Serving You is written by Legion command service officers. To reach a service officer, call toll-free 1-877-534-4666, or consult a command website.

Canadian Armed Forces members are now being served by a new pension centre and website with self-service tools.

The Government of Canada Pension Centre (GCPC) at Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) now administers CAF pension plans for active members and employs personnel who are experienced and knowledgeable about CAF pensions. Beginning on Jan. 3, 2017, they will also administer the pension benefits for retired members and survivors.

CAF members can access the GCPC website for pension forms, general information and logging into the Secure Pension Web Application.

The goal of the GCPC is to process the first pension payment within 45 calendar days of the termination date. It is important that CAF members complete all paperwork in a timely manner to ensure they receive their payments as soon as possible.

It’s never too early to start planning for retirement. Transitioning from working takes careful planning and preparation. Planning ahead for your future will enable you to take control and feel at ease knowing that you are working towards an end goal.

What does this change mean for retired members and their survivors?

Retired members and their survivors or children will continue to receive pension payments as usual. Members will continue to have access to knowledgeable pension experts who can answer questions throughout the transition period.

During the weeks immediately prior to transition, the members may experience delays in some pension services. Essential services such as pension payments and the issuance of tax receipts will continue to be provided during the transition period but administrative services may be limited.

More information can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-267-0325, e-mailing pensioncentrecaf.centredespensionsfac@tpsgc pwgsc.gc.ca or visiting the website http://canada.ca/pensions-canadian-armed-forces.