Retirement Plans - Defined Benefit

Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) often bring big changes to companies, but one area that frequently causes problems is employee benefits. When two organizations combine, aligning benefit plans can be complicated. Mistakes in this process can lead to employee dissatisfaction, legal risks, and increased costs. Understanding the most common pitfalls helps companies protect their workforce and maintain smooth transitions. Mistake 1: Overlooking Benefit Plan Differences Early One of

Defined benefit plan sponsors face important updates for 2026 that affect contribution limits, deduction caps, benefit guarantees, and premium requirements. These changes require careful review with actuaries, finance teams, and HR to ensure compliance and optimize plan management. This post breaks down the key IRS and PBGC limit changes for 2026 and offers practical advice on what plan sponsors should focus on for the current plan year. 2026 IRS and PBGC limit updates for de

Pension risk transfer and other de-risking strategies have become essential tools for employers managing defined benefit plans. As market conditions fluctuate and funding levels change, companies are revisiting options like annuity buyouts, lump-sum windows, glide paths, and liability-driven investing. These strategies help reduce long-term liabilities and protect plan sponsors from unexpected financial shocks. Understanding why employers are reassessing these approaches now

Employers today face a challenging environment when it comes to attracting and keeping skilled workers. At the same time, companies look for ways to manage costs and improve financial efficiency. This combination has led some employers to revisit defined benefit (DB) pension plans, a retirement option that many thought was fading away. These plans offer unique advantages, including higher tax-deductible contributions and strong incentives for employee loyalty. This post explo