Take steps to manage your pension

• Is membership in a pension plan automatic?
Not, necessarily. If you think you may be eligible to join, contact your employer or your union representative. You may be required to fill in an application form in order to join the plan.  

• If a pension plan is available, do I have to join?
Most companies may require the employee to join as a condition of their employment.

• What is the earliest age at which I can retire and still receive a full pension?
Each pension plan must set a normal retirement age; typically it is set at age 55, 60, 62 or 65. Some plans allow early retirement at full pension if you meet certain qualifications.

• Can I keep working and contributing past normal retirement age?
Yes, if your employer permits you to do so. If you continue working, you will continue to earn pension benefits. However, your pension plan may stipulate a maximum number of years you can contribute to the plan, or a maximum pension that can be earned. Your pension payments must commence no later than the end of the calendar year in which you turn 71.