Modernizing the CSS Pension Plan: Key amendments

We are pleased to share that recent amendments to the CSS Pension Plan have been registered. These updates reflect our commitment to maintaining a modern, inclusive, and compliant pension plan that supports members through every stage of their careers and retirement. 

Expanded contributions for protected leaves 
The Plan now accepts contributions for all types of protected leaves, not just disability or parental leave. This ensures members can continue building their pension during any eligible leave period. 

Updated terminology: “Less-than-full-time employees” 
CSS now refers to “part-time employees” as “less-than-full-time employees.” This change aligns with most pension legislation and removes ambiguity around the term “part-time.” 

• Full-time employees of a Designated Unit must become contributing members of the Plan when they become eligible.  

• Less-than-full-time employees of a Designated Unit may choose to become contributing members when eligible. The exception to this is that in Manitoba, less-than-full-time employees must become contributing members when they become eligible. 

Each employer is responsible for defining “full-time” within their organization. Under CSS pension rules, any employment status that does not meet that definition is considered “less-than-full-time.” Less-than-full-time employees can include students, seasonal employees, term employees, and so on.   

Declining enrollment in certain jurisdictions 
We recognize that some jurisdictions allow members to decline enrollment in the pension plan under specific circumstances. For example, under Manitoba pension legislation, a member may decline enrollment for religious reasons. CSS will continue to respect and accommodate such jurisdictional provisions where applicable. 

Board-Directed Variable Benefit payments for Age 71+ members (Effective 2026) 
Beginning in 2026, CSS will implement a Board-Directed Variable Benefit for members who turn 71 in that year and do not make a retirement income decision by December 31, 2026. This ensures compliance with federal tax rules while allowing CSS to act in the best interest of non-responsive members. 

Plan Text modernization 
The Plan Text has been modernized to use gender-neutral language, correct typographical errors, and update terminology to better align with current pension standards. 

Why these changes matter 

These amendments support members through all life and career stages, ensure compliance with pension legislation, and improve clarity and inclusivity in Plan language.