compliance with Georgia law, TRS must approve the employment prior to the retiree starting the job. It is your responsibility to inform the employer that you are a TRS retiree, and it is the employer's responsibility to report your employment to TRS. If you do return to work, you MUST have a break-in-service of at least one month after your effective date of retirement. \nSalary and Service Limitations \nAll employment in a TRS covered position, whether directly or indirectly (i.e. independent contractor, private temporary company, etc.) with a TRS employer, is subject to salary and service limitations as outlined in Georgia law and TRS policy. \nNo Pre-Existing Agreement \nGeorgia law requires employers to certify to the TRS Board of Trustees the date on which the employee's employment is or will be severed and that no agreement exists to allow the employee to return to service. This includes service as an independent contractor. Any return to employment or rendering of any paid service, including service for an independent contractor, for any TRS employer during the calendar month of the effective date of retirement shall render the retirement invalid and void the application for retirement. \nTo learn more, please visit our website or read our Member's Guide. \n \nTRS Retirement Report 3 \n \n Your Monthly Benefit Check \nAre you a retiree who is currently receiving a paper check delivered to you by the United States Postal Service (USPS)? Don't forget, you can take advantage of having your benefit deposited directly into your bank account each month through Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT). \nThe option to have your check delivered to you electronically has many benefits, including knowing when you will receive your check and a safer delivery. When you sign up for EFT, your money is deposited into your account on the first business day of the month, preventing your check from becoming delayed, lost, or stolen in the mail. \nTo sign up to receive payment through EFT, you just need to log in to your TRS account. \n1. Go to www.TRSGA.com and click on the Account Login button. \n2. Click the Retiree link. 3. Sign in to your existing TRS account by providing \nyour User ID and Password. If you do not have a TRS online account, you will need to create one. Simply click on the Click to Register link under the Sign Up-New Account Registration box on the left of your screen. You will then be asked to provide information to validate your identity and create an account 4. Once you have signed in, click on the Update My EFT Information on the right side of the screen. 5. Complete the online form. You will receive a confirmation letter in the mail after you submit your information. By signing up for EFT you will be joining over 90,000 TRS retirees who know when their check will be directly deposited to their bank accounts. TRS has no control over the USPS and its delivery time, so please take a moment and enroll in EFT. If you have any questions please call (404) 352-6500 or (800) 352-0650. z \n \n2015 - 2016 EFT BENEFIT PAYMENT SCHEDULE \n \nMONTH \n \nPAYMENT DATE \n \nNovember .....................................................2nd December ......................................................1st January.......................................................... 4th February.........................................................1st March.............................................................1st April...............................................................1st May...............................................................2nd June................................................................1st July.................................................................1st August............................................................1st September......................................................1st October.......................................................... 3rd November ......................................................1st December.......................................................1st \n \nU \n \nhappy WISHIaNG YO holiday \nseason \n\u0026 \na great new year! \n \n4 Spring 2015 \n \n "},{"id":"dlg_ggpd_i-ga-bt400-b-pp1-br4-b2015-sspring-belec-p-btext","title":"TRS retirement report, a bi-annual newsletter for retired members, Spring 2015","collection_id":"dlg_ggpd","collection_title":"Georgia Government Publications","dcterms_contributor":["Teachers'","Retirement System of Georgia"],"dcterms_spatial":["United States, Georgia, 32.75042, -83.50018"],"dcterms_creator":["Teachers'","Retirement System of Georgia"],"dc_date":["2015"],"dcterms_description":["This bi-annual newsletter contains information for retirees in the TRS of Georgia"],"dc_format":["application/pdf"],"dcterms_identifier":null,"dcterms_language":["eng"],"dcterms_publisher":["Atlanta, Ga. : Teachers'","Retirement System of