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Latest News & Insights from Defined Plan Advisors

Monday, April 27, 2026

When global crises affect financial markets, it can be tempting to rethink your savings strategy. But history indicates that pulling money out of the markets during such times could mean missing out on any rebounds that follow.

Monday, April 27, 2026

Among people who choose not to participate in their employer-sponsored retirement plan, many cite a lack of understanding as the primary reason, according to recent surveys.

Monday, April 27, 2026

AI is now a copilot for everyday tasks, helping people with emails, meal planning, workout routines, and more. It's also impacting how participants approach retirement planning.

Monday, April 27, 2026

With the Department of Labor (DOL) declining to challenge industry groups’ motions for final judgment, the 2024 version of the fiduciary rule known as the Retirement Security Rule has been vacated.

Monday, March 30, 2026

Thinking about your savings in terms of future experiences, like travel or time with family, rather than material purchases, can help you start saving sooner, stay committed, and stick with your plan over time.

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Monday, March 30, 2026

The U.S. Department of Labor is backing employers in a key court case, signaling that using plan forfeitures to reduce future employer contributions, instead of covering plan expenses, can be a valid and compliant approach under ERISA.

Monday, March 30, 2026

A new bill introduced in Congress, the Form 5500 Filing Simplification Act, could extend the Form 5500 deadline for calendar-year plans from July 31 to October 15.

Monday, March 30, 2026

A new survey by Voya Investment Management finds that participants who invest in target date funds (TDFs) feel significantly more confident about their retirement savings than their peers who are not invested in TDFs. When asked...

Friday, February 27, 2026

Automatic enrollment, auto-escalating contributions, and target date funds can make saving feel almost effortless by quietly adjusting your contributions and investments over time.

Friday, February 27, 2026

When employees leave an organization, they face an important decision about their retirement savings. Do they leave them in their former employer’s plan? Roll them into an IRA or into their new employer’s plan? Or cash out? The...

Friday, February 27, 2026

Employees, particularly those early in their careers, are worried about their ability to handle major, unexpected expenses.

Friday, February 27, 2026

The ultimate proof of retirement plan participant success is in the results: whether the participant achieves a financially secure retirement.

Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Research shows people are more likely to stick with savings goals when those goals align with their personality traits, making “person-goal fit” a key driver of long-term financial follow-through.

Wednesday, January 21, 2026

New research shows 401(k) loans are primarily driven by cash-flow stress and major expenses like healthcare and housing, not discretionary spending.

Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Divorced, widowed, or never partnered singles can face retirement planning challenges that differ from their married or partnered peers. Findings from Nationwide’s latest Advisor Authority study highlight some of these potential challenges.

Wednesday, January 21, 2026

A House hearing highlighted sharp disagreement over whether increased ERISA litigation deters fiduciary innovation and mainly benefits trial lawyers or remains a critical tool for protecting workers’ retirement plans.

Friday, December 19, 2025

Most people don’t look forward to annual IRS announcements the same way they do the next season of their favorite Netflix show, but this one’s worth a look.

Friday, December 19, 2025

In 2025, there were only 42 such instances, and in 2020 there were fewer than 10. These dramatic single-day moves have captured headlines and contributed to a sense that markets are becoming more unpredictable.

Friday, December 19, 2025

New research has revealed some telling patterns in employee retirement plan contribution rates. According to PLANSPONSOR’s 2025 Participant Survey, nearly 4 in 10 participants said that – when choosing their rate – they simply stayed with t

Friday, December 19, 2025

The regulatory follow-through on SECURE 2.0’s paper-statement mandate is now entering its next stage. The 2022 law includes provisions affecting how benefit statements must be delivered.

Wednesday, November 26, 2025

When you think of the benefits of your retirement plan, tax-deferred savings and matching contributions are probably top of mind. But there’s more to your workplace retirement plan than meets the eye.

Wednesday, November 26, 2025

The Problem: Cash Out Leakage and Lost Accounts American workers now hold an average of more than 12 jobs over the course of their careers. During job changes, many end up cashing out small 401(k) balances and not rolling them into...

Wednesday, November 26, 2025

Access to an advisor tends to improve retirement confidence, according to a recent survey by the Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI). The Retirement Confidence Survey found that 83% of workers with advisory access feel confident...

Wednesday, November 26, 2025

According to Escalent’s 2025 Retirement Planscape study, more than half of plan sponsors rank cybersecurity as their No. 1 “plan fear,” ahead of poor investment performance (45%) and insufficient participant savings (43%). That concern...

