This document contains a final regulation revising the minimum requirements for benefit claims procedures of employee benefit plans. The purpose of ERISA's fiduciary duty rules is to ensure that plans are operated in the best interests of plan participants and beneficiaries.In general, you can expect to have to fill out several forms and attach any requested documentation to them, such as medical records. If you get health and retirement benefits through work, ERISA is supposed to protect your rights regarding these programs. All plans subject to ERISA, such as 401(k) plans, must procure an ERISA fidelity bond, which protects plan assets from theft or wrongdoing. XIX discusses ERISA ESOP litigation. What Does ERISA Cover? ERISA is a federal law that implements standards for certain employer-sponsored retirement and health plans. Income Security Act (ERISA). ERISA preemption creates an exception to this "well-pleaded complaint" rule.