7–8 a.m.

Breakfast in the Exhibit Hall

8–8:50 a.m.

Concurrent Workshops

WS25: Taking Over a New Client — Be Careful What You Wish For

You have won a new plan, now what?  What items need to be communicated and addressed during the takeover process.  Our presenters will discuss takeovers and what they have learned in their experiences. This session will provide you with tips on takeovers to you do not have to look back and wish you had done things differently. Attendees will:

• Hear real life experiences of takeovers and, in hindsight, what could have been done to create a smoother transition.

• Help you develop strategies to evaluate plans before agreeing to the engagement.

• Learn what documentation and information is critical to the process of taking over a plan.

Claire P. Rowland, Esq., QPA, QKA, Associate, Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP

WS26: Navigating the MEP and PEP World

Pooled Employer Plans, or “PEPs” are here….are you ready for them? This session will highlight the rules associated with PEPS and the responsibilities of the preferred plan provider “PPP”. Whether your organization will be embracing or avoiding these plans – you will need to be familiar with how they work.  What alternative options exist if you’ve decided not to jump into to Pooled Employer Plans? During this session, attendees will learn:

• Who should venture into the realm of PEP administration; what are the requirements and what are the pros and cons of doing so?

• How serving as a pooled plan administrator differs from other 3(16) fiduciary services.

• How can a PEP be properly administered and what are the pitfalls?

• How your practice can survive and thrive by selling against PEPs.

Linda Kurz, Transamerica

Karen Smith, MSEA, President, Nova 401(k) Associates

WS27: The Many Challenges with Takeover Plans

Who doesn’t love a takeover plan? In this session we will discuss the ins and outs, and complexities, of takeovers. What actuarial information is needed for a smooth transition of actuarial services? What do you do when the transition does not go smoothly? Bring your own war stories to this open dialogue of challenges and issues. Attendees will:

• Learn what is required to takeover a plan

• Discuss what to do if there are challenges that make the transition difficult

• Gain an understanding of best practices from lessons learned

Justin Bonestroo, MSEA, CPC, CPFA, Senior Vice President, CBIZ Retirement Plan Solutions

Kurt F. Piper, FSEA, Owner & Chief Actuary, Piper Pension & Profit Sharing

WS28: The Ins and Outs of 436

We will review the nuances of the 436 rules and their impact on plan operations. This session will take a deep dive into Sect. 436 and a basic understanding is assumed. Attendees will:

• Understand the rules and calculations of presumed AFTAPS.

• Gain a refresher on the rules for plan amendments increasing benefits.

• Review the potential issues when benefit restrictions are no longer in place.

Andrew Behnke, MSEA, Senior Actuary, Midwest Pension Actuaries, Inc.

Charles Brown, MSEA, QPA, QKA, Consulting Associate Director, Wolters Kluwer Law and Business

WS29: DOL Cybersecurity Guidance and How It Applies to You and Your Firm

The DOL’s Cybersecurity Guidance does not specify minimum requirements for sponsors and fiduciaries to follow, rather it advises on best practices and leaves it to the sponsor and fiduciaries to apply in accordance with the facts and circumstances of their plans.  Where does a firm begin to comply with the outline of rules the DOL published?  This session will review the guidance from a legal perspective and a small business owner’s perspective on practical applications and required documentation of your cybersecurity policies. Attendees will:

• Gain an understanding of the Cybersecurity Program Best Practices.

• Increased knowledge to self-assess how your firm measures up against the tips for hiring a service provider with strong cybersecurity practices.

Genelle M. Brakefield, QKA, TGPC, QPFC, Vice President, Ekon Benefits

Shannon M. Edwards, QPA, QKC, QKA, CPFA, President, TriStar Pension Consulting

Thomas F. Zych, Partner, Thompson Hine LLP

WS30: Data Treasure Trove — What do recordkeepers do with all that data?

As the name states, a recordkeeper keeps records but what if anything should they do with all the data?  This session will explore using data to promote plan and nonplan services, such as, rollovers, IRAs, annuities, and life and disability insurance.

Maura K. Lamb, QPA, Director, DST Retirement Solutions

Ekaterina “Katie” Sheliga, MBA, AIF®, CPFA®, Institutional Sales Director, The Standard

9:05–11:05 a.m.

General Session 2: Current Events

ASPPA Annual wouldn’t be the same without a game-show-inspired general session that tests selected contestants’ — and your — industry knowledge! During our new “Brain Game” current-events trivia game —patterned after the popular “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire,” — contestants will go toe to toe to prove who’s really in the know. Hosted by Kizzy Gaul, this session will feature a panel of your favorite speakers who will provide background about the quiz topics and serve as contestants’ lifelines. And, as always, there’ll be plenty of chances for audience participation so, study up!