Georgia"],"dc_relation":null,"dc_right":["http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/"],"dcterms_is_part_of":null,"dcterms_subject":["Teachers'","Retirement System of Georgia--Periodicals","Retirement System of Georgia","Retired teachers--Georgia--Periodicals","Retired teachers","Georgia","Periodicals"],"dcterms_title":["TRS retirement report, a bi-annual newsletter for retired members, Spring 2015","Teachers'","Retirement System retirement report","TRS retirement report, a bi-annual newsletter for retirees"],"dcterms_type":["Text"],"dcterms_provenance":["University of Georgia. Map and Government Information Library"],"edm_is_shown_by":["https://dlg.galileo.usg.edu/do:dlg_ggpd_i-ga-bt400-b-pp1-br4-b2015-sspring-belec-p-btext"],"edm_is_shown_at":["https://dlg.galileo.usg.edu/id:dlg_ggpd_i-ga-bt400-b-pp1-br4-b2015-sspring-belec-p-btext"],"dcterms_temporal":null,"dcterms_rights_holder":null,"dcterms_bibliographic_citation":null,"dlg_local_right":null,"dcterms_medium":["serials (publications)"],"dcterms_extent":null,"dlg_subject_personal":null,"iiif_manifest_url_ss":null,"dcterms_subject_fast":null,"fulltext":"www.TRSGA.com \n \nTRS RETIREE RETIREMENT REPORT \nA BI-ANNUAL NEWSLETTER FOR RETIREES Spring 2015 \n \nLegislative Update: 2015-16 Biennium Session \nJeffrey L. Ezell \nExecutive Director \nWith the new year in full swing, our state legislators entered a new biennium session this past January, filled with many proposed retirement bills. We kept a close eye on the legislative proceedings as they happened so we could keep our members and employers up-to-date with the latest retirement news. \nThe 2015 legislative session concluded on April 2, 2015, and was the first year of the two-year (2015-16) biennium session. Retirement legislation that has a fiscal impact must be forwarded for an actuarial study in order to remain a valid bill for the 2016 session. \nThe House and Senate Retirement Committees met in a joint meeting on May 7, 2015, to decide which fiscal bills would be forwarded for an actuarial study. The Committees did not forward HB 459, HB 698, and SB 152. Since the bills were not forwarded for an actuarial study, the bills have \"died in Committee\" and are not valid during the 2016 legislative session. \nThe Senate Retirement Committee voted to forward SB 246 for an actuarial study. SB 246 and all non-fiscal bills will continue the legislative process through the 2016 legislative session. A brief description of each bill is listed below. \nFor detailed information on how retirement legislation becomes law, please visit www.trsga.com/legislation. \nHB 217 is a non-fiscal bill that would expand the list of allowable investments for public retirement funds to include: \n Mutual funds registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. \n Commingled and collective investment funds registered with the U.S. Comptroller of the Currency. These funds are similar to mutual \nContinues on PG 2 \n \n2014 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report \nOur 2014 annual report is available on our website under Publications. \n \nP2 \nLegislative Update \n \nP3 \nWorking After Retirement \n \nP4 \nYour Monthly Benefit \n \nP4 \nEFT Benefit Payment Schedule \n \nINSIDE \n \nTRS Retirement Report 1 \n \n Legislative Update, cont. \nfunds, but are offered by banking institutions to investors including qualified retirement plans. \nHB 217 does not make any changes to current law regarding venture capital and/or alternative investments. Signed by the Governor \nHB 250 is a non-fiscal bill that allows a TRS retiree to assign their benefit payment to a self-settled, supplemental needs trust. This bill will further allow assignment of benefits to a spouse for a retiree that is Medicaid eligible and institutionalized in a nursing home, hospital, skilled nursing facility, intermediate care home, assisted living community, personal care home or hospice care. By allowing a retiree to assign their benefit payment to a trust or individual, the retiree would be able to circumvent the rules and regulations regarding eligibility to receive governmental assistance. \nHB 270 is a non-fiscal bill that makes a stylistic change in sentence structure regarding the Board of Trustees Chair. Specifically, the bill changes the wording from \".....from its membership a chairman\" to \".....a chairperson from its membership\". The bill does not change the membership requirements of the TRS Board of Trustees. \nHB 344 is a non-fiscal bill that would create the Georgia Public Retirement System Trustee Training Council (the Council) effective January 1, 2016. The Council would be comprised of six members and would develop training requirements for public retirement system trustees. Trustees would be required to complete eight hours of a training course established by the Council within one year of appointment. \nTRS already provides in-house, high-level, executive training to our trustees, including ex-officio trustees, and continuing trustee education with nationally recognized retirement