Understanding Your CalSTRS & CalPERS Benefits
Sonya is passionate about helping California educators and school employees understand their pension benefits. Most educators don't know anything about their pension until it's too late — and by then, they've missed opportunities to maximize their retirement.
Whether you're a teacher, administrator, school support staff, or public employee, Sonya is here to help you understand what you have, what you're entitled to, and how to prepare for the retirement you dream of.
The Problem Most Educators Face
Your pension is one of your most valuable assets — but understanding it shouldn't feel like a mystery.
Lack of Understanding
Most educators don't fully understand their pension benefits, contribution structure, or retirement options until they're close to retirement.
Missed Opportunities
Without proper planning, educators may miss key deadlines, service credit purchases, or optimal retirement windows.
Income Gaps
Many retirees discover their pension alone won't maintain their desired lifestyle — supplemental planning is essential.
How Sonya Helps
Sonya provides personalized guidance to help you take control of your retirement planning.
Understanding Your Pension Benefits
Sonya breaks down the complexities of CalSTRS and CalPERS into plain language, so you know exactly what your benefits are and how they work.
Navigating Your Pension Portal
Feeling lost on the CalSTRS or CalPERS website? Sonya walks you through your online portal so you can access your statements, projections, and elections with confidence.
Projecting Your Pension Income
Sonya helps you project your pension income based on your years of service, salary, and retirement date — so you can plan ahead with real numbers.
Preparing for Your Dream Retirement
Beyond the pension, Sonya helps you explore supplemental options — including 403(b) rollovers and annuities — to close any income gaps and retire on your terms.
CalSTRS vs. CalPERS: What You Need to Know
CalSTRS
California State Teachers' Retirement System
- Serves K-12 educators, community college instructors, and certain administrators
- Defined benefit plan based on age, years of service, and final compensation
- Also includes a Defined Benefit Supplement (DBS) program
- Members may also have access to 403(b) and 457 plans
- Understanding your retirement factor and service credit is key
CalPERS
California Public Employees' Retirement System
- Serves state and local government employees, school classified staff, and some CSU employees
- Defined benefit plan based on retirement formula, years of service, and final compensation
- Includes health benefits for eligible retirees
- Members may supplement with 401(k) or 457 plans
- Knowing your retirement formula (e.g., 2% at 55 or 2% at 62) is critical
Pensions + 403(b) Rollovers = A Stronger Retirement
Your pension provides a solid foundation, but it may not cover everything. Sonya helps you explore how rolling over a 403(b) or other supplemental accounts into an index annuity or fixed index annuity can bridge the gap — with no taxable event and no fees.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as financial, tax, or legal advice. CalSTRS and CalPERS are independent state agencies; Sonya Vargas is not affiliated with or endorsed by either organization. For official information, please visit calstrs.com and calpers.ca.gov. Please consult with a qualified professional regarding your specific retirement situation.