Small Business Retirement Plans in Cleveland, OH

Small Business Retirement Plans in Cleveland, OH. Setting up a retirement plan for you and your Cleveland, OH employees is a great way to retain talent, incentivize higher performance, and get those much-desired tax reductions. However, for most business owners, it can be hard to know where to start. What benefits do different kinds of plans provide? What are the different laws I'll have to follow? What do I do when a new plan seems like a better option, or if I'm retiring and my business will no longer be running? Correct Capital's team of Cleveland, OH financial planners has over 70 years of combined experience helping business owners and their employees reap the benefits of their retirement plans and understanding the ins-and-outs of federal regulations. Whether you're interested in modifying an existing plan or are looking to create an entirely new one, speak to a financial advisor at Correct Capital today at 314-930-401K or contact us through our website.

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Correct Capital Wealth Management's office is physically located in St. Louis, MO, but we serve clients throughout the United States in both personal financial planning and corporate retirement plans.

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What Types of Retirement Plans Are Available to Small Businesses in Cleveland, OH?

Small business owners and their employees are offered retirement plans through the federal government and various financial custodians in anticipation of retirement. The most prevalent ones are:

SEP-IRA

This kind of individual retirement account is available to single-owner 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 tax-deferred. Employers can deduct contributions they make on behalf of their employees. Only employers make payments, which are modifiable and can vary year-to-year. Additionally, the contributions are deductible from taxes.

Benefits of a SEP-IRA

• High Contribution Limits: Employers have the ability to contribute up to 25% of each employee’s compensation, with the maximum set at $69,000 for 2024.
• Flexibility: The plan does not require employers to contribute each year, which is suitable for businesses with variable profits.
• Simple Administration: With this plan, there is minimal paperwork and no requirement for annual filings with the IRS except for regular tax filings.

Setting Up a SEP-IRA

• Select a Financial Institution: To hold SEP IRA assets, select an institution for instance a bank, brokerage firm, or credit union. You can also opt for a digital financial institution.
• Execute a Written Agreement: Establish a contractual arrangement and inform eligible employees of the SEP IRA plan.
• Make Contributions: Contributions can be made by calculating a fixed percentage of each employee’s compensation. Alternatively, deposit funds based on a range of percentages determined by business performance.
• Maintain Records: Maintaining records involves keeping thorough records of all contributions made to employee accounts, including time stamps 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 a maximum of 100 employees. Employees can fund their own accounts through payroll deductions, and employers can also contribute. This plan is affordable 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 straightforward to establish and maintain, with no annual filing requirements 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 an extra catch-up contribution of $3,500 for those aged 50 and older.
• Immediate Vesting: All contributions to the SIMPLE IRA are promptly 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 investment brokerage 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 setting up their accounts and making their contributions.
• Employer Contributions: Decide whether to match employee contributions or make non-elective contributions, and ensure these are made promptly.

Personal Defined Benefit Plan

This plan is solely for sole proprietor businesses, or those with a maximum of 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 beginning expenditures and annual fees 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 $275,000 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 financial institution or retirement plan provider that has experience with defined benefit plans to establish the plan.
• Create a Plan Document: Draft a scheme 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 red flags and open to regulatory scrutiny.

401(k) Plans

401(k)s are available to companies of any size, and are highly flexible. Employees may postpone their salary as contributions, and employers can make annual contributions. 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: Contributions can be made pre-tax, which reduces the employee’s taxable income. Alternatively, post-tax (Roth) contributions can be made. Investments grow tax-deferred.
• Employer Matching: Many employers offer matching contributions, which can significantly boost an employee's retirement savings.
• Higher Contribution Limits: For this year, employees can contribute up to $23,000, with an additional $$7.5k 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 a range of investment opportunities, management assistance, and employee learning resources.
• Create a Plan Document: Draft the terms of the plan, including eligibility, contributions, and vesting schedules.
• Set Up a Trust: Ensure plan assets are held in trust to secure them for employees.
• Develop a Recordkeeping System: Maintain precise records of contributions, earnings, and distributions.
• Distribute Plan Information: Employers sponsoring a 401(k) must distribute plan information and updates in a timely manner.

Individual 401(k)

This plan, also known as a Solo 401(k), is designed to provide the same benefits as a traditional 401(k), but specifically for individuals who are self-employed, 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 nonelective contribution up to a quarter 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: Pick a financial institution or brokerage that offers Individual 401(k) plans. Look for providers with multiple investment options and lower fees.
• Create a Plan Document: Draft the terms of your plan, including contribution limits, investment options, and loan provisions.
• Open an Account: Open your Individual 401(k) account with the chosen provider. This typically involves filling out an application and providing necessary documentation.
• Make Contributions: Set 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 $$250k, you must file IRS Form 5500 annually. Ensure detailed records 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 encourage them to boost the company’s profitability.

