The Internal Revenue Service recently announced its cost-of-living adjustments applicable to dollar limitations on benefits and contributions for retirement plans generally effective for Tax Year 2026 (see IRS Notice 2025-67). Most notably, the limitation on annual salary deferrals into a 401(k) or 403(b) plan will increase to $24,500, and the dollar threshold for highly
IRS Issues Final Regulations on Mandatory Roth Catch-Up Contribution Ahead of January 1, 2026 Implementation Date
- Generally, plan sponsors should be prepared to implement the Roth catch-up rule for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2025 (i.e., January 1, 2026, for calendar year plans). This will require coordination with ERISA counsel, the company’s payroll provider, and the plan’s recordkeeper and third-party administrator.
- Be prepared to discover mistakes and correct them
Countdown to Compliance: What Employers Need to Know About New York’s Secure Choice Savings Program
New York has officially joined the growing list of states requiring certain private employers to offer retirement savings options. The New York Secure Choice Savings Program (Secure Choice or the Program) is moving closer to implementation, and employers, particularly those without an existing retirement plan, should be preparing now.
What Is Secure Choice?
Secure Choice
A Fiduciary’s Next Steps After Trump’s August 2025 Executive Order: Opening the 401(k) Door to Alternative Investments
Introduction
On August 7, 2025, President Donald J. Trump issued an Executive Order designed to broaden access to alternative investments, such as private equity, commodities, real estate, and certain digital assets, for participants in 401(k) and other defined contribution retirement plans. The initiative is framed as an effort to “democratize” investment opportunities that were historically
Cryptocurrency in 401(k): A Balanced Approach Returns
- The 2025 CAR does not alter ERISA’s substantive fiduciary standards and considerations but eases the DOL’s previously hostile enforcement stance toward cryptocurrency and similar digital assets in 401(k) plans, restoring a “neutral” DOL enforcement approach. 401(k) plan fiduciaries must still consider all relevant ERISA factors and apply the necessary care, skill, prudence, and diligence
Missing Participants – New State Unclaimed Property Fund Option for Small Balances
Exciting Update: Self-Correction for Delinquent Contributions Now Possible Under the DOL’s VFCP
Potential Shifts in Employee Benefits: A Guide for Employers Under Trump
As we prepare for another change in Administration in the White House, it is crucial for employers and plan sponsors to stay informed and prepared. While much of what lies ahead is speculative, understanding these possible changes can help employers navigate the uncharted waters of employee benefits. Following is an overview of potential changes we
IRS Interim Guidance Under Secure 2.0 On “Inadvertent Benefit Overpayments”
Among the provisions of SECURE 2.0 (effective December 29, 2022) welcomed by plan sponsors were the additions to the Internal Revenue Code that allow qualified plans to refrain from trying to recoup an “inadvertent benefit overpayment” (referred to here as an IBO), and from having to restore such payments to the plan. In addition, the
2025 Cost of Living Adjustments for Retirement Plans
The Internal Revenue Service recently announced its cost-of-living adjustments applicable to dollar limitations on benefits and contributions for retirement plans generally effective for Tax Year 2025 (see IRS Notice 2024-80). Most notably, the limitation on annual salary deferrals into a 401(k) or 403(b) plan will increase to $23,500, and the dollar threshold for