04/19/2021
You already know that you can use your MyNYSTRS account to access your membership information, file forms and message us securely. Now MyNYSTRS has introduced even more self-service tools.
Beneficiary Changes: In addition to being able to check your beneficiaries online, you are now able to update your Paragraph 2 Death Benefit beneficiaries (if you are eligible for this benefit) and your retirement benefit beneficiaries (if you chose a benefit option at retirement that allows beneficiary changes) through your secure online account instead of using a paper form.
Retirees may only change their retirement benefit beneficiary if they elected a lump sum option or if they elected a guarantee option and the guaranteed period is still in effect.
New beneficiaries filed will supersede any previous designation. Members with a Domestic Relations Order (DRO) on file cannot change their beneficiaries using MyNYSTRS at this time.
Disability Retirement Application: Members who want to apply for a disability retirement, including those seeking to apply "for protection only" in the event of a life-threatening illness or surgery, can now apply online instead of using a paper form. (If you prefer, paper forms may still be submitted via fax or mail to NYSTRS.)
Domestic Relations Order (DRO): Active and retired members with an approved DRO on file can now see the details of how the DRO affects their retirement benefits in a new page in their MyNYSTRS account.
Verification of Contributions Letters: Active members who need a letter verifying the amount of their accumulated contributions in order to apply for a mortgage or bank loan can now print one out themselves from their MyNYSTRS account – a timely and convenient alternative to sending in a request and waiting for it to arrive in the mail. Retired members can print an income verification letter confirming the amount of their pension benefit.
If you don’t have a MyNYSTRS account, we encourage you to create one. It’s safe, secure and easy! Visit the Registration page and follow the step-by-step instructions given. You will need your seven-digit NYSTRS EmplID (found on your Profile and all official correspondence you receive from NYSTRS) and the last four digits of your Social Security number.