Teachers' Fund for Retirement

Retirement Plan Overview

The Teachers' Fund for Retirement (TFFR) was established in 1913 to provide retirement income to public educators. TFFR is a qualified defined benefit public pension plan covered under Section 401(a) of the Internal Revenue Code. The North Dakota Century Code (NDCC) Chapter 15-39-1 contains the actual language governing the Fund and is supplemented by Title 82 of the North Dakota Administrative Code (both require Adobe Acrobat Reader).

Responsibility for administration of the TFFR benefits program is assigned to a seven-member Board of Trustees (Board). The Board consists of the State Treasurer, the Superintendent of Public Instruction, and five members appointed by the Governor. The appointed members serve five-year terms which end on June 30 of alternate years. The appointed Board members must include two classroom teachers or guidance counselors, a school administrator, and two retired members.

The TFFR benefits program is administered through the Retirement and Investment Office (RIO).

TFFR's funds are invested under the direction of the State Investment Board (SIB) following the 'Prudent Investor Rule.' The investments must be invested exclusively for the benefit of the TFFR members. Four of the TFFR Board members serve as voting members on the eleven-member SIB.

Our Mission

To administer a comprehensive retirement program that provides North Dakota public educators with a foundation for retirement security.

Our Vision

To be a trusted leader in the administration of a financially sound retirement program for North Dakota educators by providing exceptional customer service, professional plan management, and organizational effectiveness by adhering to the principles of good governance, transparency, and accountability.

Our Core Values

Customer Satisfaction and Commitment to Excellence which is demonstrated by our trustworthiness, accountability, and respectfulness.

Strong Governance and Operational Effectiveness through our strategic leadership, fiduciary responsibility, ethical practices, and transparency.