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:

May 3, 2024 | News Story

Management at The Second City has voluntarily recognized the UFT as the collective bargaining agent for all employees involved in instruction at their new NYC improv comedy center. This includes teachers, facilitators and cast members.

May 3, 2024 | News Story

Around the world, workers’ lives, livelihoods and rights are under attack. Climate disasters and conflicts are displacing people from their homes, and are increasing risks for working people and all our families.

Aug 5

August 5-9: The 2024 Summer School for Women in Unions and Community Organizations will be held from August 5-9th at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. The registration for this year's event will be available shortly.

May 23

Thursday, May 23, 11AM: During the middle of REI’s annual Anniversary Sale members of REI Union SoHo will join with union siblings from across the city to protest REI’s failure to bargain a contract in good faith.

May 1

Wednesday, May 1, 11AM-2PM: Join the Public Employees Federation for a KPC Informational Picket from 11am to 2pm outside the faculty.

Apr 26, 2024 | News Story

Members of the Fordham Graduate Student Workers union (FGSW-CWA Local 1104) have reached a tentative agreement with Fordham!

Apr 26, 2024 | News Story

Members of the Writers Guild of America East (WGAE) and Writers Guild of America West (WGAW) at Sesame Workshop have reached a tentative agreement with management on a new five-year collective bargaining agreement.

Apr 26, 2024 | News Story

Take action today! REI Union needs your support in demanding that REI commit to reaching a fair union contract by the end of 2024. Members and shoppers are taking action this week to help union workers demand that REI's leadership negotiate a fair contract.

Apr 26, 2024 | News Story

Actors’ Equity Association, the labor union representing more than 51,000 professional actors and stage managers in live theatre, has advised The Broadway League of its intention to cease issuing contracts for work on the Development Agreement starting June 17 if meaningful progress is not made i