Top 10 state pensions

The 10 highest maximum allowable pension benefits to which these retirees are entitled. Many retirees opt for the maximum benefit, but some opt for a smaller pension because that has a provision that allows the spouse to collect the payments if the retiree dies.

1. James H. Hunderfund, 66

Commack Union Free Schools

Retirement Date: 09/01/06

$316,245

2. Richard T. Brande, 62

Brookhaven-Comsewogue Union Free Schools

Retirement Date: 09/01/06

$290,669

3. Ronald L. Friedman, 64

Great Neck Public Schools

Retirement Date: 08/01/09

$267,132

4. Leon J. Campo, 67

East Meadow Union Free Schools

Retirement Date: 06/30/08

$232,993

5. William J. Brosnan Jr., 63

Northport-East Northport Union Free Schools

Retirement Date: 07/01/06

$228,706

6. William J. McDonald

Floral Park-Bellerose Union Free Schools

Retirement Date: 09/01/05

$215,226

7. Richard I. Hirt, 61

Locust Valley Central Schools

Retirement Date: 07/01/08

$215,076

8

George A. Goldstein, 67

Sewanhaka Central Schools

Retirement Date: 07/01/08

07/01/04

$213,493

9. John H. George, 66

North Tonawanda City School District

Retirement Date: 09/01/06

$205,809

10. Dodge R. Watkins, 63

Haverstraw-Stony Point Central Schools

Retirement Date: 07/01/06

$205,286

Source: Data collected by the Empire Center for New York State Policy from the New York State Teachers Retirement System