Resources

Here's to Your Most Productive Year Ever - December 2006
Topic: Guide to making a practical business plan
We?d like to help you make a practical business plan ? one that helps you accomplish your goals without overwhelming yourself. Here?s our five-step business plan to keep it simple, clear and easily actionable. Now get going.

When 900 Pages of Law is Good for Business? - October 2006
Topic: The Pension Protection Act of 2006
While the Pension Protection Act of 2006 was intended to shore up the nation?s pension insurance program and tighten loose accounting rules, it has also amended dozens of provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. In addition, stricter funding requirements may spur companies that provide traditional pensions to switch to a defined contribution plan or to expand their existing 401(k) plans.

Three Steps to Prepare for the Selling Season - August 2006
Topic: Preparing for the selling season
Summer is over ? almost. Families are home from vacation. Kids are going back to school. Before your clients and their employees settle down for a productive fall, you?ll need to rev up your business for a productive selling season.

A Slow Summer Season? Take Time to Pause and Reflect on 401(k) Plan Compliance - July 2006
Topic: 401(k) Plan Review
Thinking of taking time to relax and savor the slow pace of summer? We?ve got a better idea. Why not use some of that downtime to meet with plan sponsors, review their 401(k) plan to identify issues and make necessary adjustments.

Planning Ahead to Get the Most from Social Security - May 2006
Topic: Social Security
The Social Security Act was signed into law by President Roosevelt in 1935, and began making payouts in 1940. While its future may be uncertain, the program remains an integral part of most individuals? retirement income strategy. Here are a few points to keep in mind when talking with your participants.

Two Simple Solutions for Successful Savings - April 2006
Topic: Auto-Enrollment and Auto-Increase
The Employee Benefit Research Institute?s 16th Annual Retirement Confidence Survey is out and the issues raised are likely very familiar to Financial Advisors.

Making it Better..Cheaper..Faster..Easier - March 2006
Topic: Increasing client satisfaction
Nurturing strong relationships is one of the best ways to build your business. Not only is a satisfied client more likely to remain loyal, they are also more inclined to mention you to their peers and associates.

Bring Home The Gold - February 2006
Topic: Traits of the best financial advisors
The Olympic Games bring together the best athletes in the world to compete? individuals who have tested their fortitude, honed their skills, overcome real and imagined challenges. We believe these qualities are not unique to Olympic champions, and have found that the best financial advisors are those who share these important traits.

Start the New Year with a Product Plan - January 2006
Topic: Creating a yearly plan
As the New Year gets under way, ADP wants to help you build the momentum that will carry you through the rest of the year. Success is best achieved when you have a vision, articulated goals and a plan.

Giving Thanks...Seasonal Tips and Educational Ideas for Plan Participants - November 2005
Topic: Participant education
Have you been leafing through corporate gift catalogs, looking for the best ?thank you? for your valued clients?a daily planner?a Montblanc pen?an engraved silverplated business card holder? May we suggest something in an employee seminar?

Back to School Tips for Successful Practices - September 2005
Topic: Educating yourself through business relationships
Take a tip from the kids ? go back to school. Ongoing education fosters your expertise, keeps you up-to-date on new and better ways of doing business, and builds your network of contacts and clients.

Smooth Sailing Through 404(c)'s Safe Harbors - August 2005
Topic: Investment Policy Statement accuracy
One of the most serious mistakes plan sponsors and their advisors can make is not keeping an eye on the plan and its Investment Policy Statement (IPS). A well-considered and coherent Investment Policy Statement can protect you and plan sponsors from a host of failings.

Tips for Form 5500s - June 2005
Topic: Tips for Form 5500s
The IRS audits more Form 5500s, as a percent of total forms filed, than 1040s. Fines will be imposed for late or incorrect filings, and plans can be disqualified for failing to meet Internal Revenue Code requirements or the plan?s own requirements.

Tax Time Doldrums?An Opportunity to Boost 401(k) Participation - May 2005
Topic: Ongoing employee education
We all know that unparalleled service is the best way to retain a valued client. When it comes to 401(k)s, ongoing employee education is probably the most effective service you can offer ? for everyone involved.

Fall is Open Season? - Q305
Topic: Protecting client relationships
Another hunting season is upon us ? we?re not just talking about wild life. With summer over and a new year around the corner, it?s not uncommon for 401(k) plan sponsors to review their 401(k) plan and browse for vendors that can provide needed services.

Lay the Groundwork for Long-term Success - Q205
Topic: Direct mail marketing and writing
Have you established systematic processes for accomplishing important tasks, namely following up with prospects and communicating with clients and their employees?