ERISA is a federal law that sets minimum standards for voluntarily established pension and health plans. As an "employer," a group or association, as well as a PEO, can sponsor a defined contribution retirement plan for its members.Plans covered under ERISA include 401(k)s, pensions, deferred compensation plans and profitsharing plans. Here's what you need to know. It's worth noting that ERISAqualified plans aren't always protected. , long-term disability insurance). Under federal law, plan sponsors also must provide summaries of benefits and coverage and other disclosures. The term "employer" is again essential to recognizing an "employee pension benefit plan" within the meaning of ERISA.