The 7 Areas We Review
in a 401(k) Plan
This is the structure we use to evaluate whether a retirement plan is functioning properly over time.
Most plans are not reviewed this way. They are monitored reactively, without a defined process. This framework brings structure, consistency, and documentation to plan oversight.
Evaluate total plan cost, fee structure, and benchmarking against comparable plans to determine whether costs are reasonable and documented.
Review fund structure, cost efficiency, and default investment design to ensure alignment with participant behavior and long-term outcomes.
Assess plan design elements such as eligibility, match structure, and automatic features that influence participation and savings behavior.
Analyze participation rates, deferral levels, and behavioral trends to determine whether the plan is producing meaningful outcomes.
Evaluate governance structure, decision processes, and documentation to ensure fiduciary responsibilities are supported and defensible.
Review coordination across recordkeepers, TPAs, and advisors to ensure operational efficiency and accountability.
Assess compliance processes, required filings, and oversight practices to identify potential exposure and gaps.
These areas are not reviewed once. They are monitored through a defined governance process over time.
Request a 401(k) Strategy Session
This session applies this framework to your plan so you can see where it stands today and where coordination may be needed.
Request My 401(k) Strategy SessionNo obligation. No commitment required. Just a structured evaluation of your plan.