Fiduciary Checklist for Target-Date Fund Decisions
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Fiduciary and Plan Governance Material Fiduciary Checklist for Target-Date Fund Decisions Abstract: Fiduciaries should be able to answer the following questions to feel confident they are following the Department of Labor's 2013 Tips for ERISA Plan Fiduciaries on target-date funds. Source: Strategicbenefitservices.com Helping Plan Sponsors Understand Their Fiduciary Duties Abstract: Fiduciary duties and responsibilities are a growing responsibility for workplace retirement plan sponsors. This 60-page guide is an introductory fiduciary resource for defined contribution retirement plan sponsors and their employees working with the plan. It streamlines complex fiduciary topics into an easy-to-understand format. Source: Troweprice.com DOL ERISA Fiduciary Advisor Informational Tool Abstract: The DOL has announced the availability of an interactive web-based tool with intended to increase awareness and understanding about basic fiduciary responsibilities when operating a retirement plan. The tool helps visitors identify whether they are plan fiduciaries and provides them with information about fiduciary functions associated with retirement plans. Source: Ascensus.com »» Click here for more Fiduciary and Plan Governance Material
403(b) Plans Why is K-12 403(b) Plan Design Stuck in the 90's? Abstract: The answer can be found by taking a closer look at the K-12 market. There are several factors that are not conducive to change in K-12, which is why 403(b) plans have largely stayed the same as they were 25 years ago. Source: Cammackretirement.com »» Click here for More 403(b) Material
Insight: Studies, Research and White Papers Pretax Solo 401k Contributions vs. Roth Solo 401k Abstract: When it comes to retirement savings, in addition to the time of investment period, the type of retirement contributions you make has a huge impact over your retirement fund. Sensing a growing interest in pretax vs. Roth contributions, this article provides a comparative analysis. Source: 401khelpcenter.com Survey Focuses on Employee Retirement Savings Regrets, Employers Hold Keys Abstract: Plan participants said that, without a doubt, they would be in much worse shape without access to an employer-sponsored plan. Nearly all express regrets about their personal savings habits, which says that employers have the opportunity to structure plans that can help drive more effective retirement preparations for their employees. In essence, employers have the keys to the kingdom. Source: 401khelpcenter.com Saving Enough for Retirement Is Top Financial Stress Source, Even for Millennials Abstract: A new survey from Schwab Retirement Plan Services, Inc. finds that saving enough money for a comfortable retirement is the most common financial stress inducer for people of all ages. The survey also reveals that most people view the 401k as a "must-have" workplace benefit. Source: 401khelpcenter.com »» Click here for More Studies, Research and White Papers
Target-Date Funds Target-Date Funds and Managed Accounts: A Powerful Combination Abstract: The combination of target-date funds and managed accounts may be the right recipe for your investment menu. The use of professionally managed allocations like TDFs and managed accounts is transforming participant portfolios. Both options provide significant benefits and should be offered as complementary strategies to address the diverse needs of evolving participant populations. Source: Vanguard.com »» Click here for more on Target-Date Funds
Court and Other Legal Issues ERISA Class Actions Filed Against Higher Education Institutions Abstract: Several ERISA breach of fiduciary duty class actions involving allegedly excessive retirement plan fees were filed this week against higher education institutions including colleges, universities, and medical schools. The plaintiffs in these cases primarily are current and former participants in section 403(b) retirement plans. These cases allege that plan fiduciaries made unreasonable and imprudent decisions that negatively affect the value of the plaintiff's retirement accounts. Source: Ballardspahr.com Abstract: Legal risks have been emphasized by several lawsuits filed against U.S. employers in the last few months. This article provides a brief update on litigation activity in the U.S. which should give pause to Canadian employers who sponsor capital accumulation plans for their employees. Source: Employmentandlabour.com Edison 401k Case Will Be Reheard by Ninth Circuit Abstract: The nine-year legal battle over fees and investments in Edison International Inc.'s 401k plan is headed for review by a full panel of appellate court judges. Source: Bna.com Allianz Can't Duck ERISA Challenge to Mutual Fund Fees Abstract: Allianz Asset Management of America couldn't convince a federal judge to dismiss class action claims challenging the allegedly high-fee, in-house mutual funds in its 401k plan. Source: Bna.com Franklin Templeton 401k Participants File Suit for Alleged Breach of Fiduciary Duties Abstract: A lawsuit was filed against Franklin Resources, Inc. in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. The complaint is brought on behalf of the Franklin Templeton 401k Plan for alleged breach of fiduciary duties by Franklin Resources and Franklin Templeton 401k Retirement Plan Investment Committee. Source: Businesswire.com »» Click here for more Court and Other Legal Issues
Compliance and Regulatory Vanished Into Thin Air? Lost Participants Create Plan Audit Risk Abstract: Is your plan keeping track of vested former participants who are owed money? The DOL is looking at this matter because the failure to keep track of participants raises broader fiduciary responsibility issues. Source: Cohenbuckmann.com Plan Loans -- Whose Money Is It Anyway, and Why Should You Care? Abstract: Plan loans are popular with both employers and employees, but loans bring with them a number of additional administrative and legal requirements for which the plan sponsor is generally responsible. Improper plan loans are among the most common defined contribution plan compliance errors. This 20-page paper from the Journal of Pension Planning & Compliance the complexity of properly administering plan loans. Source: Aon.com Many DC Plan Sponsors Must Annually "Notice" Their Participants Abstract: Sponsors of defined contribution plans with certain features are required to provide annual notices to participants. This publication provides a summary of the annual notice requirements for those notices, including timing, recipients, contents, and method of delivery. Source: Prudential.com »» Click here for More Compliance and Regulatory Material
Marketplace News EverythingBenefits Adds 401k Integration Capabilities The Hyas Group Adds Senior Consultant RetireWell Launches 'Fiscal House Retirement Plan' Strategy Northwest Plan Services Acquires Trautmann, Maher
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