PBGC’s Modified Missing Participant Regulations Now Apply to DC Retirement Plans

The Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) issued final regulations that modify existing guidance on missing participants and beneficiaries in terminating qualified retirement plans. The revised regulations broaden guidance to now apply to defined contribution (DC) plans, to multiemployer (union) plans covered under PBGC’s pension insurance program, and to certain other DB plans not previously covered.

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DOL Extends Transition Period for Key Fiduciary Rule Requirements to Mid-2019

The applicability date of several key elements of the Department of Labor (DOL) investment fiduciary guidance has been extended from January 1, 2018, to July 1, 2019. The additional 18-month transition period specifically applies to the controversial Best Interest Contract (BIC) exemption, to the “principal transactions” exemption for asset transactions between investment fiduciaries and employee benefit plans (including IRAs), and to certain proposed restrictions on annuities offered as retirement investments.

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Rising Health Care Costs Affect Retirement Savings—HSAs Are One Solution

Like many Americans, Gavin Smith’s employer is offering only a high deductible health plan (HDHP) next year. Having two active sons and knowing the HDHP has higher out-of-pocket amounts, he is worried about having enough money to pay the medical bills. Gavin decides to reduce the amount he saves for retirement to help free up more money for health care costs.

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