Many Nations Multi-Employer Pension Plan
June 7, 2023
Our Mission
“To provide to the Many Nations Multi-Employer Pension Plan (MEPP) Members, a plan for saving for retirement which is easily communicated, cost effective and which provides the participating employers with a predictable contribution requirement.”
In this month’s blog, we will go through information on our pension plan and answer some frequently asked questions.
Managing Your Account
You will have access to the following tools and resources.
My Client Space is the site where you can access your account online. You will be able to view:
- Deposits
- Account balances
- Rate of returns
- Transactions
- Beneficiary information
- Statements
- Financial tools and information
To access your account, view the My Client Space page on our website for more information or watch this video on how to register.
Eligibility
If you are a full-time or part-time employee, you shall be eligible to join the Plan after meeting the eligibility requirements as determined by your employer. You can confirm your eligibility with your plan administrator, or by contacting Many Nations.
Enrolling in the Pension Plan
To become a Member of the Plan, you must complete and sign the Enrolment Form. The Enrolment Form must be returned to your plan administrator. You can watch this video on how to complete your enrolment.
Important Beneficiary Information: If you have a spouse, any Death Benefits are automatically payable to them. If you do not have a spouse, you may name any other Beneficiary you desire. If you do not name a Beneficiary, and you do not have a spouse, any Death Benefits will be payable to your estate.
Your Responsibilities
An employee who is enrolled in the MEPP is responsible for:
- Understanding how your plan works.
- Taking advantage of the information and tools available to help you in making investment decisions.
- Making your investment decisions and reviewing your choices.
- Deciding whether or not to get investment advice from a professional.
- Keeping Many Nations, iA Financial Group and your plan administrator up to date on your address and personal information changes, such as a name change.
- Ensuring your Beneficiary is aware of this Plan and knows where your estate-related documents are kept.
Investments
If you are unsure of what your investment options are right for you, you can utilize the help of your Many Nations Advisor. Our licensed Advisors are there to help you make the best investment choices for your needs.
Details on the investment options are available through your online account. You can also contact Many Nations if you would like these documents sent to you. You can take advantage of tools such as Your Investor Profile Questionnaire and Your Range of Investment Options.
If you do not select an investment option, all contributions will be deposited into the Default Fund as established by the Pension Committee until you make a decision. You can change your investment options at any time.
Pension Contributions
Required Member Contributions
The amount you are eligible to contribute to the MEPP is determined by your employer. It is based on a percentage of your earnings. Please check with your employer for complete details.
Employer Contributions
Your employer will match your contributions.
Voluntary Member Contributions
You may make additional Voluntary Member contributions by increasing your payroll deduction.
In addition to the contributions noted, you may be able to transfer amounts from another registered plan at any time to this Plan. For further information, please call Many Nations at 1-800-667-7830.
Earnings
This is compensation paid to you by your Employer. Earnings may include any salary, wages and other amounts as defined in the Income Tax Act. Please check with your employer to determine your earnings calculation.
Limits and Tax
Contributions made into the MEPP or any other Registered Plan by you or on your behalf by your employer may not exceed the Retirement Savings Maximum allowed under the Income Tax Act. In general, this amount will be a maximum of 18% of your employment income for the year, subject to a maximum dollar limit.
Contributions made to the MEPP in the current year will reduce your Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) contribution room in the next year. Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will inform you of your available RRSP contribution room each year on your Notice of Assessment.
Your employer will report a Pension Adjustment yearly on your T4 tax slip reflecting the contributions made to your account.
Termination of Employment
Your employer will notify Many Nations when you are no longer employed. You will receive a detailed Option Statement outlining the amounts you are entitled to and the choices you have. Please note that temporary leaves (medical, maternity, etc.) are not considered a termination of employment.
The Options Statement will indicate if your funds are locked or non-locked in. To discuss your options when you receive the Options Statement, contact your Advisor who is listed on the statement or Many Nations.
Important: Matching Member/Employer Funds cannot be withdrawn while employed. Your voluntary funds can be withdrawn while employed, and are subject to tax for non-Status individuals.
Retirement
Your normal retirement date is the first day of the month following your 65th birthday. You may retire up to 10 years prior to your normal retirement date but no later than the age prescribed by legislation for commencement of retirement income.
The amount of monthly retirement income you will receive depends on your Member Account balance when you start your pension, your age and the type of retirement fund that you choose.
Your options on retirement are complex, and the most suitable choice depends on your own circumstances. As a member of the MEPP, we encourage you to utilize the tools and your advisor to assist you in determining when you can retire.
Questions
If you have any questions about your pension account, please contact our office or your Many Nations Advisor. We are here to help answer any questions you may have!