The Washington Model Statement of ERICA Rights is a legally mandated document that provides important information and protections to employees covered under ERICA (Employee Retirement Income Security Act). This statement outlines the rights and benefits that employees have regarding their employer-sponsored retirement and pension plans. The Washington Model Statement of ERICA Rights is designed to be easily understood and accessible to employees, ensuring they are aware of their rights regarding their retirement plans. It includes detailed information about the provisions, benefits, and outlines the rights employees have under ERICA. Key topics covered in the Washington Model Statement of ERICA Rights may include: 1. Eligibility: The statement outlines the criteria an employee needs to meet to become eligible for participation in the retirement plan. 2. Vesting: The document explains the vesting schedule, which determines when employees gain ownership of their employer-contributed funds. 3. Contributions: The statement provides a breakdown of how many employees can contribute to their retirement plans, including any employer matching contributions. 4. Investment Options: The document discusses the available investment options within the plan, explaining the different types of investments employees can choose from. 5. Account Statements: It highlights the frequency and availability of account statements that employees receive, providing transparency and ensuring proper record-keeping. 6. Plan Administration: This section describes how the retirement plan is administered, including information on who to contact for questions or assistance. 7. Retirement Benefit Calculations: The statement may outline how retirement benefits are calculated, including factors such as years of service and salary. 8. Distribution Options: It explains the various distribution options available to employees when reaching retirement age, such as lump-sum payments or annuity options. 9. Portability: The document discusses the portability of retirement benefits, addressing the ability to transfer funds to another qualified retirement plan. 10. Fiduciary Responsibilities: The statement may highlight the fiduciary responsibilities of the plan administrators, ensuring they act in the best interest of the plan participants. Different types or variations of the Washington Model Statement of ERICA Rights may exist, depending on the specific retirement plans offered by employers. For example, there might be model statements for defined contribution plans, defined benefit plans, or hybrid plans that combine elements of both. It is crucial for employers to provide their employees with the appropriate Washington Model Statement of ERICA Rights to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations and to empower employees with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions regarding their retirement plans.