Benefit Connection

Episode #24 - Understanding PSRS + PEERS Dual Membership

Published on: July 22, 2026
run-time: 19:32

Some members have service in both PSRS and PEERS. This can happen when someone begins their career as non-certificated and then obtains their DESE-issued teaching certificate or when a PEERS member begins working as an adjunct professor in a PSRS-covered position at a community college. In this episode, member education expert Jennifer Rissmiller breaks down how the two systems interact and what members should know as they plan for retirement.

You’ll learn:

• How members may earn service in both systems
• How vesting works and why reaching five years in each system matters
• How service can be recognized for retirement eligibility
• Options members have at retirement, including receiving two separate benefits
• When members might choose to refund, roll over, or purchase service

Jennifer also walks through real-life scenarios that show how these rules apply in real life. Listen now!

Episode 22 - What Is the Partial Lump Sum Option (PLSO)?

Published on: June 24, 2026
run-time: 12:44

The Partial Lump Sum Option is one of the most frequently asked-about features of PSRS/PEERS retirement, and this episode breaks it down so you can understand it.

Host Susan Boessen and guest Connor James explain:

• What PLSO is and how it works
• Eligibility requirements, including working three years beyond normal retirement
• How lump-sum amounts are calculated
• Options for receiving PLSO funds
• Tax considerations and potential penalties
• The long-term impact on monthly benefits and COLAs

If you’re exploring retirement options or want to understand how PLSO might fit your financial goals, be sure to listen!

Episode #20 - Your Future Starts Now: Dearld Snider Shares Retirement Tips for Every Stage of Your Career

Published on: May 27, 2026
run-time: 20:18

What should retirement planning look like at each stage of your career? Executive Director Dearld Snider walks through what you can — and should — focus on during your early years, mid‑career, and retirement‑ready stage.

In this episode, Dearld explains:

• Why early‑career members should set up Web Member Services, review beneficiaries, and learn the basics of the system
• How mid‑career members can use estimates, salary awareness, and counseling or webinars to optimize their retirement trajectory
• What members within five years of retirement need to think about — timelines, benefit options, seminars, and next‑chapter planning

Episode #14 - Retirement Readiness Checklist

Published on: March 04, 2026
run-time: 13:42

Planning to retire soon? Wondering what steps to take before the big day? In this episode, we provide a Retirement Readiness Checklist so you know exactly what to do in the year leading up to retirement.