Retired After 40 Years – No Clear Information About My Pension or Death Benefits

I recently retired at the end of December 2025 after approximately 40 years of municipal service and contributing faithfully to the SALA Pension Fund.

Only after my retirement did I discover that the majority of my retirement benefit would remain in the Fund and be paid to me as a monthly pension. This came as a complete surprise to me.

To date, I have not received written confirmation of:

The exact monthly pension amount I will receive

How this amount was calculated

What happens to my pension in the event of my death

Whether any beneficiaries, dependants, or children would receive any continuation or residual benefit

I do not have a spouse, and when I asked what would happen if I pass away, I was simply told that a spouse would continue to receive a pension. That does not apply to me, and no one has been able to clearly explain what happens in my situation.

I also did not receive proper retirement counselling prior to my retirement. I was not given a full written explanation of my benefit structure or the long-term implications before retiring. Learning about these matters only after I have already retired has left me feeling vulnerable and distressed.

After decades of service and saving, I expected transparency and clarity. Instead, I am left uncertain about my financial security and what will happen to my pension should something happen to me.

I am not disputing policy or law. I am simply asking for proper communication, written clarity, and dignity in the handling of retirement benefits.

I believe many retirees may be in the same position.