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The New York PRS-2 form is a vital document for educators looking to claim credit for prior service in the New York State Teachers’ Retirement System (NYSTRS). This form allows individuals to detail their previous employment history, including names of employers, job titles, and dates of service, which can significantly impact their retirement benefits. It’s essential to accurately fill out the form, as it requires a certification that the claimant is not currently receiving benefits from any other public retirement system for the service listed. The form also outlines specific instructions for claiming credit, emphasizing the importance of submitting it before retirement or membership cessation. Additionally, it provides information on allowable prior service, including public and teaching service in New York State and even out-of-state teaching service under certain conditions. Understanding the different membership tiers and associated costs for claiming prior service is crucial, as it can influence eligibility and the calculation of retirement benefits. For those unsure about their eligibility, filing a claim is encouraged, ensuring that all prior service is accounted for to maximize future benefits.

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PRS-2 (4/12)

NY

NEW YORK STATE TEACHERS’ RETIREMENT SYSTEM

 

STRS

10 Corporate Woods Drive, Albany, NY 12211-2395

 

 

PRIOR SERVICE CLAIM

Please review the instructions on the reverse before completing this form.

OFFICE SERVICES ONLY

 

EmplID #

 

 

 

 

 

Social Security #

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NAME

(First)

 

 

 

(Middle)

(Last)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FORMER NAME(S)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ADDRESS

(Street)

 

 

 

 

(City)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(State)

(Zip Code)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Is this address your PERMANENT address to be used by the System?

Yes

 

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PHONE NUMBER: (

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I wish to claim credit in the New York State Teachers’ Retirement System for the service listed below and any other service which I am eligible to claim. I have rendered such service prior to my current membership date and desire to have it credited when I have fulfilled the statutory requirements.

NAME OF EMPLOYER

STATE

JOB TITLE

DATES OF SERVICE

PLEASE NOTE: It is necessary to submit a completed Veriication form unless the service indicated above was previously credited to a former membership at NYSTRS or New York State & Local Retirement System. The appropriate veriication

form(s) (PRS-3 through PRS-3.5) can be found on our Web site (www.nystrs.org).

1.

Were you credited with the above service in another public retirement system? YES

NO

2.

Are you presently a member of another public retirement system? YES NO

 

3.

If a member, or former member, please state name of system and registration/ID number:

 

 

____________________________________________________________________

 

I hereby certify that I am not now receiving a benefit and will not be entitled to receive a benefit at any future time from another public retirement system, in this State, in any other state or from the Federal Government on account of any of the above service.

_________________________________________________ _________________________________

Signature of Claimant

Date

INSTRUCTIONS FOR CLAIMING CREDIT FOR SERVICE RENDERED

BEFORE YOUR CURRENT DATE OF MEMBERSHIP (PRIOR SERVICE)

1.PRIOR SERVICE CLAIM

List by location name and year on the front of this form all prior service you wish to claim.

THIS FORM MUST BE SIGNED AND RETURNED TO THE SYSTEM BEFORE YOUR DATE OF RETIREMENT OR BEFORE THE DATE YOUR MEMBERSHIP CEASES. Additionally, you must be credited with

a minimum of two years of membership credit before you may purchase (if applicable) and be credited with any prior service for which you are eligible.

2.MEMBERSHIP TIERS

Tier

Dates Last Joined

Tier

Dates Last Joined

1

Before 7/1/1973

4

9/1/1983 - 12/31/2009

2

7/1/1973 - 7/26/1976

5

1/1/2010 - 3/31/12

3

7/27/1976 - 8/31/1983

6

On or after 4/1/12

3.ALLOWABLE PRIOR SERVICE

NYS and NYC Public and Teaching Service: Members of ALL tiers may receive credit for NYS public and teaching service (full-time, part-time, or substitute work), including NYC, if such service was credited or would have been creditable in any NYS or NYC public retirement system at the time the

service was rendered.

Out-of-State Teaching Service:

Tier 1

Members may receive credit for up to ten years of teaching in out-of-state

 

public schools or state-supported colleges.

Tier 2

Members may receive credit for out-of-state public teaching service only

 

if this service was credited to a former Tier 1 membership in TRS.

