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March 14.2026

2 Minutes Read

How Pooled Employer Plans Are Shaping the Future of Retirement Benefits

Two businessmen discussing Pooled Employer Plans.

The Future of Workplace Retirement Plans: Pooled Employer Plans

In today’s rapidly changing landscape, the retirement plan industry is at a transformative moment. Pooled Employer Plans (PEPs) have emerged as a groundbreaking solution that employers cannot afford to overlook. PEP assets have ballooned from approximately $12 billion in 2023 to an impressive $21 billion projected by the end of 2024, indicating a robust acceptance of this innovative model.

As of 2024, the number of PEPs has soared to 339, a significant increase from just 109 in 2021. More than 50,000 employers have already embraced the switch to PEPs, and active participants with balances have increased by an astounding 49% year-over-year. This is not merely a trend; it represents a strategic shift in how retirement benefits are structured and perceived, particularly for small and micro employers.

Why the Shift to PEPs Matters

Amid rising compliance demands from legislative bodies and increasing competition, the attractiveness of operating under a PEP framework is clear. A PEP can relieve employers of heavy fiduciary responsibilities by distributing them among dedicated fiduciaries. The 3(38) Investment Fiduciary, for example, manages investments, shielding plan sponsors from potential liabilities that come with investment decisions—especially beneficial for employers without in-depth financial expertise.

Driving Forces Behind PEP Adoption

The surge in PEP adoption can be attributed to multiple factors, including receding burden of compliance due to facilitating efforts from the SECURE Act 2.0. With many plans facing mandatory audits and rising compliance costs, organizations may save between $15,000 and $30,000 annually by adopting PEPs, alongside streamlined operations. This aligns perfectly with employer objectives of reducing costs while enhancing employee satisfaction and retention.

Take Advantage of the Trends

As the industry pivots towards PEPs, employers who delay making this transition risk losing a competitive edge in talent attraction and retention. Not only do PEPs offer substantial cost savings, but they also reduce fiduciary liabilities, thus allowing organizations to focus more on growth strategies rather than compliance headaches.

Don’t be left behind! Now is the perfect time to consider whether a PEP aligns with your organization’s retirement plan strategy. By taking the leap into utilizing PEPs, you can foster a more robust retirement offering while ensuring greater efficiency in plan management.

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How Pooled Employer Plans Are Shaping the Future of Retirement Benefits

The Future of Workplace Retirement Plans: Pooled Employer Plans

Why the Shift to PEPs Matters

Driving Forces Behind PEP Adoption

Take Advantage of the Trends

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