Fact: Unfortunately, math and other administrative errors are all too common when it comes to calculating your pension benefits. And it’s not small change, either — these errors could send 20% to 50% of your pension into the trash basket!

Protect yourself and have your benefits reviewed by an independent pension consultant. The best one we've found is The National Center for Retirement Benefits in Illinois (800-666-1000; www.ncrb.com).

They’ll review, analyze, and — if need be — audit your pension plan participation to make sure you're getting all your benefits. Their fee is 20% of any additional money they find for you.  If they don't find any more money for you, you pay nothing.

More on protecting your pension benefits:

• Protect Your Pension Distribution
• How Taking an Early Retirement Will Affect Your Pension