Tiers 3 – 6

Members cannot receive credit for out-of-state teaching service.

4. COST

 

Tiers 1 and 2

There is no cost to have prior service credited.

Tier 3

The cost is 3% of the salary received during the period of the service.

 

Interest of 5% per year is charged only on service rendered under a

 

former Tier 3 membership.

Tier 4

The cost is 3% of the salary received during the period of service plus 5%

 

interest per year on all service.

Tier 5

The cost is 3.5% of the salary received during the period of service plus 5%

 

interest per year on all service.

Tier 6

The cost is 6% of the salary received during the period of service plus 5%

 

interest per year on all service.

FService for private or parochial schools, for the federal government or in armed forces dependent schools is not creditable in our System under any tier.

FService credit can affect your eligibility for, and the calculation of, your benefits. It may also affect the point at which Tier 4 members are eligible to cease making mandatory member contributions. If you are unsure about your prior service eligibility, you should file a claim for service not already credited to your membership.

FIn addition to filing this form with NYSTRS, you must send the applicable verification form to your former employer to complete and return to NYSTRS. The various verification forms (e.g., for NYS teaching; or other NYS public employment) are available on our Web site at www.nystrs.org/main/forms/prior-service.htm, or may be ordered through our Hotline at (800) 782-0289.

Form Specifications

Fact Name Description
Form Purpose The PRS-2 form is used to claim credit for prior service rendered before a member's current membership date in the New York State Teachers’ Retirement System (NYSTRS).
Eligibility Requirements To be eligible to claim prior service, a member must have at least two years of membership credit in the NYSTRS.
Service Verification A completed verification form (PRS-3 through PRS-3.5) is required unless the service has already been credited to a former membership.
Membership Tiers NYSTRS has different membership tiers, each with specific dates and rules for crediting prior service. Members should be aware of their tier when claiming service.
Cost of Service The cost to have prior service credited varies by tier, with some tiers having no cost and others requiring a percentage of the salary received during the service period.
Out-of-State Service Only certain tiers can receive credit for out-of-state teaching service, and specific conditions apply based on the tier membership.
Governing Law The PRS-2 form is governed by New York State laws regarding public retirement systems, specifically under the New York State Education Law.

New York Prs 2: Usage Guidelines

Completing the New York PRS 2 form is essential for claiming prior service credit in the New York State Teachers’ Retirement System. Gather the necessary information and follow the steps outlined below to ensure accurate submission.

  1. Begin by entering your Employee ID and Social Security Number in the designated fields.
  2. Fill in your name (First, Middle, Last) accurately.
  3. If applicable, provide any former names you have used.
  4. Complete your address (Street, City, State, Zip Code).
  5. Indicate whether this address is your permanent address by checking the appropriate box.
  6. Enter your phone number in the specified format.
  7. State your name of employer, job title, and the dates of service for the prior service you wish to claim.
  8. Answer the questions regarding credit for service in another public retirement system by selecting YES or NO.
  9. If you are a member or former member of another public retirement system, provide the name of the system and your registration/ID number.
  10. Sign and date the form, certifying that you are not currently receiving or entitled to receive benefits from another public retirement system.

Once you have completed the form, ensure that you have any required verification forms ready for submission. It is important to return the PRS 2 form to the New York State Teachers’ Retirement System before your retirement date or before your membership ceases.

Your Questions, Answered

What is the purpose of the New York PRS-2 form?

The New York PRS-2 form is used to claim credit for prior service in the New York State Teachers’ Retirement System. This includes any service rendered before your current membership date. Completing this form allows you to potentially receive retirement benefits for that service, provided you meet the necessary requirements.

Who should complete the PRS-2 form?

Any member of the New York State Teachers’ Retirement System who has prior service that they wish to claim should complete this form. This includes individuals who have worked in public education or related roles before becoming a member of the system.

What information do I need to provide on the form?

You will need to provide your personal information, including your name, Social Security number, and address. Additionally, you must list your previous employers, job titles, and dates of service for the periods you wish to claim. It's also important to indicate whether you have been credited with this service in another retirement system.

Is there a deadline for submitting the PRS-2 form?

