Union-sponsored death Benefit

[Guest Cindyd]

Is an insured or self-funded death benefit that a union provides its members an ERISA plan for which a Form 5500 needs to be filed? (There are more than 100 members.)

[Guest Emiliano]

Yes. ERISA Sec. 3(1) defines employee benefit plan as "... any plan... or program... established or maintained by an employer or by an employee organization" (i.e. a union) for the purpose of providing certain benefits one of which is death benefits.

[JohnCheek]

Actually, you might meet an exception, and not have to file a 5500. See the instructions-- an unfunded, dues financed welfare plan can be exempt from the 5500. If this sounds like your plan, you should check further into ERISA regs. 2520-104-26 to make sure.