The fastest way to file is through your Retirement Online account. Self-Help Guide to Pre-Retirement Planning for New York State Employees.Guide given to webinar participants covering 11 content areas. In just a few steps, you can estimate your pension benefit based on up-to-date account information, then save and print the estimate for your records. Use online tools to create a retirement plan. Find out when and how you can receive your benefits at retirement. Fill out the necessary forms to update information with your retirement plan. Apply for your monthly retirement benefit any time between age 62 and 70. The following is a summary of rules for a service retirement benefit, which can vary based on your tier, age, earnings and service credit. Apply for your monthly retirement benefit any time between age 62 and 70.