Ask the Experts: I retired, then went back to work. What happens to my pension?

Q. I retired in March 2007 from my union job and began receiving pension checks. Last year, I was asked to return to work. My pension checks stopped at that time. What's going on and what should I do?

A. Unfortunately, there is nothing you can do. Most employers, whether or not they are union shops, will suspend paying your pension benefits if you return to work for them. If you are younger than age 62, pension law requires that they stop paying your benefits. If you are age 62 or older, the employer could pay you your pension once you reach age 65, the typical retirement age, but the law does not require them to do so. It is up to your employer to decide.

Source: John Turner