Fresh Picks | May 2026

Being prepared for retirement makes a difference when that moment comes to you, so don’t let the deadlines catch you by surprise! Mark your calendar for key dates like terminating employment, submitting your retirement application, and purchasing service credit.

Retirement planning is easier when you know where to look, especially when you have the right tools at your fingertips! Dive into our top five resources, including the Planning for Retirement Timeline, which breaks down each step so you know exactly what’s ahead. TRS members love this timeline because it takes the guesswork out of the process. Ready to feel more confident? Start exploring TRS retirement resources today! Catch the full story – and more – on page 4 of the latest TRS News for members.

If you are Medicare eligible or approaching eligibility, you know that Medicare plans aren’t one-size-fits-all. However, as a TRS retiree, you have a plan designed to meet your unique needs: The TRS Care Medicare Advantage plan offers predictable costs, comprehensive coverage, and access to a large provider network. Compare your Medicare options to discover the plan that fits your life. Catch the full story – and more – on page 4 of the latest TRS News for retirees.

If you’re enrolled in TRS-ActiveCare or TRS-Care Standard, you can easily view your benefits, claims, and important documents and search for providers online in one convenient spot using Blue Access for Members. Prefer less paperwork? Go paperless and access all your statements securely online: TRS-ActiveCare | TRS-Care Standard

Deductibles, coinsurance, and copays – oh my! Health care choices are packed with considerations. If you’re currently working and eligible for TRS-ActiveCare, join our 30-minute virtual summer series, “From A to Z: Your TRS-ActiveCare Plan” to help you decide which plan fits your needs.

Smart TVs, doorbells, thermostats – today’s homes are full of helpful gadgets. But if they’re never updated or still using default passwords, they can be easy targets. Hackers don’t need to be Houdini; they look for devices we forget about. A few quick habits go a long way: set a strong password, update when prompted, change default settings, and unplug what you don’t use. A little care keeps your smart home feeling comfortable – not creepy. Good cyber habits matter everywhere: TRS encourages using strong, unique passwords, enabling multi factor authentication, and staying alert to suspicious messages when accessing your TRS account.