New to SURS
Choosing one of SURS three retirement plans may seem a bit overwhelming at first. You will want to have a solid understanding of your options before you decide.
Ready to Retire
You have fulfilled the vesting requirements for retirement from your SURS-covered employer and would like to apply for retirement.
Calendar of Events
Find dates for annuity and disability payments, board meetings, schedules for educational seminars and webinars, plus SURS office closures.
Resources
Helpful resources for new and existing SURS members including guides, videos and frequently asked questions.
Recent News
SURS Certifies FY 27 State Contribution, Invests in Optimized Trend Solution, Approves Effective Rate of Interest
The trustees of the State Universities Retirement System (SURS) met on Dec. 4 and 5. On Dec. 5, 2025, the board approved SURS fiscal year 2027...
2026 Dates for Annuity and Disability Payments
Please find the 2026 dates for both annuity and disability payments. For additional dates and events, for things like board meetings and office...
SURS Approves Private Equity Investment, CRO Commitment, Approves Preliminary FY27 State Contribution
Champaign, IL – The State Universities Retirement System’s Board of Trustees voted on October 23 to commit $150 million dollars to Fairview...
Retirement Plans
Traditional Pension Plan
The SURS Traditional Pension Plan is the historical SURS Defined Benefit retirement plan. It provides lifetime retirement benefits and a survivor benefit at no additional cost. However, the separation refund feature is not as generous as the Portable Pension Plan. The Traditional Pension Plan is also the default plan assigned to members who fail to choose a plan within six months of certification.
Portable Pension Plan
The SURS Portable Pension Plan is a Defined Benefit retirement plan that has much in common with the Traditional Pension Plan. However, it provides a more generous separation refund when participants leave the system. The provisions for survivor benefits require a reduction to the retirement and death benefits.
Retirement Savings Plan
The SURS Retirement Savings Plan (RSP) is a defined contribution plan. You and the state of Illinois make contributions to your RSP account on a regular basis. With the RSP, you have choices to match your retirement goals and investment style.
SURS Deferred Compensation Plan
This new voluntary plan, called the SURS Deferred Compensation Plan (DCP), will provide members an avenue to save more and generate additional income in retirement. Most active SURS members employed by a state university, community college or other government entity will be able to participate.
SURS Calendar
Stay up-to-date with all SURS events and dates.
- Educational Events
- Board and Committee Meetings
- Holidays
- Benefit Payment Dates
Educational Events
SURS is pleased to offer the following educational webinars and seminars.
Plan Choice Webinars
Retirement Savings Plan Webinars
Pre-Retirement Educational Seminars
From Here To Retirement Webinars
SURS Townhall and Stakeholders Meetings
Keep Your Information Up To Date.
SURS secure Member Website is the best tool to keep your personal information up to date. You can safely update your beneficiaries, address, email and phone numbers. You may also view your benefit statements and create retirement estimates based on different retirement scenarios. If you have not yet registered, do it today by clicking on the Member Website Login button in the top right-hand corner of the SURS website homepage, then hit the Registration Process button and follow the prompts.