For many workers, a pension isn’t just numbers on paper—it’s a promise. It’s the security you’ve earned after years of showing up, working hard, and contributing to your workplace, retirement savings, and community. But for a lot of people, pensions can feel complicated or out of reach. Who’s managing them? Where is the money invested? And how do you make sure your retirement is protected?

The truth is, you don’t need to be a financial expert to take meaningful steps toward understanding and protecting your pension. Here are eight common next steps you can take right now.

1. Review Your Pension Statement

Imagine opening your most recent statement and wondering: What does all of this mean? Start by focusing on a few key things: your years of service, your contributions, and your projected benefits. This gives you a clear picture of where you stand.

2. Get Familiar with Your Plan Documents

Your pension plan has a set of rules (sometimes called a summary plan description) that lays out how the fund works, including contributions, eligibility, and benefits. The language can be technical, but it’s worth skimming so you know your rights and what benefits you’re entitled to.

3. Know Who Manages Your Pension

State public financial officers such as treasurers or comptrollers are typically on the board of trustees for state pension funds. Trustees are also elected by your local union members and appointed by your state Governor. Trustees are responsible for overseeing pension funds. Learning who they are—and how to contact them—can give you insight into how decisions are made. It’s also the first step toward holding them accountable.

4. Ask Questions at Union Meetings

If you’re in a union, those meetings are one of the best places to ask questions. What’s happening with the fund? Are there risks to watch for? Where are the investments going, and what safeguards are in place? Your voice matters. Don’t be afraid to ask.

Questions About Your Pension Fund

Use these to learn how your money is invested and what risks or opportunities may shape your retirement security.

How is our pension fund currently performing? What are its goals?
What types of companies or industries are our pensions invested in? Are there stewardship activities driving companies to transition to a low-carbon business model?
Are our trustees considering long-term risks, such as climate change?
What steps are being taken to ensure the fund’s stability for future generations?

Questions About Governance and Accountability

Use these to understand who’s making decisions, how those decisions are made, and how you can stay involved as a member.

Who are the trustees overseeing our pension, and how are they chosen?
What is the process for making major investment decisions?
How often does the pension board meet, and are meetings open to the public? Is testimony allowed?
Where can I find reports or updates about the fund’s investments and performance?
How can union members give input or raise concerns about investment choices and stewardship activities?
Are there trainings or workshops to help members better understand our pension?
How does the pension protect against potential conflicts of interest?

Asking the right questions can help you better understand your pension, advocate for its responsible management, and protect the retirement you’ve earned.

5. Stay Informed About Investment Choices

Some pensions publish information about their investment strategies. Take a look: Is your fund investing responsibly? Are climate-related risks or other long-term challenges being considered?

Understanding whether your pension invests responsibly, avoids excessive risks, and considers climate-related risks is critical to long-term security. The choices made today will affect your retirement tomorrow.

6. Track Policy and Legislative Changes

Laws and regulations can impact pension protections and funding. Stay connected with updates from your union or worker organizations that monitor these changes on your behalf.

7. Participate in Educational Workshops

Many unions and organizations host sessions to help workers understand their pensions. These workshops break down complicated financial terms into clear, useful information, and they’re often led by people who know what workers need. Attending can help you build confidence in navigating pension-related issues.

8. Connect with Advocacy Groups

You don’t have to do this alone. Worker-led groups and pension advocacy organizations are fighting to make sure retirement security stays strong. Joining or following them can give you resources, tools, and solidarity.

Your pension is part of the future you’ve worked hard for. Taking these steps today can help you better understand your pension, advocate for its responsible management, and protect the retirement you’ve earned.

8 Steps You Can Take to Understand Your Pension and Protect Your Retirement