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.
Meeting the DOL's New Investment Selection Rule with Index Funds
By: Eric Droblyen
May 19th 2026
The DOL's new six-factor rule for 401(k) investment selection makes an exceptionally strong case for passive index funds. Here's why — and what to document.
Read More
The DOL's Proposed Six-Factor Prudence Rule: Our Comment to the DOL
By: Eric Droblyen
May 5th 2026
Employee Fiduciary submitted a formal comment to the DOL on its proposed six-factor prudence rule. We support the framework — but urge three fixes before finalization: CIT fee transparency, crypto safeguards, and participant disclosure rights.
Read More
The DOL's Proposed Six-Factor Prudence Rule: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
By: Eric Droblyen
April 21st 2026
A participant-focused analysis of the DOL's March 2026 proposed fiduciary investment selection rule — what it gets right, where it falls short, and where it could harm retirement savers.
Read More
401(k) Investment Selection Under the DOL's Proposed Six-Factor Prudence Rule
By: Eric Droblyen
April 7th 2026
The DOL's 2026 proposed rule gives 401(k) plan sponsors a six-factor framework for prudent investment selection — and a safe harbor from litigation. Here's what you need to know.
Read More
401(k) Eligibility Rules: Service, Age, Entry Dates & Employee Exclusions Explained
By: Eric Droblyen
March 24th 2026
Learn how 401(k) eligibility rules work, including service requirements, entry dates, and exclusions—and how to design a plan that balances cost and compliance.
Read More
Solo 401(k) vs. SEP-IRA: How Solopreneurs Should Choose
By: Eric Droblyen
March 10th 2026
Solo 401(k) vs. SEP-IRA: Learn the key differences, contribution limits, and when each retirement plan makes sense for self-employed business owners.
Read More
401(k) Testing Basics: A Useful Guide to Avoid Surprises
By: Eric Droblyen
February 24th 2026
A useful guide to 401(k) testing basics—coverage, ADP, ACP, top-heavy rules, and annual limits—so employers can avoid surprises.
Read More
Roth 401(k) Contributions — Answers to Common Questions (SECURE 2.0 Update)
By: Eric Droblyen
February 10th 2026
SECURE 2.0 expanded Roth 401(k) options. Learn how Roth catch-ups, age 60–63 limits, and RMD changes affect employers and employees.
Read More
401(k) Contribution Deductibility - What Employers Need to Know
By: Eric Droblyen
January 27th 2026
How much can you deduct for 401(k) contributions? Learn employer limits, timing rules, retroactive adoption, and SECURE 2.0 tax credits.
Read More
The SECURE 2.0 Act Amendment: What Employers Can Expect in 2026
By: Eric Droblyen
January 13th 2026
Most 401(k) plans must adopt a SECURE 2.0 amendment by December 31, 2026. Here’s what employers should expect from their 401(k) provider and when action is required.
Read More