Retirement Plan Life Cycle - Stage Three - Operating |
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In the third stage – Operating – business owners realize the benefits and responsibilities as the plan grows and evolves into the valuable retirement vehicle they envisioned.
Depending on the type of plan established, there are a number of steps plan sponsors must take to operate their plan on an ongoing basis, including:
- Covering eligible employees
- Making appropriate contributions
- Keeping the plan up to date with the retirement plan law
- Managing the plan assets
- Providing information to employees participating in the plan
- Distributing appropriate benefits
- Maintaining records
Some business owners, especially those sponsoring more complex plans, find it helpful to consult with benefits professionals about operating their plans. The IRS and the U.S. Department of Labor offer information and assistance to help plan sponsors.
Plan Administration:
- 401(k) Resource Guide
This guide has been developed for sponsors and participants for 401(k) plans. These guides enable you to better understand the 401(k) laws and give other detailed information to assist the plan sponsors and participants in what they need to know.
- A Look at 401(k) Fees for Employees
Answers to some common questions about the fees and expenses that may be paid by your 401(k) plan from the Department of Labor.
- Understanding Retirement Plan Fees And Expenses
This Department of Labor booklet will help you better understand and evaluate your plan’s fees and expenses.
- 401(k) Plan Fees Disclosure Tool
A Department of Labor form that provides employers with a handy way to make cost-effective decisions and compare the investment fees and administrative costs of competing providers of plan services.
- EP Examination Process Guide
In response to the results of the Customer Satisfaction Surveys, EP Examinations developed the EP Examination Process Guide to help customers through the examination process. The guide clarifies the various steps in the examination process and introduces available resources.
Annual Reporting:
Participation/Benefits:
Contributions/Funding:
- Weighted Average Interest Rate Table
This table provides the monthly weighted-average rates and the monthly average rates of 30-year Treasury Securities. These rates are used in the determination of (1) the full funding limitation and current liability of a plan and (2) the minimum present value of a participant's benefit.
- Cost-of-Living Adjustment Increases
Annual dollar limitations on benefits and contributions.
Correction Programs:
Other Resources:
Products:
Frequently Asked Questions:
Forms and Publications:
- Forms useful in operating a retirement plan.
- Publications useful in operating a retirement plan.
Help:
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Page Last Reviewed or Updated: February 10, 2009