So you have to contribute to your D.B. plan? When union employees were allowed to participate, they had to contribute. Non-union employees did not (and still do not) have to. Our formula is based primarily on final average compensation during a certain period and years of service. While there is an on-line estimator, my exact benefit cannot be known because how much I make each year can never be predicted, especially since my yearly bonus can vary significantly.

We also have a great D.C. plan. The effective employer match is right around 20% of my contribution amount. It was 25% before I turned 50 and started making catch-up contributions.

If we had affordable health care in this country I might retire at the end of the year, at age 55. I have good coverage (including dental and vision) through work and don't pay a lot for it. That's a tough nut to give up.