Phase 2 contribution rate increase begins this month

Last year, we let you know that we would be phasing in a 1% contribution rate increase starting in April 2018 (0.5%) as the cost of providing pensions has gone up.

We want to remind you that Phase 2 takes effect on your first full pay this month (0.5%).

This is the first pay where the pay period start and end dates are both in April. You will notice a slightly higher deduction going forward. Your contributions will continue to be matched by your employer and they are tax deductible up to the Income Tax Act limit.

Even with this increase, our contribution rates remain among the lowest of the public sector plans in Ontario and continue to provide excellent value for members and employers. All the PSPP’s pension benefits remain intact.

If you are an Ontario Provincial Police officer, you won’t see an impact because your additional 50/30 contribution is decreasing by the same amount (0.5%).

Note: The contribution rate increase does not apply to Case Management Masters

The new rates

This change will be phased-in over a 2-year period.

Calculating your contribution increase

Once the full increase is implemented, members will contribute on average 8.5% of their pensionable salary (up from 7.5% currently). We’ve put together a chart to help you understand what the increase will mean to you next year and after the final phase-in in April 2019. Again, your employer will match these amounts.

Keep in mind contributions are tax deductible up to the Income Tax Act maximum ($19,641 in 2019).

For more information, please read:

• OPB News Special Edition for Contributing Members (PDF)
• OPB News Special Edition for OPP Officers & Civilians (PDF)