What Does “Accrual Rate” Mean?

December 12, 2022

The accrual rate is the rate at which you earn your pension. In 2023, you will earn your pension at the rate of 1.85% of your pensionable earnings.

How Does This Work?

You earn a piece of pension every year that you work and contribute to the plan―like building blocks.

For example, let’s assume that a member’s pensionable earnings stayed constant at $60,000 every year (for easy figuring). From 2019 to 2024, that member would earn:

Year Accrual Rate Formula Pension Credit Earned
2019 1.4% 1.4% of $60,000 $ 840
2020 1.85% 1.85% of $60,000 $ 1,110
2021 1.625% 1.625% of $60,000 $ 975
2022 1.85% 1.85% of $60,000 $ 1,110
2023 1.85% 1.85% of $60,000 $ 1,110
2024 1.4% 1.4% of $60,000 $ 840

At the end of your career, the annual pension amounts earned each year (pension credits) will add up to the total annual pension you will receive every year for the rest of your life. So, the higher amount earned in 2023 will continue to benefit you for the rest of your retired life.

What about Future Increases?

There is no automatic indexing or increases in our pension plan. Each year, the Pension Board and Pension Plan Advisory Committee assess the resources available and determine whether there are surplus funds that can be used to increase benefits.

We’re here if you need us

Get answers to your pension or benefits questions and find out how to get in touch with us.

Learn More →
Copyright © 2021 - All Rights Reserved - The United Church of Canada
Privacy Policy
cross