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It’s not too late to Elevate Your 401(k) Audit Experience

by | Jun 26, 2024

In 2023, the Employee Benefits Security Administration made a startling revelation: a staggering 30% of annual audits of employee benefit plan financial statements fell short, with major deficiencies in meeting key requirements. Why does this matter? For plan sponsors, errors in 401(k) audits can lead to hefty fines and even disciplinary actions. The rules for employee benefit plans audits are complex, which is why the importance of hiring experienced employee benefit plan auditors cannot be understated. 

Beyond those huge financial implications, dissatisfaction with current auditors is a common issue for several other reasons:  

Man working on phone
  • They see different faces every year. 
  • There’s a lack of communication and responsiveness. 
  • Their 401k audits drag out over too long a period, resulting in filing extensions. 
  • They don’t receive suggestions from their CPA about how to improve things. 

Despite all this dissatisfaction, plan sponsors are often scared to make a change, especially if they’ve waited until summer to start thinking about their audit (the devil you know mindset). We’re here to tell you that you don’t have to settle for second best. It’s not too late to elevate your 401(k) audit experience this year! 

PriceKubecka is a leading expert in employee benefit plan audit and compliance services. We distinguish ourselves by performing over 400 high-caliber 401(k) audits annually, placing us among the top 1% of CPA firms in the United States. Here’s what we can deliver this season: 

401(k) Auditor Expertise

Our expedient and dedicated team possesses a meticulous attention to detail, ensuring compliance with Generally Accepted Auditing Standards (GAAP) and the complex requirements of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA).

Low Cost

PriceKubecka can provide a high-quality flat-fee 401k audit for $10,000 – a fraction of what an hourly-based audit would cost! This transparent, flat-fee pricing model ensures clarity regarding costs before the audit commences. 

Hassle-free 401(k) Audit Process

Leveraging cutting-edge technology, we minimize disruption to your operations. Our 401(k) audits are 100% remote and require less than five hours of your time. This means fewer interruptions for you and more focus on your core business priorities. 

Proactive 401(k) Plan Insights

Beyond compliance, we deliver actionable suggestions to enhance your employee benefit plan’s performance, helping you proactively address challenges and capitalize on opportunities.

Make a Change

If your frustration with your current auditor is mounting, it’s not too late to make a change. At PriceKubecka, we understand the hesitance to switch auditors so close to the IRS deadline.  Rest assured, our team is experienced in seamless transitions, ensuring that filing deadlines are met without compromise. Partner with us to ensure your 401k audit is a success. CONTACT US TODAY  

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I missed the October 15 Form 5500 deadline?

First, confirm that October 15 was actually your plan’s deadline and that a valid extension applied. If the deadline has passed, determine what is preventing the Form 5500 from being completed. If a required 401(k) audit is unfinished or hasn’t started, contact an experienced employee benefit plan auditor immediately and work with your other advisors to determine the appropriate filing and penalty-relief options.

Can you file Form 5500 after the deadline?

Yes. A delinquent Form 5500 can still be filed after its due date. Filing late does not eliminate the filing requirement, however, and potential DOL and IRS penalties may apply. Eligible plan administrators may be able to use the DOL’s Delinquent Filer Voluntary Compliance Program to reduce certain penalties.

What are the penalties for filing Form 5500 late?

The Department of Labor may assess substantial civil penalties for failure to file a complete and accurate Form 5500. Current Form 5500 instructions state a potential DOL penalty of up to $2,739 per day. The IRS can separately assess $250 per day, up to $150,000 per plan year, for certain late Form 5500-series filings. Actual penalties and available relief depend on the circumstances.

What is the DOL's Delinquent Filer Voluntary Compliance Program?

The DFVCP is a Department of Labor program that allows qualifying plan administrators to voluntarily submit delinquent Form 5500 filings and pay reduced civil penalties. Eligibility generally requires correcting the filing before the DOL has provided written notice of the failure to file.

What if my 401(k) audit hasn't started and the Form 5500 deadline has already passed?

If your plan is required to have an independent audit, missing the Form 5500 deadline does not remove that requirement. Contact an employee benefit plan auditor as soon as possible, explain that the filing is already late and determine what records are needed to begin the audit immediately. Work simultaneously with your TPA and other advisors to address the delinquent filing and determine whether penalty-relief options are available.

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