What happens to the money that I contribute to the system?
When ATRS receives your member contribution they are credited to your Member's Deposit Account. Although remitted in your behalf, employer contributions are not credited to your account, but are used together with employee contributions to pay current retirement annuities. The remaining funds are invested in a diversified portfolio of stocks and fixed assets.
Will I eventually get my contributions back?
You will in terms of a lifetime annuity or if you request a refund. (A refund is available only upon termination from an ATRS Employer.) Contributions paid into ATRS are usually recovered in benefits within 18 to 24 months after retirement. The monthly annuity you receive after that period is paid for the rest of your life through investments.
How do I know how much money I have in my Member's Deposit Account?
Once each year ATRS will provide you with a printed update of your account, known as the "Member's Annual Statement of Account", or you may contact the ATRS Benefits and Counseling Department at (501) 682-1517 or info@artrs.gov to request a copy of your account history.
As an active, contributing member, will I have access to the funds in my Member's Deposit Account?
No. You may not access your funds as an active member. If you terminate your employment with a covered employer you may request a refund of your contributions plus interest. However, acceptance of these funds will cancel ALL your service credit (both contributory and noncontributory), ALL membership rights, and ALL beneficiary designations.
Who manages the investment funds?
The ATRS Board of Trustees employs professional money managers who are specialists in their particular area of investments.
Does the Arkansas Teacher Retirement System offer loans to members? Can I borrow from my account?
No. By definition, the Arkansas Teacher Retirement System is a "DEFINED BENEFIT PLAN." One of the specific provisions of a Defined Benefit Plan is that there are no stipulations allowing members to borrow from their accounts. Nor do we have any provisions for loans by our membership.