2025/26 Maryland Backstretch Pension Online Signup Step-By-Step Process 

Online signups will once again serve as the primary method to enroll in the Maryland Backstretch Pension Plan. For the 2025/26 plan year, the program will receive a $1 million contribution, as approved by the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association Board of Directors.

Signup Period:
April 1, 2026 – June 1, 2026

Eligibility:
Backstretch workers and horsemen employed in the care of horses at Laurel Park, Pimlico Race Course, or the Fair Hill Training Center—including trainers—are eligible to participate.

Benefits become available at age 65, or at age 55 with 25 years of service. To learn more about program qualifications, please visit our website.

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 BOTH:

• A copy of your current MRC License (badge)

• A W-2, 1099, or tax return verifying your reported 2025 earnings

You may submit your documents using one of the following methods:

Option A
Upload the documents when you sign-up online (preferred).

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

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

Option D
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. 

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, 2026

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