Small Business Retirement Plans in Baltimore, MD. Establishing a retirement plan for you and your Baltimore, MD employees offers a variety of benefits, including tax reductions and a great way to attract and retain your highest-performing workers. While the benefits may be obvious, the difficulties of opening and maintaining small business retirement plans are not. What type of plan is best for your business? What federal regulations do I have to follow? What happens when I want to change plans, or if I'm retiring and my business will no longer be running? Correct Capital's team of Baltimore, MD financial planners has over 70 years of combined experience helping business owners and their employees get the most out of having a sound retirement plans and understanding the ins-and-outs of their individual plans and benefits. For anything from initial setup and employee education to fine-tuning an existing plan, call Correct Capital today at 314-930-401K or contact us online.
What Types of Retirement Plans Are Available to Small Businesses in Baltimore, MD?
Various financial custodians provide numerous savings plans and savings vehicles for small business owners and their employees in anticipation of retirement. The most prevalent ones are:
SEP-IRA
This kind of individual retirement account is available to sole proprietor businesses, freelancers, and businesses with very few employees. It follows the same rules as a traditional IRA, where the money put into the account grows without taxes. Employers can deduct contributions they make on behalf of their employees. Only employers make payments, which are modifiable and can vary from year to year. Additionally, the contributions are tax-deductible.
Benefits of a SEP-IRA
- High Contribution Limits: Employers can contribute up to 25% of each employee’s compensation, with a maximum of $69,000 for 2024.
- Flexibility: The plan does not require employers to contribute every year, which is perfect for businesses with changing profits.
- Simple Administration: Minimal paperwork and no annual filing requirements with the IRS beyond regular tax filings.
Setting Up a SEP-IRA
- Select a Financial Institution: virtual financial institution.
- Execute a Written Agreement: Establish a plan document and advise eligible employees of the SEP IRA plan.
- Make Contributions: Contributions can be made by calculating a set percentage of each employee’s compensation. Alternatively, contribute based on a range of percentages determined by business profits.
- Maintain Records: Keep complete records of all contributions made to employee accounts, including dates and amounts. Additionally, ensure records are neatly arranged and easily accessible for audit purposes.
SIMPLE IRA
"SIMPLE" stands for "Savings Investment Match Plan for Employees," and these IRAs are for businesses with as many as 100 employees. Employees can make contributions to their own accounts through deductions from their salaries, and employers can also contribute. This plan is low-cost as it's mainly funded by employees, and their contributions can be tax deductible.
Benefits of a SIMPLE IRA
- Ease of Setup and Administration: SIMPLE IRAs are easy to establish and maintain, with no need for yearly filings for employers. This makes them suitable for small businesses with restricted administrative resources.
- Employer Contributions: Employers are required to make contributions, by either matching employee contributions up to 3% of their salary or making a non-elective contribution of 2% of each eligible employee’s salary.
- Employee Contributions: Employees can contribute up to $16,000 in 2024, with a supplementary catch-up contribution of $3,500 for those aged 50 and older.
- Immediate Vesting: All contributions to the SIMPLE IRA are immediately 100% vested, meaning employees have full ownership of all funds in their accounts as soon as contributions are made.
Setting Up a SIMPLE IRA
- Select a Financial Institution: Choose a bank, investment fund, or brokerage firm to hold the SIMPLE IRA assets.
- Execute a Written Agreement: Use IRS Form 5304-SIMPLE or 5305-SIMPLE to create a written agreement outlining the terms of the plan.
- Employee Notification: Notify eligible employees about the plan, including information on how to participate and the benefits provided.
- Employee Enrollment: Assist employees in establishing their accounts and making their contributions.
- Employer Contributions: Decide whether to match up employee contributions or make non-elective contributions, and ensure these are made in a timely manner.
Personal Defined Benefit Plan
This plan is solely for single-owner businesses, or those with as many as 5 employees. With this plan, you target a desired level of retirement income, and contribution limits are adjusted each year based on that, with an annual maximum limit. While this plan is highly customizable and allows for significant contributions, there may be initial expenses and recurring costs associated with it.
Benefits of a Personal Defined Benefit Plan
- High Contribution Limits: Allows for significantly higher contributions compared to other retirement plans, potentially reaching $$275k annually (in the current year) depending on age, income, and the desired retirement benefit.
- Predictable Retirement Benefits: The plan promises a specific benefit at retirement, providing more predictability for retirement planning compared to defined contribution plans like 401k accounts.
- Tax Advantages: Contributions are tax-deductible, reducing current taxable income. The investments grow tax-free until distribution.
Setting Up a Personal Defined Benefit Plan
- Consult with a Plan Provider: Work with a bank or retirement plan provider that specializes in defined benefit plans to establish the plan.
- Create a Plan Document: Draft a plan document that details the terms of the plan, including benefit formulas and contribution requirements.
