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Pension Plan NYC – How to Secure Your Retirement in the Big Apple

Planning for retirement is essential, and having a secure pension plan in place can provide peace of mind. In New York City (NYC), residents have access to a comprehensive pension plan that offers a range of benefits and options. Whether you’re a city employee or a private citizen, understanding the ins and outs of the NYC pension plan can help you make informed decisions for your future.

One of the key features of the NYC pension plan is the annuity and investment options it provides. An annuity is a financial product that pays out a fixed sum of money to an individual at regular intervals, typically during retirement. By contributing to the pension plan, individuals can build up a substantial amount of money over time, which can then be used to purchase an annuity that guarantees a steady income stream in retirement.

Another important aspect of the NYC pension plan is the employer and employee contributions. Both the city and its employees make regular contributions to the plan, which helps to ensure its sustainability. These contributions are invested in a diverse portfolio of assets, such as stocks, bonds, and real estate, to generate returns that can fund the pension benefits.

When it comes to retirement, security is crucial. The NYC pension plan offers a high level of security, as it is managed by a professional team of experts who are responsible for safeguarding the fund and ensuring its long-term viability. Additionally, the plan is backed by the city’s financial resources, providing an extra layer of protection for participants.

Pension Plan NYC: An Overview

The pension plan provided by the city of New York, known as the NYC Retirement System, offers a range of benefits to its employees to support their retirement years. This plan is designed to provide financial security and peace of mind for individuals and their families as they transition from their working years to retirement.

Retirement Benefits

The NYC pension plan offers retirement benefits to employees who have met the eligibility requirements. These benefits are based on a formula that takes into account an employee’s years of service and salary history. The plan provides a monthly benefit to eligible retirees, ensuring a stable income throughout their retirement years.

Annuity Contributions

Employees participating in the NYC pension plan make contributions towards their future retirement by regularly contributing a percentage of their salary. These contributions are pooled together and invested to generate returns over time, which are then used to fund the retirement benefits paid out to retirees.

The NYC Retirement System manages these contributions and invests them in a diversified portfolio of assets, including stocks, bonds, and real estate. This investment strategy aims to grow the assets of the pension plan over the long term, ensuring the sustainability of the plan and its ability to meet the retirement needs of its members.

Security and Plan Governance

The NYC pension plan is governed by a board of trustees, which includes representatives from both the employees and the city administration. This board is responsible for overseeing the management of the plan and ensuring its financial stability and sustainability.

The plan is designed to provide a secure and reliable source of income during retirement, offering employees a sense of financial security and peace of mind. The contributions made to the plan are carefully managed and invested to generate returns, which are then used to provide retirement benefits to eligible members.

Summary

The NYC pension plan is a comprehensive retirement plan that provides financial security to employees of the city. Through regular contributions and careful investment management, the plan ensures the sustainability of retirement benefits paid out to eligible retirees. With its focus on security and long-term growth, the NYC pension plan offers a reliable and stable source of income during retirement, helping individuals and their families enjoy their golden years with peace of mind.

Retirement Benefits Annuity Contributions Security and Plan Governance
Based on years of service and salary history Regular contributions from employees Governed by a board of trustees
Provides a monthly benefit Contributions pooled and invested Ensures financial stability and sustainability

What is a Pension Plan?

A pension plan is a retirement investment arrangement that provides individuals with a steady income during their retirement years. It is designed to help individuals save and invest money for their post-work years, offering financial security and peace of mind.

One of the key elements of a pension plan is the annuity, which is a fixed sum of money that is paid to an individual on a regular basis, usually monthly or annually. This annuity is calculated based on various factors, including the individual’s age, years of service, and contributions made to the plan.

Individuals enrolled in a pension plan make regular contributions to the plan throughout their working years. These contributions are often made through payroll deductions and can be matched by the employer. The contributions are invested by the plan to generate returns and grow over time.

Upon reaching retirement age, individuals are eligible to start receiving the pension benefit. This benefit is typically paid as a series of regular payments, providing retirees with a steady stream of income to cover their living expenses.

One of the key advantages of a pension plan is its focus on long-term financial security. By contributing regularly and taking advantage of the employer’s contributions, individuals can build a substantial retirement fund over time.

