Pension - Plan FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Who administers the Plan?
A Board of Trustees consisting of an equal number of Union and Employer appointed individuals.
Who is covered by the Plan?
The following classes of Employees are eligible to become Plan Participants upon satisfying the Plan’s rules described in this section:

Any person who performs work covered by a Collective Bargaining Agreement between District Council 16 of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades or Local Union affiliated with District Council 16 and the Northern California Painting and Finishing Contractors Association/FCA Affiliate or other employers, and for whom the Employer is obligated to make Contributions to the Pension Trust Fund and any person who has previously performed work covered by a Collective Bargaining Agreement between an Employer and District Council 16 or a Local Union affiliated with District Council 16 and who satisfies the requirements adopted by the Trustees.

Any full‑time salaried officer or representative of District Council 16 or a Local Union affiliated with District Council 16 that extends pension coverage to such officers or representatives pursuant to regulations adopted by the Trustees.

Any employee of the Board of Trustees who, pursuant to resolution of the Board of Trustees, is included under the Pension Plan.

Any other persons who, pursuant to resolution of the Board of Trustees, are included under the Pension Plan.

The term “Employee” does not include any self‑employed person, whether a sole proprietor or a partner.

When do Normal retirement benefits begin?
You are eligible for a Regular Pension if you satisfy either one of the following conditions:

You are at least age 65 and have attained Vested Status; or

You have otherwise attained your Normal Retirement Age.

You attain Normal Retirement Age when (1) you are at least age 65 and have reached the 5th anniversary of your participation (excluding any years of participation prior to January 1, 1988 and/or years lost due to a Permanent Break in Service); or (2) you are at least age 65 and have reached the 10th anniversary of your participation (excluding any years of participation lost due to a Permanent Break in Service).

How do I apply for retirement benefits?
You must file an application form before any benefits become payable from the Plan. This is also true of your spouse who may be entitled to survivor benefits upon your death.
Can I withdraw contributions or borrow money from the Plan before retirement?
No, federal law prohibits Participants from withdrawing or borrowing contributions from the Pension Plan prior to retirement.