Host: Kizzy M. Gaul, Esq., CPC, QPA, QKA, TGPC

Panel 1: Alex Petrenko Calaf, QPA, QKA, QKC; Joseph A. Nichols, MSEA; Amy Ouellette, CFP®, QPA, QKC, QKA, CPFA, TGPC; Jennifer Swets, QPA, QKC, QKA

Panel 2: Justin Bonestroo, MSEA, CPC, CPFA; Kirsten Curry, APM; Erin D. Patton, ERPA, CPC, QPA, QKA, Angela Vadnais, MSEA

Panel 3: Andrew Behnke, MSEA; Genelle M. Brakefield, QKA, TGPC, QPFC; Wesley T. Stohler, CPC, QPA, QKC, QKA; Maggie Younis, CPC, QPA, QKA, TGPC

11:35 a.m.–12:25 p.m.

Concurrent Workshops

WS31: Get up to date with 5500 updates!

One-participant, foreign plans, consolidated reporting, oh my!  This session will the review the changes to the Form 5500 series brought about by the SECURE Act.  We will take a look at implications of the changed rules including limited scope audits and consolidated reporting for a related group of plans.  We will also discuss any new developments regarding Form 5500. Attendees will learn:

• Changes to 5500, 5500-SF, 5500-EZ for 2020 Plan Years and beyond

• Changes to accountant opinion scope

• Increased penalties

• Consolidated 5500 for certain DC plans.

• Who is a related group?

• Why would you and why would you not choose to file a consolidated 5500?

Stephen W. Forbes, J.D., President, Forbes Retirement Plan Consulting

Melissa Terito, Partner, Sentinel Pension

WS32: Forfeitures/ERISA Spending Accounts — Where do they come from?

What is a forfeiture and how is it different from ERISA Spending Accounts? Review examples and understand how and when these must be used. Attendees will:

• Know what a forfeiture is and how it differs from an ERISA Spending Account.

• How can the employer use these funds?

• How is each reported annually?

Alex Petrenko Calaf, QPA, QKA, QKC, SVP, Retirement Plan Consulting, Cetera Financial Group

Adam C. Pozek, ERPA, QPA, QKC, QKA, Partner/CFO, DWC – The 401(k) Experts

WS33: New Deadlines — Implementing Retroactive DB Plans

Things have changed.  With post year end plan adoption allowed under the Secure Act we have new deadlines.  How do you implement a retroactive DB Plan?  What are the challenges with new and existing 401k plans?  What did we learn from the 2020 tax season and how can we do better next year?

• Apply new deadlines available under the Secure Act

• Discuss best practices for implementing retroactive plans

Kevin J. Donovan, FSEA, President, Pinnacle Plan Design, LLC

WS34: FASB Update

Review recent updates in FASB’s Accounting Standards. Gain insight into key points of communication between the actuary, CFO and the auditor in the preparation of the disclosures. Attendees should have a basic understanding of FASB rules and disclosures.

• Learn what is required to meet FASB’s Accounting Standards

• Discuss how to effectively communicate between the actuary, CFO, and auditor

David J. Kupstas, FSA, MSEA, Chief Actuary, Actuarial Consulting Group, Inc.

Matthew Rustige, MSEA, Actuary, Summit Benefit & Actuarial Services, Inc

WS35: Leaders: How to Differentiate You, Your Firm, and Your Team

Do you ever think you are in a ‘Where’s Waldo’ cartoon?  In today’s competitive world, a firm cannot look like all the other firms.  Every firm is different, so why do we all look the same? Or do we?  If we do, how do each of us differentiate? How do we avoid looking like a commodity?  Furthermore, how do you, both as a business and firm leader differentiate yourself and a market that seems to have us all looking the same.  Finally, what about your team can you do to differentiate those who are working most closely with your clients and your collaborative partners?  Attendees of this interactive session will leave with ideas on what they can do to stand out from all the rest.

Shannon M. Edwards, QPA, QKC, QKA, CPFA, President, TriStar Pension Consulting

Amanda R. Iverson, APM, COO, Pinnacle Plan Design, LLC

WS36: Recordkeeping — Cybersecurity and Fraud

Are you or your plans at risk?  Fraud and cybersecurity have always been a risk to our plans.  However, new tactics are always being discovered.  This workshop will focus on different types of fraud, how you and your firm can protect plan sponsors, and increase awareness regarding the latest cybersecurity challenges facing retirement plans.

Thomas F. Zych, Partner, Thompson Hine LLP

12:25–2 p.m.

