Topics Covered

Here’s some of what was covered:

• Overview of ERISA. Who must comply? What benefits are subject to ERISA? When are “voluntary” benefits subject to ERISA? What benefits are exempt?
• Documentation requirements. Documentation that satisfies ERISA (insured versus self-funded plans). Required content and distribution rules for summary plan descriptions (SPDs). Penalties for failure to provide documents.
• Claims procedures. Handling plan claims and appeals. Understanding how improper claims administration can affect later-filed benefits litigation.
• Fiduciary rules. Who’s a fiduciary and why does it matter? Issues when plan administration is outsourced. Plan assets and the special nature of employee contributions. When do the exclusive benefit and trust rules apply?
• Form 5500 requirements. When must an annual Form 5500 be filed (effect of plan size and method of paying benefits)? What information must be included?
• Recordkeeping and other requirements. When is a summary annual report (SAR) required? What records are required and how long should they be retained?

Note: This seminar covers the ERISA rules for health & welfare benefits. We do not cover tax rules (including cafeteria plan rules) or rules for pension/retirement benefits.

Caution: This seminar does not reflect health care reform changes made by the Affordable Care Act (March 2010) some of which may be effective for plan years beginning on or after 9/23/10.