
The Pensions Appeal Tribunal is a crucial step in resolving disputes related to pension schemes. This tribunal is responsible for reviewing decisions made by the Pensions Ombudsman.
To appeal a decision to the Pensions Appeal Tribunal, you must do so within 28 days of receiving the decision. This time limit is non-extendable.
The tribunal will review the decision based on the evidence presented and may also take into account any new evidence that has come to light.
Filing and Submission
To file an appeal, you'll need to ensure the issue falls within the specified criteria and that the person making the appeal is eligible.
First, make sure the issue is one of the items listed under "What can be appealed". This is crucial, as if it's not, the application will be refused.
Next, verify that the person making the appeal is one of the individuals noted under "Who may appeal". If either of these criteria is not met, the application will be refused.
To proceed, you'll need to gather all the necessary documents. This includes the completed Application to Appeal, a copy of the Superintendent's final notice, any supporting documents, and the application fee of $500, which is non-refundable.
Here's a list of what must be filed:
- The completed Application to Appeal
- A copy of the Superintendent's final notice regarding the issue
- Any supporting documents to explain the reason or give evidence for the appeal
- The application fee of $500, which is non-refundable
All of these items must be submitted before the Tribunal will consider the appeal.
If you're unsure about the submission process, you can find the contact information for the Tribunal on the Application to Appeal form. This includes the address where you should submit the application.
Process and Timelines
To navigate the pensions appeal tribunal process, it's essential to understand the steps involved and the timelines that govern them.
You'll need to make an appeal to the Superintendent first, and only after they refuse to change a decision or notice can you appeal to the tribunal.
The timeline for appeal is crucial - if you miss the 30-day window, your appeal may be refused.

If the decision or notice is rescinded, the process is closed, and you don't need to take further action.
If the decision or notice is varied, you'll need to comply or appeal to the tribunal.
If the decision or notice stands, you'll also need to comply or appeal to the tribunal.
Here's a summary of the possible outcomes and next steps:
- If Decision / Notice is rescinded: Process is closed
- If Decision / Notice is varied: Party complies or appeals to the Tribunal
- If Decision / Notice stands: Party complies or appeals to the Tribunal
Decisions and Governance
The Pension Appeal Tribunal makes decisions on various pension-related matters. Decision 2022-01 was issued on August 30, 2022, in the case of the Board of Trustees of the Boilermakers' National Pension Plan (Canada).
The Tribunal has a governance framework in place, which includes the Alberta Employment Pension Tribunal Code of Conduct Agreement. This agreement outlines the expected behavior of Tribunal members and staff.
The Tribunal's Mandate and Roles are also outlined in a separate document, which provides clarity on its responsibilities and objectives. Additionally, the Tribunal follows a Decision Publication Guideline, which ensures consistency in the publication of its decisions.
Decisions
Decisions are final and binding, and there are specific steps that must be taken once a decision is made. If the decision is upheld, the Appellant must comply with the Decision/Notice.
If the decision is varied, a new Decision/Notice is issued by the Superintendent, and the Appellant must comply with the revised decision. This is a critical step in the process, as it ensures that all parties are aware of the updated decision.
If the decision is denied, the Superintendent rescinds the original Decision/Notice. This is a formal way of saying that the decision is being cancelled or withdrawn.
Tribunal decisions are also publicly available, providing transparency and accountability in the decision-making process. For example, Decision 2022-01 was issued by the Board of Trustees of the Boilermakers' National Pension Plan (Canada) on August 30, 2022.
Fillable PDF forms can be used to facilitate the decision-making process, but they may not work properly on all mobile devices and web browsers. If you encounter any issues, you can refer to a step-by-step guide or contact PDF form technical support for assistance.
Governance
The Alberta Employment Pension Tribunal has a clear framework for governance, which is outlined in the Alberta Employment Pension Tribunal Code of Conduct Agreement. This agreement sets the tone for the tribunal's decision-making process.
The tribunal's mandate and roles are established in the Alberta Employment Pension Tribunal Mandate and Roles document. This document provides a clear understanding of the tribunal's purpose and responsibilities.
The tribunal also has a guideline for publishing decisions, which is outlined in the Alberta Employment Pension Tribunal Decision Publication Guideline. This guideline ensures that all decisions are made publicly available.
Here are the key documents that govern the tribunal's decision-making process:
- Alberta Employment Pension Tribunal Code of Conduct Agreement
- Alberta Employment Pension Tribunal Mandate and Roles
- Alberta Employment Pension Tribunal Decision Publication Guideline
Opposition and Validity
The Pensions Appeal Tribunal process can be complex, but understanding the opposition and validity stages is crucial to navigating it effectively. If the application is refused, the appellant must comply with the original decision or take the matter to court.
If the application is accepted, the Superintendent is notified and the review proceeds. The appellant will need to submit supporting documents to explain the reason for the appeal.