Friday, October 24, 2025

As the year winds down it’s easy for spending to ramp up. From travel and celebrations to those endless online deals that pop up in your feed.

Friday, October 24, 2025

According to the 2025 Goldman Sachs Retirement Survey, 42% of Gen Z, Millennials, and Gen X are living paycheck to paycheck.

Friday, October 24, 2025

The IRS has finalized regulations under SECURE 2.0 that will impact how certain participants save for retirement.

Friday, October 24, 2025

New research from Fidelity highlights the increasing pressures many employers face as they work to guide employees toward a secure retirement.

Thursday, October 2, 2025

Retirement could often be seen as the “end of the road,” but that idea may not fit everyone. Your retirement could be a new chapter than a closing one.

Thursday, October 2, 2025

Prescription drug costs remain one of the biggest challenges for both employers and employees. The executive orders call for greater transparency and accountability in drug pricing.

Thursday, October 2, 2025

The Department of Labor (DOL) is asking for public input on how to support small businesses that want to adopt pooled employer plans (PEPs), a signal that regulators see these arrangements as one way to help close the coverage gap.

Thursday, October 2, 2025

Markets have been flirting with record highs on a regular basis, but not all employees are riding the wave toward retirement readiness.

Tuesday, September 2, 2025

Your retirement plan may allow you to borrow from your account—but before you do, it’s important to understand how it can impact your future savings.

Tuesday, September 2, 2025

A recent Supreme Court ruling has changed the rules of the game for retirement plan lawsuits — and it could make life more challenging for plan sponsors.

Tuesday, September 2, 2025

According to the 2024 DC PLANSPONSOR Benchmarking Report, only 2.2% of plan sponsors include any alternative investments whatsoever within their 401(k)s. That number may soon begin to shift.

Tuesday, September 2, 2025

For many Americans over 50, retirement timelines have become a moving target, with increasing numbers now planning to stay employed longer due to economic uncertainties.

Monday, July 28, 2025

Things may not be as bleak as they are often painted. Retirement plan consultants suggest three ways that anyone can use to help them retire.

Monday, July 28, 2025

To understand how to change communication strategies, look first at the generational preferences for each age group and then how a plan sponsor can adjust messaging.

Monday, July 28, 2025

Plan sponsors have an opportunity to support more informed, context-aware decision-making by helping to address outside contextual forces.

Monday, July 28, 2025

Plan sponsors have a critical opportunity to support late-career workers’ retirement planning efforts by providing relevant tools and communication strategies that help them make more informed choices.

Thursday, June 26, 2025

Starting a brand-new new job is exciting and full of a lot of new benefits, but don’t forget about the retirement plan you left behind.

Thursday, June 26, 2025

One way to adjust your plan design is by “stretching the match.” This is a high-impact, low-cost tool that can boost contribution rates among your organization.

Thursday, June 26, 2025

As rising interest rates have reshaped pension funding dynamics post-COVID, many corporate defined benefit (DB) plans are now experiencing significant surpluses.

Thursday, June 26, 2025

Here are ways plan sponsors can help prevent their youngest workers from experiencing financial FOMO by sitting on the sidelines of their employer-sponsored retirement plan.

Tuesday, May 27, 2025

Each decade comes with different goals, but understanding the difference can help you be prepared for when your retirement comes around.

Tuesday, May 27, 2025

Threats of financial penalties and legal liabilities heighten the need for proper compliance. Let’s go over the basics of what it means to be a fiduciary in an organization’s retirement plan.

Tuesday, May 27, 2025

Several law firms have recently challenged vesting schedules, arguing that using forfeitures to offset employer contributions is not in the best interests of participants or beneficiaries.

Tuesday, May 27, 2025

TDF glide paths have traditionally been based on a single consideration: the participant’s projected date of retirement. Managed accounts may be more beneficial in the long run for participants.

Friday, April 25, 2025

For many workers, early retirement is the ultimate goal — carefree days filled with road trips, golf, or time spent with friends and family. Yet, reality often tells a different story.

Friday, April 25, 2025

Achieving a successful retirement doesn’t have to be complicated. By following a few basic steps, you could set yourself up for long-term financial security.

Friday, April 25, 2025

Despite the market turbulence, financial experts continue to advise retirement plan investors to “stay the course” rather than react impulsively.

