2025/26 Backstretch Pension Contributions Posted to Accounts

Contributions for the 2025/26 Maryland Backstretch Pension Plan were posted to participants’ accounts in early November. Horsemen are encouraged to log in through John Hancock’s online platform to review their contributions, account activity and current balances.

The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association Board of Directors allocated $1 million to the program for 2025/26, which had 274 enrollees. The plan now manages $11.9 million in assets for horsemen, providing an important source of retirement security for Maryland’s backstretch workforce.

Established in 1988, the program helps eligible backstretch employees and trainers build retirement benefits to supplement Social Security. Its continued funding reflects MTHA’s commitment to the people whose daily work supports Maryland racing.

Review Your Account Online

Participants can access their accounts at myplan.johnhancock.com or through the John Hancock Retirement app. The platform allows participants to review account activity, monitor investment performance, select from available investment options and use retirement planning tools.

To register for online access, follow the registration prompts and enter the plan’s contract number, 167724. Creating a John Hancock account is separate from completing the plan’s required annual enrollment.

Plan Highlights

• No personal contributions required: Eligible participants receive a share of the annual plan allocation without contributing their own money.
• Benefits recognize service and earnings: Individual allocations are determined by a formula that considers qualifying years of service and eligible earnings.
• Full vesting after three qualifying years: Participants become fully vested after completing three qualifying years of service.
• Annual enrollment required: Participants must sign up each year between April 1 and June 1 to receive service credit for the previous calendar year. Registering with John Hancock does not replace this requirement.

Questions about individual accounts, posted contributions or withdrawals should be directed to Allison Bach at Pollard & Associates, 443-689-2549, or abach@pollardpensions.com.

For additional information about eligibility, enrollment and plan benefits, visit backstretchpension.com.

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