To appeal a decision, you must first apply in writing to the Tribunal Chairman for leave to appeal. You'll need to set out why you think the tribunal was wrong on a point of law, and if the tribunal refuses you permission, you can apply directly to the relevant appeals body.
The application for appeal must include a completed Application to Appeal, a copy of the Superintendent's final notice, supporting documents, and a non-refundable application fee of $500.
What If I Oppose?
If you're not happy with the decision made by the tribunal, you can appeal it. If the application is refused, you'll need to comply with the original decision or go to court. If you think the tribunal made a mistake on a point of law, you can appeal to the Pensions Appeal Commissioners or Upper Tribunal (Administrative Appeals Chamber), depending on the type of decision you're appealing.
You'll need to apply in writing to the Tribunal Chairman for leave to appeal, explaining why you think the tribunal was wrong on a point of law. If the tribunal refuses you permission, you can apply directly to the Pensions Appeal Commissioner or Upper Tribunal.
For more insights, see: Pension Law Reform

Here are the next steps to take if you disagree with the tribunal's decision:
You can request clarification of the ruling within 30 days of the tribunal's final decision being issued.
Compensation Disclosure Files
Compensation disclosure files are publicly available, and you can download the Alberta Employment Pension Tribunal's compensation disclosure for the years 2022 to 2024.
There are instances where no disclosures were made, which is evident in the Nil Reports for 2021 and 2020.
You can access the compensation disclosure files for the available years, but it's worth noting that there were no disclosures for 2021 and 2020.
Time Limits and Rules
You have 28 days to appeal after the regulator sends you its review decision. This is a strict deadline, so make sure to keep track of the time and plan accordingly.
If you miss the time limit, you can ask for more time to appeal, but you'll need to explain why you're late and the tribunal will decide if it can still take your case.
To appeal, clearly say why you want to appeal against the decision and include any supporting documents, like the penalty notice and the review decision letter.
Here's an interesting read: Pension Review
Time Limits

You have a limited time frame to appeal a decision, and it's essential to know the specifics. You have 28 days to appeal after the regulator sends you its review decision.
If you miss this deadline, you can ask for more time to appeal, but you'll need to explain why you're late.
The tribunal will decide if it can still take your case, so be sure to provide a clear reason for your delay.
To appeal, you must clearly state why you're objecting to the decision.
Legislation and Rules
The right to appeal to the tribunal is outlined in section 44 of the Pensions Act 2008.
You can find more detailed rules on how your case will be handled in the General Regulatory Chamber procedure rules.
Plan Members and Exclusions
Plan members may not appeal to the Tribunal if they're in dispute with their plan administrator. This means they can't take their case to the Tribunal, but they do have other options.
Issues that can't be appealed to the Tribunal can be raised with the Alberta Superintendent of Pensions.
Plan members who are unhappy with their plan administrator's decisions may want to consider taking their case to court.
For your interest: Dc Pension Plan
Composition and Membership
The Pensions Appeal Tribunal is made up of four members who play a crucial role in making decisions on pension plans. These members are appointed through a formal process.
The Chief Appeals Commissioner and Deputy-Chief Appeals Commissioner are appointed by the Lieutenant Governor in Council. This is a formal appointment process that involves a high level of authority.
The Chief and Deputy-Chief Appeals Commissioners are key figures in the Tribunal, with important responsibilities.
The Appeals Commissioners are appointed by the President of Treasury Board, Minister of Finance. This is another formal appointment process that involves a different level of authority.
Here are the current members of the Tribunal:
- Mr. Mark Prefontaine, Chief Appeals Commissioner
- Mr. Ron Liteplo, Deputy-Chief Appeals Commissioner
- Ms. Lynn Andrews, Appeals Commissioner
- Mr. Dan Morrison, Appeals Commissioner
These members are responsible for making important decisions about pension plans, such as specifying the date of termination or ordering the payment of expenses.
What's Possible
Only certain issues can be appealed to the Tribunal, specifically those related to sections 136 and 145 of the EPPA.
You can appeal if the Superintendent has made a decision about administrative penalties on certain items.
Administrative Penalties
Administrative penalties can be imposed for a range of contraventions under the EPPA. These penalties can be imposed if you've contravened a prescribed provision of the Act, which includes sections 12-13, 17-19, 25-26, 34-46, 48, 51, 53, 55(3), 56, 64, 70, 74(3), 85, 103, 107, 120-122, 128(4), 130, 134(9), and 143(1)(b).
If you're facing an administrative penalty, you can appeal it to the Pensions Appeal Tribunal. To be eligible for an appeal, you'll need to have contravened one of the following: a prescribed provision of the Act, a prescribed provision of the regulations, or failed to file, provide, disclose, or make contributions within the required period.
You can appeal an administrative penalty if you've failed to file a required record on time, or if you've failed to provide information or a record to an authorized person within the required period. These are common grounds for appeal, and it's essential to understand your options.
