KerberRose

A Window on Wellness

A Window on Wellness

According to a recent survey, Americans currently define financial wellness as simply feeling comfortable with their financial situation. Over 50% believe wellness is defined as having the means to take care of family, not worrying about money or debt, and feeling protected financially from life’s unexpected events.

Fee Litigation with an Odd “Twist”

Fee Litigation with an Odd “Twist”

The plaintiffs in this case have asserted claims for breach of the fiduciary duties of prudence and failure to monitor fiduciaries. Nothing new so far; however, in addition to naming the typical plan fiduciaries as defendants, the lawsuit also targets members of the board of directors, as well as other officers of the firm who serve on the retirement plan’s fiduciary investment committee.

Early Withdrawals Can Lead to Tardy Retirements and Problems for Everyone: How to Help

Early Withdrawals Can Lead to Tardy Retirements and Problems for Everyone: How to Help

Albert Einstein may not be remembered as a finance expert, although 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 interest,” describing it as the “eighth wonder of the world.”

Why Retirement Plan Sponsors Should Care About Employee Student Loan Debt

Why Retirement Plan Sponsors Should Care About Employee Student Loan Debt

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 staggering $1.6 trillion.

Tax Saver’s Credit: Get the “Credit” You Deserve!

Tax Saver’s Credit: Get the “Credit” You Deserve!

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. You may qualify to receive a Tax Saver’s Credit of up to $1,000 ($2,000 for married couples filing jointly) if you made eligible contributions to an employer sponsored retirement savings plan.

IRS/DOL Audits Are Increasing Dramatically - Are You Ready?

IRS/DOL Audits Are Increasing Dramatically - Are You Ready?

If your plan has not been recently audited, it is likely only a matter of time before the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or the Department of Labor (DOL) comes knocking. If/when you are notified of an audit, early preparation can help streamline the process, keep the investigation narrow, and avoid potential financial penalties and interest.

Every Plan Should Have a Committee Charter and Here’s Why

Every Plan Should Have a Committee Charter and Here’s Why

Although not legally required by ERISA, a retirement plan committee charter is a very important document for plan governance which may help fiduciaries avoid potential liabilities. Committee Charters are one effective way to “evidence” intent of prudent plan management. Having a charter is a “best practice” all plan sponsors should seriously consider.

What’s the Magic Number When it Comes to Record Retention?

What’s the Magic Number When it Comes to Record Retention?

You don’t need to be a magician to know what records to keep and for how long. While most providers can supply reports and plan documents, the plan administrator remains ultimately responsible for retaining adequate records that support the plan document reports and filings.

ERISA 3(38) Fiduciary Services

ERISA 3(38) Fiduciary Services

Most organizations’ human resource departments and C-suites are seeking efficiencies and risk mitigation for their entities. For these, and a myriad of other, reasons, plan sponsors are giving 3(38) fiduciary discretionary investment management services a closer look.