Retirement income for Texas teachers.
Most Texas teachers retire with three pieces: a TRS pension, a 403(b) or 457, and, since 2025, more Social Security than they expected. I help you fit them together into a monthly income you can count on.
Why I work with teachers
For years, I've helped teachers from school districts across Central Texas with their 403(b)s. I know how TRS, Social Security and your savings fit together, and where the gaps usually are. My job is to show you the numbers in plain English, so you can retire knowing what's coming in each month.
Start here
What the Social Security Fairness Act means for you
WEP and GPO are gone. Here's who's affected, and the step many spouses and widows still need to take.
Read itHow your TRS pension is calculated
The formula, when you can retire with full benefits, and the one thing TRS doesn't do.
Read itWhat to do with your 403(b) when you leave
Your options, and five mistakes that cost teachers money.
Read itBuilding an income plan around your pension
How to cover inflation, health insurance before 65, and your spouse.
Read itFind your monthly income gap
Add up your pension and Social Security and see what your savings need to cover.
Use the calculatorAsk me a question
Not sure where to start? Send me your question and I'll answer it personally.
Ask GregQuick answers
Does the Social Security Fairness Act affect Texas teachers?
Yes. Most Texas school districts don't pay into Social Security, and two rules, the WEP and GPO, used to cut Social Security for teachers with a TRS pension. The law ended both for benefits payable from January 2024 on. If you never applied for a spousal or survivor benefit because of the GPO, you may need to apply now.
When can I retire with full TRS benefits?
At age 65 with at least five years of service, or when your age plus years of service equals 80. Tier 2 members must also be at least 60 for the Rule of 80, and Tier 3 members at least 62. Retiring earlier means a permanently reduced pension.
Does my TRS pension go up with inflation?
Not automatically. TRS has no built-in cost-of-living increase. Raises happen only when the Texas Legislature approves one, so your savings need to help keep up with rising prices.
Can I move my 403(b) while I'm still teaching?
Usually only after you leave the district, or at age 59 and a half if your plan allows it. Check for surrender charges before you move anything, and use a direct rollover to avoid 20% tax withholding.
Want to see your own numbers?
Bring your TRS statement and your latest 403(b) statement. I'll show you what your monthly income could look like and where the gaps are. The call is free and commits you to nothing.