ERISA Compliance for Group Health Plans:
Key Insights and Best Practices
On Demand
20 minutes |
The Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) is an important federal law that was enacted to protect private employee benefit plans, including health and welfare benefit plans, from mismanagement and misuse of employee benefit funds. ERISA compliance is a critical responsibility for employers sponsoring group health plans—and one that carries significant risk when misunderstood or overlooked. This on‑demand webinar breaks down the fundamentals of ERISA as it applies to health and welfare benefit plans, helping employers and consultants better understand their obligations.
The session walks through key ERISA requirements, common compliance pitfalls, and practical best practices for plan administration and documentation. Attendees will gain actionable strategies to strengthen compliance efforts, reduce exposure, and confidently manage ERISA responsibilities within their organization.
Understanding ERISA Risk and Responsibility
ERISA sets strict standards for how employee benefit plans are managed, funded, and communicated. Failure to comply can result in audits, penalties, and fiduciary liability. Understanding ERISA requirements, and applying best practices consistently, helps employers protect their organization, support plan participants, and demonstrate prudent plan governance.
Key Takeaways
- Understand ERISA fundamentals for group health plans.
Learn what ERISA is, which health and welfare plans it covers, and the core requirements employers must meet. This foundation helps clarify responsibilities and reduces confusion around compliance obligations. - Identify fiduciary duties and compliance responsibilities.
Explore who is considered a fiduciary under ERISA and what duties come with that role. Understanding fiduciary responsibility is essential to managing risk and avoiding personal liability. - Recognize common ERISA compliance pitfalls.
Review frequent problem areas such as plan documentation, disclosures, and operational missteps. Knowing where issues typically arise allows employers and advisors to proactively address gaps. - Apply best practices to strengthen compliance efforts.
Gain practical strategies and tools to support ongoing ERISA compliance, improve plan governance, and prepare for audits or regulatory scrutiny.
Designed For
- Employers and HR professionals
- Benefits managers and administrators
- Insurance consultants and brokers
- Anyone responsible for group health plan compliance