Critics have called the 401(k) plan a “failed experiment” and maintain that it does not provide retirement security to low and middle income employees. Does the 401(k) plan really deserve a failing grade? Recent developments suggest otherwise.

Qualified Retirement Plan, SECURE 2.0Carol BuckmannMay 27, 2024401k

Who Owns Plan Forfeitures? New Cases Challenge IRS Guidance

401(k) sponsors routinely use forfeitures to reduce employer contributions. New lawsuits say this is an ERISA violation. Who will win?.

The New Roth Catch-up Requirement Needs Clarification-What Are Plan Sponsors to Do?

A short provision of SECURE 2.0 raises a long list of compliance questions. Here are some of them.

How SECURE 2.0 Helps Employees Save for Non-Retirement Needs

SECURE 2.0 gives plan sponsors new tools to help participants with emergency needs and student debt.

Is Cryptocurrency Too Risky for 401(k) Plans? The Controversy Continues

Several new developments mean that the debate over whether cryptocurrency belongs in retirement plans isn’t going away.

In the News-Carol Buckmann Quoted on Need for Cybersecurity Liability Standards

Carol tells Bloomberg Law why we need more guidance on liability when participant benefits are stolen by internet thieves.

Fiduciary Advice, Qualified Retirement PlanSandra CohenAugust 19, 2022cybersecurity, 401k, pensions

Another Cybertheft Lawsuit Spotlights 401(k) Recordkeeper Procedures

Who is responsible when a thief steals a participant’s 401(k) account?

Industry Groups Push Back-Why the DOL Should Partner with Stakeholders to Revise Its Cryptocurrency Guidance

Cryptocurrency is here to stay. There are many different types of cryptocurrency and cryptocurrency-related investments and they have different risk profiles. Regardless of whether you think cyptocurrency belongs in 401(k) plans, it is in everyone’s interest for the DOL to clarify its new guidance and for there to be an improved process for issuing further guidance. Stakeholders can help the DOL understand more about the market and how it is evolving.

In the News-401ktv Article Quotes Carol Buckmann

Carol Buckmann is quoted in this 401ktv article on private equity investments through 401(k) plans.

Fiduciary Advice, Qualified Retirement PlanSandra CohenApril 1, 2022privateequity, 401k

Private Equity and 401(k) Plans-Do They Belong Together?

Does private equity belong in 401(k) plans? The Department of Labor has issued new guidance cautioning fiduciaries about the risks. Carol Buckmann discusses the issues in this article for Investment News.