Friday, April 25, 2025

A growing number of workers are raiding their employer-sponsored retirement plans to cover emergency expenses, highlighting an alarming trend in employee retirement security.

Friday, March 21, 2025

Achieving a comfortable and secure retirement requires careful planning and disciplined financial habits.

Friday, March 21, 2025

A recent Fidelity report reveals that over 80% of plan sponsors prefer to allow employees to keep their assets in-plan and withdraw them over time.

Friday, March 21, 2025

A vast majority of investors fail to take even small steps toward securing their financial future. For plan sponsors, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity.

Friday, March 21, 2025

How well are you leveraging small data available right within your own organization?

Thursday, February 20, 2025

As tax laws evolve and personal financial situations change, it's essential to stay informed about strategies that can help minimize your tax burden.

Thursday, February 20, 2025

Amazon and the administrative committee overseeing its 401(k) savings plan have been hit with a class-action lawsuit alleging improper management of employee forfeiture funds.

Thursday, February 20, 2025

Understanding the unique challenges of improving part-time participants’ retirement readiness, and how their needs may differ from those of full-time employees, is essential for sponsors.

Thursday, February 20, 2025

Providing tools and resources tailored to this generation’s needs can play a crucial role in helping them take meaningful and measurable steps toward retirement readiness

Thursday, January 23, 2025

Leveraging a plan match is one of the easiest ways to boost financial wellness. With over 50% of employers offering some level of matching, it’s an opportunity you don’t want to miss.

Thursday, January 23, 2025

A technical update on the deadlines for premium payments for pension plans with plan years beginning in 2025 and later was issued by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC).

Thursday, January 23, 2025

Understanding cognitive biases can help explain why workers forfeit free money — and highlight strategies to help.

Thursday, January 23, 2025

The GAO report emphasizes that while cryptocurrency assets remain a small portion of the 401(k) landscape, they carry significant risk.

Monday, December 30, 2024

The following actions will assist you in reaching financial success in 2025 and beyond.

Monday, December 30, 2024

According to a recent release, the Portability Services Network (PSN) has now grown to include three additional providers, covering over 15,000 retirement plans and 5 million members.

Monday, December 30, 2024

The Supreme Court has again declined to address whether ERISA disputes can be resolved through arbitration, leaving plan sponsors with more questions than answers.

Monday, December 30, 2024

The DOL and IRS released a statement in detailing disaster relief measures for employee benefit plans, participants and sponsors affected by hurricanes.

Tuesday, December 3, 2024

For a fun retirement related activity to give to participants during this winter season, send them this word search!

Tuesday, December 3, 2024

While some see hardship withdrawals as a risk to retirement balances, a recent study found that participant contribution rates tend to remain stable before and after taking loans or withdrawals.

Tuesday, December 3, 2024

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) recently released voluntary guidance emphasizing the importance of ethical and transparent use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace.

Tuesday, December 3, 2024

Employees can easily latch onto media-hyped, generalized one-size-fits-all numbers without a clear understanding of whether those figures align with their personal financial circumstances.

Friday, October 25, 2024

Here are a handful of tips that can alleviate any financial burdens you may face during the upcoming holiday season.

Friday, October 25, 2024

Many plan sponsors focus on external cybersecurity threats, such as hackers attempting to breach their systems, but disgruntled employees can also pose a risk.

Friday, October 25, 2024

Employers can play a critical role in helping to guide their workforce through changing economic conditions by providing tools and personalizing communications.

Friday, October 25, 2024

Increased 401(k) balances may cause financial overconfidence, leading some to misuse them for emergencies instead of seeking other cash flow solutions.

Wednesday, October 16, 2024

With Labor Day behind us, we're in the final stretch of the 2024 presidential election race. As we follow the news and parse the most recent polls, some may ask, "How might what happens on November 5 impact my finances?” As financial...

Friday, September 27, 2024

Retirement planning can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Check out this crossword puzzle to help you learn important terms and concepts in a fun and engaging way.

Friday, September 27, 2024

Smaller 401(k) plans pay more per participant due to fixed costs, while larger plans benefit from economies of scale even with greater total costs.

Friday, September 27, 2024

To help ease the financial burden of student loans, employers are increasingly offering a match toward student loan repayments as an employee benefit.

Friday, September 27, 2024

Healthcare expenses are unpredictable, underestimated — and this wild card can disrupt an otherwise carefully planned retirement, leaving many seniors vulnerable.