programs on an annual basis. \nHB 459 is a fiscal retirement bill that allows select individuals the ability to establish additional service credit for employment rendered with the Federal Bureau of Prisons and schools operated by the U.S. Department of Defense Education Activity. The cost to establish this service will require payment of the employee and employer contributions that the member would have contributed had they been a TRS member at the time of the employment, plus accrued interest. Current Georgia law already allows \n \nservice credit to be established for teaching rendered with American Dependents' schools, which are administered by the Department of Defense Education Activity. Therefore, HB 459 only amends the law to allow an individual who worked with the Federal Bureau of Prisons to establish additional service. Not Forwarded for an Actuarial Study \nSB 152 is a fiscal retirement bill that creates a hybrid retirement plan for all individuals who first or again become TRS members on or after January 1, 2017. This bill does not affect individuals who are TRS members on December 31, 2016. Current TRS members may elect in writing to become a member of the hybrid plan. This blended type of retirement plan will consist of a defined benefit plan and a defined contribution plan. \n Under the provisions of the defined benefit component: \n The TRS Board of Trustees will continue to determine the employee contribution rate at no less than 5% and no greater than 6%. \n The benefit multiplier for service, disability and death in service benefits will be decreased from 2% to 1%. \n In addition to current salary caps, no salary increase in excess of 5% during the last 12 months will be used for the retirement computation. \n There will be no prefunded COLA's. The Board may grant ad hoc COLA's. No retiree shall be entitled to or expect to receive a COLA. \n Only certain military service as defined by federal law and applicable ERS transfers will be allowable. Out-of-state, private school, study leave, withdrawn, airtime or any other service currently allowed, will no longer be eligible. \n Unused sick leave credit may be subject to reduction or repeal by subsequent legislation and is not to be considered an element of any employment contract. \nUnder the provisions of the defined contribution component: \n TRS members are automatically enrolled in the State's 401(k) plan administered by the Employees' Retirement System with a 5% contribution, unless member indicates otherwise. \nContinues on PG 3 \n \n2 Spring 2015 \n \n  Employer matching contribution is 100% for a 1% employee contribution. Employee contributions in excess of 1% receive a 50% employer match, up to an additional 2%. \n Employee contributions are 100% vested and invested according to the member's investment choices. \n Employer contributions are separate from employee contributions and invested according to the member's investment choices. \n Employer contributions become vested 100% with the member after 5 years. \nNot Forwarded for an Actuarial Study \nHB 698 is a fiscal retirement bill that prohibits a public retirement fund from investing funds in companies or businesses that produce, sell, or market songs with lyrics containing specific words listed in the bill. A public retirement fund that holds such investments must divest any such holdings. Not Forwarded for an Actuarial Study \nSB 246 is a fiscal retirement bill that requires public funds to identify all holdings, direct or indirect, in scrutinized companies. A scrutinized company is defined as a company doing business with the government of a proscribed country, a company complicit in the Darfur genocide, or a company that supplies certain military equipment to a proscribed country. A proscribed country is defined as the Islamic Republic of Iran, Syrian Arab Republic, the Republic of Cuba and the Republic of Sudan. \nThe State Treasurer is required to annually prepare and make publicly available a consolidated list of scrutinized companies. Public funds must use this list to identify any holdings, direct or indirect, in scrutinized companies, and notify the company of such status, encourage company to cease such activities and divest securities from said companies. If these companies do not cease these activities then the public funds must divest in any holdings. Forwarded for an Actuarial Study z \n \nWorking After Retirement \nOnce you are a retired member of TRS, you may be re-employed in a TRS covered position on either a full or part-time basis, under certain terms and conditions, and continue to receive your TRS pension. \nIn order to ensure a TRS retiree working in a TRS covered position is in compliance with Georgia law, TRS must approve the employment prior to the retiree starting the job. It is your responsibility to inform the employer that you are a TRS retiree, and it is the employer's responsibility to report your employment to TRS. If you do return to work, you MUST