Assignment 1
Weight: 10% of your final grade
Due: After completing Unit 1
Note: Assignment 1 has a total of 100 marks
Instructions: Answer all questions in complete sentences; be thorough but concise. Use your own words and, where applicable, cite any references appropriately, including page numbers. Upload your completed assignment as a Word document on the Assignment 1 page. If you encounter difficulties preparing this assignment, contact your Academic Expert through the Student Support Centre.
Part A – Short answer (35 marks)
Answer the following questions. These should be answered in a sentence or two, or a short paragraph. Answers must be complete and clearly labeled by question number.
1. What are the three legs of the “three-legged stool” for retirement systems in Canada? According to the assigned reading, why are all three “legs” necessary? (5 marks)
2. Describe one benefit and one drawback of employer-sponsored pension plans from each of the following perspectives: the government, employees, and employers. (10 marks)
3. What is the principal difference between defined benefit (DB) and defined contribution (DC) pension plans? (5 marks)
4. How do the pros and cons associated with a defined benefit plan vary depending whether you are the employer or employee? (5 marks)
5. Explain the difference between the aims of the regulations established by the provinces (pension standards legislation) and that contained in the Income Tax Act for pension plans. (5 marks)
6. ABC, Inc. is setting up a pension plan for its employees. There are 50 employees located at the company’s headquarters in Toronto, 100 employees at the manufacturing plant near Edmonton, and 75 employees at the distribution centre in Vancouver. In which jurisdiction should ABC, Inc. register its pension plan? Why? (5 marks)
