2024/25 Maryland Backstretch Pension Online Signup Step-By-Step Process 

Online signups will again be the primary means to participate in the Maryland Backstretch Pension Plan, which this year will receive a $1-million contribution as approved by the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association Board of Directors.

Signups will be available beginning April 1, 2025, with a deadline of June 1, 2025. 

Backstretch workers and horsemen 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. 

Benefits become available when the employee reaches the age of 65, or at age 55 with 25 years of service. To learn more about the program including qualifications click here.

Eligible participants should follow these steps to enroll in the program:

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

Step #2
You must submit a copy of your current MRC License (badge) AND  a W2, 1099 or tax return documenting the earnings you reported on the registration form for the calendar year 2023. You may do this in the following ways:

Option A
Email a PDF or a photo of the license and tax documents to info@mdhorsemen.com.

Option B
Text a photo of the documents to (443) 805-1995.

Option C
Drop off a copy of the documents in person at the MTHA Racetrack Office at Laurel Park. 

Please note, you are not enrolled in the program until you receive confirmation of your successful registration. At this time you will also receive a current statement if you have been enrolled in the plan for at least two consecutive years.

Call the MTHA office at 410-902-6844 with questions.

*The following categories of licensees are not eligible to participate: Owners (as opposed to owner/trainers); Security; Maintenance; Valets; Parking; Mutual Clerks; Vendors; Miscellaneous; Jockeys.

Deadline to signup is June 1, 2025

The Maryland Backstretch Pension Plan has rolled out an enhanced online platform designed to offer more flexibility and control for plan participants.

To get started, visit myplan.johnhancock.com or download the John Hancock Retirement app from the Apple App Store or Google Play and Click Register Now. 

You will need to enter your information, including the plan’s contract number 167724.

After creating a username and password, setting up security questions, and confirming your details, you’ll be able to explore the platform which offers a range of tools and resources to help make retirement planning simpler and more engaging.