have a break-in-service of at least one month. \nSalary and Service Limitations \nAll employment in a TRS covered position, whether directly or indirectly (i.e. independent contractor, private temporary company, etc.) with a TRS employer, is subject to salary and service limitations as outlined in Georgia law and TRS policy. \nNo Pre-Existing Agreement \nGeorgia law requires employers to certify to the TRS Board of Trustees the date on which the employee's employment is or will be severed and that no agreement exists to allow the employee to return to service. This includes service as an independent contractor. Any return to employment or rendering of any paid service, including service for an independent contractor, for any TRS employer during the calendar month of the effective date of retirement shall render the retirement invalid and void the application for retirement. \n \nTo learn more, please visit our website or read our Member's Guide. \n \nTRS Retirement Report 3 \n \n Your Monthly Benefit Check \nAre you are a retiree who is currently receiving a paper monthly check delivered to you by the United States Postal Service (USPS)? Don't forget, you can take advantage of having your benefit deposited directly into your bank account each month through Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT). \nThe option to have your check delivered to you electronically has many benefits, including knowing when you will receive your check and a safer delivery. When you sign up for EFT, your money is deposited into your account on the first business day of the month. This helps you avoid payment delays due to holidays. It will also prevent your check from becoming lost or stolen in the mail. \nTo sign up to receive payment through EFT, you just need to log in to your TRS account. \n1. Go to www.trsga.com and click on the Account Login button. \n2. Click the Retiree link. 3. Sign in to your existing TRS account by providing \nyour User ID and Password. If you do not have a TRS online account, you will need to create one. Simply click on the Click to Register link under the Sign Up-New Account Registration box on the left of your screen. You will then be asked to provide information to validate your identity and create an account 4. Once you have signed in, click on the Update My EFT Information on the right side of the screen. 5. Complete the online form. You will receive a confirmation letter in the mail after you submit your information. By signing up for EFT you will be joining over 90,000 TRS retirees who know when their check will be directly deposited to their bank accounts. TRS has no control over the USPS and its delivery time, so please take a moment and enroll in EFT. If you have any questions please call (404) 352-6500 or (800) 352-0650. z \n \n2015 EFT BENEFIT PAYMENT SCHEDULE \n \nMONTH \n \nPAYMENT DATE \n \nJanuary........................................... 2nd February......................................... 2nd March ............................................ 2nd April................................................ 1st May ................................................ 1st June................................................. 1st July.................................................. 1st August ............................................3rd September ...................................... 1st October ........................................... 1st November ...................................... 2nd December ....................................... 1st \n \n4 Spring 2015 \n \n "},{"id":"dlg_ggpd_i-ga-bt400-b-pp1-br4-b2009-s4-belec-p-btext","title":"TRS retirement report, a bi-annual newsletter for retired members, 2009 April","collection_id":"dlg_ggpd","collection_title":"Georgia Government Publications","dcterms_contributor":["Teachers' Retirement System of Georgia, issuing body."],"dcterms_spatial":["United States, Georgia, 32.75042, -83.50018"],"dcterms_creator":["Teachers' Retirement System of Georgia"],"dc_date":["2009"],"dcterms_description":["Title from caption"],"dc_format":["application/pdf"],"dcterms_identifier":null,"dcterms_language":["eng"],"dcterms_publisher":["Atlanta, Ga. : Teachers' Retirement System of Georgia, 2009"],"dc_relation":null,"dc_right":["http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/"],"dcterms_is_part_of":null,"dcterms_subject":["Teachers' Retirement System of Georgia","Retired teachers--Georgia"],"dcterms_title":["TRS retirement report, a bi-annual newsletter for retired members, 2009 April","Teachers' Retirement System retirement report"],"dcterms_type":["Text"],"dcterms_provenance":["University of Georgia. Map and Government Information Library"],"edm_is_shown_by":["https://dlg.galileo.usg.edu/do:dlg_ggpd_i-ga-bt400-b-pp1-br4-b2009-s4-belec-p-btext"],"edm_is_shown_at":["https://dlg.galileo.usg.edu/id:dlg_ggpd_i-ga-bt400-b-pp1-br4-b2009-s4-belec-p-btext"],"dcterms_temporal":null,"dcterms_rights_holder":null,"dcterms_bibliographic_citation":null,"dlg_local_right":null,"dcterms_medium":["state