"The final regulations increase the renewal user fee for enrolled retirement plan agents from $67 to $140. In addition, the final regulations increase both the enrollment and renewal of enrollment user fees for enrolled agents from $67 to $140. These regulations affect individuals who are or apply to become enrolled agents and individuals who are enrolled retirement plan agents."  MORE >>

"Neither the Internal Revenue Code nor ERISA prohibits a qualified retirement plan from investing in third-party loans, but IRS considers such transactions especially susceptible to fraudulent reporting. The snapshot flags several potential concerns[.]"  MORE >>

"[1] Don't assume your trust agreement permits third party loans.... [2] Avoid prohibited transactions.... [3] Avoid self-dealing.... [4] Value your asset.... [5] Documentation is key."  MORE >>

"Recent SEC guidance has clarified that the investment adviser duties of care and loyalty are separate, independent duties. A reasonable interpretation of the SEC and Staff guidance is that the satisfaction of one will not satisfy the other -- both must be individually satisfied. As a result, the SEC appears to be saying that, even if a conflict is disclosed, that does not, in and of itself, satisfy the duty of care."  MORE >>

"Employee turnover among a plan sponsor's benefit staff -- from switching jobs, termination or retirement -- can lead to a loss of valuable knowledge and experience, as well as operational failures and possible litigation.... It's important for all retirement plan sponsors ... to thoroughly document their plan procedures. That will ensure the plan can continue to operate smoothly as the operations team changes."  MORE >>

"Plan sponsors must work with their service providers to craft a communications system that is responsive to employees. Depending on the precise demographics of the employee population, communications might need to use several different platforms simultaneously. Messaging needs to be empathetic to best engage employees."  MORE >>

"Plan sponsors using the spot rate will realize the recent rise in interest rates. Plan sponsors using the alternative method may not fully capture the rise in interest rates because the 24-month average will be brought down by the lower interest rates of 2021. So, each calculation can come away with very different rates and resulting premiums."  MORE >>

"Here are several strategies to minimize the damage from sequence of return risk and make your savings last. [1] Reduce your withdrawal rate.... [2] Tap nonmarket assets.... [3] Further diversify your portfolio.... [4] Consider an annuity.... [5] Invest conservatively at the start.... [6] Delay retirement."  MORE >>

19 pages. "97% of employers say that they are in some way responsible for their employee's financial wellness ... 46% of employers noticed an increase in resignations over the past year ... Health Savings has become almost as important as retirement to workplace benefits programs ... Employees don't fully understand Social Security & Medicare -- and they need help ... 52% of employees prefer to use a digital app to manage their finances ... Action steps for employers."  MORE >>