Retirement Plan Fiduciaries are special. Special, in that Retirement Plan Fiduciaries accept and assume the responsibilities associated with shepherding assets and retirement dreams for the company and the employees.
Plan fiduciaries today:
- Assume responsibility for the corporation’s plan assets (normally ranked among the largest assets of an organization);
- Assume responsibility for the prudent selection and oversight of investment choices made available for participant deferrals; and
- Accept the unlimited and personal liability associated with serving as an ERISA fiduciary.
Education for Plan Fiduciaries?
Fiduciary Education is available to all who need it. And just as in life, some of the best is free!
Adults learn differently than primary school aged learners or traditional secondary school students. Knowing that different styles of education connect with adults, it makes sense that benefit departments, retirement committees and risk managers be aware of the different types and styles of fiduciary education available today. Customized education is available from plan consultants and investment advisors, normally involving a fee. However, plan fiduciaries should also be aware that high-quality in-person and web based based modules are available to retirement plan fiduciaries – at no charge.
WEBSITE BASED – For fiduciaries who are puzzled with the new Department of Labor Fiduciary Rule, an excellent Q & A summary can be found at Fiduciary Q & As. The directory is easily accessible, well organized and available via InvestmentNews’ Fiduciary FOCUS.
IN-PERSON – For individuals who serve as fiduciary of their own qualified plan who are seek education in a classroom setting led by an experienced adjunct lecturer – there is The Plan Sponsor University. These half day Fiduciary Education Programs are designed for fiduciaries of their own company retirement plan. For a list of upcoming programs visit The Plan Sponsor University and click on the ‘Program Schedule’ TAB.
ONLINE FIDUCIARY COURSES – For fiduciaries interested in a rigorous, self-paced online learning experience – such an education exists. There is no charge to sit for the online courses designed and offered by The Plan Sponsor University. For additional information call 855-755-4015 and select option 2.
Each of these educational experiences is available at no charge to the viewer or the attendee. When discussing fiduciary education with your committee or your team – consider the cost of “remaining uninformed,” The cost of doing-so may be unlimited!