The Pensions Appeal Tribunal can consider appeals for administrative penalties related to failing to disclose information to persons within the required period, or failing to make contributions to the pension fund on time. These are just a few examples of the many contraventions that can lead to administrative penalties.
Here are some examples of contraventions that can lead to administrative penalties:
- Contravening a prescribed provision of the Act
- Contravening a prescribed provision of the regulations
- Failing to file a required record on time
- Failing to provide information or a record to an authorized person within the required period
- Failing to disclose information to persons within the required period
- Failing to make contributions to the pension fund within the required period
Who Can Apply
If you're wondering who can apply to the Pensions Appeal Tribunal, the answer is anyone who's unhappy with a decision made by the Pensions Ombudsman.
You'll need to have received a decision from the Pensions Ombudsman, which is usually the first step in the appeals process.
The Pensions Ombudsman's decision is usually based on a complaint about a pension scheme or a decision made by a pension scheme administrator.
If this caught your attention, see: Pensions Ombudsman
Who Can
So, who can apply for this program? Well, it's not just limited to students. Anyone who has a high school diploma or equivalent can apply, as long as they're at least 18 years old.
Individuals with a disability may be eligible for assistance with the application process. This includes accommodations for written exams and other forms of support.
You don't have to be a U.S. citizen to apply, but you do need to be a permanent resident or have a valid visa.
Alberta Employment Pension

The Alberta Employment Pension Tribunal was established in 2014 to review certain decisions of the Superintendent of Pensions.
The Tribunal's purpose is to determine if the Superintendent's decisions align with the Employment Pension Plans Act (EPPA) requirements and intent.
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Alberta Employment Pension
The Alberta Employment Pension Tribunal was established in 2014 with the proclamation of the Employment Pension Plans Act (EPPA).
The Tribunal's purpose is to review decisions of the Superintendent of Pensions to ensure they align with the EPPA's requirements and intent.
The Tribunal was created to provide a mechanism for reviewing certain decisions made by the Superintendent of Pensions.
Alberta residents who are affected by these decisions can appeal to the Tribunal to have their cases reviewed.
The Tribunal's role is to ensure that decisions made by the Superintendent of Pensions are fair and consistent with the law.
Compensation Disclosure
The Compensation Disclosure section of the Alberta Employment Pension Tribunal's records is a valuable resource for those interested in understanding how the tribunal handles compensation.
You can download the compensation disclosure files for the years 2022 to 2024.
The tribunal releases these files annually, providing transparency into their compensation practices.
If you're looking for information on past years, you might be out of luck.
There were no compensation disclosures for the years 2021 and 2020.
Here's a quick summary of the years with available disclosures:
- 2022-2024: Compensation disclosure files available for download.
- 2021: Nil Report (no disclosures).
- 2020: Nil Report (no disclosures).
Specific Items
As you navigate the world of pensions, you may encounter situations where you need to appeal certain decisions made by the Superintendent. Let's take a closer look at specific items that are appealable under the EPPA.
If the Superintendent has imposed an administrative penalty, you may be able to appeal if you've contravened a prescribed provision of the Act or regulations. This can include failing to file a required record on time, or failing to provide information or a record to an authorized person.
Here are some specific examples of appealable items under Section 136 of the EPPA:
- Contravening a prescribed provision of the Act
- Contravening a prescribed provision of the regulations
- Failing to file a required record on time
- Failing to provide information or a record to an authorized person
- Failing to disclose information to persons on time
- Failing to make contributions to the pension fund on time
If you're dealing with a pension plan, you may be able to appeal certain decisions made by the Superintendent. For example, if the Superintendent refuses to register a pension plan or an amendment to the plan, or if they sever a portion of the plan text document, you may be able to appeal.
Suggestion: Individual Pension Plan
Here are some specific examples of appealable items under Section 145 of the EPPA:
- Refusing to register a pension plan or an amendment
- Severing a portion of a plan text document
- Revoking a registration of an amendment to a plan text document
- Withdrawing a consent and directing termination of a plan
- Directing the termination of a pension plan
- Making an order splitting liabilities and assets
Court Cases
The Pensions Appeal Tribunal is a crucial body that helps resolve disputes related to pension claims.
The Tribunal's decisions are based on the provisions of the Pension Schemes Act 1993, which outlines the framework for pension schemes in the UK.
The Act requires that pension schemes be registered with the Pensions Regulator, who ensures that schemes comply with the law.
In some cases, the Pensions Appeal Tribunal may need to consider the Pension Schemes (Northern Ireland) Act 1993, which has similar provisions to the Pension Schemes Act 1993.
The Tribunal's decisions can have significant implications for individuals and pension schemes, so it's essential to understand the process involved.
On a similar theme: Judicial Pensions and Retirement Act 1993
Frequently Asked Questions
How to appeal a tribunal?
To appeal a tribunal, read the practice direction and appeal guidance, then submit a completed notice of appeal form with supporting documents to the Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) office. Start the process by reading the full guidance to ensure a successful appeal.
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