The Vermont Defined-Benefit Pension Plan and Trust Agreement is a comprehensive retirement benefits arrangement provided to employees by the state of Vermont. It is a legal document that outlines the terms and conditions for administering the pension plan and managing the trust funds. This allows state employees to receive a reliable and secure retirement income. The Vermont Defined-Benefit Pension Plan and Trust Agreement ensures that eligible employees will receive a predetermined retirement benefit based on factors such as years of service, age at retirement, and average salary. The plan is designed to give employees a fixed income during retirement, easing financial concerns and enabling them to maintain a comfortable lifestyle. Key features of the Vermont Defined-Benefit Pension Plan and Trust Agreement include regular contributions from both the employee and the state government into the trust fund. These contributions are professionally managed and invested to ensure growth and adequate funding for the future retirement benefits of employees. The investment strategy is carefully planned to balance risk and reward, aiming to generate stable returns over the long term. The plan provides several options for retirement, including early retirement, traditional retirement, and disability retirement. Early retirement is available to employees who meet specific criteria, allowing them to receive reduced benefits before reaching normal retirement age. Traditional retirement benefits are provided to employees who meet the age and service requirements, typically around 65 years old with a certain number of years in service. Disability retirement benefits are available to employees who become disabled before reaching normal retirement age, ensuring financial support during challenging times. Vermont also offers different types of Defined-Benefit Pension Plan and Trust Agreements specific to distinct employee groups. These include plans for state employees, teachers, municipal workers, and other public sector employees. Each plan may have variations in eligibility criteria, benefit calculations, and contribution rates, tailored to meet the specific needs and circumstances of different employee groups. The Vermont Defined-Benefit Pension Plan and Trust Agreement ensures that state employees have a dependable and stable source of retirement income. It is designed to provide peace of mind and financial security for employees, who can plan for their future knowing that their retirement benefits are protected and backed by the trust fund.