Retirement Security

Fewer employers today provide defined-benefit pensions for their workers—and among those that do, many are offering “defined-contribution” (like 401[k]s) rather than traditional “defined-benefit” pension plans.

That’s why Social Security insurance is essential for millions of retirees. Nearly two-thirds of retirees count on Social Security for half or more of their retirement income and for more than three in 10, Social Security is 90 percent or more of their income. It is a safety net that keeps retirees out of poverty.

It’s also important to figure out what you will need to retire. Talking a look at how much Social Security will provide, whether you have another form of pension and how much you spend are all components in determining when you can retire.

For decades, workers achieved retirement security because their retirement income flowed from a combination of employer-provided pensions, Social Security and personal savings. But the recession has exposed the severe deficiencies in our retirement system. We need to develop a new way to provide workers with lifetime retirement security beyond Social Security.

More about this issue:

Nov 14

Join members of the Civil Service Technical Guild, AFSCME Local 375, DC 37 to speak against the waste of taxpayer dollars outsourced to high-paid consultants.  Money direly needed for repairs is being spent on private contractors.  It hurts the residents, the workers, the city and the taxpayers.

Nov 14

Join Build Up NYC to Rally at City Hall to call for the passing of Intro 1169,  a bill that calls for training and tra

Nov 6, 2013 | Press Release

New York, NY – New York City Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO President Vincent Alvarez today released the following statement regarding the victories of Mayor-Elect Bill de Blasio, and a new, more progressive City Council:

Oct 28, 2013 | Press Release

Testament to Labor Movement’s Ability to Fight for Working Families

Oct 22, 2013 | Press Release

By Vincent Alvarez

Oct 29

Join Transport Workers Local 100 to Stand Up for a Fair Contract!

Oct 15, 2013 | Press Release

“Whether he’s been in Brooklyn fighting unnecessary hospital closures, or standing with union members fighting for fair contracts and better wages, Bill de Blasio has solidified his position as a true advocate for working people," said CLC President Vincent Alvarez.

Oct 11, 2013 | News Story

Doormen at 231 Tenth Avenue walked off the job today in protest of building owners’ attempts to retaliate against workers seeking to unionize with 32BJ SEIU.