Should You Consider Auto-Features for Your Retirement Plan?

Auto-enrollment and auto-escalation are now standard for new plans. But how can you know if these “table-stakes” are a good option for your plan?

Studies have shown that auto-features, such as auto-enrollment and auto-escalation, help boost participation and savings rates. However, not all plans offer these plan design features, and existing plans aren’t obligated to adopt them. SECURE 2.0 now requires new 401(k) and 403(b) plans to include auto-enrollment and auto-escalation at the time of establishment. Choosing to include automatic features in your retirement plan design is an important and potentially complex decision.

Here are some key factors to consider.

Auto-features explained

Auto-enrollment as a retirement plan design feature automatically enrolls eligible employees to contribute a predetermined percentage of their salary to the plan unless they opt out. Auto-escalation refers to a plan feature that automatically increases an employee's contribution rate at regular intervals (typically annually) by a preset percentage, unless the employee actively chooses otherwise.

Document, document, document

Retirement plan committees should carefully weigh the decision to adopt or not adopt automatic features. It can be invaluable to have a structured process and thoroughly document all discussions, the data considered, and the rationale for specific decisions (i.e., in meeting minutes) for future reference. Documentation provides evidence of prudent decision-making and demonstrates compliance with ERISA standards. Specifically, in case of an audit or legal challenge, documentation can be used to prove that the committee made decisions thoughtfully and in the participants’ best interest, potentially helping shield plan sponsors from fiduciary liability.

Evaluating auto-enrollment for your plan

Although automatic enrollment may be a good fit for many plans, they aren’t always the best option. Here are some scenarios where auto-enrollment can be highly effective.

Motivating employees to participate and save

Beyond compliance and investment oversight, the committee’s most important task is motivating employees to participate and save for retirement. Tools like auto-enrollment and auto-escalation automatically enroll employees in the plan and gradually increase their savings rates. Aiming for 10-15% savings is typically appropriate for achieving long-term financial security. In fact, it is the recommended annual savings amount by industry experts.

When auto-enrollment works well

Organized HR teams: Generally, companies with well-structured human resources departments can more easily manage the implementation and ongoing administration of auto-enrollment.
Stable employee populations: Organizations with low turnover rates often benefit from the consistency that auto-enrollment provides. This stability allows for more predictable long-term planning, reduces administrative workload, and helps foster a company culture that encourages retirement saving.
Integrated payroll: Integration between payroll and the plan's recordkeeping system is crucial to achieve the success of auto-enrollment. Real-time data exchange reduces errors, automates updates, and minimizes manual work, which can support operational efficiency and compliance efforts.

When auto-enrollment may not be ideal

High-turnover environments: Companies with frequent employee churn may find auto-enrollment administratively challenging and less effective.
Manual payroll processes: The administrative complexities auto-enrollment introduces may be a challenge for employers relying on manual payroll systems.
Hourly employees/variable pay structures: Auto-enrollment may not be ideal for organizations with a significant number of hourly workers or frequently-changing pay structures.
Outdated HR technology: Companies lacking modern, integrated HR systems may find it more difficult to effectively implement and manage auto-enrollment.

When auto-escalation works well

Stable workforces: Organizations with low turnover and predictable salary structures may benefit from auto-escalation.
Predictable salaries: Employees with regular, predictable pay increases are more likely to adapt well to gradual increases in their retirement contributions.
Integrated technology: Integrated payroll and recordkeeping systems are essential to keeping up with the administrative demands auto-escalation requires.

Downsides of auto-escalation

High turnover: Low employee retention can complicate the administration of a plan with auto-escalation features.
Frequently adjusted compensation: In organizations with variable pay structures or frequent compensation changes, deferral percentages may require constant adjustment. This can potentially lead to over- or under-contributions and increased administrative complexity, making auto-escalation challenging to manage.
Lack of integrated technology: Without seamless integration between payroll and recordkeeping systems, implementing auto-escalation can be error-prone and resource-intensive.

Making the choice for your plan

Implementing auto-features in your retirement plan is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. While these features can dramatically improve participation and savings rates, they may not be suitable for every plan.

When evaluating whether to implement auto-enrollment or auto-escalation, consider the following:

Your workforce demographics and turnover rates
The sophistication of your HR and payroll systems
Your ability to manage the additional administrative requirements
The potential impact on employee satisfaction and financial well-being

Thinking about auto-features for your retirement plan? Let us help you decide. Our team can guide you through the evaluation process, helping you design a retirement plan that serves your organization and employees.