CalSTRS members do not pay into Social Security, therefore, if you expect to receive a Social Security benefit and a CalSTRS retirement benefit you need to know about two Social Security provisions that may reduce your Social Security benefit. They are the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset. Your CalSTRS retirement benefit or Medicare benefit will not be reduced because of these provisions in Social Security law.

These provisions may affect members even if they have earned the minimum 40 Social Security credits through other employment or expect to receive a Social Security benefit based on a spouse’s earnings.

You may receive an overstated benefit estimate from Social Security because non-Social Security pensions such as CalSTRS are not taken into account in the estimate. For a more accurate estimate of benefits, please contact the Social Security Administration.

Social Security Issues Affecting CalSTRS Members

Windfall Elimination Provision

Under the Windfall Elimination Provision, Social Security uses a modified calculation for members who qualify for both a Social Security benefit based on their own covered employment (pays FICA taxes) and a CalSTRS retirement benefit.

Social Security Administration Publication on "Windfall Elimination Provision"

Government Pension Offset

The Government Pension Offset provision affects members expecting to receive a CalSTRS retirement benefit and a Social Security benefit as a spouse, former spouse, widow or widower.

Social Security Administration Publication on "Government Pension Offset"

CalSTRS and Social Security Video

The "CalSTRS and Social Security - Information for California Educators" can now be viewed online. If it is not currently installed on your computer, you can Download RealPlayer which is required to watch the video.

Video Presentation: CalSTRS and Social Security - Information for California Educators