government records"],"dcterms_extent":null,"dlg_subject_personal":null,"iiif_manifest_url_ss":null,"dcterms_subject_fast":null,"fulltext":"www.trsga.com \nTEBrxhieeecfutive's \nWelcome to the first edition of the TRS Retirement Report, designed to inform you about TRS and the retirement industry. We always appreciate the chance to communicate with you and encourage you to let us know the areas which we can improve, and those in which we are doing well so we can continue to provide you with services of value in a timely, accurate, and friendly manner. \nI would also like you to know that everyone at TRS is a member of a hard-working team who is dedicated to meeting your needs in every way possible, using the best practices and best technology available. In fact, customer service is the main focus at TRS. We strive to be \"Faster, Friendlier, and Easier\" than ever before. \nI, along with my staff, am truly fortunate to have the opportunity to serve you and bring you the services you need to be successful. You are the reason we exist at TRS. Thank you for your dedication to teaching our children and serving this great state of ours. z \n \nTRS retirement report \nA bi-annual Newsletter for Retired members Volume 1 / July 2008 \n \nYour Pension is Safe with TRS \nby \nJeffrey L. Ezell, Executive Director \n \nNo matter what you have heard or read in the news lately about the financial markets, you can be assured that your TRS pension is safe and sound. The bottom line--your benefits are available when you need them! \nThe market turbulence over the past year has been troubling. Like all investors, private and institutional, we have been affected by the significant downturn in the markets; however, we have survived other downturns in our history. Black Monday in 1987, the bursting of the technology stock bubble in the late 1990's, the Enron and WorldCom fiascoes, and 9/11...TRS will weather this storm as well. \nIt is important to recognize and remember that the time horizon of the TRS investment portfolio is measured in decades, not days, weeks, or months. Much attention is paid to what is happening now, but the goal is to use periods of market fear and exuberance to TRS' long-term advantage. Unlike a retirement savings program, such as a 457 or 401(k) plan, your TRS account does not lose value when stock prices go down. We are a long-term investor, and short-term downturns in the market are anticipated in our investment strategy. \nThe funds used to pay retirement benefits are derived from employer contributions, member contributions, and investment income. These funds are invested in a mix of high quality bonds and stocks. Because TRS invests in a well-diversified portfolio, when \n \nP2 \n \nP3 \n \none company or asset class under performs, the stability of the other asset classes offsets that negative performance. Simply stated, the companies making headlines today are just a small fraction of our overall portfolio. \nThe TRS Board of Trustees and our investment staff continually monitor our asset allocations and make adjustments as necessary. As in previous years, conservation of capital and conservatism continue to be the principles that guide our investment decisions. TRS has the liquidity needed to pay promised benefits today and the accumulated assets and funding mechanisms to pay them in the long-term as well. \nTRS, as a large institutional investor, has access to investments that most individual investors do not have, and we use our professional investment expertise to make investments on behalf of our membership at a low cost. We know that the markets go up and down and that at times we'll have losses, but those losses will be offset by gains over the long run in TRS' diversified investment portfolio. \nBecause we know that the market can be volatile, we have taken a number of risk mitigation steps throughout the years and will continue to monitor all of our investments and manage our system in the context of our longterm investment horizon. You can be confident that the professionals at TRS are doing everything possible to protect and grow the funds available to pay for the retirements of current and future retirees. z \nP4 \n \nINSIDE THIS ISSUE: RETIREES: ECONOMIC FORCE \n \nSECURITY FIRST \n \nTRS NEWS \n \n PP32 \nin the news \n \nDirect Deposit \nWhat are you waiting for? \nWhy worry about receiving your pension check, when it can be automatically deposited into your bank account through the TRS Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) Program? It's safe, fast, hassle free, and you don't have to be in town to get your money! \nDid you know that the chance of having a problem with a mail-delivered check is 20 times greater than with direct deposit?