Pension plans also provide individuals with the benefit of professional investment management. The plan’s administrators are responsible for investing the contributions in a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, and other assets, aiming to maximize returns while managing risk.

Overall, a pension plan offers individuals the opportunity to save and invest for retirement, providing a reliable source of income and financial security in their later years. It is an essential tool for ensuring a comfortable and worry-free retirement.

The Importance of a Pension Plan

A pension plan is an essential component of financial security for individuals in retirement. It provides a stable source of income, known as an annuity, that ensures a comfortable and worry-free retirement.

One of the key advantages of a pension plan is its reliability. Unlike other forms of retirement savings, such as individual investments or contributions to a 401(k), a pension plan is a guaranteed benefit provided by an employer or the government. This stability ensures that retirees can rely on a consistent income stream throughout their retirement years.

Financial Security

A pension plan provides financial security in retirement by offering a predictable source of income. Retirees can plan their expenses and budget accordingly, knowing that they will receive a monthly benefit from their pension plan. This security allows individuals to enjoy their retirement without worrying about running out of money or relying solely on Social Security benefits.

Long-term Investment

A pension plan is a long-term investment that individuals make throughout their working years. Through regular contributions to the plan, employees build up a substantial retirement fund that will provide for them in old age. The pension fund is often managed by professionals who invest it wisely to grow its value over time, ensuring that retirees receive maximum benefits when they retire.

The importance of a pension plan cannot be overstated, especially in a city like NYC where the cost of living is high. It offers retirees the peace of mind that comes with financial stability and ensures that they can maintain their standard of living without worrying about financial hardship. A pension plan is a valuable benefit that employers should offer, and individuals should take advantage of, to secure their future.

Eligibility for the NYC Pension Plan

To be eligible for the NYC Pension Plan, you must meet certain requirements and participate in the plan by making regular contributions.

Contributions: As a member of the NYC Pension Plan, you will be required to make regular contributions towards your retirement. These contributions will be deducted from your salary and invested in the plan to provide you with a secure source of income during your retirement years.

Plan Options: The NYC Pension Plan offers various plan options, such as the Tier 3, Tier 4, and Tier 6 plans. Each plan has different eligibility requirements and benefits, so it’s important to understand which plan option is best suited for your individual needs.

Eligibility Requirements:

In order to be eligible for the NYC Pension Plan, you must meet the following requirements:

  1. You must be a full-time or part-time employee of the City of New York or a participating employer.
  2. You must have completed a minimum number of years of credited service, which varies depending on the plan option you choose.
  3. You must be at least a certain age, which also varies depending on the plan option.

Annuity Options: Once you are eligible for the NYC Pension Plan and decide to retire, you will have several annuity options to choose from. An annuity is a fixed sum of money paid to you on a regular basis, providing you with financial security in your retirement.

Secure Retirement Investment:

By participating in the NYC Pension Plan, you are investing in your future and ensuring a secure retirement. The plan is designed to provide you with a reliable source of income, allowing you to enjoy your retirement years without financial worries.

Types of Pension Plans in NYC

When it comes to planning for retirement, it’s important to understand the different types of pension plans available in New York City. A pension plan is an annuity that provides a monthly income to a retiree based on their years of service and salary. NYC offers several types of pension plans, each with its own set of rules and benefits.

One type of pension plan in NYC is the Defined Benefit Plan. This plan is based on a formula that calculates the retirement benefit using factors such as years of service and salary history. The retiree receives a fixed monthly payment for life, providing financial security during retirement.

Another type of pension plan is the Defined Contribution Plan. This plan allows employees to make contributions to their retirement savings, which are then invested by the plan administrator. The retiree receives a benefit based on the performance of their investment account, providing potential for growth and higher retirement income.

NYC also offers a Deferred Compensation Plan, which is a supplemental retirement savings plan. This plan allows employees to make pre-tax contributions to their retirement savings, similar to a 401(k) plan. The retiree can choose from various investment options, offering flexibility and control over their retirement savings.

Overall, NYC provides a range of pension plans to ensure retirees have options that fit their individual needs. Whether you prefer the security of a defined benefit plan or the flexibility of a defined contribution plan, it’s important to understand your options and make informed decisions about your retirement savings.

