Retiring from the MTRS

Retirement can be a very exciting, and yet stressful, confusing time. When you are ready to apply for retirement, please know that we will help you through the process.

Depending on what stage you are at in your career, retirement may be the first or last thing on your mind. However, you need to understand your retirement benefits so that you may plan for a successful retirement.

What types of retirement benefits does the MTRS provide?

There are three types of retirement benefits for which you may apply:

• regular (also technically known as “superannuation” retirement),
• involuntary termination, and
• disability, of two types—ordinary and accidental.

Instead of receiving a retirement allowance, can I receive a refund of my contributions and interest?

Yes—you may receive a refund if you have officially resigned from your position and will not be re-employed by a Massachusetts public employer (in other words, you will not be employed in a position requiring membership in a Massachusetts contributory retirement system).

See Leaving the MTRS prior to retirement for more information on your options upon leaving active teaching service.