Starting in 2025, most new 401(k) and 403(b) plans will be required to automatically enroll eligible employees, a change brought by the SECURE 2.0 Act passed by Congress in 2022. The provision aims to boost retirement savings by making enrollment the default option...
Courtney Brown
401(k) vs. SIMPLE IRA: The Optimal Retirement Choice
When deciding to implement a retirement plan for your business, you will be presented with two options: a 401(k) or a SIMPLE IRA. While a 401(k) is more recognizable, both options offer retirement savings for eligible employees, and can include contributions from both...
Understanding State-Mandated Retirement Plans
In an attempt to address the country’s retirement savings crisis, several states have now started requiring certain employers to offer a retirement savings option. If employers are unable to provide a private retirement plan, they must adopt their state-mandated plan....
401(k) Nondiscrimination Testing: What You Need to Know
As the calendar flips into the new year, 401(k) compliance teams across the country are prepared for long days as they race against a March 15 deadline to complete the required Nondiscrimination Tests. These tests are required by the IRS to ensure that every employee...
2025 Contribution Limits
Each year, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) raises the contribution limits for 401(k) retirement plans, allowing employees to put aside more for the future. Below you will find an overview of the current 401(k) contribution limits for 2024 and the updated limits for...
American Trust Retirement Review Insights, Trends and Strategies for Success
At American Trust Retirement, it’s our goal to keep you informed. We are dedicated to adding value to your retirement plan practice by helping to keep you up-to-date on what’s going on in the industry. With 2024 nearing its end, we wanted to share a list of some of...
Cash Balance Plans: A High-Impact Solution for Financial Advisors and Clients
When it comes to retirement planning, options like 401(k)s and IRAs are popular, but business owners and high-income earners often seek more robust solutions. Cash Balance Plans offer a compelling alternative, blending the benefits of a traditional defined benefit...
The Importance of 401(k) Benchmarking
In 2012, the Department of Labor issued final regulations for Section 408(b)2, requiring all 401(k) providers to fully disclose direct and indirect fees in a standardized format. This transparency has pressured Plan Sponsors and Advisors to scrutinize 401(k) fees,...
401(k) Day: A Key Moment for Your Financial Future
401(k) Day serves as an annual reminder to focus on retirement savings. It’s a chance to review your plan, adjust your strategy, and ensure you’re on track for a secure retirement. Key Actions for 401(k) Day: 1. Check Your Contributions: Ensure your 401(k)...
Why Small Businesses are Embracing QACA Safe Harbor Plans?
Statistically around 80% of small business 401(k) plans opt for a safe harbor plan design. This choice helps them automatically meet the ADP/ACP tests and avoid nondiscrimination tests conducted by the IRS. Consequently, business owners and highly compensated...