General FAQs
Answers to general SURS questions that are frequently asked in our Call Center. To return the Frequently Asked Questions Home, click here.
How do I find my Member ID?
To find your SURS Member ID, you can log in to the SURS Member Website and click on the "Forms" tab. If you're a first-time user, you will need to...
What are the requirements for rolling money to a SIMPLE IRA?
The SIMPLE IRA must have been open for a minimum of two years. The SIMPLE IRA Certification form must be properly completed. Return to Frequently...
Who is eligible to roll death proceeds to a SIMPLE IRA?
Any spouse of a deceased SURS member with a valid marriage certificate may roll money to a SIMPLE IRA. Return to Frequently Asked Questions
Are educational webinars or seminars offered?
Yes. As dates and times are set, they are posted on the SURS website under Events. Return to Frequently Asked Questions
How do I access my online SURS account?
Visit the SURS Member Website. If you have misplaced your username or password, re-register or call SURS at 800-275-7877. Return to Frequently Asked...
Do I contribute to Social Security while I am working at SURS?
With few exceptions, SURS members do not contribute to Social Security. Return to Frequently Asked Questions
Will I receive my Social Security benefits from employment I had before I began employment with a SURS-covered employer?
Prior to the passage of the Social Security Fairness Act (signed into law Jan. 2025), SURS members who also received Social Security benefits from...
Do I also pay Social Security taxes while I am in SURS?
Social Security taxes will not be withheld from your SURS earnings. SURS participants are not eligible for Social Security coverage based...
Can I rollover funds to purchase my optional service credit?
SURS can accept tax-deferred payments for purchases of service credit. Generally, SURS will accept an eligible rollover distribution from a...
Where can SURS accept rollovers from?
SURS accepts eligible rollovers from non-Roth IRAs, 401(a), 401(k), 403(b), and 457 plans. Return to Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have a private meeting with a SURS Retirement Counselor?
Members who are within five years of retirement can schedule a private appointment with a SURS Retirement Counselor. These meetings are 45 minutes...
How can I get my questions answered about my SURS benefits?
The SURS Call Center is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. If you have any...
How can I receive an estimate of my retirement amount?
Members who are within five years of retirement eligibility can request an estimate of their retirement benefit. The member must supply information...
When will I receive an update about my SURS benefits?
You may access an up-to-date snapshot of your benefit information by logging into your SURS Member Website Account and clicking on the My...
How do I register/re-register on the Member Website?
Click here to access the SURS Member Website. On the login page, enter your login credentials or click Registration Process to begin. Click here to...
Who are the SURS-covered employers?
SURS covers all faculty and support staff of Illinois public higher education including universities, colleges, scientific surveys, and other...
Where do I find information concerning retiree health care?
It is important to understand that the health, life, dental, and vision insurance coverage many SURS retirees have in retirement is administered by...
What is a Survivor Refund in the Traditional Plan?
SURS law requires that 1 percent of your earnings be designated to help fund a survivor annuity. In the event of a member’s death, a spouse,...
Where are the laws for SURS listed?
Refer to Articles 1, 15 and 20 of the Illinois Pension Code. Return to Frequently Asked Questions
I am going through a divorce. Is my spouse entitled to benefits from SURS?
Under state law, SURS benefits may not be paid to anyone other than the member, except to an alternate payee named in a Qualified Illinois...