Yes, the form must be signed and returned to the New York State Teachers’ Retirement System before your retirement date or before your membership ceases. Timely submission is crucial to ensure that your prior service is credited appropriately.

Do I need to submit any additional forms with the PRS-2?

Yes, you must submit a completed verification form unless the service you are claiming has already been credited to a former membership. The appropriate verification forms can be found on the NYSTRS website or requested through their hotline.

What are the costs associated with claiming prior service?

The cost to claim prior service varies by membership tier. For Tiers 1 and 2, there is no cost. Tiers 3 through 6 incur different costs based on the salary received during the service period, along with applicable interest charges. It is important to review the specific costs associated with your tier before submitting the form.

Can I claim service from out-of-state teaching positions?

Eligibility to claim out-of-state teaching service depends on your membership tier. Tier 1 members can receive credit for up to ten years of out-of-state public teaching. However, Tiers 2 through 6 have restrictions and may not be able to claim this service. Review your tier's rules carefully to understand your options.

How does claiming prior service affect my retirement benefits?

Claiming prior service can influence your eligibility for retirement benefits and the calculation of those benefits. It may also impact when Tier 4 members can stop making mandatory contributions. If you're uncertain about your eligibility, it is advisable to file a claim for any uncredited service.

Common mistakes

  1. Incomplete Personal Information: Failing to provide all required personal details, such as your full name, Social Security number, and address, can lead to processing delays. Ensure every section is filled out accurately.

  2. Missing Signature: Neglecting to sign the form is a common oversight. Without your signature, the claim cannot be processed. Always double-check that you have signed and dated the form.

  3. Incorrect Employer Information: Providing inaccurate details about your previous employer or job title can complicate your claim. Make sure to list the correct name of the employer and your exact job title during the service period.

  4. Not Submitting Verification Forms: If you have prior service that needs verification, failing to submit the necessary verification forms can result in your claim being incomplete. Be sure to include all required documents along with your PRS-2 form.

  5. Ignoring Membership Tier Requirements: Each membership tier has specific rules regarding prior service. Not understanding these requirements could lead to confusion about what service can be credited. Take time to review your membership tier and the associated guidelines.

Documents used along the form

The New York PRS-2 form is an important document for individuals seeking to claim credit for prior service in the New York State Teachers’ Retirement System. Along with this form, there are several other documents that may be required to support your claim. Understanding these documents can help ensure a smoother process.

  • Verification Form (PRS-3 to PRS-3.5) - This form is essential for verifying your prior service. It must be completed by your former employer and submitted to the retirement system to confirm your employment history.
  • Membership Application - If you are not already a member of the retirement system, you will need to fill out a membership application. This document establishes your eligibility and allows you to start accumulating benefits.
  • Service Credit Request Form - This form is used to request credit for specific periods of service. It details the nature of your service and helps the retirement system assess your eligibility for credit.
  • Tax Forms - Depending on your situation, you may need to provide tax documents that reflect your earnings during the periods of service you are claiming. These forms can help verify your income and service duration.
  • Identification Documents - You may need to submit copies of identification documents, such as a driver’s license or Social Security card, to confirm your identity and match your records with the retirement system.
  • Previous Retirement System Statements - If you have been a member of another retirement system, providing statements from that system can help clarify your service history and any benefits you may have received.

Gathering these documents can seem overwhelming, but taking it step by step will make the process more manageable. Each document plays a crucial role in ensuring that your prior service is recognized and credited appropriately.

Similar forms

The New York PRS-2 form is essential for claiming prior service credit within the New York State Teachers’ Retirement System. Several other documents serve similar purposes in various contexts. Below is a list of eight documents that share similarities with the PRS-2 form, along with explanations of how they are alike.

