There are five key moments in the year when benefits advisors can demonstrate their expertise and attention to detail.
- The annual census.
- Compliance testing.
- Production and auditing of the Form 5500.
- Preparing and sending required notices.
- Measurement and planning.
The annual census period can be an especially fruitful time to approach employers.
The period for counting employees runs from late January through early February.
It will be the first opportunity of 2023 to offer value to current and prospective clients, and it would be good to begin thinking about that opportunity now.
For some plan sponsors, the annual census creates confusion and extra work.
Sponsors' problems can be magnified if they're not partnering with a recordkeeper that focuses on meticulous data collection.
The right recordkeeper or third-party administrator can help streamline the annual census process. Introduce clients to providers who collect information on all employees — not just plan participants — throughout the year.