We are pleased to announce that effective January 1, 2026, any salary associated with “excess” or “overload” work that is paid at a member’s regular rate of pay will be applied toward their pension. Before January 1, 2026, members and employers received a refund of their contributions made on “excess” or “overload” salary.

“Excess” or “overload” refers to salary members earn at a regular rate of pay (not overtime) from service that exceeds 12 months in a calendar year.

This policy change has the potential to positively impact those members who receive “excess” or “overload” pay because it ensures that the member’s pension reflects their actual salary earned. By recognizing a member’s full earnings as pensionable, a member’s highest average salary (one of the factors used to calculate their pension) may increase, which means a higher pension in retirement.

Additionally, members will now benefit from their employer’s contributions on their full salary, rather than have a portion of those contributions refunded to the employer.

Why was this change made?

We made this change to ensure members’ pensions fairly and accurately reflect members’ time spent working. This change is in line with the salary policy of other BC public sector pension plans.

No actions are required by members.

Additional questions?

For more information, please contact the College Pension Plan or, if you’re an employer, contact Employer Operations.