Benefits of Joining a Pension Plan

Joining a pension plan in NYC can provide numerous benefits for individuals looking to secure their financial future. Here are some key advantages of participating in a pension plan:

1. Investment and Security

By joining a pension plan, you have the opportunity to invest your contributions and grow your savings over time. With a pension plan, you can benefit from professional investment management, which can help you make informed decisions and potentially increase your retirement income. Moreover, pension plans offer a sense of financial security, as they provide a guaranteed stream of income during retirement.

2. Guaranteed Income

One of the main benefits of a pension plan is the ability to receive a regular income in the form of an annuity. An annuity is a predetermined amount that you are entitled to receive each month after retirement. This stable income can help cover your living expenses and ensure a comfortable retirement.

Additionally, unlike other retirement plans that rely solely on your personal contributions and investment returns, a pension plan typically includes an employer match. This means that your employer will contribute a certain percentage of your salary to your pension account, increasing your retirement savings even further.

Benefits of Joining a Pension Plan:
Investment and Security
Guaranteed Income
Employer Contributions
Long-Term Financial Stability

In conclusion, joining a pension plan in NYC can provide you with the opportunity to invest for your future, secure a guaranteed income, and benefit from employer contributions. These advantages can help you achieve long-term financial stability and enjoy a comfortable retirement.

Contributions to the NYC Pension Plan

Contributions to the NYC Pension Plan are essential for ensuring long-term financial security during retirement. As a participant in the plan, you make regular contributions to build up your pension and annuity. These contributions are carefully invested to maximize growth and provide a stable source of income in your retirement years.

Pension Contributions

Pension contributions form the core of your retirement benefit. As an employee, you contribute a percentage of your salary towards your pension. The exact contribution rate varies depending on your job title and years of service, but it is typically around 3% to 6% of your salary.

The contributions to your pension plan are deducted from your paycheck before taxes are applied. This pre-tax treatment allows you to lower your taxable income and potentially reduce your overall tax liability. It is important to note that any salary increases or promotions will result in higher pension contributions, further enhancing your retirement benefit.

Annuity Contributions

In addition to the pension contributions, participants in the NYC Pension Plan also make contributions towards their annuity. The annuity is a separate investment account that grows over time and provides an additional source of income during retirement.

The annuity contributions are typically a set percentage of your salary and are also deducted from your paycheck before taxes. These contributions are invested in a diversified portfolio of assets to generate growth and maximize the value of your annuity.

Both pension and annuity contributions are crucial for building a comprehensive retirement plan. By making regular contributions to both accounts, you are ensuring a secure and stable retirement income that will meet your financial needs and support your desired lifestyle.

Contribution Type Important Points
Pension Contributions Percentage of salary, deducted pre-tax, increases with salary
Annuity Contributions Percentage of salary, deducted pre-tax, invested for growth

Investment Options for Pension Plans

Pension plans in NYC offer a variety of investment options to help individuals secure their retirement benefits. These investment options are designed to provide income that will be used to support retirees after their working years.

One of the key features of pension plans is the ability to make contributions that will grow and provide financial security during retirement. The contributions made by both the employee and the employer are invested in various asset classes to generate returns over time.

One common investment option for pension plans is an annuity. An annuity is a financial product that provides a guaranteed income stream for a specified period of time or for the rest of a retiree’s life. This provides retirees with the security of knowing they will receive a regular income regardless of market conditions.

Another investment option for pension plans is investing in a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, and other securities. By diversifying investments, pension plans aim to minimize risk and maximize returns. This allows retirees to benefit from the potential growth of these investments while also ensuring a certain level of security for their retirement funds.

Pension plans also offer the option to invest in real estate. Real estate investments can provide a stable and reliable source of income through rental properties or the appreciation of properties over time. Investing in real estate can be a long-term strategy for pension plans to generate income for retirees.

It is important for individuals to consider their own risk tolerance and investment goals when choosing among the investment options available in their pension plan. By understanding and selecting the right investment options, individuals can maximize their retirement benefits and financial security in their golden years.

Investment Options Description
Annuities Guaranteed income for a specified period or life
Diversified Portfolio Investments in stocks, bonds, and securities
Real Estate Investments in rental properties or property appreciation

Calculating the Pension Benefit Amount

When it comes to planning for retirement, calculating the pension benefit amount is crucial. The pension benefit amount is the sum of money that an individual will receive during their retirement years. It is calculated based on various factors, including the annuity formula, pension contributions, and the retirement age.

