This is an introduction for financial professionals regarding the major considerations when working with 401(k) sponsors who are acquiring another company or who will be acquired by another company. The merger or acquisition (M&A) of one company by another raises significant issues for those companies’ 401(k) plans and a knowledgeable financial professional can provide valuable assistance to the plan sponsors and fiduciaries in that process.

The keys for financial professionals in both pre- and post-closing work is, first, to understand the issues; second, to educate and work closely with the company’s benefits personnel and plan committee; and, finally, to be prepared to implement their decisions. The purpose of this article is to help with those steps.

The views expressed here are those of Fred Reish. They should not be construed as investment advice or as the views of Hartford Funds or the employees of Hartford Funds. They are based on available information and are subject to change without notice. The information above is intended as general information and is not intended to provide, nor may it be construed as providing, tax, accounting or legal advice. As with all matters of a tax or legal nature, please consult with your tax or legal counsel for advice. This material and/or its contents are current at the time of writing and may not be reproduced or distributed in whole or in part, for any purpose, without the express written consent of Fred Reish.