Can I sign over my benefits?

No, the pension plan contains provisions prohibiting any assignment, sale or attachment of this pension benefit. It cannot be used as security or collateral for a loan.

There are however limited exceptions to this rule as noted in the two circumstances noted below, where a Court Order or Matrimonial Property Order or Agreement may be issued to assign or attach part of your pension entitlement benefit.

1. The Employment Pension Plans Act contains specific rules for dividing pensions on marriage breakdown. The Act gives your ex-spouse the right to have their share of up to 50% of your pension transferred out of the pension plan at the time of a marriage breakdown. You should consult a lawyer about your rights and responsibilities in the event of a marriage breakdown.
2. The Maintenance Enforcement Act contains provisions that provide for the potential attachment of an individual's entitlement if they have unpaid child maintenance payments.