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

October 10, 2023 | Blog

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.

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.

View all blogs