8955-SSA

[Guest megs2887]

The 2009 Instructions for the 8955-SSA indicate that a box should be checked for each participant whose information is based on incomplete records. The instructions state that “Information for a participant may be based on incomplete records where more than one employer contributes to the plan and the records at the end of the plan year are incomplete regarding the participant’s service.”

1. If we are missing other information, such as the pay, social security numbers, or full names, should we check this box to indicate the information is incomplete?

2. If we have incomplete information, should we delay reporting of the participant on the 8955-SSA until we have time to gather complete data, or should we provide an estimate so that the reporting is timely (additions “code A” reported no later than the plan year following the plan year in which they separated”?

3. If we know a person terminated, but have no benefit calculated, then is it best to report them with a blank benefit? Or an estimated benefit?

Thank you for all of your help in advance!