Free personal counseling about your pension is available from New York headquarters at 1-800-842-2776. Have your Social Security number ready when you call, and a trained, salaried (not commissioned) representative will answer your questions. Weekday hours extend to 11:00 p.m., and there are also limited weekend hours. You can also go to the TIAA-CREF website on the Internet for information. You will need your Personal Identification Number (PIN) to conduct business.
Lenoir-Rhyne University enjoys a fairly personal association with the regional offices (Charlotte and Raleigh-Durham) of TIAA-CREF. A plan counselor, institutional representative, or individual counselor visits campus at least once each year. Group presentations are the best way to learn about TIAA-CREF and your pension. Such presentations include time for questions and limited personal attention. If you need more detailed counseling, you may make an appointment to meet with the representative individually. Watch the "Bear Facts" for information on these visits, or call the benefits office at ext. 7018.
If you want general information on TIAA-CREF, check with the benefits office. Our selection of materials and range of information are neither as expansive nor as technical as those offered on the Internet. On the other hand, you may find brochures or brief conversations more suited to your needs.
It is important to keep abreast of your pension. You need to do more than just read and file your quarterly reports. Take advantage of the opportunities mentioned above to learn more about it. Don’t wait until you are within a short time of retirement to review your options and maybe decide you should’ve done something differently! New investment vehicles are introduced regularly, and your needs may change. You should periodically review your contribution rate and allocation mix to ensure they continue to work towards your goals.