Networking Lunch in the Exhibit Hall

X-Change Sessions allow attendees to take part in conversations that are changing the way our industry does business and solving challenges we face through shared ideas taking place on the expo floor, these facilitated discussions allow you to gather with your peers seeking answers to the questions you’re also trying to solve. Work together through discussion during the 2021 X-Change Sessions.

ASEA Lunch and Business Meeting

All ASEA members are invited to attend the ASEA Luncheon at the ASPPA Annual Conference. The luncheon provides an opportunity to network with fellow members and ASEA’s President will provide a year in review. Further, there will be a transition of leadership to the new President, Officers and Leadership Council members.

2–2:50 p.m.

Concurrent Workshops

WS37: Compensation Consternation! (Part 1)

Compensation definitions giving you fits?  Come to this informative session that will demystify different definitions of Compensation.  We will identify required and optional exclusions and the ramifications of certain compensation exclusion choices.  Attendees will:

• Define 3401, 6041/6051, 415.

• Identify required and optional exclusions.

• Review Post Severance Compensation, First Few Weeks Rules, and Post Year End Compensation provisions

• Identify 414(s) definitions and when used.

• When is 414(s) testing required?

Erin D. Patton, CPC, QPA, QKA, Retirement Plan Consultant and Administrator, Striegel Knobloch & Company, L.L.C.

Derrin Watson, APM, Of Counsel, Ferenczy Benefit Law Center

WS38: Plan Amendments — Watch Out for Those Protected Benefits

Changing plan provisions or suggesting updates to the plan document during a takeover is easy right?  Don’t forget about the 411(d)(6) anti-cutback rules that protect a participant’s accrued benefit and early retirement benefits.  This session will discuss:

• Which plan provisions subject to the anti-cutback rules.

• Administration tips and traps of changing plan provisions

• Correction options if a cutback occurs.

John P. Griffin, Principal, Actuarial Systems Corporation

WS39: Combined Plan Design (Part 1) — How to Design the Perfect Combined Plan

Examine how you can use advanced plan design techniques to push the limits of what is possible. Learn how to proactively create plan designs to lessen the probability of testing failures and develop alternate methods of testing that could potentially correct the failures. Attendees will:

• Compare available options to use for nondiscrimination testing.

• Identify plan design opportunities during testing failures.

• Effectively communicate the issues and challenges to the plan sponsor.

Lawrence Deutsch, FSEA, President, Larry Deutsch Enterprises

WS40: Closed, but Not Forgotten, DB Plans (Part 1)

The Secure Act adopted relief for closed plans.  Theses sweeping changes were not isolated to large plans but can be applied to the small plans.  This session will review the rules and their utilization in the small plan market. Attendees will:

• Learn what is a closed plan.

• Gain an understanding of the new discrimination testing rules for closed plans.

Kelsey N.H. Mayo, J.D., Lead Partner, Employee Benefits, Poyner Spruill LLP

Joseph A. Nichols, MSEA, Actuary, DWC – The 401(k) Experts

WS41: Innovation Involving Artificial Intelligence and Automation

As technology evolves, so do the needs and resources available to business owners and managers. Utilizing inexpensive technology can increase efficiencies and effectiveness for your business. What if you could program a computer to do the repetitive things your staff does not want to do? Come to this session to learn about AI and automation and how that just may be possible!

Karen Smith, MSEA, President, Nova 401(k) Associates

WS42: Recordkeeping and TPA Partnership Best Practices

For plans that have engaged a TPA it is important for the TPA to have a good partnership with the recordkeeper.  This workshop will focus on topics that may impact that relationship including:

• Communicating plan document changes.

• Loan administration.

• Corrective contributions, distributions, and earnings calculations.

• Data sharing and reporting.

Maura K. Lamb, QPA, Director, DST Retirement Solutions

Miriam G. Matrangola, Esq, QPA, QKA, President, Atlantic Pension Services, Inc.

Amy Ouellette, CFP®, QPA, QKC, QKA, CPFA, TGPC, VP, Retirement Services, Vestwell

3:20–4:10 p.m.

Concurrent Workshops

WS43: Compensation Consternation! (Part 2)

In this continuation of Part 1 we will cover more advanced Compensation definitions, identify what definition may be right for certain clients, and walk through a 414(s) nondiscrimination testing scenario.  We will also discuss Self-Employed individuals and calculating their plan contributions.  Sharpen your pencils for this interactive session. Attendees will learn:

• Which definition of compensation may be right for your clients to provide?

• What types of compensation may be excluded and how to test for discrimination?

• Case Studies/SE Compensation.

Erin D. Patton, CPC, QPA, QKA, Retirement Plan Consultant and Administrator, Striegel Knobloch & Company, L.L.C.