* Checks pass through more hands and can get lost in the mail, stolen and forged. With EFT, you can rest easy that your retirement benefit will be safely deposited into your account. And, with our account management website, you can view your deposits online at www. TRSGA.com. \nOver 96% of our retired members use EFT. If your checks are not already direct deposited, what are you waiting for? \nTo s i g n u p f o r t h e EFT Program, go to www. TRSGA.com and click on the Account Login button. You must either: 1) sign up for a new account; or 2) sign in to your existing TRS account. Once you have signed in, click on the Maintain EFT Information section to sign up online. If you do not have access to a computer, you can call our office to request an EFT form. \n So, go ahead, relax and get paid at the same time! z \n* Source: Direct Deposit and Direct Payment, www.directdeposit.org and www.directpayment.org. \n \nTRS Retirees are a Major Economic Force \n \nIt has been widely reported by experts that seniors in Georgia, and those relocating from other states, have become a major economic force throughout the State. Most people do not have any concept of how vital retirees are to the economic engine of this State. As more people retire, this population will continue to grow in economic strength over the next decade...becoming an integral part of the State's economy. \n \nAs the largest public retirement system in the State of Georgia, the 27th largest retirement system in the United States, and the 55th largest retirement system in the world1, TRS pays out over $2.5 billion in pension benefits to over 80,000 retirees per year. As consumers, retired individuals and retired educators will spend their benefits on a wide range of goods and services--from food and health care to cars and homes. These expenditures increase economic demand and encourage employment. Additional increased economic activity is generated from this and results in even more demand and employment. This is known as the `multiplier effect'  a single dollar has an economic impact greater than one dollar as it ripples through the economy. \nOf the 80,066 TRS retirees, 88% reside in Georgia and receive an average monthly benefit of approximately $2,900. In many counties, TRS could be considered one of the largest employers. For example, Fulton County, which has the largest concentration of retired TRS members, has 5,182 retirees who receive approximately $198 million in benefits each year. In Cobb County, 3,523 retirees receive about $117 million and 484 retirees in Forsyth County receive $16 million each year in benefits. Even Echols County, which has the smallest number of retirees, has 5 members who receive $145,000 in benefits annually. \nThe unrecognized power of the retiree can make a substantial impact on Georgia's economy. Fueled by Social Security, pension benefits, and other savings, retirees often start small businesses of their own and create the need for service industry and medical jobs in the community. According to William H. Frey, a demographer with the Brookings Institution, one job is created for every 1.8 retirees2. These jobs attract young workers and more businesses. Additionally, as people retire, they \n \ninvest their knowledge and capital to start new careers or volunteer their time towards community and development projects. \nEconomists and consultants believe that attracting retirees to a location will create a catalyst for strong economic development. Retirees have become a driving force in the revitalization of Georgia's mountain communities like Fannin, Gilmer, Murray, Rabun, Towns, Union, and White, encouraging road improvements and second-home developments3. Consultants, like Frey, also believe \"retirement is like permanent tourism,\" because seniors tend to retire where they frequently vacation. \nState and local officials see the inherent value of the retiree and the multiplier effect and are now committing more budget dollars to the building and marketing of retirement communities and benefits. The hope is that as communities become aware of the growing knowledge, value, and entrepreneurship of retirees, the retirees will continue to promote and share in the economic growth of the communities. z \n1 National and worldwide ranking according to Pensions and Investments 2 Christine Vestal, Retirees Boosting State's Rural Economies, Stateline.org. 3 Dean George Benson, Growth Train to Slow, Georgia Trend \n \n P3 did you know? \nSecurity First \nAn increase in thefts of financial information from public organizations is raising red flags about security and causing concern about personal privacy. These crimes are no longer limited to teenagers seeking acknowledgement or hacking for fun. Financial organizations have become a tantalizing target for professional criminals looking to cash in. They're targeting corporate information systems in an attempt to steal personal financial information to resell or for corporate blackmail. \nTo protect against such attacks, maintaining the security of the confidential information in our systems is priority number one at TRS. Without divulging specific details about security