Is my defined contribution plan from the union considered a 401k?

[DavidD66]

Perhaps.  A defined-contribution plan is a retirement plan that's typically tax deferred.  Examples include 401(k) and 403(b) plans. Under these plans, it is the contribution that is know, determined by what employees contribute, as either a fixed amount or a percentage of their paychecks, to an account that is intended for their retirements.  It is the contribution that is know, not the benefit in retirement.  These plans differ from Defined Benefit plans (Pension Plans) where the benefit in retirement is known, but the amount that the employer must contribute over time is not known.