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Retirement State Mandates: What Small Business Owners Need to Know

In response to growing state retirement mandates, many employers are now required to offer a workplace retirement savings option. If you employ workers in a state with a retirement mandate, understanding these requirements is essential for staying compliant—and could also be an opportunity to strengthen your benefits strategy and attract top talent.

Key Points

Gain clarity

Use our simple, interactive map to get a quick state-by-state summary of the mandated retirement programs throughout the country.

Stay compliant

Understand if your business operates in a state with a retirement mandate and find deadlines and employer mandate thresholds you may need to meet to avoid penalties.

Stay competitive

A retirement plan, whether mandated or not, can help small employers retain employees and compete for new talent.

Which states require retirement plans?

Many states have already passed legislation mandating retirement programs or are in the process of doing so. Use our interactive map to learn more about the features, requirements, and compliance deadlines of state-mandated retirement programs throughout the country.

Employer requirements and alternatives to state‑run retirement plans

The state-sponsored retirement program is not the only option for employers who must meet state mandates. Other qualified plan options—like a 401(k), 403(b), or pooled employer plan (PEP)—also meet the requirements outlined by retirement state mandates and potentially offer more attractive benefits for employees.

View other qualified retirement plan options >

Top 6 Questions Employers are Asking About State-Mandated Retirement Plans

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Learn more about state-mandated retirement programs

State mandates define the rules, but you define the plan. Check out these additional resources for more information about the requirements and to explore your options.

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Ready to get started?

Whether you need to comply with state retirement program requirements now—or get ahead of the game—contact our team at 833-893-3233 and we’ll help you identify a compliant, cost‑effective retirement solution that fits your small business.

More retirement solutions for small businesses

As an industry leader in retirement savings programs, Ascensus works closely with small business employers to simplify plan management, provide education, and offer dedicated 24/7 support.

Explore Ascensus Essentials

Get detailed information on features, pricing, and available tax credits for our most popular small business 401(k) plan.

See all small business plans

Not sure which plan is right for you? Explore and compare plans that are tailored to fit your small business needs.

Find a plan provider

Use our comprehensive guide to choose the right plan provider and set your team up for long-term financial success.