The individual or entity responsible for managing a 401(k) retirement savings plan is known as the plan administrator. This role involves a range of crucial duties, including managing plan assets, ensuring compliance with regulations, educating participants, and processing distributions. For example, the administrator might be an internal human resources department, a third-party financial institution, or a designated individual within the company sponsoring the plan.
Effective plan administration is essential for safeguarding employees’ retirement savings and maintaining the integrity of the plan itself. Proper administration ensures adherence to legal and regulatory requirements, such as the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), minimizing the risk of penalties and protecting the interests of plan participants. Historically, the role has evolved with increasing regulatory complexity and the growth of defined-contribution plans, demanding greater expertise and specialized knowledge.