Tuesday, April 14, 2026

Frequently Asked Three Rivers Annuity Questions


Q.

When do I become eligible for benefits?

A.

You become eligible for normal retirement benefits at age 57 or older. In-service distributions are permitted for Erie Plan Participants aged 59 1/2 or older with 10 years of service credit.

Q.

When can I start Participating in the Plan?

A.

You are eligible to participate in the plan on the date of your employment with a contributing employer.

Q.

What is a Plan Year?

A.

The Plan Year for the Three Rivers Annuity Fund runs from January to December.

Q.

Do I need to do anything to enroll in the Plan?

A.

Participation begins automatically upon employment with a contributing employer; no specific enrollment action is required from the participant.  Contact John Hancock by Phone or On Line to set up your account information.  You need your Name, Date of birth, last 4 digits of your SSN and current address.  

Q.

When do I become vested?

A.

As a Plan Participant, you are 100% vested in the balance in your retirement account at all times.  It is very important that you keep the Plan notified of your current address.  If the Plan is unable to locate your after reasonable attempts have been made, your account could be forfeited.

Q.

How do I become eligible to withdraw money from my account?

A.

You can withdraw funds upon reaching eligibility for normal retirement (age 57 or older), in-service distribution (age 59 1/2 with 10 years of service), or due to disability, termination, or death. Hardship withdrawals are also available for specific qualifying events.

Q.

May I borrow against my Annuity Plan?

A.

Yes, loans are available up to the lesser of 50% of your vested interest or $50,000, with a minimum loan amount of $1,000. Loan terms range from 12 to 60 months, with up to 15 years for home purchases. Loan fees include a $100 application fee and a $2.00 monthly charge for the loan term.

Q.

How is my account invested?

A.

The Plan Investments are self-directed.  This mans that you can select the investment portfolio that most closely matches your needs and the level of investment risk with which you are comfortable.  Please visit www.myplan.johnhancock.com

Q.

What happens to my account when I die?

A.

Upon death, the account can be distributed to beneficiaries. The plan offers various forms of benefits, including lump sum, partial payments, and annuity options like Single Life and Joint and Survivor.

Q.

How do I designate a Beneficiary for my Individual Account?

A.

You can designate a beneficiary by completing the appropriate forms provided by the plan's administrator or custodian. It's essential to keep your beneficiary designation up-to-date.

Q.

What if I get divorced?

A.

In the event of a divorce, your account may be subject to division under a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO). This legal order specifies how benefits should be distributed between you and your former spouse.

Q.

How do I apply for a benefit?

A.

Contact John Hancock at 833-388-6466 or www.MyPlan.johnhancock.com