I am pleased to present the latest edition of the Member Handbook. Whether you are just beginning your career in education or are an experienced educator, this handbook will answer many of the questions you have about your benefit coverage. The information in it can help you make informed decisions during your active career and prepare fully for your retirement.

CalSTRS is the nation’s largest teachers’ pension fund and our dedicated, professional and conscientious staff work hard to improve service and responsiveness to your needs. Although we serve more than 800,000 California educators and their families, we are committed to providing exemplary service to each and every person who calls, writes or visits CalSTRS.

Service to CalSTRS members and the security of the Teachers’ Retirement Fund remain our highest priorities. We look forward to assisting you throughout your career and retirement.

Jack Ehnes
Chief Executive Officer

The 2008-2009 Member Handbook (PDF - 4.5 MB)

The entire handbook in one file is about 4.0 MB in size. If you do not need the complete contents, you can use the links below to download just the sections you need.

• Overview and Table of Contents (PDF - 120 KB)

• Chapter 1 - Introduction (PDF - 312 KB)

• Chapter 2 - Your Membership and Benefits (PDF - 237 KB)

• Chapter 3 - Benefits for Part-Time Educators (PDF - 502 KB)

• Chapter 4 - Building Your Financial Future (PDF - 1.5 MB)

• Chapter 5 - Approaching Retirement (PDF - 1.2 MB)

• Chapter 6 - Your Retirement Benefit (PDF - 1.3 MB)

• Chapter 6 Continued - Worksheets (PDF - 698 KB)

• Chapter 7 - After You Retire (PDF -1.0 MB)

• Chapter 8 - Disability Benefits (PDF - 1.7 MB)

• Chapter 9 - Survivor Benefits (PDF - 1.2 MB)

• Chapter 10 - Tax Information and Legal Matters (PDF - 159 KB)

• Quick Topics (PDF - 30 KB)

• Glossary and Index (PDF - 96 KB)