Pension Deadline June 1

Virtual sign-ups for the Maryland Backstretch Pension Plan have been a success the last three years and continue to be available with a deadline of June 1, 2023 at backstretchpension.com.

Those employed in the care of horses on the backstretch at Laurel Park, Pimlico or the Fair Hill Training Center, including trainers, are eligible to participate. However, the eligible employee must have worked a minimum of 1,000 hours during 2022 and provide documentation to that effect (with a W-2 or 1099 form, or tax return).

Benefits become available when the employee reaches the age of 65, or at age 55 with 25 years of service. More about about the program, including qualifications, is available at: https://mdhorsemen.com.

Given the large number of people that sign up each year, you are encouraged to take advantage of the online signup portal at www.backstretchpension.com. The easy-to-use form is available in English and Spanish.

‍