With the current volatility in the financial markets, members may be concerned about the security of their pension. CTPF pensions are secure. When members vest, they qualify for a lifetime pension, guaranteed by the Illinois Constitution. Pensions are determined by a formula, and do not change with market conditions.

"I want to assure our members that your benefits under our defined-benefit pension plan are safe,” said Carlton W. Lenoir, Sr., CTPF Executive Director. “During the past 130 years CTPF has weathered World Wars, the Great Depression, the Great Recession, and countless other challenges. The Fund has a proven, long-term investment strategy, which has returned 8.34% over the past 35 years. While market volatility may be upsetting, it’s important to recognize that CTPF invests prudently in a diversified portfolio designed to weather market volatility over the long term, even during uncertain times.”

CTPF utilizes professional fund managers to implement the Fund’s investment policy, designed to obtain the highest expected return on investments with an acceptable level of risk. The current volatility in the markets does not have an immediate impact on CTPF's funded status. CTPF's funded status is calculated by the Fund's actuary once a year using data as of June 30. Our current funded ratio, as of June 30, 2024, is 48.1%. Click here for the current actuarial report. The next Actuarial report will be available in the fall, following the close of the fiscal year.