Switching 401(k) providers can feel like a major undertaking, which is why many businesses stay with the same providers for years. However, as your company grows and your retirement plan evolves, it’s important to periodically evaluate whether your current provider is still the right fit.
The reality is though that most businesses don’t switch providers because of a single issue. More often, it’s a combination of rising costs, administrative burdens, payroll restrictions, or service concerns that aren’t fully assessed until employers are prompted to make a change as soon as possible.
So, if you’re considering a change, use this 401(k) conversion checklist to evaluate your current plan and make the most well-informed decisions for your business’ needs.
1. Fees and Overall Value
Understanding what you’re paying and how it connects to the actual value you’re receiving is one of the most important steps when evaluating a retirement plan. Many employers are surprised to find out their plan costs have increased over time,
Ask yourself:
If several of these boxes are left unchecked, it may be worth comparing your current costs against alternative providers.
2. Service and Support
Your retirement plan provider should be your resourceful partner, not another item that needs to be monitored on your to-do list. While occasional questions or concerns are expected, employers shouldn’t spend excessive time chasing answers, following up on requests, or navigating complex issues alone.
Ask yourself:
Strong support makes a significant difference in the day-to-day management of your plan, so having a provider you can rely on is crucial!
3. Administration and Compliance
As a plan sponsor, you have important responsibilities. While some administrative tasks are unavoidable, the right provider should help reduce complexity and improve efficiency.
Keep these considerations in mind on whether your current plan helps or holds back your administrative processes:
Remember: managing your plan should never feel like a second job, and if your provider isn’t there for you when you need them, it may be time to reevaluate your partnership with them.
Payroll Flexibility
Many employers don’t realize how closely their retirement plan and payroll provider are connected until an issue comes up or they need to make a change. A payroll-agnostic retirement plan can provide better flexibility, allowing businesses to select the payroll system that meets them where they are without disrupting their 401(k).
Before you decide on updating your plan, ask yourself:
5. Plan Features & Capabilities
Not all 401(k) providers offer the same plan features, tools, and services. As your business grows, having access to the right resources creates a better plan experience for everyone involved.
Ask yourself:
What Your Results Mean
Mostly Checked
Your current provider may be serving your business well. Make sure to continue reviewing your retirement plan periodically to ensure it stays align with your needs and goals.
A Mix of Checked and Unchecked
There may be opportunities for improvement for your 401(k). You can consider discussing these areas with your provider or start comparing your current plan against other options.
Many Unchecked Boxes
If several areas of concern popped up throughout this checklist, it may be worth exploring if a different provider could better support your business goals, employees, and retirement strategy.
Final Thoughts
While a 401(k) conversion isn’t always the right decision for everyone, for many, it means the difference between a plan that better supports your business versus one you’re just settling for. If you’re considering a provider change, be sure to look for a partner that offers transparent, affordable pricing, responsive support, streamlined administration, and the flexibility to work with the payroll solution that best fits your business.
At Ubiquity, we believe retirement plans should be simple, adaptable, and designed to grow alongside your company. Whether you’re evaluating your current plan or exploring new options, we can help you assess your current 401(k), identify opportunities for improvement, and determine whether a provider change could better support you and your team’s long-term financial success.