Derrin Watson, APM, Of Counsel, Ferenczy Benefit Law Center

WS44: Communicating with Your Client — Saying What You Need to Say Without Saying What You Want

Complicated topics and complicated clients make things – get this – complicated. Have you ever struggled with unreasonable expectations from a grumpy client? Or maybe an imposing vendor?  In this session we will navigate the mine field of resetting those unreasonable expectations without outright calling those clients or vendors a jerk. Attendees will learn:

• Handling imposing vendors that believe you or they are the client.

• How to reset unreasonable expectations with new and old clients.

• Resetting expectations that were improperly set by an outside vendor.

Miriam G. Matrangola, Esq, QPA, QKA, President, Atlantic Pension Services, Inc.

Jennifer Swets, QPA, QKC, QKA, Partner / Retirement Plan Consultant, DWC – The 401(k) Experts

WS45: Combined Plan Design (Part 2) — What happens when your combined plan design isn’t perfect?

If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. The proposal may be an easy sell, but what could go wrong? This session will look at the potential pitfalls in various plan designs, including but not limited to, fully insured, floor offset and carve outs.

• Understand what challenges arise from tricky plan designs

• Review the pitfalls in certain plan designs and how to avoid certain errors

Lawrence Deutsch, FSEA, President, Larry Deutsch Enterprises

WS46: Closed, but Not Forgotten, DB Plans (Part 2) Case Studies

This session will build on the prior session utilizing case studies on the impact of the changes for closed plans in the small plan market. Attendees will:

• Review case studies illustrating the new discrimination testing rules for closed plans.

Kelsey N.H. Mayo, J.D., Lead Partner, Employee Benefits, Poyner Spruill LLP

Joseph A. Nichols, MSEA, Actuary, DWC – The 401(k) Experts

WS47: TPA Best Practices Panel

Do you ever wonder: How everyone else is doing it? Is there a better way to do this? Our panel of experienced and diverse TPAs will lead a discussion, and share best practices from their respective firms, as well as their successes, concerns, and challenges. They will also answer your pre-submitted and live questions. Share your thoughts and stimulate conversation among your peers.

Justin Bonestroo, MSEA, CPC, CPFA, Senior Vice President, CBIZ Retirement Plan Solutions

Megan Crawford, QPA, Partner, Williams Benefit Consulting, LLC

Wesley T. Stohler, CPC, QPA, QKC, QKA, President, Associated Benefit Planners, Ltd.

WS48: Nontraditional Recordkeeping

Recordkeeping traditional plan designs is easy, but what about plans that are complex and have nontraditional assets?  Our speakers will address:

• Best practices on working with nonqualified plans.

• Challenges of recordkeeping Puerto Rican plans.

• How to handle employer stock and limited traded assets.

• Working with Stable Value investments and non-portable assets.

Vincent Garzarella, Vice President, Mid-Large Markets, Lincoln Financial

Wayne McClain III, J.D., Managing Director, Associate General Counsel, TIAA

4:25–5:25 p.m.

General Session 3

7–8 a.m.

Breakfast in the Exhibit Hall

8–8:50 a.m.

Concurrent Workshops

WS49: Plan Design Changes — A Study in Cause and Effect

Perfect provisions when you set up a plan don’t always work in future years.  Join us for a study in cause and effect where changing demographics or financial considerations impact our ability or willingness to use certain features.  Work through case studies to develop a winning plan design!  Attendees will learn:

• How demographic changes can affect certain plan provisions.

• How financial fluctuations factor into plan design.

• Tips to forecast and mitigate future problems with current plan provisions.

JJ McKinney, CPC, QPA, QKA, Director of Sales, EGPS

Alex Petrenko Calaf, QPA, QKA, QKC, SVP, Retirement Plan Consulting, Cetera Financial Group

WS50: 3(16) Best Practices

So, you have made the decision to offer 3(16) fiduciary services: what now? Offering fiduciary services holds its own complexities when looking at the various services you can provide, and the risks associated. In this session we will discuss your responsibilities as well as best practices for offering these services. Attendees will learn:

• Associated risks with offering 3(16) and related services.

• Responsibilities for a service provider offering 3(16) services.

• Service provider best practices

Ilene H. Ferenczy, Esq., CPC, Managing Partner, Ferenczy Benefits Law Center

WS51: Don’t Fear an IRS Audit

Your defined benefit client has been selected for an audit — now what? Look at latest trends plan sponsors experience in connection with IRS audits of DB plans. With real-life examples, explore what to do when selected for an audit, and how to best prepare for the process.

David J. Kupstas, FSA, MSEA, Chief Actuary, Actuarial Consulting Group, Inc.

