Premium Rates

Flat-rate premiums

The per-participant flat premium rate for plan years beginning in 2016 is $64 for single-employer plans (up from a 2015 rate of $57) and $27 for multiemployer plans (up from a 2015 rate of $26).

The increase in the single-employer rate was provided in The Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013.  The increase in the multiemployer rate is the result of indexing.

Variable-rate premiums (single-employer plans only)

For plan years beginning in 2016, the variable-rate premium (VRP) for single-employer plans is $30 per $1,000 of unfunded vested benefits (UVBs), up from a 2015 rate of $24. This $6 increase reflects a $5 increase provided in The Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 plus a $1 increase due to indexing.

For 2016, the VRP is capped at $500 times the number of participants (up from a 2015 cap of $418). Plans sponsored by small employers (generally fewer than 25 employees) may be subject to an even lower cap. Multiemployer plans do not pay a VRP.

Years after 2016

All rates are subject to indexing for years after 2016.  There are no scheduled increases (other than indexing) for years after 2016.

Current and Historical information

PBGC's Pension Insurance Data Tables contain a complete history of premium rates.

Termination premiums

For certain distress or involuntary terminations, a special termination premium must be paid to PBGC for three years. For more information, see Termination Premiums.