Illinois’ Pension Systems – Visualized

Over the last few months, Pension360 has collected and analyzed the pension records of about 440,000 annuitants in the largest pension systems in Illinois and Chicago.

We used the data to create a visual “snapshot” of each system — a way to see benefit payouts in a different, simple light.

The resulting heat maps, which can be seen below, visualize how benefits are distributed amongst the state’s pensioners, system by system.

First, read the following instructions on how to read the maps:

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With the explanations out of the way, here are the heat maps of 14 of Illinois and Chicago’s largest pension systems (click any of the maps for enlargement).

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A few important notes: Members of the Chicago Laborer’s System, State Employees Retirement System and Illinois Municipal Retirement System are eligible for Social Security benefits. Members of all other systems are NOT eligible for Social Security benefits.

Maps include only pensioners with at least 10 years of service.

 Photo by Lu Lacerda via Flickr CC License