Compliance isn’t optional — it’s the foundation of a healthy retirement plan. Missing just one filing, submission, or correction can lead to costly penalties, administrative burdens, or fiduciary risks. As regulations change, plan sponsors can’t just set it and forget it. Staying proactive is one way to help safeguard your organization and participants.
Keep Your Plan Compliant Year-Round
Defined contribution plans come with a steady stream of compliance tasks. Staying current means tracking key deadlines and keeping your plan documentation organized. Critical 2026 deadlines include:
- Employee Census Data Submissions: Accurate employee information is crucial for plan administration and compliance. (January 31)Corrective Distribution Processing: Timely corrections help uphold plan integrity and avoid potential IRS or DOL issues. (March 17)
- Form 5500 Filings: These annual reports are mandatory; missing a deadline can result in penalties. (July 31, October 15)
- Extension Deadlines for Government Filings: Extensions can be helpful, but you need to monitor them carefully to remain compliant. (March 17, April 15, September 15)
Why Staying Current Matters
Your fiduciary responsibility doesn’t end with offering a plan; it extends to maintaining it. Regular reviews help identify compliance gaps, detect operational risks, and ensure your plan stays aligned with changing regulations. A proactive approach can help keep your plan audit-ready and participants confident in their retirement future.
Each year, updates are made to contribution limits, disclosure rules, and filing requirements. Keeping up with these changes helps keep your plan compliant and protects participants and the organization. Proactive planning can also help boost employees’ confidence in their retirement future.
2026 Retirement Plan Compliance Checklist
To help you stay ahead of deadlines, consider these key actions:
- Ensure all employee census data is complete and accurate.
- Review and process any necessary corrective distributions and adjustments.
- Ensure all Form 5500 filings and extensions are submitted on time.
- Review plan documentation and fiduciary procedures.
- Maintain a centralized log of submissions and confirmations.
- Set reminders 30 and 60 days ahead of key deadlines.
- Work with HR, payroll, and recordkeeping teams to meet deadlines.
- Arrange a plan review with your advisor to identify potential compliance gaps.
- Schedule mid-year check-ins with your retirement plan advisor to stay up to date on regulatory changes.
Resource Highlight: 2026 DC Compliance Calendar
Stay organized with our 2026 DC Compliance Calendar, which includes the year’s key deadlines and reminders for defined contribution plans. View the calendar here.
Is Your Retirement Plan Due for a Checkup?
Compliance deadlines move quickly — and missing even one can cause delays. Our retirement plan advisors help you stay compliant, meet your fiduciary responsibilities, and improve your plan operations throughout the year. Connect with an advisor to schedule a review and see how tools like the DC Compliance Calendar help clients stay ahead of changes.
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