Pension Signups Start April 1, 2026

Virtual sign-ups for the Maryland Backstretch Pension Plan have been a success the last few years and will again be available beginning in April with a deadline of June 1, 2026.

Those employed in the care of horses on the backstretch at Laurel Park, Pimlico Race Course or the Fair Hill Training Center, including trainers, are eligible to participate. However, the eligible employee must have worked a minimum of 1,000 hours during 2025 and provide documentation to that effect (with a W-2 or 1099 form, or tax return).

Benefits become available when the employee reaches the age of 65, or at age 55 with 25 years in the Plan. More about the program including qualifications is available at: https://mdhorsemen.com.

Please note that even if you have created an account through the John Hancock website or app, you still must complete your online sign-up form each year. 

The MTHA Board of Directors last year reaffirmed its support for the Backstretch Pension Program when it approved $1 million in pension funding for the program.

If you need assistance filling out the online form in English or Español, call Diana Pinones at 410-902-6844, Tom LaMarra at (859) 492-8365 or Jessica Hammond at (301) 776-0404.

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