- Actuarial Calculations: Have a financial analyst calculate the necessary contributions to meet the promised benefits, per IRS requirements.
- Annual Administration: To manage the plan’s investments, ensure that required contributions are made annually and conduct annual actuarial reviews to adjust for any changes in funding requirements.
- Compliance and Reporting: File IRS Form 5500 annually to report on the plan’s status and compliance.
- Permanence: A defined benefit plan needs to be in place for at least five years. Plans established that are quickly terminated are often indicators and open to regulatory scrutiny.
401(k) Plans
401(k)s are available to private companies of any size, and are highly tailorable. Employees may postpone their salary as contributions, and employers can make contributions every year. Most 401(k) plans come with significant tax planning advantages for both businesses and employees. They can include:
- Traditional 401(k)s
- Safe Harbor 401(k)s
- Automatic enrollment 401(k)s
Benefits of a 401(k) Plan
- Tax Advantages: To reduce the employee’s taxable income, contributions are made tax-free initially. Alternatively, contributions can be made post-tax (Roth). Investments grow without immediate tax.
- Employer Matching: Many employers offer contribution matching, which can significantly boost an employee's retirement savings.
- Higher Contribution Limits: For 2024, employees can contribute up to $$23k, with an additional $7,500 catch-up contribution for those aged 50 and older.
- Loan Options: Participants can often take loans against their 401(k) balance, providing flexibility in case of urgent financial needs.
Setting Up a 401(k) Plan
- Choose a Plan Provider: Select a provider that offers multiple investment choices, management assistance, and employee education.
- Create a Plan Document: Draft the terms of the plan, including eligibility, contributions, and how funds are vested.
- Set Up a Trust: Ensure plan assets are held in trust to preserve them for employees.
- Develop a Recordkeeping System: Ensure detailed records of contributions, earnings, and distributions.
- Distribute Plan Information: Employers sponsoring a 401(k) must distribute plan information and changes in a timely manner.
Individual 401(k)
This plan, also known as a Individual 401(k), is designed to provide the same benefits as a company 401(k), but specifically for individuals who are sole proprietors, or whose only employee is their spouse. Each year, you can contribute up to the annual 401(k) limit, and the employer may make a additional contribution up to 25% of compensation or, if self-employed, an amount considering your earned income and deducting half of self-employment tax paid and contributions made by you during the year. Additionally, you have the option to open a Roth 401(k) account, or roll over pre-tax assets.
Setting Up an Individual 401(k)
- Choose a Plan Provider: Choose a financial institution or brokerage that offers Individual 401(k) plans. Seek out providers with multiple investment options and reduced fees.
- Create a Plan Document: Prepare the terms of your plan, including contribution limits, investment options, and loan provisions.
- Open an Account: Establish your Individual 401(k) account with the chosen provider. This typically involves submitting an application and providing necessary documentation.
- Make Contributions: Determine your contribution amounts for the year and make regular contributions. Ensure you stay within the IRS limits for total contributions.
- Compliance and Reporting: If your plan assets exceed $two hundred fifty thousand dollars, you must file IRS Form 5500 annually. Develop a meticulous record system of all contributions and transactions.
Profit Sharing Plans
A Profit Sharing Plan is a type of retirement plan where employers can make voluntary contributions to employee retirement accounts, determined by the company's profits. These plans are intended to share the company’s success with its employees and motivate them to contribute to the company’s profitability.
Benefits of a Profit Sharing Plan
- Flexibility in Contributions: Employers can determine each year how much to contribute based on the company's profitability. This makes it an adaptable option for businesses with fluctuating earnings.
- Tax Advantages: Contributions are tax-deductible for the business, reducing taxable income. Additionally, the funds grow tax-deferred, which can benefit employees' long-term savings.
- Employee Motivation and Retention: Linking contributions to company profits can enhance employee morale and loyalty, as employees directly benefit from the company’s success.
- High Contribution Limits: Employers can contribute up to the lesser of one-fourth of an employee’s compensation or $66,000 for 2024, making it a generous option for employee benefits.
Setting Up a Profit Sharing Plan
- Choose a Plan Provider: Select a bank or retirement plan provider to administer the plan.
- Create a Plan Document: Prepare a plan document outlining the profit-sharing formula, eligibility requirements, and vesting schedule.
- Communicate with Employees: Advise employees about the plan, how it works, and the benefits they can expect.
- Determine Contributions: Each year decide the amount to contribute based on company profits and the predetermined formula.
- File Necessary Forms: File IRS Form 5500 each year to report the plan’s status and compliance.
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOPs)
An Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) is a retirement plan that invests primarily in the employer's stock. ESOPs give employees ownership interest in the company, aligning their interests with the business's success, and potentially helping set up the business's next generation of leadership.
An Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) is a retirement plan that primarily invests in the employer's stock. ESOPs offer employees equity in the company, aligning their interests with the business's success, and potentially helping establish the business's next generation of leadership.
Benefits of an ESOP
- Employee Ownership: ESOPs provide employees with an equity share in the company, which can increase motivation and dedication.
- Tax Benefits for the Company: Contributions to the ESOP are deductible from taxes, and the company can also gain tax benefits related to the sale of stock to the ESOP.
- Retirement Savings for Employees: Employees profit from the growth in the value of the company’s stock, providing potentially significant retirement savings.
- Succession Planning: ESOPs can be an effective strategy for business succession, allowing owners to sell their shares to high-performing employees, who can slowly take the lead as previous owners move into retirement.
Setting Up an ESOP
- Feasibility Study: Carry out a feasibility study to determine if an ESOP is a appropriate option for your company.
- Hire ESOP Advisors: Bring on board financial, legal, and ESOP advisors to facilitate the setup process.
- Create a Plan Document: Prepare a plan document that details the terms of the ESOP, including how shares will be distributed and vested.
- Establish a Trust: Form an ESOP trust to hold the company stock on behalf of employees.
- Communicate with Employees: Inform employees about the ESOP, how it works, and the benefits they can expect.
- Compliance and Reporting: Send in necessary documents with the IRS and the Department of Labor, including Form 5500, to keep your plan compliant.
Multiple Employer Plans (MEPs)
A Multiple Employer Plan (MEP) is a type of retirement plan that allows multiple, unrelated employers to take part in a single retirement plan and achieve economies of scale. MEPs are designed to provide small businesses with a economical and administratively efficient way to offer retirement benefits to their employees.
Benefits of an MEP
- Cost Savings: By pooling resources with other employers, businesses can lower administrative costs and fees associated with maintaining a retirement plan. This cost-sharing makes MEPs an favorable option for small businesses looking to save on expenses.
- Administrative Efficiency: MEPs facilitate the management of retirement plans by centralizing administrative tasks. This includes plan setup, compliance, reporting, and participant communication, which are handled by the MEP sponsor or administrator.
- Improved Access to Benefits: Through an MEP, small businesses that might not have the resources to provide a retirement plan on their own can offer competitive retirement benefits, which helps to attract and retain talented employees and give a competitive advantage in hiring they otherwise may not have had.
- Fiduciary Relief: The MEP sponsor typically assumes most of the fiduciary responsibilities, decreasing the liability and administrative burden on individual employers.
Setting Up an MEP
- Join an Existing MEP or Form a New One: Small businesses can either join an existing MEP or collaborate with other businesses to form a new one. This step involves selecting a MEP sponsor who will manage the plan.
- Select a Plan Provider: The MEP sponsor will work with a bank or retirement plan provider to administer the plan.
- Adopt the Plan: Each participating employer must formally adopt the MEP by signing an adoption agreement and providing necessary employee information.
- Employee Enrollment: Inform the plan details to employees and facilitate their enrollment in the MEP.
- Ongoing Administration: The MEP sponsor handles the majority of the administrative tasks, including compliance with IRS and Department of Labor requirements, filing necessary forms, and managing plan assets.
There are benefits and drawbacks to each plan, and which may be "best" for you will depend on your business and your and your employees' needs. Different plans and accounts have different tax incentives, fees, required minimum distributions, contribution limits, and more. A renowned financial advisor like those at Correct Capital will be able to help you determine which plan works best for you and your team.
Benefits of Setting Up a Small Business Retirement Plan in Baltimore, MD
The particular, financial-based benefits for your Baltimore, MD small business retirement plan is dependent upon which plan you set up. However, a small business retirement plan, whichever one you choose, benefit employers and employees in the same way. Three out of five workers say that a retirement plan is a "very important" factor in how good they feel at their present employment, while employers reap the benefits both during tax season and in office productivity. Companies and employees will both enjoy:
Employee Benefits
- More financial security in retirement
- Reduced taxable income
- Contributions are simple with salary deferral
- They do not pay taxes on contributions or investments gains until distributed
- Over the years small savings grow into considerable sums of money
- Ability to conduct a 401(k) rollover if they change employers
Business Benefits
- Attract, recruit, and retain high performers
- Promote great work ethic
- Deduct your taxable income from your taxable profits
- Highly customized plans are available
- Tax credits upon initial set-up
Why Should I Consult With a Financial Advisor in Baltimore, MD to Assist With My Small Business Retirement Plan?
Opening small business retirement plans is not the same thing as setting up a personal account at your local Baltimore, MD bank. While the federal government does not currently require any business to offer retirement savings options to workers, some states require businesses with a minimum number of employees to offer access to a retirement plan. Baltimore, MD retirement consultants that have spent years helping business owners set up retirement plans are usually needed to not only make sure the plan is right for you, but that you follow ever-changing tax and business laws.
