Build a Stronger Future for Your Employees — and Your Business
A great workplace doesn’t just support employees today — it helps them prepare for tomorrow. A Defined Contribution Pension Plan (DCPP) allows employers and employees to invest in a secure, long-term retirement strategy that grows with every paycheque.
What Is a Defined Contribution Pension Plan (DCPP)?
A Defined Contribution Pension Plan is a registered retirement plan where both the employer and employee contribute a fixed percentage of earnings toward retirement savings. Contributions are invested, and the final value depends on the performance of those investments.
Unlike defined benefit plans, DCPPs provide cost certainty for employers and growth potential for employees, making them an increasingly popular choice among Canadian organizations.
At Workplace Benefits, we partner with Manulife, Sun Life, Canada Life, and Desjardins to deliver expert DCPP setup and management across Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario.
Why DCPPs Matter
For Employees
Builds a reliable, tax-advantaged retirement fund.
Provides visibility and control over investment choices.
Encourages consistent savings through automatic payroll deductions.
Helps achieve long-term financial security and peace of mind.
For Employers
Demonstrates commitment to employees’ long-term well-being.
Attracts and retains top talent with a competitive benefits package.
Enhances workplace loyalty and financial literacy.
A well-structured DCPP helps employees plan their future — and helps your company build a reputation for care and stability.
Types of DCPP Structures
Every organization is unique. Workplace Benefits helps you design a DCPP that fits your workforce and business model:
Employer-Matched Contributions
Employer matches employee contributions up to a set percentage (e.g., 3–5%).
Fixed Contribution Plans
Employer contributes a consistent percentage of employee salary.
Integrated DCPP + Group RRSP
Combine pension stability with savings flexibility.
Voluntary Employee Contributions
Allow employees to contribute additional funds for faster growth.
Our specialists ensure your plan complies with all provincial pension regulations while maximizing employee engagement.
What’s Typically Included
A comprehensive DCPP program may include:
Registered pension plan setup and administration
Employer and employee contribution options
Investment fund selection and management
Online member portals and financial tools
Tax-deferred investment growth
Employee education and onboarding support
Annual statements and performance reporting
Coordination with other group retirement savings (RRSP, TFSA, DPSP)
With transparent reporting and hands-on support, your DCPP remains compliant, cost-effective, and easy to manage.
How Workplace Benefits Works With Employers
Our proven process ensures your DCPP program runs smoothly from day one:
Assess
Review your workforce demographics and retirement objectives.
1
Compare
Evaluate options from top Canadian pension providers.
2
Customize
Design a DCPP tailored to your company’s budget and goals.
3
Support
Handle setup, compliance, and ongoing employee education.
4
As an independent employee benefits broker, Workplace Benefits provides impartial advice — ensuring you get the best value and performance from your retirement plan.
Why Choose Workplace Benefits
Independent Expertise
Independent brokerage with access to all major carriers
Tailored Solutions
Deep expertise in group retirement and financial wellness programs
Dedicated Support
Transparent, objective advice focused on long-term results
Cost Optimization
Seamless integration with existing benefits packages
National Reach
Dedicated support across AB, BC, and ON
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about employee health benefits
How does a DCPP differ from a Group RRSP?
A DCPP is a formal registered pension plan with employer and employee contributions, while a Group RRSP is a savings program without the same regulatory framework.
Are DCPP contributions mandatory?
Employer contributions are required under a DCPP, while employee participation can be mandatory or voluntary based on plan design.
How are contributions invested?
Funds are invested in professionally managed portfolios selected by the plan sponsor, with options for employees to adjust their risk levels.
Is a DCPP portable if an employee leaves?
Yes, employees can transfer their vested funds to another registered plan such as an RRSP, LIRA, or new employer’s pension plan.
What are the tax advantages of a DCPP?
Contributions are tax-deferred, meaning employees don’t pay income tax until they withdraw funds at retirement.
Get Started with a Defined Contribution Pension Plan
Help your employees invest in their future while keeping costs stable and predictable. Whether you’re introducing a new retirement program or reviewing your current plan, Workplace Benefits will help you design and implement a DCPP that works for everyone.
Workplace Benefits designs cost-effective employee benefits & retirement plans across Alberta, BC & Ontario—helping businesses protect teams, control costs, and retain top talent.