Claire P. Rowland, Esq., QPA, QKA, Associate, Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP

WS52: ASOP 56 (Modeling) and Recent Developments of the Standards of Practice

All ASEA actuaries are subject to the ASOPs. Keeping up to date and finding the right balance between providing the proper disclosure to your client and meeting the Standards of Practice can be a challenge. Explore ASOP 56 and its application to small plans. Attendees will:

• Gain an understanding of the provisions of ASOP 56 (Modeling).

• Learn what is in the works for future Standards (prior and pending Exposure Drafts).

• Review what constitutes a deviation from the ASOPs and their required disclosure.

Valerie M. Lopez, FSA, MSEA, Chief Actuary, Vice President, ASC

Virginia C. Wentz, FSEA, CPC, Director of Actuarial Services, The MandMarblestone Group, LLC

WS53: Training in a Digital World

Gone are the days where 100% of your workforce goes to the same physical office on a daily basis.  The new remote workplace provides many with greater flexibility, but it also creates various new challenges.  One of those challenges is how to train employees who live states away from you and your experienced team members.  Join this session to hear from a business leader who has experienced the digital training challenges and what she has done to see success surrounding her training programs.

Jennifer Swets, QPA, QKC, QKA, Partner / Retirement Plan Consultant, DWC – The 401(k) Experts

WS54: Are you an Ethical Recordkeeper?

Make good choices – that’s easy right?  But when it comes to applying ethical standards to our industry, there is not always a clear line.  Using case studies, this ethics session will focus on the challenges and decisions that recordkeepers face every day to balance the needs of the business and doing what’s right for plan sponsors and participants.

Kizzy M. Gaul, Esq., CPC, QPA, QKA, TGPC,  ERISA Attorney, Ascensus

9:05–10:45 a.m.

General Session 4: Government Update

11–11:50 a.m.

Concurrent Workshops

WS55: SCP/VCP/DFVCP — Which one applies?

There are many mistakes that occur in retirement plans, even with the most well-intentioned employers. The IRS and the DOL both offer correction programs to help.  What do the different acronyms mean and which program applies for the most common mistakes? Attendees will:

• Identify the different correction programs available.

• Understand when to use which program.

• Who is eligible for the different programs?

• Review of the most common mistakes and identify which program applies.

Robert M. Richter, J.D., Retirement Education Counsel, American Retirement Association

Melissa Terito, Partner, Sentinel Pension

WS56: Creative Plan Designs — Different Plans You May Encounter

Cash balance, cross testing, DB, Solo(k)? Yes!   This workshop is aimed towards experienced practitioners and will focus on creative plan designs for either 1) special demographic situations and/or 2) ones that can maximize contributions for owners. Case studies will be presented to demonstrate how creative plan design can help achieve your clients goals. Attendees will learn:

• How to maximize benefits for targeted individuals.

• When combination plans should be considered for your clients (this was not covered in the description but seems like a fit).

• How to identify candidates for these creative options

Kevin J. Donovan, FSEA, President, Pinnacle Plan Design, LLC

WS57: DB EPCRS

Take a close look at how EPCRS covers defined benefit issues, including certain rules only applicable to DB plans. Through real life case studies and examples, learn about the self-correction and VCP submission process. We’ll highlight common plan errors and corrections. Participants are encouraged to bring their own experiences to add to the discussion. Attendees will:

• Learn what EPCRS rules apply only to DB Plans

• Review how the self-correction and VCP submission process works

• Discuss common issues and how to correct them

James Holland, Chief Research Actuary, Cheiron, Inc.

Meredith J. Sesser, Attorney, Meredith J. Sesser, A PLC

WS58: DB RMDs After the SECURE Act

This session will focus on how to calculate Required Minimum Distributions for both defined benefit and cash balance plans.  Real-life situations and solutions will be presented based on available guidance and best practices. Highlight changes under Secure Act. Attendees will:

• Learn how the Secure Act has changed the RMD rules

• Discuss real life solutions and how best to meet the RMD requirements

Charles Brown, MSEA, EA, QPA, QKA, Consulting Associate Director, Wolters Kluwer Law and Business

WS59: Employee Reviews — The Good, the Bad and All the Rest

Are employee reviews necessary or a waste of time?  Are employee reviews and effective way to manage performance?  If annual reviews are not effective, how should management communicate performance with their team?  When there are performance problems, what are the best communication methods to seek improvement?  Join us in this session to talk all about performance reviews.