Annuity Formula

The annuity formula is used to determine the pension benefit amount. It takes into account the individual’s years of service, final average salary, and a predetermined benefit percentage. The formula may vary depending on the specific pension plan in NYC, but it typically follows a similar structure.

Pension Contributions and Investments

The pension benefit amount is also influenced by the amount of contributions made by the individual throughout their working years. These contributions are often deducted from the individual’s paycheck and invested in the pension plan. Over time, these contributions grow through investment returns, which can increase the overall pension benefit amount.

It’s important to note that the pension plan in NYC may also have provisions for additional investment options, such as a 401(k) or 457(b) plan. These additional investments can further enhance the pension benefit amount.

Retirement Age

The retirement age is a critical factor in calculating the pension benefit amount. Most pension plans have a minimum retirement age, often referred to as the “normal retirement age,” at which an individual becomes eligible to receive the full pension benefit amount. However, there may also be provisions for early retirement, which can impact the overall benefit amount.

It’s essential for individuals to be aware of the specific rules and regulations of their pension plan in NYC to understand how the retirement age affects their benefit amount.

Factors Influence on Benefit Amount
Annuity Formula Directly determines the benefit amount based on years of service, final average salary, and a predetermined benefit percentage.
Pension Contributions and Investments Higher contributions and favorable investment returns can increase the overall benefit amount.
Retirement Age Impacts the benefit amount by determining eligibility for the full benefit and any provisions for early retirement.

By considering these factors and understanding the calculations involved, individuals can make informed decisions and effectively plan for their retirement years.

Retirement Age and Pension Benefits

When it comes to planning for retirement, understanding the retirement age and the pension benefits available to you is crucial. In the city of New York, employees can participate in the NYC Employee Retirement System (NYCERS), which offers a comprehensive pension plan for public employees.

The retirement age for most NYCERS members is based on a combination of age and years of credited service. While the standard retirement age for most members is 55 or 62, depending on the tier they belong to, there are certain positions that have different retirement ages. It’s essential to check with your employer or NYCERS to determine the specific retirement age that applies to you.

Pension Contributions

During your working years, you will make regular contributions to your NYCERS pension plan. These contributions are deducted from your salary and are invested to help grow your pension fund over time. The amount of your contributions depends on your salary and the tier you belong to.

It’s important to note that NYCERS also requires pension contributions from employers. These employer contributions help ensure the long-term security and sustainability of the pension plan.

Pension Benefits

Upon reaching the retirement age and meeting the required years of credited service, you will be eligible to receive pension benefits from NYCERS. The amount of your pension benefits is based on a specific formula that takes into account factors such as your years of service, final average salary, and tier.

NYCERS offers various pension options, including lifetime annuity payments, which provide a steady income stream throughout your retirement years. You may also have the option to choose beneficiary options that allow your pension benefits to be passed on to a spouse or other designated beneficiaries in the event of your passing.

It’s important to review your NYCERS summary plan description and consult with a financial advisor to understand your pension benefits fully. Planning for retirement and making informed decisions regarding your pension can help ensure financial security during your golden years.

Effect of Job Change on Pension Benefits

Changing jobs can have a significant impact on your pension benefits. Whether you participate in a pension plan offered by your employer in NYC or have an individual retirement plan, it’s crucial to understand how a job change can affect your investments and future financial security.

One of the primary factors to consider when changing jobs is the impact on your pension plan. If you are enrolled in a defined benefit pension plan, your benefits are typically determined by factors such as your years of service, final average salary, and a specific formula set by the plan. In some cases, changing jobs may result in the loss of certain benefits or a reduction in the rate at which your benefits accrue.

On the other hand, if you have a defined contribution pension plan, such as a 401(k) or 403(b) plan, the impact of a job change may be less significant. In these plans, your benefits are based on the contributions made by you and your employer, as well as the investment performance of your account. While changing jobs may require you to transfer your retirement savings to a new plan or roll it over into an individual retirement account, it generally does not affect the overall value of your investments.

Another consideration is the treatment of your pension annuity. An annuity is a stream of payments that provides regular income during retirement. If you change jobs, you may need to make decisions regarding the distribution of your pension annuity, including whether to take a lump sum payment or receive monthly payments. It’s essential to review the terms of your pension plan and consult with a financial advisor to make informed decisions regarding your annuity.

