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:

Jul 28, 2023 | News Story

With a vote of 43-8, employees at Brooklyn’s popular Vital Climbing Gym this week won their union election to become members of Climbers United.

Jul 28, 2023 | News Story

The BDS Union (a chapter of ALAA-UAW) held a lunchtime picket on Wednesday in downtown Brooklyn to show management that it’s time Brooklyn Defender Services get serious in its efforts to reach a strong fair contract as soon as possible.

Jul 28, 2023 | News Story

Workers at Grindr, the company behind the largest LGBTQIA+ dating app, have announced the formation of Grindr United-CWA after a supermajority of the eligible members signed union representation ca

Aug 7

On Monday, August 7, Starbucks Workers are leading a national day of action and WE NEED YOUR HELP! Across the country, we are asking allies to "Adopt A Store" and flyer customers, requesting they sign our "No Contract, No Coffee" pledge of support. 

Jul 21, 2023 | News Story

More than 600 food and beverage workers at the Barclays Center reached a tentative agreement with their employer this week for a new contract that would expand health-care eligibility, raise wages and allow some workers to start receiving tips.

Jul 21, 2023 | News Story

Workers at the Children’s Law Center, members of A Better CLC/UAW Local 2325, held a limited 3-day strike this week, with workers returning to the office on Thursday as an act of good faith.

Jul 21, 2023 | News Story

The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) is proud to announce the ratification of the Bus & Truck Touring Agreement with an overwhelming 86% of votes cast in favor.

Jul 21, 2023 | News Story

As thousands of UPS Teamsters practice picket, rally, and mobilize around the country, UPS bowed this week to the overwhelming show of Teamster unity and reached out to the union to resume negotiations.

Jul 18, 2023 | News Story

The decision to go on strike is never an easy one, but working people deserve fair wages & benefits, as well as dignity & respect on the job.

Please see below for how you can show your support for workers currently on strike around NYC.

Jul 14, 2023 | News Story

SAG-AFTRA, the union representing 160,000 television and movie actors, has announced a strike for the first time in 43 years after negotiations with studios over a new contract collapsed, with streaming services and artificial intelligence at the center of the standoff.