Retirees

Just because workers are retired does not mean that they can’t still be proud, actively involved members of the United Mine Workers of America. Tens of thousands of retired coal miners continue to pay dues to the UMWA and remain a key part of the union.

Dues-paying retirees can vote in union elections and elect delegates to the UMWA’s Constitutional Convention. Their continued commitment to the strength and solidarity of the UMWA keeps our union one of the most united and militant labor unions in the United States and Canada.

The UMWA won the decade-long fight to secure pensions for tens of thousands of retirees and their spouses. Retired union coal miners were promised retirement benefits by the United States government as a result of the Krug-Lewis Agreement in 1946.

Latest News & Media View All ›

Nov. 5, 2025

A Lifetime of Service: A Final Interview with "President" Roberts

[Editor’s Note: As Cecil Roberts’ tenure as International President comes to a close on October 29, 2025, the UMW Journal…

Sep. 7, 2025

Retirees: In Memoriam Mike Veronis

The United Mine Workers of America lost one of its staunchest supporters during the devasting floods that roared through Wheeling,…

Jul. 29, 2025

Retirees

INTERNATIONAL AUDITOR/TELLER EMERITUS BOBBY BURCHELL   Robert “Bobby” Burchell began working in the mines for Cape Breton Development Corporation (DEVCO)…

Mar. 1, 2024

The Willow Grove Mine Disaster

The Willow Grove Mine Disaster, a tragic event etched in the annals of mining history, unfolded on a fateful day…

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Retiree's Role in History

“Some of the most impressive lobbying you’ve ever seen were UMWA retirees and those camouflaged t-shirts. They were the talk of Capitol Hill. UMWA retirees in $6 tee-shirts out lobbied K-Street lobbyists in $10,000 suits."

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Retiree's Role in History

“Some of the most impressive lobbying you’ve ever seen were UMWA retirees and those camouflaged t-shirts. They were the talk of Capitol Hill. UMWA retirees in $6 tee-shirts out lobbied K-Street lobbyists in $10,000 suits."

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UMW Journal

Retired? Not receiving your FREE UMW Journal? Give the International Office a call at (703) 291-2400 to be put on our mailing list! It's a great way to stay up-to-date with all things UMWA.

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UMW Journal

Retired? Not receiving your FREE UMW Journal? Give the International Office a call at (703) 291-2400 to be put on our mailing list! It's a great way to stay up-to-date with all things UMWA.

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Become a UMWA Activist!

Workers are struggling all across the world to fight for safe working conditions, fair wages, and decent benefits.  It is important for all union brothers and sisters to come together in solidarity. United We Stand! Fill out "Sign Up for E-mail Updates“, and you will be added to the UMWA Activist Team where you will receive the most up-to-date information about our Legislation, COMPAC, and other important UMWA information. We just need a little more information from you!

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Become a UMWA Activist!

Workers are struggling all across the world to fight for safe working conditions, fair wages, and decent benefits.  It is important for all union brothers and sisters to come together in solidarity. United We Stand! Fill out "Sign Up for E-mail Updates“, and you will be added to the UMWA Activist Team where you will receive the most up-to-date information about our Legislation, COMPAC, and other important UMWA information. We just need a little more information from you!

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