The Standard Life Assurance Co. of Canada today announced the publication of the latest edition of its Summary of Pension Legislation. It has been updated to keep pace with changes in federal and provincial legislation affecting group pension plans in Canada.

First launched a decade ago, the Summary has become a valuable reference tool for Canadian organizations. It is the first in a series of publications, including the Comparison Chart for Capital Accumulation Plans, and Legislation matters. All three publications are intended for Standard Life’s clients who offer group retirement plans, but are also consulted by leading organizations such as universities, pension committees, unions, government agencies, industry associations and human resources consulting firms.

“As a pioneer in group pensions in Canada, Standard Life’s expertise is recognized and valued, and these publications are some of the steps we’ve taken to support our clients with their plan administration, governance and compliance,” says Anthony Cardone, Standard Life’s senior vp, group savings and retirement. “We are pleased with the response from so many organizations that tell us how they rely on the Summary. We are convinced that the Summary, as well as our other publications, provide very helpful and timely industry information in a reader-friendly format to many stakeholders.”

These publications are developed by Standard Life’s Legislation and Plan Governance team, comprised of pension experts who ensure to stay abreast of legislative developments in the area of retirement products.

Introduced in March 2008, the Comparison Chart for Capital Accumulation Plans provides a straightforward overview of the income tax rules affecting the various types of accumulation plans – Defined-Contribution (DC) pension plans, Group RRSPs, Group Structured RRSPs and Deferred Profit Sharing Plans (DPSPs). It also provides pension requirements of each jurisdiction for DC pension plans.

Standard Life distributed the first issue of Legislation matters in April 2008. This new quarterly, electronic newsletter tackles a range of topics, including changes in federal and provincial legislation, recent court decisions, best industry practices and commentary by Standard Life pension experts.