Tuesday, September 3, 2024

Employers use a variety of match formulas to determine contribution, but we have highlighted 4 common scenarios that show the importance of knowing the facets of your retirement plan.

Tuesday, September 3, 2024

It is crucial for plan sponsors to understand the difficulties that HR and benefit departments encounter daily, and to avoid compromising their fiduciary duties to these workers.

Tuesday, September 3, 2024

Alarming mental health statistics underscore the critical need for employers to prioritize financial wellness programs as part of a holistic benefits offering.

Tuesday, September 3, 2024

SECURE 2.0 includes significant provisions for individuals experiencing domestic violence, an issue that has affected millions across the U.S.

Friday, July 26, 2024

The average person is likely unfamiliar with the term “TDF” however it is the most utilized and fastest-growing investment option in an employer-sponsored retirement plan.

Friday, July 26, 2024

With participants thinking erroneously that there is a guaranteed paycheck built into their retirement plan, the production of an “Income Target Date Fund” has grown exponentially.

Friday, July 26, 2024

Many advisors recommend saving 15% of pre-tax earnings, including any employer match, to prepare for a secure retirement — but to accomplish this, timing is crucial.

Friday, July 26, 2024

A recent survey from market intelligence firm Cerulli Associates highlights a striking disparity in the financial wellness space.

Friday, June 21, 2024

Many people often find that they know far less about their retirement plan than they thought. Test yourself and see how much you know about your financial future.

Friday, June 21, 2024

Retirement funds are a target for cybersecurity attacks and identity fraud more than ever before. For most people, their retirement account is one of their biggest assets and they rarely check it. This makes these accounts a prime...

Friday, June 21, 2024

A troubling trend has emerged in the retirement planning space: The “magic number” — or amount of money Americans believe they need to retire comfortably — has surged to an all-time high, even as actual retirement savings have declined...

Friday, June 21, 2024

Beneficiary designations are a critical yet often neglected aspect of retirement plans. Many participants mistakenly believe that their retirement plan assets will be distributed according to their will or trust. However, retirement...

Thursday, May 30, 2024

How do you know if you’re saving enough right now if you don’t know how much you’ll need in your retirement?

Thursday, May 30, 2024

Many women support reinstating pension programs and government aid to reduce long-term care costs in retirement due to their heightened financial challenges.

Thursday, May 30, 2024

Plan sponsors have the opportunity to implement strategies to increase financial security for Peak Boomers beginning to enter retirement.

Thursday, May 30, 2024

To help address racial disparities in retirement readiness, there are several strategies sponsors can implement.

Monday, May 6, 2024

Health savings accounts (HSAs) have surged in popularity over the years. You may have encountered them, possibly as part of the benefits offered by your workplace.

Monday, May 6, 2024

While some Millennials hope to retire at age 65, many see retirement as a stage of greater freedom in their lives rather than a total absence from the workforce.

Monday, May 6, 2024

A company’s retirement plan can be leveraged as a powerful tool to help increase engagement and combat many of the negative sentiments among today’s workers.

Monday, May 6, 2024

For plan sponsors, current market and economic conditions present a pressing imperative to educate participants on alternative strategies to help effectively manage debt and budgeting challenges.

Tuesday, March 26, 2024

Regardless of this new chapter in life, there's the looming presence of taxes. If you’ve followed the advice of advisors, participants should be saving in tax-advantaged retirement accounts.

Tuesday, March 26, 2024

The Automatic IRA Act of 2024 requires companies with more than ten workers to automatically enroll their workers in automatic contribution plans if they do not currently offer a retirement plan.

Tuesday, March 26, 2024

Effective, empathic communications help build a foundation of trust and confidence in the plan benefits — and the employer.

Tuesday, March 26, 2024

Given the popularity of TDFs, plan sponsors should help ensure participants understand how they work to maximize their potential benefits and avoid common missteps.

Friday, February 23, 2024

A secure and happy retirement requires careful planning and is a well-constructed process. Here are seven things you should know to strengthen your retirement strategy.

Friday, February 23, 2024

Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA), the Ranking Member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, and Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of that committee, introduced the Helping Young Americans Save for...

Friday, February 23, 2024

The Silver Tsunami is headed ashore, as “Peak 65” is expected to usher in an average of 11,000 retirement age Americans daily through the end of 2024 — the highest ever recorded. And a lot of them plan to keep working...

