Open a Retirement Plan Account

Before You Begin

• Use the Asset Allocation Evaluator to assess your risk tolerance and understand which portfolio allocation may be right for you.
• Consider TIAA-CREF Lifecycle Funds for a simplified "one decision" strategy for investing.
• Review the prospectuses for investments you want to sign up for.
• Identify the beneficiaries who will receive your vested benefits in the event of your death.
• Take a guided tour of online access to see how you can manage your accounts online.

Enroll Online

Before you enroll online, contact your benefits office to:

• Confirm that your institution offers TIAA-CREF’s online enrollment, and learn what the Access Code is.
  Note:  If your institution does not offer online enrollment, your benefits office can provide you with an enrollment kit.
  
• Complete a salary reduction agreement, if necessary.
  By signing this agreement, you authorize your employer to reduce your paychecks by the designated amount and to place that money in your retirement account.