FIS Relius

Effect of Death on Retirement Plans

Death seems like such a simple matter for a 401(k) plan. A participant dies; the employer cuts the final paycheck; and the plan arranges to distribute the account to the beneficiary. The only problem is that the process is much more involved than that, with many twists, turns, and unanswered questions.

This seminar takes a close look at the effect of a participant or beneficiary’s death on a 401(k) plan.

Topics include:

• Compensation paid after death.
• Deferrals after death.
• Allocations after death.
• The effect of death on vesting.
• Determination of beneficiary.
• The effect of death on loans.
• Death of the business owner.
• Understanding plan distribution language.
• Effect of joint and survivor rules.
• Spousal survivor rights.
• Effect of QDRO.
• What to do when there are conflicting beneficiaries.
• How to handle a beneficiary’s death before distribution.
• RMD rules after death.
• Planning for surviving spouse.
• Death in the military.
• Life insurance in the plan.

There are no prerequisites or other advanced preparation for this program. Attendees should have a general familiarity with the operation of 401(k) plans.

Instructional Delivery Method
Group – Internet-Based

Speaker: David Schultz, J.D.

Objectives: After attending this Web seminar, an attendee should be able to:

• Explain the treatment of compensation paid after death.
• Correct errors in deferrals and match after death.
• Properly administer the required minimum distribution rules after death.
• Explain the options with regard to participant loans outstanding at death.
• Identify those situation when plan rules take priority over participant beneficiary designations.

How to participate

You will need a phone (speakerphone, for multiple participants sharing the Primary registrant’s authorized connection) and Internet Access. The graphics presentation and illustrations will be viewed via the Primary registrant’s Web connection, while the speaker audio portion will be via the Primary registrant’s telephone. Important Note: The user registrant must be logged in via the internet for CE purposes. Select the ""Fees"" link on the right side menu of this page for more information about who is authorized to connect to the program, and for the cancellation/transfer policy.

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