Friday, February 23, 2024

Americans are increasingly getting financial and retirement planning guidance from social media, risking exposure to misinformation, harmful advice and outright scams. Alarmingly, this includes almost eight in 10 millennials and Gen...

Monday, January 29, 2024

Before enrolling in a company's retirement plan, it's essential to understand how to optimize its benefits. 

Monday, January 29, 2024

It is crucial for companies to regularly benchmark and compare their benefits packages to their peers within the industry in order to maintain their competitive advantage and status. Offering a competitive benefits package, however,...

Monday, January 29, 2024

It’s important to acknowledge that market volatility has two faces, and each carry their own psychological challenges for investors.

Monday, January 29, 2024

Nearly half of non-retired Gen Xers have not done any retirement planning whatsoever. So how can employers help their MTV Generation workers save?

Monday, December 18, 2023

As we embrace the dawn of a new year, contemplating the departure of a loved one may not be the most festive topic, yet it's an essential consideration for any forward-thinking planner.

Monday, December 18, 2023

For higher education institutions, pooled retirement plan structures offer a plethora of benefits, such as exposure, fewer administrative functions and additional opportunities to provide educational resources, according to new...

Monday, December 18, 2023

With U.S. credit card debt recently soaring to a record high of $1.08 trillion, retirement plan sponsors face a pivotal moment. This staggering amount, a $48 billion escalation since the second quarter and a $154 billion increase...

Monday, December 18, 2023

Retirement planning often directs attention toward mid-career 401(k) participants and those nearing retirement — and understandably so, given their tighter timeline to secure post-retirement financial stability. But what about...

Thursday, November 30, 2023

As the winter season blankets our surroundings, it's the perfect time to conduct a comprehensive review of your financial situation.

Thursday, November 30, 2023

A recent Vanguard report sheds light on the pressing challenges faced by retirees across different income brackets. The findings reveal that lower income workers allocate a significantly larger portion of their pre-retirement income to...

Thursday, November 30, 2023

Members of the House of Representatives recently raised concerns regarding the Department of Labor’s EBSA investigations into plan sponsors, citing them as lengthy and burdensome, and called for reform. In a Sept. 19 letter to...

Thursday, November 30, 2023

As National Cybersecurity Awareness Month wraps up and tax season approaches, the Internal Revenue Service and the Security Summit partners today reminded taxpayers, including families with children, to remain vigilant against...

Monday, October 30, 2023

Holidays are all about spreading cheer and giving, but sometimes people tend to go a bit overboard, which can later result in financial stress.

Monday, October 30, 2023

Many companies are outsourcing more and more activities, mainly because outsourcing can provide cost savings and increase productivity. Outsourcing allows companies to focus more on their core businesses, rather than spending time on...

Monday, October 30, 2023

In September, the U.S. Federal Reserve announced it would hold interest rates steady for now but signaled at least one more hike may lie ahead before the end of the year. Moreover, rates are likely to stay elevated, as the Fed also...

Monday, October 30, 2023

Sound investment decisions are rarely made under the weight of worry. The field of behavioral finance points to a number of cognitive distortions that feed on investor fear and can plague participants’ decision-making while...

Thursday, September 21, 2023

Are you prepared for life's uncertainties? Your retirement plan relies on assumptions: savings, investment duration, inflation, and returns.

Thursday, September 21, 2023

In the modern era of numerous investment options and economic challenges, understanding the concept of money, known as financial literacy, holds significant importance.

Thursday, September 21, 2023

Sponsors can assist by helping employees plan ahead and tailor their strategies with an early benefits election in mind.

Thursday, September 21, 2023

In this challenging environment, how can plan sponsors support participants who may be struggling with high debt and help them avoid raiding their retirement savings to stay afloat?

Monday, August 28, 2023

If you contribute $7,500 each year from age 50 to age 67 (17 years), you can make a big impact on your future.

Monday, August 28, 2023

As employees prepare to deal with the financial burden of student loans, sponsors have an opportunity to help lessen the load and ensure retirement contributions don’t fall to the wayside.

Monday, August 28, 2023

The value of early contributions to retirement readiness means employers should focus on getting their youngest workers enrolled to their workplace retirement plan as soon as possible.

Monday, August 28, 2023

According to recent data, nearly half of women ages 25 and older lack access to a tax-advantaged, employer-sponsored retirement plan.

