What is the Legacy Pension Plan?
The Legacy Pension Plan is a defined benefit pension plan designed to provide a fixed monthly benefit payable for life to eligible participants (and, in certain cases, eligible survivors). The monthly amount is determined under Plan rules based on your earned service and applicable benefit rates. It does not function like a 401(k). If you have service before March 1, 2019, you may have an earned Legacy benefit even if you’re no longer actively working in a participating employer.
Is the Legacy Plan still “active” if it’s closed?
Yes, the Plan is closed to new entrants and new benefit accruals, but it is still actively administered to pay retirees, administer survivor benefits, and process applications for participants who earned benefits before the freeze. “Closed” refers to earning new benefits, not paying benefits already earned. The Trustees continue to oversee the Plan and its administration through the Fund Office.
What does it mean that the Legacy Plan is “closed”?
The Plan provides that no employee is initially eligible to participate on or after January 1, 2019, and benefit accruals were eliminated for hours worked on or after February 28, 2019. In plain terms: you can’t newly enter the Plan, and you can’t increase your Legacy monthly benefit with work performed after that date. However, the Plan still recognizes hours after February 28, 2019, for certain non accrual purposes (like eligibility and vesting).
If I earned a Legacy benefit, do I lose it because the Plan is closed?
No. If you earned a benefit under the Legacy Plan, that benefit remains subject to the Plan’s vesting and eligibility rules, and the Plan continues to pay benefits when participants retire and meet requirements. If you’re already receiving a Legacy pension, the Plan continues paying monthly benefits according to the option you elected at retirement.
Who has a Legacy Pension benefit?
Generally, anyone who worked in Covered Service for a Contributing Employer before the freeze may have an earned Legacy benefit. Covered Service is work for which an employer was required to contribute under a collective bargaining agreement (or other approved agreement). If you’re unsure whether your past employer was contributing or whether your work counted as Covered Service, the Fund Office can confirm using Plan records.
Can someone start earning a new Legacy benefit today?
No. The Plan explicitly states that no employee is initially eligible to participate on or after January 1, 2019, and no benefit accruals are earned after February 28, 2019. New pension earnings for active service happens under the VAPP for eligible employees.
Do employees contribute to the Legacy Plan?
No. The Plan restricts contributions to Employer Contributions only, and participant contributions are not permitted. Your benefit is funded by employer contributions and investment earnings in the trust.
What is the Legacy Plan Year?
The Plan Year runs March 1 through the last day of February each year. This matters because service, hours, and certain eligibility tests are often measured by Plan Year.
What is “Credited Service” and how is it used?
Credited Service is used to determine your accrued benefit amount and (in some cases) eligibility for certain retirement benefits. Generally, 2,000 hours in a Plan Year equals one year of Credited Service, and partial years can be prorated. The Plan includes rules that limit when partial Credited Service is granted (especially for periods before/after certain dates), so your personal history matters.
Do hours worked after February 28, 2019, increase my Legacy benefit?
No. The Plan provides that participants do not receive Credited Service for benefit accrual for hours worked on or after February 28, 2019. That means your Legacy monthly benefit amount generally won’t increase from post freeze work.
Do hours after February 28, 2019, still matter for anything?
Yes. The Plan provides that post freeze hours may still be credited as Hours of Service for (1) meeting eligibility requirements for certain retirement benefits and (2) vesting purposes, even though they don’t earn additional benefit accrual. This can matter if you were close to vesting as of the freeze date, or if you need service to satisfy certain eligibility rules.
Can I request a pension estimate or statement of my Legacy benefit?
Yes. Participants have rights under ERISA to request certain plan documents and benefit information. If you want to plan retirement timing, request a benefit estimate from the Fund Office so you understand your options and approximate payment amounts based on your service record.
What does it mean to be “vested”?
Vesting means you have a non forfeitable right to your pension benefit under the Plan. Once vested, you keep the right to receive your accrued benefit when you reach eligibility and apply, even if you later stop working in covered service. Vesting can occur by reaching certain retirement dates, by meeting years of service thresholds, or under Plan termination rules.
How do I become vested under the Legacy Plan?
