TRA MAKES NEWS HAPPEN

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  CASE OF THE WEEK – Merging 403(b) and 401(k)

  August 1, 2025 - Explore the discussion on merging a 403(b) plan with a 401(k) plan. Learn about IRS regulations, potential steps like plan termination, and rollover options to combine assets while maintaining compliance. Continue
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  Best Practices for Plan Benchmarking

  July 29, 2025 - Ensure a competitive and compliant retirement plan by benchmarking fees, investment performance, participation rates, plan features, and service provider performance. Learn best practices from SoFi's "What Is 401(k) Plan Benchmarking?" (March 12, 2024) and 401k TV's "Annual Benchmarking Is a Must for Plan Sponsors" (October 3, 2024). Continue
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  CASE OF THE WEEK – Social Security Benefits

  July 25, 2025 - Discover how the Totalization Agreement between the U.S. and Canada coordinates Social Security coverage and benefits for individuals who have worked in both countries. Learn how work credits from Canada can help qualify for U.S. Social Security retirement benefits, though only U.S. employment affects the benefit amount. Continue
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  PRESS RELEASE – TRA Enhances Regional Sales Team with Addition of Retirement Industry Expert Clinton C. Reese

  July 22, 2025 - The Retirement Advantage, Inc. (TRA) welcomes Clinton C. Reese as the new Regional Plan Consultant for the Ohio Valley region. With over 25 years of experience in the retirement services industry, Reese will enhance TRA's capabilities in Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, and West Virginia, reporting to Darin Erdmann, Director of Sales and Distribution. Reese's extensive background includes roles at First Financial Bank, Latitude Retirement, Nationwide Financial, and Fidelity Investments. He holds a BA in Economics from the University of Cincinnati and is active in local community organizations. Continue
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  Plan Sponsors Ask…

  July 22, 2025 - Question: Is there any industry information available on employee utilization of hardship withdrawal provisions? Answer: The International Foundation’s 2024 Employee  Benefits Survey found that utilization of hardship withdrawal provisions averaged 5.6% of participants for 401(k) plans, 4.9% for Roth 401(k) plans and 2.3% for 403(b) plans. In addition, a preview of Vanguard’s How America Saves 2025 report showed that 4.8% of participants used hardship withdrawals... Continue
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  CASE OF THE WEEK – Order of Corrections Under EPCRS

  July 18, 2025 - If your client’s 401(k) plan failed the actual deferral percentage (ADP) test and experienced a missed deferral opportunity, the ADP test failure should be corrected first according to IRS guidelines (Rev. Proc. 2021-30). Correcting the ADP test failure may reduce the correction amount needed for the missed deferral opportunity. It is crucial to ensure compliance with contribution limits under IRC §§ 402(g) and 415. Continue
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  Understanding Social Security: What You Need to Know

  July 15, 2025 - Many recipients are surprised to learn that Social Security benefits may be subject to federal income tax depending on your combined income level. Coordinating Social Security with other retirement income sources—such as pensions, IRAs, or 401(k)s—is crucial for minimizing taxes and maximizing lifetime value. Taking a strategic approach to when and how you claim benefits can significantly impact your long-term financial well-being. Continue
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  Five Strategies To Support Employees During Times of Market Volatility

  July 15, 2025 - Guide employees through market volatility with clear communication, long-term investment education, financial wellness programs, diversification strategies, and digital tools. Empower your workforce to make informed decisions and maintain confidence in their retirement savings. Continue
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  CASE OF THE WEEK – Funding Children’s IRA

  July 11, 2025 - Can parents or grandparents set up Roth IRAs for their minor children/grandchildren? Learn about the key requirements, including the necessity of earned income and the role of a parent or legal guardian in establishing the account. Discover recent changes under the "One Big Beautiful Bill" impacting IRA-like accounts for minors. Continue
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  Simplify Retirement Plan Management

  July 9, 2025 - Discover TRA's Select 401(k) Pooled Employer Plan (PEP), a comprehensive and cost-effective retirement plan solution that reduces administrative costs and fiduciary risk. Benefit from enhanced features, streamlined administration, diverse investment options, and participant education resources. Continue