Unionized workers often enjoy stronger benefit protections because benefits are negotiated and formalized through collective bargaining agreements. According toHuman Resource Management, 16th Editionby Gary Dessler,guaranteed pensions, particularly defined benefit pension plans, are typically more secure for unionized employees than for nonunionized employees.
Unions have historically prioritized retirement security and have negotiated pension plans that guarantee a specific retirement benefit based on factors such as years of service and earnings. These benefits are legally binding components of labor contracts and cannot be easily altered or eliminated by employers without union agreement.
In contrast, benefits such as merit pay, individual bonuses, and even 401(k) plans are more commonly used in nonunionized environments and are often discretionary or subject to market performance. Dessler explains that many employers have shifted away from guaranteed pensions for nonunion employees due to cost and risk, while unions continue to protect these benefits for their members.
Thus, the benefit that is typically more secure for unionized workers isguaranteed pensions.
Source:
Gary Dessler,Human Resource Management, 16th Edition, Chapter on Labor Relations and Employee Benefits