Genelle M. Brakefield, QKA, TGPC, QPFC, Vice President, Ekon Benefits

Natalie R. E. Wyatt, QKA, QPFC, Senior Account Executive, SS&C-Innovest

WS60: Recordkeeping Opportunities

Are you looking to develop products and services to differentiate your model in the marketplace? This interactive workshop will discuss some of the latest service offerings and how TPAs, Advisors and Recordkeepers can create opportunities to add value to the plan sponsor and participant while building partnerships. This session will cover:

• Financial education, wellness, planning and advice programs

• Technology integration

• Financial planning and income solutions

• Non-traditional asset class management

• Debt reduction

Kirsten Curry, Founder and CEO, Leading Retirement Solutions

Wendy Shaw, Vice President, Retirement Solutions Operations, Nationwide

11:50 a.m.–3 p.m.

Lunch

Lunch in the Exhibit Hall and Capitol Hill Meetings

We hope to be able to conduct the face-to-face meetings on Capitol Hill, typically conducted during ASPPA Annual. If, however, in-person visits with your member of Congress or senator are not permitted in October, we’ll bring a super panel of top key decision-makers to you! They’ll focus on key retirement policy proposals. Take this opportunity to share your perspective with elected representatives on the retirement issues most important to you.

3–3:50 p.m.

Concurrent Workshops

WS61: Restatements — What’s the status?

The SECURE and CARES Act provided plan sponsors the option to change plan provisions and adopt new provisions without an amendment.  How do you document the application of these changes, can you include these changes with the Cycle 3 restatement that opened August 1, 2020?  What about those plan sponsors still using an individually designed plan? In this session we are going to look at the various changes that need to be applied to the plan document and when those changes must be made effective. Attendees will learn:

• What changes must be applied to the plan document.

• When must those changes be made effective?

• How does it impact the plan document going forward?

Brian Furgala, Esq., CPC, QPA, Director of ERISA Services, Wolters Kluwer/ftwilliam.com

WS62: Testing 101 — Coverage Testing Warmup and Review

In this session we will discuss Coverage Testing basics focusing on the Ratio Percentage Test.  We will review disaggregation, permissive aggregation, and special coverage rules in M&A situations.  Pencils out and follow along with real world examples and calculations! Attendees will learn:

• How to perform 410(b) ratio percentage test.

• Determine next steps if fail.

• Disaggregation.

• Special Coverage Rules during M&A.

Stephen W. Forbes, J.D., President, Forbes Retirement Plan Consulting

Steve Riordan, CPC, QPA, QKA, Director, Plan Consulting, Fidelity Investments

WS63: Cash Balance Plans — A Focus on Interest Crediting Rates

Cash Balance plans continue to gain popularity. This session covers the basics of the design and nondiscrimination testing of cash balance plans.  Focus on variable ICR – pros and cons. Attendees will:

• Describe current rules and regulations for Cash Balance Plans.

• Identify different allowable methods and the impact on plan design.

• Learn how to select an ICR and when a variable rate could be the right choice

Lawrence Deutsch, FSEA, President, Larry Deutsch Enterprises

WS64: Recent Events at the PBGC

A panel of PBGC representatives provide an overview of recently published PBGC guidance and program operations with hints, tips, and relevant information about their various programs. Potential topics include plan terminations and audits, reportable events, coverage determination, and premium filing requirements.

• Review recent updates from the PBGC

• Learn relevant information regarding PBGC’s program operations and guidance

PBGC Speaker Invited

Virginia C. Wentz, FSEA, CPC, Director of Actuarial Services, The MandMarblestone Group, LLC

WS65: How to Use the “ERISA Outline Book” to Research

I just ‘googled’ it…. Words you don’t want to hear related to qualified plan research.  The world wide web is full of misleading and inaccurate data, and this includes data related to  retirement plans. The ERISA Outline Book, available in online and print editions, is both a reliable reference book and a study guide on qualified plans. Learn about this great resource and how it can be used to help your office find quick and reliable information to better serve your clients. Attendees will learn:

• Learn a better way to research information related to our industry.

• How to navigate the online and print versions to educate your team, and stay on top off the latest regulations.

Robert M. Richter, J.D., Retirement Education Counsel, American Retirement Association

WS66: Service Agreements — How Recordkeepers Should Limit Liability and Manage Risk

The service agreement can be your best advocate to manage your firm’s risk. Attend this session to understand how the service agreement can limit liability and discuss recommended language you should include based on recent industry trends and litigation.

Wayne McClain III, J.D., Managing Director, Associate General Counsel, TIAA

4:05–4:55 p.m.

Concurrent Workshops

WS67: Loans and Refinancing

Some of the biggest compliance challenges facing TPAs arise from participant loans, now with the added complexity of increased loan limits for some individuals under the CARES Act. Straightforward at first glance, loan provisions can cause substantial headaches for TPAs.  We will identify the hurdles of loans (both common and uncommon) and provide guidance on best practices to ensure continued plan compliance. We will discuss loan limits, refinancing, missed loan payments, loan offsets and defaults. Attendees will learn:

• Calculating Loan limits, multiple loans, refinancing.