  • Application for Retirement Benefits: This document is used by individuals to apply for retirement benefits, similar to how the PRS-2 form is utilized to claim prior service credit. Both require personal information and verification of service history.
  • Service Credit Application: Like the PRS-2, this application is designed for individuals to request credit for specific periods of service. Both documents require details about employment history and may necessitate additional verification.
  • Verification of Employment Form: This form is often required to confirm previous employment and service periods. It parallels the PRS-2 in that it ensures the accuracy of the service being claimed for credit.
  • Retirement System Membership Application: This document is essential for new members joining a retirement system. It shares similarities with the PRS-2 in that both require personal identification and employment details to establish eligibility.
  • Prior Service Credit Request Form: Specifically designed for claiming prior service credits, this form operates similarly to the PRS-2 by allowing members to document and submit their prior service history.
  • Disability Retirement Application: This application is used when a member seeks benefits due to disability. Both the disability application and the PRS-2 form require detailed service history and may involve verification from previous employers.
  • Transfer of Service Form: This document is used when transferring service credits between different retirement systems. Like the PRS-2, it requires comprehensive information about previous employment and service periods.
  • Withdrawal Application: This application allows members to withdraw from a retirement system. Similar to the PRS-2, it requires personal information and may involve a review of service credits before finalizing the withdrawal.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the New York PRS-2 form, it’s essential to be careful and thorough. Here are some important dos and don'ts to keep in mind:

  • Do review the instructions carefully before starting the form.
  • Do ensure all personal information is accurate, including your Social Security number and address.
  • Do sign the form before submitting it to the New York State Teachers’ Retirement System.
  • Do submit any required verification forms along with your PRS-2 form.
  • Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
  • Don't leave any sections blank; fill out all required fields.
  • Don't submit the form after your retirement date or when your membership has ceased.
  • Don't forget to check the eligibility of your prior service before claiming it.
  • Don't use an outdated version of the form; ensure you have the latest one.
  • Don't hesitate to reach out for help if you have questions about the process.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your application is processed smoothly and efficiently. Take your time, and don’t rush through the form. Your future benefits depend on it.

Misconceptions

Here are some common misconceptions about the New York PRS-2 form:

  • Misconception 1: You can submit the PRS-2 form anytime.
  • Many believe that they can submit the form whenever they want. However, it must be returned before your retirement date or before your membership ceases.

  • Misconception 2: Prior service credit is automatically granted.
  • Some think that all prior service will automatically count towards their retirement. In reality, you need to claim it and meet specific eligibility requirements.

  • Misconception 3: All types of service are creditable.
  • Not all service counts. For instance, work in private or parochial schools, federal government jobs, or armed forces dependent schools is not creditable under any tier.

  • Misconception 4: You don't need verification for prior service.
  • It is necessary to submit a completed verification form unless the service was previously credited to another membership.

  • Misconception 5: The cost of crediting prior service is the same for everyone.
  • The cost varies by tier. For example, Tier 1 and 2 members do not pay for prior service, while Tier 3 and above do incur costs based on their salary and interest rates.

  • Misconception 6: You can claim out-of-state teaching service without restrictions.
  • Out-of-state teaching service is only creditable for Tier 1 members, and even then, it is limited to ten years. Other tiers have stricter rules regarding out-of-state service.

  • Misconception 7: You can receive benefits from multiple retirement systems for the same service.
  • Claimants must certify that they are not receiving benefits from any other public retirement system for the same service. This is crucial to avoid conflicts in benefit claims.

Key takeaways

The New York PRS-2 form is essential for individuals seeking to claim credit for prior service in the New York State Teachers’ Retirement System. Below are key takeaways regarding its use and completion.

  • Eligibility Requirements: Individuals must have rendered service prior to their current membership date to claim credit.
  • Submission Deadline: The form must be signed and returned before the date of retirement or before membership ceases.
  • Verification Forms: A completed verification form is necessary unless the service was previously credited to another membership.
  • Membership Tiers: Different tiers have specific eligibility dates and rules for claiming prior service credit.
  • Allowable Prior Service: Credit may be granted for public and teaching service in New York State and New York City, as well as limited out-of-state teaching service for certain tiers.
  • Cost Implications: Costs for claiming prior service vary by membership tier, with some tiers incurring no costs while others have percentage-based fees.
  • Impact on Benefits: Service credit can affect eligibility for benefits and the calculation of those benefits.
  • Contact Information: For assistance, individuals can reach out to the NYSTRS Hotline at (800) 782-0289.
  • Online Resources: Additional forms and information are available on the NYSTRS website, which can aid in the completion of the PRS-2 form.