Human resource department employees handle many responsibilities, such as managing a company's health care benefits or supervising the retirement plan. It is crucial for plan sponsors, who are frequently overseeing these teams, to understand the difficulties their HR department encounters daily, and to avoid compromising their fiduciary duties to these workers. 

According to the results of a 2024 American Psychiatric Association mental health poll, 43% of adults reported higher subjective feelings of anxiety than they did the previous year. Respondents indicated feeling anxiety related to a number of issues. 

These alarming statistics underscore the critical need for employers to prioritize financial wellness programs. Check out these insights and resources regarding programs and ideas to boost morale

In late June of 2024, the IRS issued a notice providing critical guidance on early withdrawal penalty exemptions under the SECURE 2.0 Act. The law includes significant provisions for individuals experiencing domestic violence. Victims of domestic abuse can now withdraw funds from their retirement plans without incurring the usual early withdrawal penalty.

To learn more about this guidance or what information you should share with participants, read our latest blog. 

How well do you know your retirement plan? Take our quiz to find out! Learn the type of account you have, assess your investment risk, discover your employer’s match limit, and ensure you know your beneficiary. Understanding these key aspects can maximize your financial future. If you’re unsure about any answers, reach out to an Advisor or plan sponsor for guidance.

Retirement accounts are prime targets for cyberattacks, with breaches on the rise. Educate participants on scams and choose secure recordkeepers to prevent data leaks. Implement two-factor authentication and consider cybersecurity insurance. Plan sponsors must have a response plan with recordkeepers to manage breaches effectively. Stay proactive and ensure the security of retirement funds.

Discover why Americans’ retirement "magic number" has soared to $1.46 million, a 53% increase in five years, while actual savings lag. Factors like inflation, healthcare costs, and debt widen this gap. Plan sponsors can bridge it through financial literacy, auto-enrollment, and boosting contributions, ensuring better retirement readiness and security.

Learn the importance of accurate beneficiary designations in retirement plans. Discover how neglecting updates can lead to unintended outcomes and costly legal disputes. Explore best practices for plan sponsors to educate participants and leverage technology. Protect your employees' financial futures by ensuring their beneficiary wishes are upheld.

Retirement readiness is a critical issue impacting employees across all demographics. As the workforce becomes increasingly diverse, employers have a unique opportunity to foster an inclusive environment to empower everyone to achieve financial security once retirement comes. Explore actionable steps you as an employer can take to engage your employees in retirement planning, regardless of their background, life stage, or financial circumstances.