How the STRS Ohio COLA works
STRS Ohio’s board decides the COLA each year within limits in state law, based on the fund’s condition. The board has set a goal of a permanent 1% COLA. For fiscal year 2027 (July 2026 to June 2027) it approved 1.6% for eligible recipients, after 1.5% for fiscal year 2026. The increase is added to your base benefit on your retirement anniversary.
What to expect in 2027
The board usually sets the next year’s COLA in the spring. The fiscal year 2028 decision is expected around March or April 2027.
What a COLA is worth over time
On a $3,000 monthly pension, a 2% simple increase adds $60 a month every year, so after 20 years the check is $4,200. A 2% compounded increase reaches about $4,460. A plan with no automatic increase stays at $3,000 unless lawmakers act, and at 3% inflation that check buys about 45% less after 20 years. Our COLA guide compares how other plans handle it.