Qualified Plans

A qualified plan must meet a certain set of requirements in the Internal Revenue Code such as minimum participation, vesting and funding requirements. In return, the IRS provides significant tax advantages to encourage businesses to establish retirement plans including the following:

• Employer contributions to the plan are tax deductible.
• Earnings on investments accumulate tax-free which allows contributions and earnings to compound at a faster rate.
• Employees are not taxed on the contributions and earnings until they receive the funds.
• Employees may make pretax contributions to certain types of plans.
• Ongoing plan expenses are tax deductible.

In addition, sponsoring a qualified retirement plan has the following advantages :

• Attracting: Attract experienced employees in a very competitive job market--retirement plans are quickly becoming a key part of the total compensation package.
• Retaining . motivating: Retain and motivate good employees--you don't want to lose them to your competitors because of the qualified plans they are offering.
• Helping: Help employees save for their future since Social Security retirement benefits alone will be inadequate to support a reasonable lifestyle for most retirees.
• Protecting: Plan assets that are protected from creditors.

Employers can choose between two basic types of retirement plans, defined benefit and defined contribution , both of which may be sponsored to maximize benefits.

Our consultants can help you choose the right plan for your company. Contact us for more information.