Monday, August 28, 2023

In the ever-evolving landscape of retirement planning, staying informed about regulations is crucial. The SECURE 2.0 Act brings significant changes to participant distribution rules, impacting various aspects of retirement accounts....

Friday, August 11, 2023

2023 Retirement Confidence Survey reveals waning retirement savings confidence. Strategies: enhance financial literacy, raise employer match, implement auto-features, promote catch-up contributions, offer one-on-one consultations, provide h

Tuesday, August 1, 2023

Are you prepared for a secure financial future? Discover some key aspects of a comprehensive risk management strategy.

Tuesday, August 1, 2023

There are a few mandatory changes from SECURE 2.0 taking effect in 2024 that plan sponsors will need to comply with.

Tuesday, August 1, 2023

More than half of workers identify professional retirement planning assistance as a key focus in terms of benefits they sought from their employer.

Tuesday, August 1, 2023

As financial pressures continue to impact work and personal lives, employers who offer professional financial planning assistance may gain an advantage in the competitive labor market.

Friday, June 23, 2023

Clear, achievable, and meaningful goals can lay the foundation for success. Vague aspirations may have limited worth without a well-defined plan.

Friday, June 23, 2023

At a recent conference held by the Investment Company Institute, the SEC proposed the policy of swing pricing to combat the adverse effects of fluctuations in buying/selling activity within the market.

Friday, June 23, 2023

When conducting three- to five-year live-bids, it can be tempting to hyper-focus on fees. Here are some considerations to keep in mind when assembling — and evaluating — your next RFP.

Friday, June 23, 2023

Research revealed that subjects with a stronger connection to their future selves were more likely to delay gratification and make more prudent financial choices. How can plan sponsors help employees make the connection?

Friday, May 26, 2023

There are many formulas for figuring out how much money you need to retire. While thinking seriously about retirement finances is useful, for most people, these formulas may not come close to what your retirement actually looks like...

Friday, May 26, 2023

A retirement plan may have one or more fiduciaries who have distinct responsibilities, though many individuals and committees may serve in multiple fiduciary roles. Here is a brief overview of the categories of fiduciaries:Named...

Friday, May 26, 2023

High participation rates don't always translate to high deferral rates. According to the 2022 Callan Defined Contributions Trend Survey, three-quarters of DC plans offer auto-enrollment, while only two-thirds provide an auto-escalation...

Friday, May 26, 2023

From recent college grads struggling with student debt to seasoned professionals planning an imminent retirement, participants’ financial needs and goals are as diverse as the workforce they’re part of. In response, many...

Friday, April 28, 2023

The early bird really could get the worm! In our chart you will find no secret tips or tricks to investing that cite prior market events: just plain old math.

Friday, April 28, 2023

When it comes to monitoring and selecting investments, the responsibility lies with the ERISA fiduciary for managing your company’s 401(k) plan, and this means the fiduciary is subject to ERISA’s prudent man rule.

Friday, April 28, 2023

Generative AI like ChatGPT can revolutionize retirement plan onboarding & communication. But limits & safeguards are needed for legal compliance, transparency, data security & oversight.

Friday, April 28, 2023

Employers can improve retirement readiness by promoting catch-up contributions, with 15% of participants using them. Strategies include matching contributions, education, and online tools. SECURE 2.0 law offers a short-term catch-up "burst

Monday, March 27, 2023

An effective omnichannel strategy can help plan sponsors engage more employees, regardless of their level of investing experience or financial literacy.

Monday, March 27, 2023

In December 2022, Morningstar adjusted its recommended starting annual withdrawal rate for balanced retirement portfolios upward from 3.3% to 3.8%. Learn how plan sponsors can help retirees optimize their withdrawal strategies.

Monday, March 27, 2023

Here are some tasks to remember that you must do and some related things to consider whether you could do as a plan fiduciary and the reasons we think they are worth considering.

Monday, March 27, 2023

You may be eligible for a valuable incentive, which could reduce your federal income tax liability, for contributing to your company’s 401(k) or 403(b) plan.

Thursday, February 23, 2023

Personal financial planning is an ongoing, lifelong process. If we break it down into small, achievable tasks, it’s a lot less daunting and can pay huge dividends to you and your family.

Thursday, February 23, 2023

The designated benchmarks used within the Scorecard System were selected because they are the most appropriate and/or most commonly used indices in the marketplace (Russell 1000, MSCI EAFE, BC US Aggregate Bond, etc.). While both the...

