Insights
Plain-English guides from Pleasanton Wealth for California small business owners and the office managers and CPAs who support them.
Retirement plans
Playbook
The small business retirement plan playbook
Eight steps from goals and plan design to launch and annual upkeep.ComplianceCalSavers or your own plan? What California owners need to decide
How the state program and an employer plan compare for owners and employees.ComplianceHow to certify your CalSavers exemption, step by step
What you need and the five steps, for employers with a plan or no eligible employees.Plan designSIMPLE IRA vs. SEP IRA vs. 401(k): choosing the right plan
Contribution limits, employer cost, flexibility and paperwork, with 2026 figures.Tax and costWhat a small business retirement plan really costs after SECURE 2.0 credits
The three federal credits, explained with a worked example.Plan designSafe harbor 401(k): how owners avoid failed testing and refunds
Why owners get refunds from their own plan, and the design that prevents it.Risk managementYour fiduciary duties as a plan sponsor, and how to share them
What ERISA expects of owners, and the difference between a 3(21) adviser and a 3(38) investment manager.Plan managementHow to switch 401(k) providers without disrupting your team
The steps, participant notices, blackout period and a typical timeline.Plan managementHow to benchmark your 401(k) fees: a guide for owners
Find what your plan really costs and compare it with similar plans.Plan designSolo 401(k) vs. SEP IRA: which is better for an owner-only business?
2026 limits, a worked example and what changes when you hire.ComplianceForm 5500 basics: what small business owners need to know
Which form applies, the deadline, penalties and what to check before signing.Plan designSIMPLE IRA to 401(k): when and how to switch
The November deadline, the mid-year safe harbor option and what happens to balances.Plan designAutomatic enrollment for small business 401(k) plans
Who must auto-enroll under SECURE 2.0, default rates, notices and the $500 credit.ComplianceLate 401(k) deposits: what counts as late and how to fix it
The 7-business-day safe harbor and the 2025 self-correction option.EmployeesMaking the benefit visible: why employees undervalue your retirement plan
Practical ways to make a match count for recruiting and retention.Weekly commentary
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