Description: There is no silver bullet to improving retirement income outcomes for retirees. However, a combination of changes can be of significant value in addressing this overlooked issue. Although QLACs on the surface have potential value, they are not nearly as efficient as they could be. So far, employer plans have provided limited options for retirement income solutions. IRAs may not cost effectively serve the best interest of retirees. Employer plans should be encouraged to become retirement income providers and alternative approaches should be considered. The current prohibition on allowing plans to modify benefit payouts based on mortality experience should be reconsidered to allow for innovative plan income designs. Improvements to the deaccumulation stage of the retiree nest egg are challenging yet necessary.

Description: An interview with actuary Lee Gold reveals preliminary results of a recent SOA research project which surveyed employees on what retirement plan features they prefer.

Description: Legislation imposing new restrictions on a wide range of compensation arrangements was signed into law on October 22, 2004. The American Jobs Creation ActAJCA adds a new section 409A to the Internal Revenue Code, which imposes restrictions on funding, distributions, and elections to participate in nonqualified deferred compensation plans.

Description: Examines the Treasury Department and IRS guidance in determining whether a financial arrangement qualifies as insurance under federal tax law. It concerns the concepts of fortuity, homogeneity, and risk distribution, among others.

Description: This article begins with a brief review of the treatment of QAB charges under the Code and the guidance the Internal Revenue Service the “Service” has issued regarding the manner in which taxpayers should account for QAB charges Part I. It then describes Rev. Rul. 2005-6’s three alternatives for addressing improper accounting for QAB charges Part II. It also includes a discussion about an Alternative C closing agreement.

Description: This article describes Health Savings Accounts HSAs and the tax and other aspects of these funds.

Description: Articles on IRS private letter rulings on combination products, IRS treatment of reinsurance under section 845, and IRS waivers for failed contracts under section 7702.

Description: A periodic update from the chairperson on section council activities and outlook for the coming year.

Description: A description of the changes to Social Security that will occur in 2019.

Description: A discussion on ASOP 51 and the changes it will create.