Benefits of a Profit Sharing Plan

• Flexibility in Contributions: Employers can choose each year how much to contribute based on the company's profitability. This makes it an versatile option for businesses with changing 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 25% of an employee’s compensation or $$66k for 2024, making it a advantageous option for employee benefits.

Setting Up a Profit Sharing Plan

• Choose a Plan Provider: Pick a bank or retirement plan provider to administer the plan.
• Create a Plan Document: Draft a plan document outlining the profit-sharing formula, eligibility requirements, and vesting schedule.
• Communicate with Employees: Notify employees about the plan, how it works, and the benefits they can expect.
• Determine Contributions: Yearly 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 grant employees a stake 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 ownership stake in the company, which can enhance drive and commitment.
• Tax Benefits for the Company: Contributions to the ESOP are eligible for tax deduction, and the company can also receive tax benefits pertaining to the sale of stock to the ESOP.
• Retirement Savings for Employees: Employees gain from the growth in the value of the company’s stock, offering potentially considerable retirement savings.
• Succession Planning: ESOPs can be an effective strategy for business succession, enabling owners to sell their shares to their best employees, who can gradually take the lead as previous owners move into retirement.

Setting Up an ESOP

• Feasibility Study: Execute a feasibility study to determine if an ESOP is a viable 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 allocated and vested.
• Establish a Trust: Create an ESOP trust to hold the company stock on behalf of employees.
• Communicate with Employees: Update employees about the ESOP, how it works, and the advantages they can expect.
• Compliance and Reporting: File 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 join 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 sharing resources with other employers, businesses can cut 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 streamline 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: An MEP allows 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 offer the business access to a competitive advantage they wouldn't be able to have on their own.
• Fiduciary Relief: The MEP sponsor typically assumes most of the fiduciary responsibilities, diminishing 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 financial institution or retirement plan provider to administer the plan.
• Adopt the Plan: Each participating employer must formally adopt the MEP by completing an adoption agreement and providing necessary employee information.
• Employee Enrollment: Communicate 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 pros and cons 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 advantages, fees, required minimum distributions, contribution limits, and more. A trusted financial advisor like those at Correct Capital will be able to help you determine which plan works best for you and your team.

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Benefits of Setting Up a Small Business Retirement Plan in Cleveland, OH

The specific, financial-based benefits for your Cleveland, OH small business retirement plan will largely be based on the specific plan you choose. However, a small business retirement plan, whichever one you choose, benefit employers and employees in the same way. Over half of employees responded to a survey stating it is a "very important" factor in job satisfaction, while employers reap the benefits both during tax season and in office productivity. Companies and employees will both enjoy:

Do I Need a Financial Advisor in Cleveland, OH to Help 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 Cleveland, OH bank. While the federal government does not currently require any company to offer a retirement plan to workers, some states require businesses of a certain size to have a retirement plan. Cleveland, OH retirement consultants that are experienced in helping business owners create retirement plans are usually needed to not only make sure you and your employees get the most out of your plan, but that you abide by ever-changing tax and business laws.

As your Cleveland, OH retirement plan consultants for your small business, our team will:

• Help you choose the "right" plan for you, and which financial institution should hold the assets
• Assist you in establishing your plan, including adopting a written plan, establishing a trust for plan assets, helping employees understand the plan's terms, and implementing a record keeping system
• Help you operate your plan by keeping up-to-date with 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 part of their ongoing financial success

Correct Capital's Cleveland, OH 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 meeting with a member of our advisor team today.

Common Challenges and Solutions in Small Business Retirement Plans

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Challenge 1: High Setup and Administrative Costs

Many small businesses are unwilling to set up retirement plans due to the assumed 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 administrative burden 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 paperwork, 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: Introducing 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 raise participation and savings rates.
• Employee Education: Providing regular education and communication about the benefits of the retirement plan can help increase employee engagement. Host 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.

Issue 4: Regulatory Compliance

Navigating 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. We 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 assistance of dedicated Cleveland, OH 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 Cleveland, OH include:

• 401(k) Audit
• High-Net-Worth Wealth Management
• Retirement Planner
• Financial Planning
• Retirement Plan Consultants
• Fiduciary Financial Advisor
• Self-Employed Retirement Plans

Small Business Retirement Plans in Cleveland, OH | Correct Capital

Owning a small business comes with a plethora of moving parts and tasks to ensure things run smoothly — navigating the complexities of 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 online.

*as of March 2024