Overall, changing jobs can have both immediate and long-term effects on your pension benefits. Before making any career moves, it’s crucial to thoroughly review your pension plan, understand the impact on your retirement savings and future income, and seek professional advice if needed. By making informed decisions, you can ensure the security and stability of your pension benefits throughout your retirement years.

Impact of Job Change on Pension Benefits
Loss of certain benefits or reduction in benefit accrual
Need to transfer retirement savings to a new plan or IRA
Decisions regarding the distribution of pension annuity
Reviewing pension plan and seeking professional advice

Vesting and Vesting Period for Pension Plans

In retirement planning, vesting refers to the amount of ownership an individual has in their pension plan. It determines when an employee becomes entitled to the contributions made by their employer.

When participating in a pension plan, employees may be required to work for a certain period of time before they become fully vested. This is known as the vesting period.

During the vesting period, employees gradually earn ownership of the employer’s contributions to their pension plan. The longer an employee stays with the company, the more ownership they gain. Once an employee is fully vested, they have complete ownership of all contributions made by the employer.

Vesting is important because it provides employees with security and ensures they receive the full benefit of their pension plan. If an employee decides to leave their job before they are fully vested, they may only be entitled to a portion of the employer contributions or none at all.

There are different types of vesting periods for pension plans. Some plans have a graded vesting schedule, where employees become partially vested over a certain number of years. For example, an employee may be 20% vested after 2 years, 40% vested after 3 years, and so on until they are fully vested. Other plans have a cliff vesting schedule, where employees become fully vested after a certain number of years, such as 5 years.

It is important for employees to understand the vesting period for their pension plan and how it aligns with their long-term goals. Properly managing vesting and staying with a company for a certain period of time can lead to a more substantial retirement investment and annuity.

Overall, vesting in pension plans provides both employees and employers with security and a sense of stability. It ensures that employees receive the full benefit of their employer’s contributions and can enjoy a secure retirement.

Pension Plan Payout Options

When it comes to your pension plan, there are a few different payout options to consider. The benefit of having options is that you can choose the one that best fits your needs and goals for retirement.

One common payout option is to receive a lump sum payment. This means that you will receive the full amount of your pension plan in one payment. This can be a good option if you have other investment opportunities or if you have immediate financial needs.

Another option is to receive your pension as an annuity. An annuity is a fixed sum of money that is paid to you on a regular basis, typically monthly. This can provide you with a sense of security knowing that you will have a steady income throughout your retirement.

The NYC pension plan also offers the option to make partial withdrawals. This allows you to take out a portion of your investment while leaving the rest to continue growing. This can be a good option if you want some flexibility with your pension funds.

Lastly, you can choose to leave your pension plan untouched until a certain age. This delayed payout option allows your investment to continue growing until you are ready to start receiving payments. This can be a good option if you have other sources of income and want to maximize the amount of your pension.

It’s important to carefully consider your options and consult with a financial advisor before making a decision. Your pension plan is an important part of your retirement, and choosing the right payout option can help ensure your financial security in the years to come.

Tax Implications of Pension Plan Withdrawals

Withdrawing funds from your retirement plan in NYC can have various tax implications. It is important to understand these implications before making any decisions.

When you contribute to a pension plan, you typically receive a tax benefit. Your contributions are made on a pre-tax basis, meaning that you do not pay taxes on the money you contribute. This can help reduce your current taxable income and potentially lower your tax bill.

However, when you withdraw funds from your pension plan, the money is subject to income tax. The withdrawals are generally considered taxable income in the year you receive them. This means that you will need to report the withdrawals on your tax return and pay any applicable taxes.

Additionally, if you receive a lump-sum distribution from your pension plan, you may be subject to an additional tax penalty. The penalty is applied if you withdraw the funds before reaching a certain age, typically 59 1/2. This penalty is in addition to the regular income tax and can significantly reduce the amount of money you receive.

Alternatively, if you choose to receive your pension as an annuity, the tax treatment may be different. An annuity is a series of payments made to you over time. The tax treatment of annuity payments depends on various factors including your age, the source of the payments, and any investment gains.

It is important to consult with a tax professional and financial advisor to fully understand the tax implications of your pension plan withdrawals. They can help you navigate the complex tax laws and ensure that you comply with all requirements.

