Articles

Posted on May 10, 2023

Money is a leading cause of stress for many Americans, even those considered wealthy. Research shows that people worry about retirement savings, college tuition expenses, student loans, health care costs, credit card debt, and the ability to cover the monthly rent or mortgage payment. Employers are recognizing that these financial stressors can have a negative impact on employee productivity and overall well-being.

Posted on Apr 16, 2023

Learn the benefits of an unbundled retirement plan over a bundled plan. Unbundled plans offer tailored services, open architecture for investment options, and personalized customer service, whereas bundled plans are standardized with limited investment options. Employers looking for flexibility, choice, quality, and customer service should consider an unbundled retirement plan.

Posted on Mar 7, 2023

While it’s true that many private companies have switched from defined benefit plans to defined contribution plans (such as 401(k) plans), it’s worth considering whether a defined benefit plan would benefit you as a business owner and help you meet your tax and savings goals. Generally, the employer makes the most contributions in a defined benefit plan, although sometimes voluntary contributions by employees are permitted or required.

Posted on Mar 2, 2023

Learn about the key provisions of the SECURE Act 2.0, a new legislation that aims to expand access to retirement savings and simplify plan administration for employers. Discover how TPS Group's mission aligns with this legislation to promote a secure financial future for all.

Posted on Feb 13, 2023

This article explains the difference between a traditional 401(k) and a safe harbor 401(k) plan. A safe harbor 401(k) plan offers benefits for business owners and employees as it is not subject to annual nondiscrimination testing and employees are immediately vested when employer contributions are made. Employers must make mandatory contributions and there are different types of safe harbor plans to choose from.

Posted on Jan 18, 2023

Auto-enrollment and auto-escalation features in 401(k) plans can greatly benefit employees by encouraging them to save for retirement at an early stage and at a high enough rate to meet their future income needs. However, these features should be reviewed to ensure they are optimized and not just offered to new employees, as existing workers can also benefit from them.

Posted on Jan 9, 2023

Employers may allow employees to take loans or hardship withdrawals from their 401(k) accounts, but they come with risks and potential tax consequences. Hardship withdrawals can reduce an employee's account balance, and loans may incur taxes and penalties if not repaid. Employers should carefully weigh the benefits and risks before offering these options to employees.

Posted on Dec 6, 2022

The pre-tax advantages of a 401(k) plan make it a very effective way for employees to save for retirement and lower their tax burden. Since taxes on a 401(k) are deferred until funds are actually withdrawn, the premise is that in retirement, the individual will be in a lower tax bracket than while employed.

Posted on Nov 21, 2022

With 2023 right on the horizon, now is a good time for employers to review whether their retirement plans are still in alignment with their business needs and goals.

Posted on Oct 13, 2022

Fidelity bonds are an ERISA requirement for people who manage plan funds and other property. These bonds protect the plan from losses due to fraud or dishonesty, which may include theft, embezzlement, forgery, misappropriation, and other acts.