ERISA does not require any employer to establish a retirement plan. It only requires that those who establish plans must meet certain minimum standards.The most common ERISA retirement plan is the 401(k). ERISA protects Pennsylvania employees from potential mismanagement of retirement accounts, pensions, and even long-term disability benefits. Find general information about 401(k) plans, the tax advantages of sponsoring the plan and the types of plans available. Self-directed 401k falls under federal code (ERISA) and 401k anti-alienation protection. 401k retirement assets are shielded from creditors in Pennsylvania. Under ERISA, a benefit plan administrator must give you a copy of your benefit plan within 30 days of you delivering a written request for the document. This GRIST provides a basic primer on ERISA's preemption of state laws, including various exceptions, exclusions and court rulings. For a plan to qualify, your employer must set it up for you.