efforts, personal confidential information is protected by multiple layers of cyber security. The security protocols we use are tested throughout the year by a private security firm. \nIn addition to cyber security protocols, TRS buys some of the market's most advanced security equipment and the technology division has employees assigned full-time to cyber security. Our systems are monitored twenty-four hours a day both manually and automatically. If any atypical or unusual activity is detected, TRS' connection to the Internet is instantly severed to protect the security of confidential information. \nRest assured that TRS works continually, diligently, and invests significant financial capital to protect your information. However, despite the abundance of cyber-crime prevention software, government regulations, and security features on computer operating systems, no organization is 100-percent safe from cyber attacks. If you suspect that your identity or TRS information has been compromised because of TRS practices or policies, please contact one of our customer service representatives immediately! We are here to ensure the integrity of the information TRS maintains on your behalf. z \n \nthe LEGISLATIVE FRONT Three bills that may be of interest to you. \n \nHB 371 \n \nThis bill will amend the retirement system's investment authority by allowing the system to increase equity investments. Under current law, the system may not invest more than 60% of assets in equities. This bill would provide for incremental increases in the allowable percentage amounts to 65% effective July 1, 2009; 70% effective July 1, 2010; and 75% effective July 1, 2011. This bill further amends the system's investment authority by removing the 15% restriction on investments in corporations or in obligations of corporations in a country other than the United States of America. This is a non-fiscal bill. \n \nHB 650 \n \nThis bill would expand the provisions regarding the re-employment of retired teachers to include \"speech-language pathologist\" as an eligible position. This bill does not change any other aspect of current law regarding retirees returning to work. This is a fiscal bill. \n \nSB 259 \nA \n \nThis bill would allow the University System of Georgia to employ a TRS retiree who has been retired for at least 12 months as a \"full-time instructor.\" \"Full-time instructor\" is defined as a registered nurse employed by the University System of Georgia who has the sole responsibility of the academic instruction of students in a school of nursing. The University System of Georgia shall pay all employer and employee contributions to TRS as if the retiree was an active member of TRS. The retiree will not be considered an active TRS member and will not receive any additional service credit. The provisions of this legislation shall not become a part of an employment contract and shall be subject to future legislation. The provisions of this code section shall automatically be repealed on June 30, 2016. This is a fiscal bill. \n \nFor a complete review of legislation that has been introduced and affects the Teachers Retirement System, please visit www. TRSGA.com and click on the Legislation link at the top of the homepage. z \n \n P4 \nnews \nNew Face of TRSGA.com \nIf you have not visited our website in a while, we encourage you to check it out. If you have, then welcome to our friendlier and easier portal to all that is TRS. \nWe have been listening to your suggestions and implemented some enhancements that should improve navigation and information presentation. \nAccessing your account has never been easier and finding the information you need to be successful never faster. We hope you enjoy the site and encourage you to let us know what you think and how we can continue to improve the services we provide. z \nKeeping Your Info Updated \nTo ensure we have the correct information on file and that you receive necessary correspondence, we ask that you keep TRS informed of any status changes that may occur while in retirement. Many changes or updates can be done online via your TRS account, while others must be made in writing. \nAddress changes should be made online via your TRS account to ensure all correspondence from TRS, such as your 1099R, reaches you at the correct address. \nIf your bank account information changes, affecting the direct deposit of your monthly retirement check, you may update it online via your account. You may also update your Federal and/or State Tax Withholding information. \nName and beneficiary changes, birth date and social security number discrepancies must be proven via certain identification and in writing. Please contact one of our Customer Service Representatives for help. Also, if you have any questions regarding your account information, call our office to speak with one of our Customer Service Representatives. z \n \nWorking in Retirement \nDuring the 2008 session, the Georgia General Assembly passed