Virginia 401k Audits

401(k) plans have become one of the most common retirement plan options offered by Virginia employers. It’s so popular that most have come to expect it, or a similar employee benefit plan, to be offered as part of the compensation package. There are a variety of plan options for employers to select from, and finding one with the right benefits (and cost structure) is essential. Many face a challenge when the plan grows and meets the minimum requirement to undergo a Department of Labor (DOL) ERISA Audit. Others who have been through a plan audit may have service issues with their provider. Whatever the case, it’s important to work with an auditor with experience and a dedicated commitment to the plan audit specialty.

ERISA Experience

Calvetti Ferguson provides plan audits to 80 benefit plans, including 401(k), defined benefit plans, ESOP’s including limited and full scope audits. We are also in the top 2% of firms that audit employee benefit plans in the United States. We work with plans that are single or multiple employers and have experience serving plans with an 11K filing requirement. The firm provides services to benefit plans with asset sizes ranging from $1M to $1B and a total participant count between 100 and 30,000.

Our firm is a member of the AICPA Employee Benefit Plan Audit Quality Control Center. Maintaining membership is voluntary, and it permits our team members to receive advanced training on regulatory changes. Our involvement reflects our commitment to delivering quality plan audits.

ERISA Audit Services

Our 401(k) plan audit services include:

  • Comprehensive audit services, including testing participant account balances to verify their accuracy and completeness.
  • Form 5500 preparation and review.
  • Preparation and submission of required 11k filings.
  • Plan design options, information, and recommendations.
401(k) Plan Features

Analytics on plan features most commonly offered by employers, including:

  • Employer Matching – According to a BLS Survey, in plans with an employer matching feature, 42% of respondents indicated an employer match of less than six percent while 48% have an employer match of 6% of earnings. The most common rate of the match was $.50 for each participant dollar contributed.
  • Investment Options – the same survey also discovered that 86% of employees participating in 401(k) plans were given a choice in investment options. The number of options varied from 2 to 10 choices and contribution splitting is allowed.
  • Loans & Withdrawals – Another interesting finding was the number of plan participants that were eligible for a plan loan. According to the survey, 51% of participants were eligible for a plan loan. It was also discovered that 33% were able to take, penalty-free, hardship withdrawals for qualifying life events.
  • Distribution Options – It was also uncovered that 91% of 401(k) plans permit a lump sum payment of benefits upon retirement. Many are allowed to choose the payout methods including a lifetime annuity or payments over an agreed-upon period.

    Source: Bureau of Labor & Statistics – Employee Costs and Risks in 401(k) plans

    Contact Our 401k Audit Team

    Calvetti Ferguson works with companies, private equity firms, and high-net-worth individuals nationwide. Regardless of the complexity of your compliance, assurance, advisory, or accounting needs, our team is ready to help. Please complete the form below, and we will follow up with you shortly.

    Below is a list of essential facts about Virginia (VA), including:

    • Virginia’s economy employs 4M people.
    • The largest industries in Virginia are:

    • Government and Defense: Virginia’s proximity to Washington, D.C., makes government and defense contracting a cornerstone of its economy. The state hosts major defense contractors, military installations, and federal agencies, contributing significantly to employment and economic output.

    • Technology: Northern Virginia, particularly the Dulles Technology Corridor, is a hub for technology companies, IT services, and telecommunications. The region benefits from its proximity to D.C., skilled workforce, and substantial investments in innovation and research.

    • Agriculture and Food Processing: Agriculture remains a vital sector in Virginia, known for its production of tobacco, peanuts, poultry, and other agricultural products. Food processing and distribution also play key roles in the state’s economy.

    Booming cities include:

    • Richmond: As the state capital, Richmond serves as an economic and cultural hub. The city’s economy is diverse, with significant contributions from finance, government, healthcare, and manufacturing. Richmond is also recognized for its growing arts and cultural scene.

    • Virginia Beach: Located in the Hampton Roads region, Virginia Beach benefits from its coastal location and strong tourism industry. The city’s economy is bolstered by defense contracting, tourism-related businesses, and maritime industries.