Thursday, February 23, 2023

Retirement plan committees can help plans function more efficiently and effectively. They aren’t a requirement under ERISA, though many organizations choose to establish committees for the many advantages they offer.A Host of...

Thursday, February 23, 2023

Across the nation, more and more workers are expecting to postpone retirement. In fact, a survey by the Nationwide Retirement Institute shows that 40% of older employees plan to retire later than anticipated because of inflation.

Thursday, January 26, 2023

Do you know what will happen to your retirement savings if you were to pass away? Here are some things you should know about naming beneficiaries that could save your loved ones’ time, money and frustration.

Thursday, January 26, 2023

According to Morgan Stanley at Work’s September Plan Sponsor Research Results, plan design is a fast-rising differentiator that’s driving employee enrollment and supporting talent strategy in many companies.401(k) plans...

Thursday, January 26, 2023

Various solutions exist to reinforce retirees’ ability to manage the drawdown of the wealth and effectively use their assets and maintain a comfortable standard of living. The portfolio management can be guided and informed by...

Thursday, January 26, 2023

A full two-thirds of employees don’t receive guidance on managing their retirement plan benefit while offboarding. Leaving 401(k) or 403(b) balances behind can result in orphaned accounts that sit unmonitored and unmanaged by...

Friday, December 23, 2022

Since the contribution limits were recently raised by 10% 401(k), 403(b) and most 457 plans (to $22,500), we thought now might be a good time to share creative ways to communicate to your participants the benefits of increasing...

Friday, December 23, 2022

With inflation at its highest levels in more than four decades, it’s not surprising that nearly three in four American workers report they’re experiencing increased stress concerning their personal finances. According to a...

Friday, December 23, 2022

Investment policy statements (IPSs) are commonplace among retirement plans — with around 83% providing one. And that number tends to be even higher among bigger plans. Financial powerhouse Goldman Sachs is one of the larger...

Friday, December 23, 2022

Investing your money into retirement savings early is important to setting yourself on the path to your ideal retirement.

Monday, November 28, 2022

In October, the Internal Revenue Service significantly raised the contribution limits for 401(k)s and other plans effective in 2023. As plan sponsors begin to think about how to communicate these changes to employees, it’s...

Monday, November 28, 2022

Following in the footsteps of many banks and big accounting firms, there’s been a growing trend toward consolidation among retirement plan service providers. But for the most part, less competition hasn’t translated into...

Monday, November 28, 2022

December brings with it an expectation of cheer, hope, and festivities. What your employees do not expect (and, frankly, don’t want) are grumpy nudges about enrollment. With the anxiety of the pandemic and lockdowns close behind...

Monday, November 28, 2022

Many of us are worried this season about what the economy will be doing the next few months and how it will affect their investments. As a reminder, markets are cyclical, they go up and down in what seems like a never-ending cycle.

Friday, October 28, 2022

The holidays are upon us! Staying healthy just might make you wealthy. With small lifestyle changes and healthy choices (especially with all the shared yummy foods), you may reduce your annual healthcare costs and increase your income.

Friday, October 28, 2022

ERISA states that every plan document must identify a “Named Fiduciary” to be the individual or entity serving as the primary fiduciary responsible for all plan management activities (e.g., President, Plan Administrator,...

Friday, October 28, 2022

With more than two-thirds of American workers having access to a retirement plan, employees and job seekers have come to expect one as part of their benefits package. That means it’s more important than ever to make sure your...

Friday, October 28, 2022

In September, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) released an Interpretive Bulletin that updates guidance on audits of benefit plans under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act. The updated guidelines are intended to help...

Monday, September 26, 2022

With the recent market volatility, it’s understandable that you may be concerned about your investments. Don’t let the market volatility spook you! Consider the following tips...

Monday, September 26, 2022

Recently, the U.S. Labor Department issued new 2022 guidance regarding 401(k) retirement plans that offer, or are considering offering, investments in cryptocurrency and/or self-directed brokerage accounts in their plan menu. Most...

Monday, September 26, 2022

As the seasons change and the days start to get chillier, market trends are calling for doom and gloom in the economy. Some argue that a recession is inevitable if not already here. What exactly does this mean and what should Americans...

Monday, September 26, 2022

Most 401(k) plans have access to a large pool of funds, making them an attractive target for cybertheft. And while stolen funds are devastating, unauthorized transactions aren’t the only goal of cybercriminals. 401(k) accounts...

