ERISA & Benefits Compliance

We help Long Island employers stay organized, reduce compliance risk, and keep filings on track.

From Form 5500 preparation to plan documents and audit coordination, we run point on the process so your HR team can focus on people, not paperwork.

Process-Driven Filing Support
Quality-checked preparation for your review
Audit Support & Risk Reduction
Coordination, document gathering, deadline tracking
Counsel Available When Needed
We coordinate with ERISA counsel for complex matters

What We Help With

Concrete compliance support for Long Island employers

Form 5500 Preparation

We gather the necessary data, prepare signature-ready drafts for your review, and track filing deadlines. You review, approve, and submit.

Plan Documents & SPDs

We coordinate plan document updates when your plans change, help ensure SPDs reflect current terms, and provide distribution guidance.

Required Notices

We track notice requirements, prepare templates, and provide guidance on timing and distribution for mandated employee communications.

Audit Response Coordination

If you receive a DOL or IRS inquiry, we help gather documents, track deadlines, and coordinate with counsel as needed. We guide you through the process.

Discrimination Testing

For cafeteria plans, HSAs, and other arrangements requiring annual testing, we coordinate the process and help address any issues identified.

ACA Reporting Support

For applicable large employers, we help with 1094-C and 1095-C preparation and tracking. Signature-ready forms prepared for your review and submission.

How It Works

A straightforward approach to compliance support

1

Intake & Document Checklist

We review your current plans and documents, identify what's needed, and request the necessary information.

2

Compliance Calendar

We build a calendar of deadlines and responsibilities so nothing falls through the cracks.

3

Preparation & Quality Check

We prepare signature-ready drafts for your review. You approve before anything is finalized.

4

Ongoing Support

Questions, reminders, coordination with vendors—we stay engaged throughout the year.

What You Do vs. What We Do

Clear expectations for a smooth process

We Handle

  • Gather inputs and organize documents
  • Track deadlines and send reminders
  • Prepare drafts and templates
  • Coordinate with vendors and counsel
  • Follow up and keep things moving
  • Answer questions and provide guidance

You Handle

  • Provide requested information and data
  • Review drafts and approve documents
  • Sign filings where required
  • Submit or authorize submissions
  • Make final decisions on plan design

Benefits Compliance Coverage

Areas we support for Long Island employers

Form 5500 Preparation
Plan Documents & SPDs
Discrimination Testing
ACA Reporting (1094-C/1095-C)
Regulatory Updates & Alerts
Mandated Notices
COBRA Coordination
Rate & Contribution Setting
NY Paid Leave Coordination
Merger & Acquisition Support
Medicare Coordination
HIPAA & Privacy Support

If You Get Audited

Receiving a letter from the DOL or IRS can be stressful. We help you respond methodically and reduce risk.

  • Document gathering and organization
  • Deadline tracking and response coordination
  • Guidance through the process
  • Coordination with ERISA counsel when needed
Note: Benton Oakfield is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. For audits and complex matters, we coordinate with independent ERISA counsel as needed. Legal services are provided by independent counsel.
Form 5500 Ready to Sign

What We Provide (and Don't)

We want to be clear about what we do so there are no surprises.

We provide: Guidance, coordination, document preparation, deadline tracking, and ongoing support to help you stay organized around benefits compliance.

We don't provide:

  • Legal advice (we're not a law firm)
  • Tax advice (consult a qualified tax professional)
  • Guarantees of specific outcomes

For legal matters, we coordinate with independent ERISA counsel as needed. This keeps you supported while ensuring you have proper legal representation when the situation calls for it.

Common Compliance Challenges

Issues we help Long Island employers navigate

Filing Deadlines

Missing a Form 5500 or ACA filing deadline can result in significant penalties. We track deadlines and send reminders so nothing slips.

Growth & Transitions

Approaching 50 employees? Expanding to new states? M&A activity? These transitions create compliance complexity we help you navigate.

Plan Changes

When you change carriers, add benefits, or modify plan design, documents and notices need to be updated. We coordinate the process.

Ready to Get Organized?

Let's talk about your compliance needs and how we can help reduce the burden on your team.

Contact Benton Oakfield