Vesting rules can vary depending on when you worked and other Plan provisions, but the Plan includes a general vesting framework based on Years of Service and additional historical provisions. Because the Plan contains multiple vesting rules based on different service periods, the best way to confirm your vesting status is to request a status review from the Fund Office.
If I’m not sure whether I’m vested, what should I do?
Contact the Fund Office and request confirmation of your vesting status and benefit eligibility. The Trustees (and the Administrative Manager acting under their direction) have authority to determine eligibility and interpret Plan rules based on Plan records.
What is Normal Retirement Age under the Legacy Plan?
The Plan defines your Normal Retirement Date as the first day of the month on or after your 62nd birthday, subject to eligibility requirements. Your normal retirement benefit is generally your full accrued benefit payable in the Plan’s standard payment form (unless you elect another permissible form).
Can I start benefits before age 62?
Yes, the Plan provides an Early Retirement Date as early as age 52 if you meet the applicable service requirements. Starting early usually reduces the monthly amount to reflect the longer expected payment period. If you leave covered service after meeting service requirements but before reaching age 52, the Plan includes a “Special Early Retirement” framework that can apply when you later reach early retirement age and apply.
How is an Early Retirement benefit reduced?
The Plan reduces the early retirement benefit by 0.5% per month for each month your early retirement date precedes your normal retirement date. That reduction is applied under Plan rules to the benefit you have earned. The Fund Office can provide estimates based on your age and service.
Is there still a 30 Year Retirement Benefit?
The Plan provides that the 30 Year Retirement Benefit is eliminated for participants who first became eligible on or after May 2, 2010, and also eliminated for participants who did not have 30 years of Credited Service for benefit accrual purposes as of February 28, 2019. Participants who met the 30 year requirement by that date may remain eligible for the 30 Year benefit under the Plan’s protected rules.
Does the Legacy Plan have a disability retirement benefit?
Yes. The Plan includes a Disability Retirement Benefit for participants who meet the service requirements and are determined to be Totally and Permanently Disabled under Plan rules, which reference Social Security disability criteria and allow for additional documentation in some circumstances. Disability benefit rules can vary by service period, so you should contact the Fund Office if you’re considering disability retirement.
How do I apply for my Legacy pension?
To apply for your pension, you will need to complete an Application for Benefits Form. You should apply for your pension at least 90 days prior to your retirement date. Please complete the forms and mail along with any noted required documentation to the Fund Office.
When should I apply?
The Plan’s administration process involves verifying service, termination/retirement status, and payment elections, so you should apply well ahead of your target retirement date. Many members apply at least several months in advance to allow enough time for processing and for reviewing payment options. The Fund Office can tell you what timeline is reasonable based on your circumstances.
Which documents will I need in order to apply for my pension?
You will need to submit a photocopy of your birth certificate. In addition, if you are married, you may need to submit a photocopy of your spouse’s birth certificate and a photocopy of your marriage certificate.
Why might my first payment be delayed?
Delays most often happen when final termination/paid time information is still being confirmed, required proof documents haven’t been received, or elections require corrections (especially for married participants requiring spousal consent). The Plan has specific commencement timing rules once eligibility is established, but the Plan also must have a complete application file before paying.
I severed employment and completed the application process for pension benefits last month but haven’t yet received payment, why?
There are a few factors that may influence when you receive your first payment. Mainly, the Fund Office needs to receive a termination date and final hours worked from your employer. Those dates and hours are usually sent to the Fund Office at the end of the month following the month you last worked. Therefore, your first payment may be delayed.

Another factor may be that your employer is still paying you for vacation/personal/holiday hours for the month following your last day worked. If this continues into the month you wish to retire, your benefits will not start until the first of the month following the date all hours are reported and contributions received by the Fund Office.
What payment options are available under the Legacy Plan?
The Plan provides a standard form of payment (Life Only Annuity) and joint & survivor options for married participants, including a 50% survivor option and a 75% survivor option (when available under Plan rules). These options affect the monthly amount because they determine whether benefits continue for a spouse after your death. The Fund Office provides the exact option amounts as part of your retirement package.
