In December 2025, we asked CSS members to participate in our annual member survey. Over 2,600 members participated between December 8 to 19, 2025. The survey was distributed by email directly to active members, retirees and inactive members.

Our goal was to better understand how members view their retirement readiness and the services, education and support CSS provides along the way.

Key insights

• Members have confidence in the CSS Pension Plan.

It was uplifting to see that 79% of survey respondents were either likely or somewhat likely to keep their pension funds with CSS once they retired.

On top of this, 41% said they were likely to transfer other registered retirement funds into CSS.

Together, these results suggest members see value in continuing their relationship with CSS into retirement, with some also considering bringing additional retirement savings into the Plan.

• Many members are uncertain about whether their retirement income will last.

While members show strong interest in staying with CSS, only 45% of respondents said they were somewhat or very confident they would have enough income to last throughout retirement. Another 21% were neutral or unsure, while 34% were somewhat or not confident.

These results provide important insight into how members view their own retirement readiness and where uncertainty remains.

• Members welcome a mix of self-service and professional guidance.

We strive to ensure members have the right information at the right time and in the right place. Knowing that adults lean toward a certain learning style, it’s no surprise that over 40% of participants prefer a mixed approach when planning for their retirement.

• Employers are a key connection point to CSS members.

Two-thirds of participants felt their employer was very or somewhat supportive when it came to supporting their financial wellness and retirement planning.

We value the role employers play in connecting their employees – our members – to the Plan. We see an opportunity to build on current initiatives. By improving our employer resources, we can help employers to better support their employees.

• Many members don’t yet fully understand their retirement income options.

Results show awareness of CSS’ retirement income options to be lower than expected. Here is a breakdown: 53% respondents are aware of CSS’ Monthly Pension option, 48% are aware of Variable Benefit (VB) payments, and 27% are aware of the combination option of Monthly Pension and VB payments.

However, awareness levels are directly tied to retirement. As a member moves closer to retiring, they become more engaged with their Plan. In turn, they become more aware of their CSS retirement income options.

Results also show lower levels of understanding of CSS’ retirement income options. Six out of ten participants noted they don’t understand their options.

Considering 64% of respondents were 55 and older, we plan to review how we educate members on their retirement income options and explore ways to improve outcomes.

• Members are thinking about the financial realities of retirement.

When asked about their biggest concerns once retired, respondents most often identified inflation and the cost of living (37%), followed by outliving their savings (22%) and not understanding their pension options (19%). Market volatility (11%) and lack of professional guidance (7%) were also identified.

These concerns help us understand where members may need information, planning support and guidance as they prepare for retirement.

The infographic to the right highlights some of the key results from the CSS member survey. For a closer look at the infographic, click your mouse on the infographic and it'll open in a new tab. 

We appreciate your input

As a member-owned co-operative, members have a voice in everything we do. One way to do this is by participating in our annual member survey.

Member feedback tells us what services, education, and support you’re aware of and using while on your journey to retirement journey. At the same time, it reveals which areas need improvement. We thank you for taking the time to give us your feedback in 2025.