Alabama teachers pay into SS and in Georgia they do too. In Missouri, Illinois, kentucky for example they do not. This makes a big difference because of the amount of taxes paid over a career. Plus, the fact that the pension will limit the SS earnings (plus more taxes). If a teacher is smart they can invest that 7.5% in their 403b over the course of their career and really make a difference in states that don't force you to pay in.

Plus, teachers can build a little generational wealth if they are smart with the lump sum distributions and 403b investments. At one time I did some statewide training for Valic (for their annuities and 403b platforms) and they said the #1 job for spouses of CEO's was teachers. They believed it was to take advantage of the state and federal tax benefits allowed by non-profit retirement plans.