Wednesday, May 31, 2023

Frequently Asked Pension Questions


Q. How do I become a Participant in the Plan?
A. You are a Participant of the Plan if contributions are being made to the Pension Fund on your behalf under the terms of a Collective Bargaining Agreement.
Q. I am going through a divorce, what happens to my pension?
A. If you divorce and a court order requires payment of some of your benefit to your ex-spouse, a qualified domestic relations order (QDRO) must be prepared and accepted by the Plan before any payments can be made to your ex-spouse.
Q. Does the Pension Plan affect Social Security benefits in any way?
A. All Plan benefits are in addition to and independent of any Social Security benefits.
Q. Can pensions be paid or assigned or garnered to others?
A. Your benefits under the Plan are not assignable.
Q. If benefits are denied, may a retiree or beneficiary appeal?
A. Yes. Please referece Page 18-19 of the SPD; Claims and Appeals Procedures
Q. How far in advance should I request an application for retirement?
A. 90 Days
Q. In addition to the application for retirement, what other documents do I have to submit to the Fund office?
A. Photo ID, birth certificate, marriage license (if married), photo ID and birth certificate for spouse (if married), Divorce documents if had a prior marriage.
Q. I am currently receiving a monthly pension benefit from the Plan and would like to change the tax withholding. What needs to be done?
A. The Trust Fund office can send the appropriate tax forms, call to request.
Q. I am currently receiving a monthly pension benefit from the Plan and would like to change the bank account information. How do I change this information?
A. Refer to the Pension Forms.
Q. I am currently receiving a monthly pension benefit from the Plan, what happens if I do not receive my check?
A. Call the Trust Fund immediately so we can possibly stop and reissue the check.
Q. I recently moved, how do I change my address?
A. Send the Trust Fund office a letter with your new address, make sure it is signed and dated.