Paul D. Sippil & Associates

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Imagine shopping for a car, a phone, or a computer.You can compare prices instantly, evaluate features side‑by‑side, read reviews, negotiate, and understand—down to the dollar—what you’re paying and why. Buyers have power because information is visible, prices are explicit, and sellers must justify value.Now imagine shopping for a 401(k) plan.No posted prices. No standardized invoices. No easy way to compare

In the retirement plan world, many people assume that someone — a regulator, a third-party administrator, a provider — is keeping a close eye on fees, vendors, and plan quality. But the truth is, very few people are actually reviewing the details of individual retirement plans.That’s why I focus so much of my time and energy on Form 5500 filings

Every so often, I come across an idea that’s so simple, so practical, and so obviously beneficial, I find myself wondering why it hasn’t already transformed the industry. One of those ideas is this: employers should pay retirement plan fees instead of pulling them from participant accounts.This isn’t just a theory I toss around. It’s a move that could collectively

For small businesses, multiple employer 401k plans (MEPs) are often promoted as a cost-effective and simplified solution for offering retirement benefits. While MEPs can offer some notable advantages, they’re not always the best fit for every business. Understanding the pros and cons of these plans can help small business owners make an informed decision.The Advantages of MEPsThe two main benefits

Switching 401k providers is often not a top priority for small businesses. For many plan sponsors, the process can feel daunting and time-consuming. A lack of familiarity with the retirement plan industry and limited information on available options frequently leave plan sponsors relying on financial advisors to help them navigate the decision. Despite these challenges, companies commonly switch 401k providers

Providing a 401k plan for your small business can be a game-changer for both you and your employees. It not only helps attract and retain top talent but also offers valuable tax benefits. However, choosing the right 401k provider can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider, so

Figuring out what participants are paying retirement plan service providers has long been a source of confusion for plan sponsors. Despite the Department of Labor’s stricter fee disclosure requirements, many sponsors still struggle to fully understand the fees associated with their 401k plans. In fact, some sponsors became less inclined to investigate fees after the disclosure regulations were enacted, assuming

If your company is changing its 401k provider, you may have questions about how this affects your retirement savings. While provider transitions are common, they can lead to temporary disruptions and adjustments. Here’s what you need to know about the process and how it impacts you.Investment Transfers and Fund SelectionOne of the biggest changes participants might encounter is how their

If you want to help your employees plan for the future, one of the first areas you need to focus on is the 401k plan investment options, which can be difficult to understand. Sometimes there can be too many options, causing employees to become overwhelmed and not participate, which can drastically impact their ability to retire at a comfortable age

I had previously written about the fact that law firms are especially prone to excessive fees. I’d now like to provide an example of one of the most overpriced law firm retirement plans I have seen: Klein, Thorpe, and Jenkins. Here is a summary of the total service charges listed on their 5500 form:2013: $49,6942014: $75,1032015: $69,0312016: $64,6312017: $69,9382018: $76,6672019: