Close

All Things 401k | 6 Common Administrative Tasks That Can Morph Into 401(k) Plan Headaches

Managing a 401(k) plan can leave even the most seasoned administrators feeling overwhelmed. With proper support, you can simplify the complex task of retirement plan management.

 

Top 401(k) Plan Headaches

The first step is to understand the potential problems. Here are some common issues that can cause headaches for plan sponsors:

 

  • Uploading Payroll

  • Determining Eligibility

  • Over-Contributions

  • Investment Changes

  • Distributing Notices

  • Regulatory and Legislative Updates

 

Navigating the labyrinth of retirement plan management can seem like a daunting challenge for any plan sponsor, employer or 401(k) plan administrator. The various administrative tasks, ranging from uploading payroll to handling investment changes, can often turn into 401(k) plan headaches.

 

1. Uploading Payroll

A seemingly straightforward process can quickly turn into a minefield of errors. Incorrect data entry could lead to improper contributions, which could potentially result in legal and financial complications. One area of particular focus is the plan’s definition of compensation. When a special payroll cycle includes different types of compensation such as bonuses, commissions, or overtime, it’s important to know whether that compensation should be included or excluded from the 401(k) plan. This specific issue ranks #2 on the IRS’ Top Ten Failures Found in Voluntary Correction Program.

 

2. Determining Eligibility

When an employee may enter your 401(k) plan is different for each employer. Common eligibility requirements include 21 years old and 1,000 hours of service. Then the employee is eligible to enter the plan on the next entry date: for example, January 1st and July 1st.

 

However, effective January 1st, 2024, there are new eligibility rules for long-term, part-time employees. Under the SECURE Act, employees that have worked 500 hours for three consecutive years are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan on January 1st, 2024.

 

3. Over-Contribution Quandary

An employee might max out their savings, then end up getting money back due to annual contribution limits. This creates extra administrative work and potential confusion for both parties. Get ahead of this now by running a report to learn if any employees are close to – or have – maxed out their 401(k) plan.

 

4. Investment Changes

Moving from one investment option to another can be a complex process, requiring professional guidance from a 3(21) or 3(38) investment fiduciary. Plan sponsors should work with a 401(k) advisor, like us, to evaluate watch list funds and then implement recommendations based on your plan’s Investment Policy Statement. Additionally, it’s critical to communicate these changes to plan participants.

 

5. Distributing Notices

Ensuring that all employees receive timely and accurate information about their 401(k) plan can be a daunting task, especially for large companies. One idea is to work with your recordkeeper and instruct them to send out notices. Another idea is to hire a 3(16) plan administrator who will send out and track required plan notices.

 

6. Regulatory and Legislative Updates

Staying informed and compliant with the ever-changing landscape of retirement plan regulations is a significant challenge. For example, the SECURE Acts are two long and lengthy pieces of legislation that greatly impact 401(k) plans.

 

401(k) Plan Headache Relief

This is where a 401(k) advisor can give a helping hand. We can offer valuable support and guidance across several key areas:

 

  • third party administrator (TPA) communication

  • recordkeeper collaboration

  • investment strategy

  • plan design support

  • employee education

  • fiduciary and regulatory guidance

 

While the role of managing a 401(k) plan can be fraught with potential pitfalls and headaches, the support of a specialized retirement plan advisor can significantly lighten the load. We can help streamline processes, establish compliance best practices, educate employees and foster an efficient retirement plan.

 

JULIA SANDERS

AIF®, CPFA® | Retirement Relationship Manager

Meet Julia, a people-focused life-long learner with several years of experience in the retirement plan industry. Throughout her career, Julia has been committed to maintaining strong client relationships by providing incredible customer service. She is passionate about helping clients define and plan for their retirement goals. Julia’s daily role at the firm energizes and reinforces her commitment to client-focused work.

SCOTT HIGGINS

AIF®, CFP®, CPFA® | Financial Advisor

Since 2012 at Rose Street, Scott has been responsible for helping the firm’s individual wealth management clients with income strategies for retirement and consulting with employers with their employee retirement plans. In free time, he enjoys golf, biking, skiing, cooking, and traveling. Fun fact, Scott has a hobby of filling growlers with coins!

Securities and Investment Advisory Services offered through M Holdings Securities, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer and Investment Advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC. Rose Street Advisors, LLC is independently owned and operated. #6006781.1
This information was developed as a general guide to educate plan sponsors and is not intended as authoritative guidance or tax/legal advice. Each plan has unique requirements, and you should consult your attorney or tax advisor for guidance on your specific situation.
©401(k) Marketing, LLC. All rights reserved. Proprietary and confidential. Do not copy or distribute outside original intent. 

Interested in more?

Proactive HR