If I’m married, does my spouse have to be included?
Generally, yes. The Plan provides that married participants default to a Qualified Joint & 50% Survivor Annuity unless properly waived, and spousal consent must meet specific requirements (e.g., witnessed by a notary or plan representative). This protects spouses under federal pension rules.
How long do I have to complete my retirement election?
The election period is now 180 days ending on the due date of your first retirement benefit payment. This was extended by Plan Amendment No. 3 (effective November 6, 2024). Even with the longer window, it’s best to complete elections early to avoid delaying your start date.
What happens if I pass away before retirement?
The Plan makes it possible for you to provide an income for your qualified spouse in the event you should die before retirement if you are vested for a benefit. Your qualified spouse is the person to whom you have been married throughout the twelve (12) month period preceding your death.

If you die, your qualified spouse will receive monthly survivor benefit payments for the remainder of their life. This benefit payment is called a Qualified Preretirement Survivor Annuity (“QPSA”). If you have at least 15 years of credited service, your qualified spouse may begin receiving a QPSA on or after the date at which you would have attained fifty-two (52) years of age. If you did not have 15 years of credited service at the time of your death, your surviving spouse would not be eligible to receive the QPSA benefit until the date on which you would have reached sixty-two (62) years of age.
What happens if I pass away after retirement?
Death Benefits after retirement depend on the form of benefit payment you choose when you began receiving your pension. If you have a qualified spouse upon retirement, the following payment options are available to you:
  • Joint & 50% Survivor Annuity
  • Joint & 75% Survivor Annuity
  • Single-Life Annuity
If you elect to receive your pension in the form of a Joint & Survivor Annuity, your qualified spouse will receive a monthly benefit for their life in the event of your death. If you elect a Single-Life Annuity, no further benefits would be payable from the Plan upon your death. If you are not married when you begin to receive your pension, the only payment option available to you is the Single-Life Annuity.
Can the Legacy Plan pay a lump sum?
Generally, benefits are paid as monthly annuities. However, Plan Amendment No. 1 added a mandatory cash out rule for small benefits: if the actuarial lump sum value is between $1,000 and $7,000 on the Benefit Commencement Date, the benefit is paid as a lump sum; if the value is less than $1,000 at termination of covered service, it is paid automatically as soon as administratively feasible.
How is a lump sum amount determined?
If a lump sum is payable, the value must be calculated using actuarial assumptions prescribed by Plan terms and federal requirements. Plan Amendment No. 2 clarifies the assumptions used for present value calculations for lump sums under applicable federal rules. If you’re close to the threshold, the Fund Office can explain how the value is determined for your specific case.
Do I have to start my pension by a certain age?
Yes. Federal law requires minimum distributions by required deadlines, and the Plan must comply with those rules. Plan Amendment No. 1 updated the Plan to reflect changes that, for many participants, require distributions to begin no later than April 1 following the year you reach age 73 (depending on your circumstances and federal law timing).
What withholding forms should I submit for taxes?
Use Federal Form W-4P for federal withholding and the Minnesota Withholding Form for state withholding. You can change withholding elections by submitting updated forms to the Fund Office.
Can I work after I retire and still receive my Legacy pension?
Possibly, but the Plan includes suspension rules for “Disqualifying Employment.” In general, benefits may be suspended for any month you work more than 64 hours in work that meets the Plan’s disqualifying employment definitions (which vary by benefit type and where/what you do). Before you accept work, contact the Fund Office to avoid an overpayment or suspension issue.
Do I have to notify the Plan if I start working?
Yes. The Plan requires written notice within 21 days after starting work that may be disqualifying, and the Plan can request documentation such as paystubs or other records. If notice isn’t provided, the Plan may presume disqualifying hours and suspend benefits until the situation is clarified.
What is a QDRO and why does it matter?
A QDRO (Qualified Domestic Relations Order) is a court order that can assign part of a pension benefit to an alternate payee (often a former spouse) if it meets strict Plan and legal requirements. The Plan cannot pay benefits to an alternate payee unless the order qualifies under Plan procedures. If a divorce is pending, contacting the Fund Office early helps prevent payment delays later.
