The District of Columbia Model Notice of Blackout Periods under Individual Account Plans is a document provided by the District of Columbia government to inform individuals participating in individual account plans of any upcoming blackout periods. A blackout period refers to a specific period of time when participants are restricted from making certain changes or access to their individual account plans is temporarily limited. This model notice is designed to ensure transparency and compliance with regulations set forth by the District of Columbia government. By providing this notice, plan administrators can alert participants about blackout periods and help them plan their financial activities accordingly. The District of Columbia Model Notice of Blackout Periods under Individual Account Plans includes essential information such as the duration of the blackout period, specific dates during which restrictions apply, and details regarding the nature of limitations or changes that participants will experience. Some possible types of blackout periods that may be addressed in the notice include: 1. Investment Changes Blackout Period: This type of blackout period restricts participants from making changes or adjustments to their investment options within their individual account plans. It ensures stability and prevents participants from making sudden investment decisions that may negatively impact their retirement savings during volatile market conditions. 2. Account Access Limitation Blackout Period: This type of blackout period temporarily limits participants' access to their individual account plans, preventing them from initiating withdrawals or modifications. Such periods may occur during administrative changes, system upgrades, or other situations that require temporary restrictions on account access. 3. Benefit Elections Blackout Period: This blackout period refers to a specific period during which participants are unable to modify their benefit elections, such as changing contribution amounts or altering beneficiary designations. This may be due to system updates, plan amendments, or regulatory changes. 4. Plan Transition Blackout Period: When an individual account plan undergoes a transition, such as a change in plan administrator or transfer to a new financial institution, a blackout period may be implemented. This period temporarily restricts participants from making any changes or conducting transactions until the transition is complete. These are just a few examples of blackout periods that may be outlined in the District of Columbia Model Notice of Blackout Periods under Individual Account Plans. The purpose of this notice is to provide clear and concise information to ensure participants are notified well in advance of any limitations or changes to their individual account plans.