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Understanding the New 401(k) Automatic Enrollment Rules for Dental Practice Owners

by PracticeCFO | February 12, 2025

Retirement planning just got a major overhaul, and dental practice owners need to take note. With the passage of the SECURE 2.0 Act, new regulations will soon require automatic enrollment in 401(k) and 403(b) plans for many businesses, including dental practices. Understanding these new rules, the penalties for non-compliance, and the available exemptions is crucial for ensuring compliance and optimizing retirement benefits for both you and your employees.


What Are the New Automatic Enrollment Rules?

Starting January 1, 2025, most new 401(k) and 403(b) plans must include an automatic enrollment feature for eligible employees unless they opt out. Here’s how it works:

  • Initial Contribution Rate: Employers must automatically enroll employees at a contribution rate of at least 3% of their pay.
  • Automatic Escalation: The contribution rate must increase by 1% each year until it reaches at least 10%, but no more than 15% of the employee’s pay.

These changes aim to enhance employee participation in retirement savings and ensure that more workers are financially prepared for their future.

(Reference: IRS.gov)


What Are the Penalties for Non-Compliance?

Failing to comply with the automatic enrollment mandate can have serious consequences. While exact penalties are not yet fully outlined, non-compliance could result in the disqualification of the retirement plan from its tax-advantaged status. This would lead to significant tax liabilities for both the employer and employees.

Ensuring compliance with these new provisions is crucial to maintaining a qualified retirement plan and avoiding unexpected financial burdens.

(Reference: IRS.gov)


Who is Exempt?

Not all businesses are subject to the new automatic enrollment rules. The following groups are exempt:

  • Existing Plans: If your practice’s retirement plan was established before December 29, 2022, you are not required to implement automatic enrollment.
  • Small Businesses: Employers with 10 or fewer employees are exempt from the mandate.
  • New Businesses: Employers who have been in business for less than three years are also exempt.
  • Church and Governmental Plans: Plans run by churches or governmental entities are not required to comply with these rules.

(Reference: IRS.gov)


How Can Dental Practice Owners Prepare?

With the January 1, 2025, deadline approaching, now is the time for dental practice owners to take action:

  1. Review Your Current Plan: If you already have a 401(k) plan, confirm whether you need to adopt automatic enrollment or if you qualify for an exemption.
  2. Plan for Increased Contributions: If your practice is establishing a new plan, ensure that automatic enrollment and escalation features are in place.
  3. Educate Employees: Communicate these changes to your team so they understand their contribution options and the benefits of staying enrolled.
  4. Consult a Financial Advisor: Ensure compliance and maximize the benefits of your retirement plan by working with a financial expert.

At PracticeCFO, we specialize in helping dental practice owners navigate the complexities of retirement planning. Whether you need assistance setting up a new 401(k) or ensuring compliance with the new SECURE 2.0 regulations, we’re here to help.

Have questions about how these new rules affect your practice? Contact us today!


Final Thoughts

The SECURE 2.0 Act is reshaping retirement planning, making it essential for dental practice owners to stay informed and prepared. Automatic enrollment can be a powerful tool for increasing employee participation, but understanding the rules, penalties, and exemptions will be key to successfully implementing these changes.

Stay ahead of the curve and ensure your practice is compliant. Reach out to PracticeCFO today to explore your options and secure a financially stable future for you and your employees.

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Disclaimer: The marketing materials presented on this website include testimonials that serve as reviews of PracticeCFO Investments’s products and services. PracticeCFO Investments does not compensate clients for reviews or testimonials, and PracticeCFO Investments does not provide anything of value in exchange for these reviews. PracticeCFO Investments has determined that there are no material conflicts of interest between the firm and the participant, and PracticeCFO Investments has not influenced the statement made by the client(s) appearing on this website.
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