It’s important to remember that the 401k MEP is just a vehicle. Whether they truly meet the objective of employees saving more for retirement and doing so effectively and efficiently comes down to execution.
Tag "401k"
Perhaps, just as plan sponsors have developed onboarding programs for new hires when it comes to saving for retirement, maybe they should add “unboarding” programs as a bookend for those nearing retirement.
Whether a plan sponsor decides to adopt a 401k IPS remains an open question. It’s not a question that should be treated casually. Every plan situation is different. Plan sponsors therefore must conduct a thorough due diligence to determine what’s best for their plan.
Although we’ve seen a broader acceptance of using an IPS, their use is by no means universal and particularly lacking among smaller employers. Perhaps there’s a realization that, if you don’t get the IPS right, you’ll only increase your liability.
When you’re not an expert in an important job that you need done, what do you do?
It appears all but certain the floodgates will soon open wide, unleashing a torrent of trade association sponsored 401k MEPs. If you’re looking for the trigger that will open those floodgates, here’s what you should be paying attention to.
Not being able to easily monitor how former employees apply these tools, however, can increase the fiduciary liability of plan sponsors.
“401k Multiple Employer Plans (MEPs) are a solution for the small to mid-sized employer market that will lead to the expansion of retirement plan coverage for America’s workers.”
You can’t do anything about it if you don’t know what the “it” is you need to do something about. It is therefore important for plan sponsors to devote resources that increase employee awareness.
MEPs have the potential to do what state-sponsored plans may not be able to offer – protection under ERISA. That’s in the employees’ best interests. If many embrace this concept, September 30, 2019 may indeed signal the dawn of a new day in retirement saving. Still, due diligence remains an imperative.
