Getting started
Now that you've decided to retire, there are a few steps you will need to do to access your pension benefits. First, the meaning of retirement:
You are eligible to receive a pension when you have:
- reached retirement age or you have met the age plus eligibility service requirements;
- terminated employment with a MEPP employer and have no intention of returning to work with a MEPP employer in any significant capacity; and
- not committed to or discussed returning to work for your employer after retirement.
At the time you retire, there cannot be any arrangement in place for continued employment that would otherwise require you to contribute to the Plan.
For a full explanation of the Plan’s position on employment after retirement, refer to Employment After Retirement.
Step 1 - Get a pension estimate
You should contact us and request a pension estimate at least six months before the date you want to retire. This can be done either by phone, email, fax or in writing.
We will provide you with a written estimate that explains your pension options. Plus, we will also send you the following forms:
- Application for Pension Benefits;
- Designation of Beneficiary at Retirement; and
- TD1 Personal Tax Credits Return form and TD1 Saskatchewan Personal Tax Credits Return form.
If you wish to receive your pension payments from MEPP and you have a spouse at retirement, you must choose a guarantee period and survivor benefit.
To learn about your options, read MEPP In-Depth on Pension Options.
Step 2 - Apply for your pension
You may apply for your pension several months before the date you plan to retire. Ideally, we require between six weeks and two months' notice to start processing your pension application. The earlier you contact us, the more time you will have to make informed decisions about your retirement.
We need to receive your application and documents before the first day of the month in which you wish to retire.
You can withdraw your pension application at any time until the first of the month in which your pension is to start.
Step 3 - Receive your pension payments
You will receive your pension payments by direct deposit on the 25th of each month. If the 25th falls on a weekend or statutory holiday, you will receive your pension payment on the preceding business day.
Pension benefits are taxable. Income tax is withheld from regular pension payments and sent to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) on your behalf. The income tax calculation is based on the TD1 Tax Credit Return forms you provide at retirement.
Other retirement income
Your benefit from MEPP is only one source of retirement income. Other sources could include:
- Federal retirement income programs;
- Canada Pension Plan (CPP);
- Old Age Security (OAS); and
- Personal savings.
Contact Employment and Social Development Canada for information about federal pension programs or call 1-800-277-9914 or 1-800-255-4786 (TTY).