How is the monthly benefit level calculated?

  • What is an Active Service Unit (ASU)? An Active Service Unit (ASU) is a factor used to calculate the monthly benefit level for an Eligible Retiree. The Trust will credit a participant with one ASU for each monthly $50 contribution that the Trust has received on the participant’s behalf over the duration of their career. For example, if the participant’s Association has negotiated a monthly contribution of $150, they will receive 3 ASUs for each monthly contribution.
  • What is the Unit Multiplier (UM)? The Unit Multiplier is a factor that the Trust uses to calculate benefit levels. The UM is set from time to time by the Trustees, with the help of a professional actuary, and is based on demographic and financial data.
  • How is the Eligible Retiree’s “benefit level” calculated? An Eligible Retiree’s “benefit level” is the maximum amount that they may receive in monthly reimbursement benefits from the Trust. The benefit level for each Eligible Retiree is calculated by multiplying the total number of ASUs they have accumulated by the Unit Multiplier, $0.80 effective April 1, 2025. The benefit level will change from time to time. See Appendix A for sample benefit level calculations.