I took a 3 credit course last fall but my new credit history only shows the course at 1.5 credits. Is this wrong? No, the method that the personnel office uses to post fall courses always shows them with a February 1 date and a value equal to of the total credits. Next fall, your new credit history will show the same course with an additional 1.5 credits. Together, the two entries will equal the full credit value of the course.

Sheila Salenger’s recent column regarding the pension reform task force mentioned that contributions to VOTE/COPE would help fight the legislative battle. I am retired so how can I contribute to VOTE/COPE? You could either send a check to the MTA VOTE/COPE campaign or to the Retiree Council that you were placed in. An additional way to contribute is through pension deduction. The ability to contribute this way was won during a recent legislative session.

If I retire, what happens to the NYSUT Term Life Insurance that I currently pay by payroll deduction? You can continue the policy as long as the policy allows. You should contact NYSUT Member Benefits and inform them of your retirement. They will convert you to a monthly bill pay status and after a couple of months of pension checks you can switch your method of payment to pension deduction.

I might be retiring this June 30th. How do I pay federal tax on my pension from TRS? You can have federal taxes withheld from your monthly pension payment or make quarterly estimated tax payments. If you elect to have taxes withheld you must be sure to file a W-4P form. When completing this form you must elect to have taxes withheld as single or married and you can claim dependents. Check with your financial advisor so that you don’t underestimate your withholding and end up with a larger than expected bill at tax time.

Any questions regarding retirement, salary, or the Benefit Fund, may be e-mailed to: questions@middletownteachers.org. All questions will receive a reply and some may appear in future newsletters. Visit our archives at:middletownteachers.org for all the answers!