PBGC table showing the present values applicable to benefits with annuity starting dates in 2026. A two-column spreadsheet version of the table is also available for convenient copying.   MORE >>

Rev. Dec. 2025. "What's New: [1] Updated IRA naming convention.... [2] New line 5a ... [which] directs taxpayers to add the amounts from column (a) of lines 2, 3, and 4, and enter on line 5a the portion of that sum not attributable to qualified disaster distributions."  MORE >>

"This article begins a series about the part of the guidance that was an RFI, where the DOL is soliciting information that would be helpful for future guidance."  MORE >>

"Recent regulatory, judicial, and executive developments have reopened the conversation around whether -- and how -- plan sponsors can prudently offer alternative investments in participant-directed defined contribution retirement plans. This article synthesizes the key takeaways from the Ninth Circuit's Intel decision, the Trump Administration's rescission of the ... [DOL's] 2021 cautionary guidance, and President Trump's recent Executive Order aimed at 'democratizing' access to private equity and other alternatives in retirement plans."  MORE >>

"As the default investment option in most retirement plans, TDFs typically hold the majority of plan assets -- yet many employers fail to evaluate them regularly, even as market conditions, participant demographics and fee structures continue to evolve. A TDF that was appropriate four years ago may now be underperforming, restructured or overpriced. In fact, average expense ratios have dropped significantly, especially for index-based and collective investment trust versions.1"  MORE >>

"The determination of actuarial assumptions to be used for plan purposes is certainly a fiduciary action.... But what about actuarial assumptions used for other plan purposes that are more administrative in nature? ... Recent cases under [ERISA[ highlight the potential risks and liabilities associated with these selections."  MORE >>

"What triggers an IRS audit of a retirement plan? ... Initial steps when an audit notice is received.... What employers can expect during an IRS audit.... Preparing for an audit before it begins.... Common missteps employers should avoid.... Key takeaways for employers facing an IRS audit."  MORE >>

"During October, the PFI funded ratio improved for the seventh straight month, rising from 106.5% on September 30 to 107.1% as of October 31. Market gains of 1.27% drove this result.... During the month, the market value of plan assets rose to $1.328 trillion while the projected benefit obligation rose to $1.240 trillion."  MORE >>

"A coalition of more than 60 major institutional investors and pension systems, collectively managing trillions of dollars in direct assets and representing over $8 trillion globally through umbrella organizations and associations, released a letter this week strongly opposing the [SEC's] unprecedented policy reversal permitting companies to include forced arbitration provisions into their corporate charters and registration statements."  MORE >>

"Schwab has asked clients to reset their login credentials, a request coming shortly after Fidelity took similar action to limit third-party vendor access to 401(k) and other customer accounts. Like Fidelity, Schwab has cited protecting client data in their attempts to limit credential sharing of a client's username and password. Third party fintech firms such as Pontera have adopted credential-sharing technology to connect selected outside advisors with held-away assets such as 401(k) accounts from retirement plan providers."  MORE >>

"The IRS requires that you take the proper amount from RMD-subject accounts by year-end, but the rules don't specify which investments you tap to meet those distributions.... [A]ssuming you don't need the RMD for living expenses, a transfer in-kind of securities from your IRA to a taxable brokerage account may make sense. Not only can it help you maintain the same market exposure, just in a different part of your portfolio, but the transfer may also reduce the taxes due on future appreciation when you eventually do sell."  MORE >>

"Here are five situations where it may be better NOT to name the spouse directly as the IRA beneficiary. [1] Sufficient assets.... [2] Vulnerable beneficiaries.... [3] Remarriage concerns ... [4] Blended families ... [5] Special needs beneficiaries."  MORE >>

"[As] Americans live longer, the challenge is not just adding years to their lives, but making sure that time includes quality, health and financial security. ... [S]peakers explored innovative strategies and systems intended to help close the gap between what people need and what the current system delivers, given today’s demographic realities."  MORE >>

"Prevalent among public and private organizations alike, [annual incentive plans (AIPs)] often are reserved for senior professional and management positions. However, in [one] study, 52% of ESOPs extend AIP eligibility to all employees. This compares to only about one-third of private and public companies ... The prevalence of LTIs among ESOPs are more aligned with that of private companies at approximately 80%, compared to 99% among public companies."  MORE >>