For Americans across the United States, pensions provide a valuable and irreplaceable source of income. Each state has it's own plans and procedures, and Mississippi is no different. Do you know the ins and outs of your pension and retirement plan? If you are only casually familiar with what your plan entails, you aren't alone. Many citizens know just enough about their benefits to get by. But with something as important as this, the more knowledge you can acquire, the better off you will be. At the Martin Law Group, LLC, we want for every person to have the tools and knowledge needed to have a comfortable and anxiety-free retirement. That is why we are proud to offer our services to Mississippi and Alabama, and it is why we have put together a brief overview of pension plans for your benefit. Read on to learn more.

What is a Pension?

First and foremost it is necessary to understand just what a pension is. In the most basic terms, a pension is a retirement arrangement. This plan is typically funded by an employer, providing regular payments throughout retirement. In some cases, the funds for a pension plan are deducted from each paycheck and are invested to encourage the growth of those funds. Oftentimes, payments will vary in amount and will be based upon the duration of employment, as well as the salary that was being received.

Pensions and Retirement

Here are a few more things to keep in mind when learning about your pension plan:

• The federal government governs private pensions through ERISA, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act. ERISA sets legal minimums that an employer's pension plans must provide.
• Employers are not required to provide pension plans. Those who do, however, must adhere to ERISA standards.
• Typically, you are eligible to begin contributing to a pension plan after one year of employment.
• Employers do not have the ability to deprive you of your vested benefits if pension plans are changed or eliminated.
• Gaining employment after retirement does not affect your pension plan, nor are pension plans exclusive. In other words, you may still receive your pension plan as well as Social Security benefits. However, in some cases, plans may include a reduction in benefits for this type of situation.

Counsel You Can Trust

Here at the Martin Law Group, LLC, we understand how valuable your retirement is to you. If you are unsure of your legal rights, are fighting to receive the benefits you are entitled to, or simply have questions, you can rely on us. We have the knowledge and the experience necessary to guide you through any process and address any concerns you may have. Proudly serving Mississippi and Alabama, if we don't win your case, we don't get paid. Contact us to learn more today.