What does it mean that the Plan is in “critical status”?
“Critical status” is a funding classification required by federal law. The Plan’s actuary certified critical status as of March 1, 2024, and the Plan must maintain a Rehabilitation Plan designed to improve financial health over time. These notices are required annually while the Plan remains in that status.
Does “critical status” mean my earned benefit is automatically reduced?
Not automatically. The critical status notice explains that certain “adjustable benefits” may be reduced under a rehabilitation plan update, but there are rules and limits (and notices must be provided when reductions apply). The required notices also clarify that the Plan was certified as not in “critical and declining” status as of the certification referenced, which is an important distinction under federal law.
Are my benefits insured by the PBGC?
Yes, your benefits are insured by the PBGC. The PBGC guarantees “basic benefits”, subject to a maximum, including, pension benefits at normal retirement age, most early retirement benefits, annuity benefits for survivors of Plan participants, and disability benefits for disabilities that occurred before the earlier of the date the plan terminated or the sponsor’s bankruptcy date. The maximum PBGC guarantee is set by law. For details about PBGC guarantees and examples, review the Annual Funding Notice posted on the site.
How do I change my address?
Submit the Change of Address Form to the Fund Office Services using the mailing or email instructions shown on the form. Keeping your address current helps ensure you receive retirement packets, notices, and tax documents.
How do I change my name?
Submit the Change of Name Form and include acceptable documentation (examples listed on the form, such as a driver’s license, marriage certificate, or other official documentation). The Fund Office will not process a name change without the required documentation.
How do I set up direct deposit for my Legacy pension?
Submit the Legacy Pension Payee Deposit Agreement, include a voided check or bank letter showing routing/account numbers, and note that the form must be signed in front of a Notary Public or authorized Fund Office representative. Direct deposit generally posts on the first of the month (or the business day before if it falls on a weekend/holiday).
What if I disagree with a benefit determination?
The Plan has formal claims and appeals procedures. Generally, you must submit a written appeal within 60 days after receiving an adverse determination (or 180 days for disability claims), and you can submit documents supporting your position. The Trustees (or an authorized committee) review appeals under Plan procedures and issue written decisions.
Who has authority to interpret Plan rules?
The Trust Agreement and Plan provisions give the Trustees authority to interpret Plan terms and determine eligibility and benefit amounts. Their determinations are binding under the Plan’s procedures, subject to applicable law.
What do I need to do before retirement?
You should apply for your pension at least 90 days prior to your retirement date by completing an Application for Benefits and submitting it to the Fund Office. Once your Application for Benefits has been received by the Fund Office, additional information will be furnished to you regarding payment options available to you under the terms of the Plan as well as the dollar amount payable under each of the available payment options.
What happens if I pass away before retirement?
The Plan makes it possible for you to provide an income to your qualified spouse in the event you should die before retirement if you are vested for a benefit. Your qualified spouse is the person to whom you have been married throughout the twelve (12) month period preceding your death.

If you die, your qualified spouse will receive monthly survivor benefit payments for the remainder of their life. This benefit payment is called a Qualified Preretirement Survivor Annuity (“QPSA”). If you have at least 15 years of credited service, your qualified spouse may begin receiving a QPSA on or after the date at which you would have attained fifty-two (52) years of age. If you did not have 15 years of credited service at the time of your death, your surviving spouse would not be eligible to receive the QPSA benefit until the date on which you would have reached sixty-two (62) years of age.
What happens if I pass away after retirement?
Death Benefits after retirement depend on the form of benefit payment you choose when you began receiving your pension. If you have a qualified spouse upon retirement, the following payment options are available to you:

  • Joint & 50% Survivor Annuity
  • Joint & 75% Survivor Annuity
  • Single-Life Annuity
If you elect to receive your pension in the form of a Joint & Survivor Annuity, your qualified spouse will receive a monthly benefit for their life in the event of your death. If you elect a Single-Life Annuity, no further benefits would be payable from the Plan upon your death. If you are not married when you begin to receive your pension, the only payment option available to you is the Single-Life Annuity.