First Filing for Form 5500

[jmawhi76]

This is the first year we are filing the form 5500. We went to self-funding last year. There are many different rules that we are trying to decide if we have to file and if so what form. We had 70 participants at the beginning of the year, and benefits are paid as needed from the general assets of the employer, and monthly contributions from employees. We also have purchased a stop loss contract through an insurance carrier. From what I am reading we either do not have to file any forms, or can file the 5500-SF, or 5500 with Schedule A and/or schedule I (small plan). We did receive a schedule A after asking the TPA for the information. I am just not sure what or if we need to file. Any suggestions or help would be appreciated.

[Lou S.]

I'm pretty sure that unfunded* plans under 100 lives are not required to file Form 5500. I believe the DOL also has an exemption to the filing requirement for small plans if the only "funding" is through insurance contracts.

Now if you have a funded plan trust, I believe you are required to required to file regardless of participant count.

But welfare benefit plans are not my area of expertise.

*plans that pay out of the general assets of the employer.