What requirements must I meet in order to become a member of the Arkansas Teacher Retirement System (ATRS)?
Anyone employed by a Participating Employer is a member of ATRS.
Do I have to become a member of ATRS?
Yes. Membership is a condition of employment in Arkansas public schools and certain state agencies, colleges and universities. If you work for certain agencies, colleges or universities in Arkansas you may have the option to belong to an alternative system such as TIAA-CREF.
See Participating Employers for more information.
Where is ATRS?
ATRS is located in downtown Little Rock, at 1400 W. 3rd St. Our offices are open Monday - Friday, 8:00 A.M until 4:30 P.M.
See Directions to ATRS for directions and information on where to park.
When will I be vested in the retirement system?
You will be vested (eligible to receive a retirement annuity) with 5 years of Arkansas credited service.
How much am I required to contribute?
As a contributory member you contribute a percentage of your salary (see contribution rates for the current percentage). Contributions are tax-deferred. As a noncontributory member, no contributions are deducted from your salary.
See Your Contributions for more information.
What if I terminate employment with an ATRS covered employer?
If a member terminates employment with an ATRS covered employer and enters employment with another state employer whose position is covered by a participating reciprocal retirement system, the member would be able to utilize reciprocal service for various benefits.
When a member terminates employment with an ATRS covered employer, the member retains all service credit (contributory and noncontributory) with the system.
If a contributory member terminates employment with an ATRS covered employer, he or she may request a refund of member contributions. However, if a member has any intention of returning to work for an ATRS covered employer, the member is encouraged to leave his or her contributions and Service Credit with ATRS as it is very costly to reestablish Service Credit once contributions have been refunded. For more information about refunds, see Requesting a Refund.
If my position is eliminated due to a reduction in force or if I am terminated, what benefits am I entitled to?
Upon termination of employment, an ATRS member may request a refund of contributions plus interest or apply for your retirement annuity when you meet the age and service requirements.
What if I become disabled or incapacitated?
The Arkansas Teacher Retirement System (ATRS) cannot and will not disclose, discuss, or transact business regarding the member’s account with anyone but the member, or the member's legally authorized representative (i.e. agent or guardian). If a member wants another person to manage the member's account, the member may wish to appoint a trusted friend or family member by signing a Power of Attorney (either Durable or Non-Durable). The Power of Attorney document can spell out exactly how much authority is given to the agent(s) (the person authorized to manage member's business affairs).
If the member becomes unable to manage their own account and no agent has been appointed under a Power of Attorney, a court may appoint a guardian to manage the member's ATRS account.
Before a member decides whether to authorize another person to act on their behalf, the member should discuss this matter with an attorney and/or family. ATRS cannot and does not provide legal or financial advice to anyone.
What if a member dies?
When an ATRS member dies, a close family member or friend should notify ATRS. Prompt notice allows ATRS to disburse valuable death and survivor benefits. ATRS may be notified by contacted at (501) 682-1517. ATRS requires the name, address, member's date of death, and telephone number of a family member, friend, or other person who can act as a contact for ATRS.