When can I retire and start receiving benefits?

You can retire and start receiving benefits from the New York State Local Retirement System at any age once you have reached your minimum retirement age (MRA) and have met the service credit requirements. The MRA varies depending on your tier and membership plan, but it is typically 55 or 62 years old. In order to qualify for benefits, you must have a specified amount of service credit, which is earned based on the number of years you have worked. For most tiers, this requirement is at least 10 years, but it may differ depending on your specific tier. It is important to review your retirement plan and consult with the retirement system or a financial advisor to understand your individual eligibility and factors that may affect your benefits.