401k fees shouldn’t always increase.

Asset-based 401k fees have been the industry standard. Until now.

Over-Complicated Disclosure Forms

The federal government requires annual filings and fee disclosures, but they are complex and not very useful.
Service providers have no motivation to increase understanding of a plan’s true cost.
For Employers & Plan Sponsors Form 5500
  • A public document for 401k plan sponsors and source of data for federal agencies, Congress and others. Filed annually with government by service providers.
  • Should include service providers’ fees but it is rarely accurate or complete. Fees typically understated, sometimes even showing $0 – 401k plans aren’t free.
For Employees/Participants Participant Fee Disclosure
  • A document for 401k participants with information regarding the plan’s investment options, performance, fees and expenses. Distributed annually by service provider.
  • Fees information difficult to understand – expressed only as % of assets and cost dollars per $1,000. Unable to see the raw dollar total of fees deducted from accounts – shockingly high over time, especially nearing retirement.

Investment Funds Matter

Service providers often select investment funds that are best for their pocketbook, not participants’ investment returns.  Service providers often receive a portion of the revenue for using particular investment funds in a 401k plan (this is called revenue sharing). These hidden fees restrict 401k performance potentially denying participants additional hard-earned retirement savings.
Many 401k advisors are often just too reactive (or passive) – participants have to call them for help.

Avoid Ever-Increasing Asset-Based Plan Fees

It’s time to switch. Let’s get started