Search for topics or resources

The Frugal Fiduciary Small Business 401(k) Blog

Get the latest industry news, deadlines and tips you need to know to help tackle your fiduciary responsibility needs.
The Top Heavy Test - What You Need to Know

The Top Heavy Test - What You Need to Know

By: Eric Droblyen

July 1st 2021

Learn everything you need to know about the Top Heavy Test – an important 401(k) nondiscrimination test.
Read More
Vesting Schedules – Everything You Need to Know

Vesting Schedules – Everything You Need to Know

By: Eric Droblyen

July 1st 2021

As a 401(k) participant, understanding your vesting schedule is crucial. Learn what you need to know in this short guide.
Read More
401(k) Rollovers - How to Evaluate Your Options

401(k) Rollovers - How to Evaluate Your Options

By: Eric Droblyen

June 23rd 2021

401(k)s and IRAs can offer wide-ranging investments, fees, and features. Making a bad rollover decision can set your retirement back years.
Read More
401(k) Earned Income – What Employers Need to Know

401(k) Earned Income – What Employers Need to Know

By: Eric Droblyen

June 9th 2021

401(k) plans must allocate and test the contributions made to self-employed individuals using a special definition of plan compensation called earned income.
Read More
Is Your Company Part of a Controlled Group?  You Need to Know or Risk 401(k) Plan Disqualification

Is Your Company Part of a Controlled Group?  You Need to Know or Risk 401(k) Plan Disqualification

By: Eric Droblyen

May 26th 2021

IRS controlled group rules often obligate 2 or more employers with common ownership to cover their employees with the same 401k plan in order to pass annual nondiscrimination testing.
Read More
How Much Lower 401(k) Fees Can Grow Your Retirement Savings

How Much Lower 401(k) Fees Can Grow Your Retirement Savings

By: Eric Droblyen

May 12th 2021

Cost matters a LOT when saving for retirement. Even 401(k) fee small reductions today can mean much higher account balances for participants in retirement.
Read More
401(k) Fee Study: 75% of Small Business Plans Pay Hidden Fees

401(k) Fee Study: 75% of Small Business Plans Pay Hidden Fees

By: Eric Droblyen

April 28th 2021

“Are my 401(k) fees too high?” is a common question asked by both plan sponsors and participants. Our small business fee study can give some perspective.
Read More
Starting a 401(k)? A Short Initial Plan Year is Probably a Bad Idea

Starting a 401(k)? A Short Initial Plan Year is Probably a Bad Idea

By: Eric Droblyen

April 14th 2021

401(k) plans must define a plan year cycle for annual administration. Most new plans should avoid a short plan year for first year administration.
Read More
Design a 401(k) Plan Like a Pro in 6 Steps

Design a 401(k) Plan Like a Pro in 6 Steps

By: Eric Droblyen

March 31st 2021

Expert 401(k) plan design can help small business owners meet their plan goals for thousands less. The process can be completed in 30 minutes or less.
Read More
How to Lobby Your Employer for a Better 401(k) Plan

How to Lobby Your Employer for a Better 401(k) Plan

By: Eric Droblyen

March 17th 2021

401(k) plans with top investments and no admin fees can help you retire years sooner by delivering much higher returns. Here's how to lobby for such a plan.
Read More