Retirement

Under a SECURE 2.0 provision that just went into effect in January, qualified student loan repayments may now count as elective deferrals for 401(k) matching contributions from employers.

No question the new Pension-Linked Emergency Savings Account is a much-needed option for employees, however, employers and plan sponsors must be vigilant in protecting themselves as they navigate potential pitfalls.

The pending legislation will have little effect on employers' processes, but it's a good reminder about the importance of educating employees about the impacts that life changes, like divorce, may have on their benefits.

Sen. Bernie Sanders released a report on the problems facing the retirement system, as advocates of DB plans and proponents of DC plans squared off in search of solutions for employees without a retirement plan at work.

In a letter to House Ranking Member Richard Neal, over 20 companies and industry trade associations expressed support for the Automatic IRA Act of 2024, which will provide more access to retirement plans for small businesses.

Although plan amendments and related changes to summary plan descriptions may be delayed, identifying applicable changes and taking necessary steps is crucial for compliance.

The new law bolsters small businesses' ability to provide retirement benefits to their employees by offering tax credits to offset costs, however, for advisors, it's an unprecedented opportunity to tap into a new revenue stream.

Small businesses often work with professional employer organizations for certain HR functions, and when they're involved in an M&A transaction, the parties will need to work through a variety of issues.