QUESTION: How can I code a plan benefit which is a dollar amount per month of service, but based on the year in which the service was earned? For example:

Calendar Year	Dollar Amount
<= 1983	5.00
1984-1986	6.00
1987-1989	8.50
1990-1993	9.50
1994+	11.00

ANSWER: Use an Accrual Definition that is Basis x Cumulative Rate.

The Accrual Basis will be 12.

The Accrual Rates will be variable, with several rate tables:

Effective Date	Rate
1/01/1900	5
1/01/1984	6
1/01/1987	8.5
1/01/1990	9.5
1/01/1994	11

NOTE: The factor of 12 is necessary in the Accrual Basis since we entered monthly amounts in the Accrual Rates.