• Loan interest.

• Offset versus Default.

• Missed payments.

• Not timely deemed/defaulted.

David Schultz, JD, APM, Product Manager/Attorney, FIS

WS68: Testing 401 — Advanced Coverage Testing for Practitioners

The Ratio Percentage test failed – now what? Join us for an in depth look at the Average Benefits Test. Attendees will learn about:

• When to use the Average Benefits Test

• Nondiscriminatory Classification Test

• The Average Benefit Percentage Test

• Cross-testing availability including calculating EBAR.

Stephen W. Forbes, J.D., President, Forbes Retirement Plan Consulting

Steve Riordan, CPC, QPA, QKA, Director, Plan Consulting, Fidelity Investments

WS69: DB Ask the Experts

Get answers to your technical defined benefit and other plan-related questions from industry experts. Come prepared with questions you encountered in your practice or questions that have been raised over the course of the conference.

• Relate with peers on technical issues and examine any outstanding questions from the conference.

• Collaborate with experts to receive feedback on pension related issues and questions.

Karen Smith, MSEA, President, Nova 401(k) Associates

Moderator: Kelsey N.H. Mayo, J.D., Lead Partner, Employee Benefits, Poyner Spruill LLP

WS70: Question and Answers With the PBGC

Have a question for the PBGC?  Now is your chance to get all of the information and guidance you need.

• Discuss your questions with the PBGC

• Learn best practices for resolving issues and concerns

PBGC Speaker Invited

Virginia C. Wentz, FSEA, CPC, Director of Actuarial Services, The MandMarblestone Group, LLC

WS71: Short and Off-Calendar Year Plans

Having a short plan year or an off-calendar plan year can trigger issues that affect deadlines, eligibility, and limits, etc.. Understanding these issues, can help you be prepared in consulting and administering these plan situations. Attendees will:

• Learn the different ways that a short plan year is created.

• Understand what rules apply to short plan years.

• Know the consequences of using an Off-calendar plan year.

John P. Griffin, Principal, Actuarial Systems Corporation

WS72:  Roundtable for Recordkeepers

Join your colleagues for an interactive discussion on current recordkeeping trends and challenges. Attendees will learn:

• How to increase plan sponsor and participant web engagement

• Navigating the participant life cycle

• Fee compression and plan profitability

Frank Porter, QKA, QPA, Relationship Manager – Large Mega NFP Market Segment, Empower Retirement

Maggie Younis, CPC, QPA, QKA, TGPC, National Director, Consultant Relations, Lincoln Financial Group

8–11 p.m.

ASPPA @ Night

It’s an ASPPA reunion! Join us for an action-packed evening of music, fun and games — ASPPA style! More details to come about this entertaining event.

7–8 a.m.

Breakfast

8–8:50 a.m.

Concurrent Workshops

WS73: Ch-Ch-Changes in Beneficiaries

Did your clients have unexpected issues with beneficiaries during the pandemic?  What are the default rules for beneficiaries in plan documents?  Know the importance of keeping these updated and what unintended consequences can happen when they are not. Understand the potential complications of naming minor children as beneficiaries. Attendees will:

• Understand the different beneficiary default options that exist.

• Be aware of the issues that can arise when the beneficiary is not updated.

Derrin Watson, APM, Of Counsel, Ferenczy Benefit Law Center

WS74: Elective Deferral Corrections — Which rule applies?

Mistakes happen when processing elective deferral instructions. The there are ways to correct problems once they are identified. But what is the best approach? This session will review these correction methods and how to communicate them to your clients. Attendees will learn:

• Procedures that may be implemented to lessen the occurrence of mistakes in processing elective deferrals.

• The options for correcting failures.

• How to determine earnings that are attributable to late or missed deposits of elective deferrals.

Amy Ouellette, CFP®, QPA, QKC, QKA, CPFA, TGPC, VP, Retirement Services, Vestwell

WS75: DB Regulatory Update

What’s new since the Secure Act? This session will provide an overview of the new legislation and recent IRS/Treasury guidance impacting defined benefit plans. Attendees will:

• Recall guidance that has been released by the IRS and Treasury in the last year.
• Identify situations in which the recent changes in the guidance may have an effect.

Kelsey N.H. Mayo, J.D., Lead Partner, Employee Benefits, Poyner Spruill LLP

Allison Wielobob, General Counsel, American Retirement Association / Executive Director, ASEA

WS76: 415 Limits — A Focus on Multiple Annuity Start Dates (Part 1)

This two part session will address recent developments in IRS audits of the various interpretations of the effect of multiple annuity start dates on the overall 415 maximum distributable benefit.  Case studies will be shared in the second session to help walk you through the calculations. Attendees will:

• Outline the issues introduced through the audit process.