Overall, understanding the tax implications of pension plan withdrawals is crucial for planning your retirement and managing your finances effectively. By being aware of these implications, you can make informed decisions that help maximize your retirement benefits and minimize your tax liabilities.

How to Manage and Track Your Pension Plan

Managing your pension plan is an essential step towards securing your retirement and ensuring financial stability in your later years. With your NYC pension plan, you have the opportunity to receive a regular income, known as an annuity, during your retirement.

Here are some steps to help you effectively manage and track your pension plan:

1. Understand your pension benefits:

Start by gaining a clear understanding of the benefits provided by your NYC pension plan. Know the eligibility criteria, the amount you are entitled to receive during retirement, and any additional benefits you may qualify for. It is crucial to understand the terms and conditions of your plan to make informed decisions.

2. Monitor your contributions:

Keep track of the contributions you make towards your pension plan. Knowing the amount you contribute and ensuring it aligns with your financial goals can help you stay on track for a comfortable retirement. Consider increasing your contributions if possible to maximize your retirement benefits.

3. Review your investment options:

Many pension plans offer investment options to help grow your retirement savings. Take some time to review and understand these investment choices. Consider seeking professional advice to determine the best investment strategies based on your risk tolerance and retirement goals.

4. Keep your contact information up to date:

It is crucial to keep your contact information updated with your pension plan administrator. This includes your mailing address, email, and phone number. Regularly check your mail, emails, and notifications to stay informed about any changes or updates regarding your pension plan.

5. Regularly review your pension statements:

Review your pension statements and annual benefit statements when they are provided. These statements will provide you with important information about your pension plan, such as the amount you have accumulated, your projected retirement benefit, and any changes to your plan. If you notice any discrepancies or have any questions, contact your plan administrator for clarification.

By actively managing and tracking your pension plan, you can ensure that you are making the most of your retirement benefits and enhancing your financial security for the future.

Additional Resources for NYC Pension Plan

If you are participating in the NYC Pension Plan or considering enrolling, it is important to familiarize yourself with the various resources available to help you navigate this complex retirement investment.

1. NYC Pension Plan Website

The official NYC Pension Plan website is a valuable resource for all plan participants. It provides detailed information about the different pension plans available, including the benefits and contribution requirements for each plan.

2. Retirement Planning Tools

The NYC Pension Plan offers retirement planning tools to help you estimate your benefits and plan for your future. These tools include calculators that can help you determine your projected annuity and retirement income, taking into account your current contributions and years of service.

3. Educational Materials

The NYC Pension Plan provides a variety of educational materials to help you understand how the plan works and make informed decisions. These materials may include brochures, guides, and videos that explain the different investment options available to you and provide tips for maximizing your retirement benefits.

4. Online Account Access

Through the NYC Pension Plan website, you can access your account online to view your current contributions, check your vested benefits, and update your personal information. Having online access to your account can help you stay informed and make necessary adjustments to your retirement plan as needed.

5. Contact NYC Pension Plan Representatives

If you have specific questions or need personalized assistance with your NYC Pension Plan, you can contact the plan’s representatives directly. They can provide guidance on topics such as investment options, retirement eligibility, and distribution options.

By utilizing these additional resources, you can ensure that you are making the most of your NYC Pension Plan and working towards a secure retirement.

Q&A:

What is the pension plan in NYC?

The pension plan in NYC is a retirement savings plan that provides financial security to eligible employees of the New York City government.

Who is eligible for the NYC pension plan?

Most full-time employees of the New York City government are eligible for the NYC pension plan. This includes employees of various departments such as public safety, education, transportation, and administration.

How does the NYC pension plan work?

The NYC pension plan works by deducting a portion of an employee’s salary and contributing it to a pension fund. This fund is then invested, and the employee will receive a monthly pension payment upon retirement based on their years of service and average salary.

What are the benefits of the NYC pension plan?

The benefits of the NYC pension plan include a guaranteed monthly pension payment for life after retirement, a cost-of-living adjustment to account for inflation, and the ability to receive a pension at a relatively young age compared to other retirement savings plans.

Can I withdraw money from my NYC pension plan early?

No, you cannot withdraw money from your NYC pension plan early. The plan is designed to provide a steady income during retirement and does not allow for early withdrawals.