As your Baltimore, MD retirement plan consultants for your small business, our advisers will:
- Help you elect the "right" plan for you, and which financial institution should house the assets
- Assist you in setting up your plan, including adopting a written plan, arranging a trust for plan assets, helping employees understand how specific of the plan apply to their savings, and implementing a record keeping system
- Help you operate your plan by adapting as we need to to applicable laws, managing the plan's assets, and distributing benefits
- Help educate your employees on your plan, its benefits, and how they can use it as a component to their ongoing financial health
Correct Capital's Baltimore, MD financial planners are fiduciary advisors, meaning we are legally and ethically obligated to do what's best for you and your employees. As an independent firm, we have the freedom and flexibility to tailor our offerings to best suit the goals of our clients. Schedule a consultation with a member of our advisor team today.
Common Challenges and Solutions in Small Business Retirement Plans
Challenge 1: High Setup and Administrative Costs
Many small businesses are unwilling to set up retirement plans due to the expected high costs.
Solution:
- SIMPLE IRA and SEP IRA: These plans have lower setup and administrative costs compared to traditional 401(k) plans.
- Tax Credits: The SECURE Act 2.0 offers tax credits for small businesses to offset the costs of setting up retirement plans. Businesses can receive a credit of up to $5,000 annually for three years to cover startup costs, plus an additional credit for automatic enrollment plans.
Challenge 2: Administrative Complexity
The complexity of maintaining a retirement plan can be daunting for small business owners.
Solution:
- Outsource Administration: Many plan providers offer administrative services that can handle the majority of the documentation, compliance, and record-keeping tasks. Providers offer comprehensive administrative support, including payroll integration and fiduciary services.
- Multiple Employer Plans (MEPs): Participating in an MEP can significantly reduce the administrative burden as the MEP sponsor handles most of the administrative duties, including compliance and reporting.
Challenge 3: Employee Participation and Engagement
Minimal employee engagement can limit the effectiveness of a retirement plan.
Solution:
- Automatic Enrollment: Using automatic enrollment can significantly increase participation rates. Employees are automatically enrolled at a default contribution rate but can opt out if they choose. This approach has been shown to increase participation and savings rates.
- Employee Education: Providing regular education and communication about the benefits of the retirement plan can help increase employee engagement. Provide workshops, seminars, and one-on-one meetings to ensure employees understand how the plan works and the importance of saving for retirement. Correct Capital offers employee education, including one-on-one meetings and quarterly webinars, if you choose us as your retirement plan advisors.
Challenge 4: Compliance with Regulations
Managing the complex regulatory landscape can be challenging, especially for business owners who need to keep their attention on their core business.
Solution:
- Professional Guidance: Hiring a financial advisor or consultant who specializes in retirement plans can help ensure compliance with ERISA, IRS, and Department of Labor regulations. Our team can assist with plan setup, annual filings, and ongoing management.
- Use of Technology: Many retirement plan providers offer online platforms that help manage compliance by automating reporting, tracking contributions, and ensuring that all regulatory requirements are met.
Challenge 5: Flexibility and Adaptability
Business owners need plans that can change with changing business conditions.
Solution:
- Flexible Plans: Select retirement plans that offer flexibility in contributions. SEP IRAs, for example, allow employers to decide each year how much to contribute based on the company’s profitability, making it a suitable option for businesses with variable income.
- Regular Plan Reviews: Conduct regular reviews of your retirement plan to ensure it continues to meet the needs of your business and employees. Update the plan as necessary to align with changes in your business environment and workforce demographics.
With the help of dedicated Baltimore, MD financial advisors and retirement plan specialists, your business can navigate these challenges to create a small business retirement plan that works for both you and your employees.
Other services we offer in Baltimore, MD include:
- Family Wealth Planning
- Financial Planning for Business Owners
- Comprehensive Financial Planning
- Retirement Income Planning
- Investment Planning
- Retirement Financial Planning
- Independent Financial Advisor
- Roth Conversion
- Investment Management
- 401(k) Audit
Other services we offer in Baltimore, MD include:
- Family Wealth Planning
- Financial Planning for Business Owners
- Comprehensive Financial Planning
- Retirement Income Planning
- Investment Planning
- Retirement Financial Planning
- Independent Financial Advisor
- Roth Conversion
- Investment Management
- 401(k) Audit
Small Business Retirement Plans in Baltimore, MD | Correct Capital
Owning a small business comes with a mountain of daily, monthly, and annual tasks to ensure things run smoothly — setting up and maintaining a small business retirement plan doesn't have to be one of them. Correct Capital currently manages over 37 plans in both small and large companies, and represents over $212 million in total plan assets* nationwide. To set up a retirement plan for your small business, or learn what we can do for business owners, speak to a financial advisor at Correct Capital today at 314-930-401K or contact us through our website.
*as of March 2024