Monday, August 29, 2022

Much has been made of the current state of the American worker as it pertains to their retirement savings.  According to a recent study by the General Accountability Office, 29% of Americans 55 and older do not have any retirement savings

Monday, August 29, 2022

“Zillennials” are people who were born between 1993 and 1998. According to a recent Met Life survey (“The Rise of the Whole Employee: 20 Years of Change in Employer-Employee Dynamics.”) they are expecting a more...

Monday, August 29, 2022

As the global economy continues to gyrate on an uncertain path, many are feeling increased stress regarding their finances. As of March, for example, total U.S. household debt was up more than 8% year over year, according to a study by...

Monday, August 29, 2022

Over the past couple of years, the so-called “Great Resignation” has led to an unprecedented number of career changes. At the same time, the boom in remote and gig work means that skilled employees have more choices than...

Friday, August 26, 2022

Plan sponsors invest much time and effort in improving employee financial literacy. They offer educational content, provide opportunities for group and individual consultation, and encourage participants to approach retirement planning...

Friday, August 19, 2022

No one wants to be caught flat-footed when the auditors come calling. And with a new standard issued by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), both the auditors and plan sponsors will be subject to new...

Wednesday, July 27, 2022

As a result of the significant rise in revenue sharing litigation it behooves plan fiduciaries to confirm and document the prudence and appropriateness of any revenue sharing arrangement.Revenue sharing is the sharing of fees from one...

Wednesday, July 27, 2022

The ever-growing burden of student loan debt looms menacingly over many Americans, crippling their ability to save for retirement and other financial goals. According to Bankrate, around 60% of Americans who have student debt have...

Wednesday, July 27, 2022

According to T. Rowe Price, some sponsors may anticipate that their relationship with participants — as well as their responsibilities toward them — will naturally wind down at retirement, even though only about one in five...

Wednesday, July 27, 2022

Each month we provide our plan sponsor clients with a participant ready communication piece. All participant corner documents are saved to your Fiduciary Briefcase. Once logged into your account, click on Briefcase > Participant...

Monday, June 27, 2022

Protect your loved ones and ensure you are keeping up to date with your retirement plan with our summer homework assignments!

Monday, June 27, 2022

In an especially tight labor market, employers need to do all they can to attract top talent to their organizations. 401k matching is top of mind for employees, according to Principal’s 2021 Retirement Security Survey.

Monday, June 27, 2022

Some business owners are forgoing offering a 401(k) to their employees because they fear they don’t have the time or expertise to manage a plan, but partnering with a retirement plan advisor can help your business thrive.

Monday, June 27, 2022

Safeguards on 401k plans are in place to make sure that employee benefits are allocated equitably and that companies don't fail IRS nondiscrimination tests.

Wednesday, June 1, 2022

Each month we provide our plan sponsor clients with a participant ready communication piece. All participant corner documents are saved to your Fiduciary Briefcase. Once logged into your account, click on Briefcase > Participant...

Wednesday, June 1, 2022

Finally, something everyone could agree on — at least on the Supreme Court of the United States. The question before the court in Hughes v. Northwestern University was the plausibility of a breach of fiduciary duty claim stated...

Wednesday, June 1, 2022

The Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act of 2019 enables two or more businesses to form a pooled employer plan (PEP) regardless of whether they’re related by industry, location or other association....

Wednesday, June 1, 2022

Though many employees are aware that behaviors such as enrolling in and contributing sufficiently to their company 401(k) can help them prepare for a successful retirement, too often they fail to develop the necessary saving and...

Tuesday, May 10, 2022

Each month we provide our plan sponsor clients with a participant ready communication piece. All participant corner documents are saved to your Fiduciary Briefcase. Once logged into your account, click on Briefcase > Participant...

Tuesday, May 10, 2022

A recent class action lawsuit highlights an often neglected but important item of fiduciary concern.   The plaintiffs in this case have asserted claims for breach of the fiduciary duties of prudence and failure to monitor...

Tuesday, May 10, 2022

Albert Einstein may not be remembered as a finance expert, but he seems to have had a bead on the power of smart investing. When asked what mankind’s greatest invention was, he’s reputed to have answered “compound...

Tuesday, May 10, 2022

According to the College Board, the cost of a four-year education increased more than 200% (after inflation) from 1988 to 2018. This has placed a tremendous burden on graduates, with national student loan debt now topping a...

Monday, April 25, 2022

Monday, April 25, 2022