### Question
How is the "a year of signatory service" defined?


### Answer
The term **a year of signatory service** is defined in *29 U.S.C. § 1396* as follows -

> a year during any portion of which a participant was employed for an employer who was obligated to contribute in that year, or who was subsequently obligated to contribute

#### Citation:
  - *29 U.S.C. § 1396*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 18-EMPLOYEE RETIREMENT INCOME SECURITY PROGRAM > SUBCHAPTER III-PLAN TERMINATION INSURANCE > Subtitle E-Special Provisions for Multiemployer Plans > part 1-employer withdrawals**

