You’re already off to a great start with your defined benefit pension (CalSTRS/CalPERS). But you’ll also likely need personal savings and investments. On average, the CalSTRS retirement benefit will replace about 45% to 55% of a career educator’s salary, and the average CalPERS monthly retirement allowance is $3,281.
The 403(b) plan is designed to complement your retirement pension benefit and support your goal for a secure future. Contributing to your 403(b) account through tax-sheltered payroll deductions is a convenient way to build up your retirement income. You control how much to save and invest — and you can make changes at any time.
How to Enroll and Choose Investments
Easy Choice Portfolios Overview
Program Costs & Quarterly Performance
Need Help? Contact a representative:
Email: Pension2@CalSTRS.com
Phone: 888-394-2060 (M – F, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
Request a meeting with an Equitable representative
Need Help? Contact a representative:
Email: robert.stenzel@fouroakswealth.com
Phone: 818-587-4265
How can I easily compare vendors?
In addition to the vendor resources above, California offers 403(b)Compare, a website designed to help you easily compare fees, returns, and services to find your best option. Select Alliance College-Ready Public Schools to view our vendor information.
How much should I save?
The 403(b) plan is designed to compliment your defined benefit pension (CalSTRS/CalPERS). According to financial professionals, you may need 80% to 90% of your final salary to retire comfortably.
First, estimate what your monthly pension benefit will be using the calculator provided by your pension program. Calculators are retirement planning tools and are estimates only. Contact CalSTRS/CalPERS for more information.
CalPERS Retirement Benefit Estimate Calculator
CalSTRS Retirement Benefit Estimate Calculator
Second, determine if you need more to retire comfortably. Talk with a financial professional or use this savings calculator to estimate what a difference voluntary 403(b) savings can make.
Change your contribution election in Alliance Workday.
Want to begin a loan, distribution, or other transaction? Contact your account vendor (info below).
Contact information
Email: LifeCustomerService@nationallife.com
Phone: 800-732-8939
(M - Th, 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. / Fr, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.)
Contact information
Phone: 800-999-1030
(M - F, 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. CT)