legislation that helps address the need for qualified educational professionals in Georgia's public schools. This new law will allow certain retired educators to start a new chapter in their lives by returning to the workforce and continuing to receive the retirement benefits they worked so hard to attain. \nEffective July 1, 2008, TRS retirees who retired under a normal service retirement may return to work and continue receiving full retirement benefits provided that they have been retired for a minimum of 12 months. Normal service retirement is defined as having at least 30 years of service credit or being age 60 with at least 10 years of service credit. All previous return to work provisions regarding full-time teaching in a TRS covered position in retirement have been superseded. \nLocal school systems may employ a retiree as a full-time classroom teacher, principal, superintendent, media specialist or counselor (assistant principals and assistant superintendents are not eligible). The new legislation is very specific in defining a classroom teacher as a certified teacher (pre-K thru grade 12) employed by the public school system with the sole responsibility of academic instruction in a classroom. A principal cannot return to work as a principal in the same school from which he/she retired and a superintendent cannot return to work as a superintendent in the same school system from which he/she retired. Under the provisions of this legislation, extracurricular employment in addition to classroom teaching (i.e. coaching, athletic director, band director) is not eligible. Regional educational service agencies may still employ a retired teacher as an improvement specialist. \nA school system employing a retiree must pay all employee and employer contributions to TRS as if the retiree was an active member of TRS. The retiree will not be eligible to accrue any additional employment benefits or receive any further creditable service as a result of reemployment. \nTRS retirees may still return to work in less than halftime (49% or less) positions since these positions are not eligible for TRS membership. \nFor more information, please visit our website or call our office to speak with one of our Customer Service Representatives. z \n \n "}],"pages":{"current_page":1,"next_page":null,"prev_page":null,"total_pages":1,"limit_value":10,"offset_value":0,"total_count":6,"first_page?":true,"last_page?":true},"facets":[{"name":"type_facet","items":[{"value":"Text","hits":6}],"options":{"sort":"count","limit":16,"offset":0,"prefix":null}},{"name":"creator_facet","items":[{"value":"Retirement System of Georgia","hits":4},{"value":"Teachers'","hits":4},{"value":"Teacher's Retirement System of Georgia","hits":1},{"value":"Teachers' Retirement System of Georgia","hits":1}],"options":{"sort":"count","limit":11,"offset":0,"prefix":null}},{"name":"subject_facet","items":[{"value":"Georgia","hits":5},{"value":"Periodicals","hits":5},{"value":"Retired teachers","hits":4},{"value":"Retired teachers--Georgia--Periodicals","hits":4},{"value":"Retirement System of Georgia","hits":4},{"value":"Retirement System of Georgia--Periodicals","hits":4},{"value":"Teachers'","hits":4},{"value":"Retired teachers--Georgia","hits":1},{"value":"Teacher's Retirement System of Georgia--Periodicals","hits":1},{"value":"Teachers' Retirement System of Georgia","hits":1},{"value":"Teachers--Pensions","hits":1}],"options":{"sort":"count","limit":11,"offset":0,"prefix":null}},{"name":"location_facet","items":[{"value":"United States, Georgia, 32.75042, -83.50018","hits":6}],"options":{"sort":"count","limit":11,"offset":0,"prefix":null}},{"name":"year_facet","items":[{"value":"2015","hits":2},{"value":"2016","hits":2},{"value":"2009","hits":1},{"value":"2017","hits":1}],"options":{"sort":"count","limit":100,"offset":0,"prefix":null},"min":"2009","max":"2017","count":6,"missing":0},{"name":"medium_facet","items":[{"value":"serials (publications)","hits":5},{"value":"state government records","hits":1}],"options":{"sort":"count","limit":11,"offset":0,"prefix":null}},{"name":"fulltext_present_b","items":[{"value":"true","hits":6}],"options":{"sort":"count","limit":100,"offset":0,"prefix":null}},{"name":"rights_facet","items":[{"value":"http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/","hits":6}],"options":{"sort":"count","limit":11,"offset":0,"prefix":null}},{"name":"collection_titles_sms","items":[{"value":"Georgia Government Publications","hits":6}],"options":{"sort":"count","limit":11,"offset":0,"prefix":null}},{"name":"serial_titles_sms","items":[{"value":"TRS retiree retirement report spring 2015-","hits":6},{"value":"TRS retirement report, a bi-annual newsletter for retired members.","hits":6},{"value":"Teachers' Retirement System retirement report","hits":6}],"options":{"sort":"count","limit":11,"offset":0,"prefix":null}},{"name":"provenance_facet","items":[{"value":"University of Georgia. 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