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:

Oct 27

Through November 2: Season 12 of the Workers Unite Film Festival kicks off Friday, October 27th to November 12th. Catch 50-plus films live at Cinema Village theater (22 East 12th St) from 10/27-11/2, with a selection of films available online 11/3-11/10.

Nov 8

Wednesday, November 8, 6 -7:30PM: Please join the New York Labor History Association and the Tamiment Library and Robert F.

Nov 17

Friday, November 17, 10AM-12PM: This webinar will discuss the importance of Unemployment Insurance Reform to the labor movement. Unions are a powerful voice for their members and all working people in New York State.

Oct 20, 2023 | News Story

The orchestra of NYC music producer Distinguished Concerts International New York (DCINY), members of American Federation of Musicians Local 802, has reached a 5 year tentative agreement after eight months on strike and four years of bargaining.

Oct 20, 2023 | News Story

Allies from the NYC Labor Movement rallied in New York City on Wednesday in support of BCTGM Local 390G workers on strike against International Flavors and Fragrances (IFF) in Memphis, Tenn.

Oct 20, 2023 | News Story

On Tuesday, the NYC CLC and UFT held our Future in Focus: Exploring the World of Organized Labor and Unionized Careers event, an opportunity for students to learn about unionized careers in New York City, as well as collective bargaining and the impact of organized labor on our society.

Oct 20, 2023 | News Story

RWDSU/UFCW Local 338, UFCW Local 1500 and UFCW Local 342 gathered in Manhattan's Astor Place Wednesday morning to show Wegmans that New York is a union town! Members educated opening day shoppers on the #UnionDifference and encouraged them to support the workers if they choose to unionize.

Oct 20, 2023 | News Story

The UAW Big Three Stand Up Strike continues, and members at the Stellantis plant in Tappan, NY need our support. Here's how to help:

Oct 18

Union members and labor allies of the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union (BCTGM) prepare to protest outside the headquarters of International Flavors & Fragrances at 521 W. 57th St. in New York City on October 18th.

Oct 13, 2023 | News Story

The musicians of the New York City Ballet Orchestra, represented by AFM Local 802, rallied this week outside Lincoln Center as the ballet celebrated its 75th anniversary.