That makes Florida different from states where teachers have no Social Security. You build two separate benefits: an FRS pension from the FRS formula, and a Social Security benefit from the Social Security Administration. For example, FRS's own Regular Class example, 30 years on a $25,000 average, pays about $1,000.00 a month from FRS (open it in the calculator), and Social Security would come on top of that.
What comes out of your pay
Social Security contributions are deducted from your salary and matched by your employer. Handbook (2026), p. 21, Social Security Coverage
The FRS was created Dec. 1, 1970 by merging the old Teachers' Retirement System and other plans. Social Security coverage is required for all FRS members. Service in the old Teachers' Retirement System Plan E, which had no Social Security, is valued at 2.00% a year. Pension Plan SPD (July 1, 2026), p. 1, Creation; Handbook (2026), p. 31
In DROP and at 65
You stay covered by Social Security in DROP if your plan included it before; ask about Medicare enrollment at 65. DROP Guide (2026), p. 26, Am I covered for Social Security while participating in the DROP?
If you'll still be working in DROP past 65, ask your HR office or the Social Security Administration about enrolling in Medicare at 65, even if you won't start Social Security until you leave. Enrolling late in Medicare can mean higher premiums. DROP Guide (2026), p. 26, Am I covered for Social Security while participating in the DROP? How DROP works is on the DROP guide.
The FRS Health Insurance Subsidy can help pay for health insurance, including Medicare; see the HIS. Handbook (2026), p. 58, Health Insurance Subsidy (HIS)
Planning both benefits together
Before choosing DROP, the Division suggests reviewing your whole financial picture, including your Social Security benefits, and asking for estimates that compare DROP with working longer and retiring later. The free FRS Financial Guidance Line is 866-446-9377. DROP Guide (2026), p. 12
Who to ask
The Division has no control over Social Security or Medicare payments; contact the Social Security Administration. Social Security Administration: 800-772-1213. Handbook (2026), p. 21, Social Security Coverage; Handbook (2026), p. 21, Social Security Coverage The FRS sources don't explain how your Social Security amount is figured or when to claim it; that's a question for the Social Security Administration.
Teachers' Retirement System Plan E service (no Social Security) is valued at 2.00%. Handbook (2026), p. 31
The facts
- FRS members are covered by Social Security and Medicare, and your FRS benefit is not reduced because of Social Security.Handbook (2026), p. 21, Social Security Coverage
- Social Security tax is taken from your pay and matched by your employer, on top of FRS contributions.Handbook (2026), p. 21
- FRS has no control over Social Security; call the Social Security Administration at 800-772-1213.Handbook (2026), p. 21
Questions
Do Florida teachers get Social Security?
As an FRS member you are automatically covered for Social Security and Medicare, and your FRS benefit is not offset (reduced) by Social Security benefits.
Does Social Security reduce my FRS pension?
No. As an FRS member you are automatically covered for Social Security and Medicare, and your FRS benefit is not offset (reduced) by Social Security benefits.
Who do I ask about Social Security?
The Division has no control over Social Security or Medicare payments; contact the Social Security Administration. 800-772-1213.
Am I still covered by Social Security in DROP?
You stay covered by Social Security in DROP if your plan included it before; ask about Medicare enrollment at 65.
Should I sign up for Medicare at 65 if I'm still working?
Ask your HR office or the Social Security Administration. The DROP Guide says to look into Medicare enrollment at 65 even if you won't start Social Security until you leave, because late enrollment can mean higher premiums.
Next: how both incomes are taxed on the taxes page, or working after retirement.
Source: FRS Pension Plan Member Handbook, 2026 Edition, pp. 21, 31, 58. Also: Seminar slides (Sept. 24, 2025), slide 29; Pension Plan SPD (July 1, 2026), p. 1; DROP Guide (2026), pp. 12, 26. Last reviewed .