• Review prior approaches to the calculations and introduction of a new approach.

James Holland, Chief Research Actuary, Cheiron, Inc.

WS77: Creative Use of QNECs and QMACs for Test Corrections

Oh no, I failed!  Now what?  Failing nondiscrimination testing is not the end, it often presents opportunities for creative solutions.  This session will focus on using QNECs and QMACs to pass ADP and/or ACP tests. Attendees will learn:

• What is a QNEC / QMAC;

• When to use each;

• How to calculate a QNEC / QMAC;

• Who must receive the corrective contribution

• What are the deposit timing restrictions for these corrective contributions?

Steve Riordan, CPC, QPA, QKA, Director, Plan Consulting, Fidelity Investments

WS78: Recordkeepers in the News — Current Court Cases (Part 1)

Each year there are new court cases that impact recordkeepers.  This session will focus on current cases that are happening within the recordkeeping industry and discuss best practices to prevent lawsuits from plan sponsors and other third parties.

Lyndsey R. Barnett, Graydon Head & Ritchey, LLP

Moderator: Kizzy M. Gaul, Esq., CPC, QPA, QKA, TGPC, ERISA Attorney, Ascensus

9:05–9:55 a.m.

Concurrent Workshops

WS79: Plan Design Trends — Participant Outcomes and Analysis

From automatic enrollment to advisor managed accounts, does adding these features to the plan help drive better participant outcomes?  Join this session for a deep dive on analyzing participant behavior and outcomes.

Dagmar Nikles, CFA, CAIA, FRM, Managing Director, BlackRock

WS80: The Advantages of Testing with a QSLOB

The rules surrounding Qualified Separate Lines of Business (QSLOBs) can help a plan satisfy the minimum coverage rules under 410(b). However, the benefits stretch beyond the application to coverage. In this session we will cover several case studies that will help explain how to determine when the QSLOB testing exception will apply as well as the benefits for applying it. Attendees will learn:

• What is the QSLOB testing exception?

• Who can utilize it?

• What are the benefits?

JJ McKinney, CPC, QPA, QKA, Director of Sales, EGPS

WS81: Recent Litigation involving Actuaries and DB Plans

Review recent court decisions and how they affect defined benefit plan and pension actuaries, gain insight on potential areas of concern in an actuary’s plans or practices and learn practical changes to minimize risk for the actuary and clients. Attendees will:

• Discuss recent developments in ERISA litigation.

• Provide perspective and differing viewpoints on the court decisions and the potential impact to your clients.

Meredith J. Sesser, Attorney, Meredith J. Sesser, A PLC

WS82: 415 Limits — A Focus on Multiple Annuity Start Dates (Part 2)

This session will build on the prior session utilizing case studies to illustrate the calculations. How does the new approach compare to the old?

• Attendees can work along with the case studies utilizing the new approach along with a comparison of the results to the old ASPPA approach.

James Holland, Chief Research Actuary, Cheiron, Inc.

WS83: Recordkeeping Call Center Management

Recordkeepers face many challenges with organizational structure and management, with a critical piece being the call center. The call center personnel are a key component to a successful business model as they are the front line to making connections with participants and the first line of defense for fraud alerts. Attend this session to learn about call center evolution and management, with a focus on:

• Call center evolution and current-day challenges

• Attracting, retaining and developing talent

• Best practices to forecast staffing

• Using biometrics/technology to balance risk while improving customer experience

Wendy Shaw, Vice President, Retirement Solutions Operations, Nationwide

WS84: Recordkeepers in the News — Current Court Cases (Part 2)

Join part two to hear more current court cases that impact recordkeepers.

Lyndsey R Barnett, Graydon Head & Ritchey, LLP

Moderator: Kizzy M. Gaul, Esq., CPC, QPA, QKA, TGPC, ERISA Attorney, Ascensus

10:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m.

General Session 5: Ask the Experts

Join us live, one last time, to ask any question that hasn’t been answered. We want to make sure you have all the answers you need to help your clients. Watch host Robert Richter talks with this panel of industry powerhouses and dives into topics relevant to you! Submit your questions here!

Host: Robert M. Richter, J.D., Retirement Education Counsel, American Retirement Association

Kizzy M. Gaul, Esq., CPC, QPA, QKA, TGPC, Director, Regulatory Supervision, Prudential Retirement

Kevin J. Donovan, FSEA, President, Pinnacle Plan Design, LLC

Kelsey N.H. Mayo, J.D., Lead Partner, Employee Benefits, Poyner Spruill LLP

JJ McKinney, CPC, QPA, QKA, Director of Sales, EGPS