<img height="1" width="1" style="display:none" src="https://www.facebook.com/tr?id=314834185700910&amp;ev=PageView&amp;noscript=1">

New Update: Healthcare Costs Increasing by Over 60% in Some States. Will you be impacted?

Learn More

Understanding Creditor Protections forDell Technologies Employees

image-table

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Dell Technologies Dell Technologies provides its employees with healthcare coverage through a variety of plans. The primary healthcare provider associated with Dell is UnitedHealthcare, which offers comprehensive health insurance options to Dell employees, focusing on coverage that fits a range of healthcare needs. Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As Dell Technologies employees prepare for 2026, they should anticipate significant increases in healthcare costs driven by rising ACA marketplace premiums. Many states are projecting steep hikes, with some rates soaring over 60%. Key factors behind this surge include the potential expiration of enhanced federal subsidies, escalating medical inflation, and considerable rate increases from major insurers. For Dell employees, these challenges may lead to a greater share of healthcare expenses, warranting a proactive approach in reviewing benefits and planning for the financial implications of these changes. Click here to learn more

'Dell Technologies employees must be aware that while ERISA-qualified plans provide significant protection from creditors, non-ERISA accounts like IRAs are more vulnerable, and it's crucial to understand state-specific laws to ensure full asset security as you approach retirement,' says Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

'As retirement approaches, Dell Technologies employees should consider not only the strength of their ERISA-qualified plans but also the potential vulnerabilities of non-ERISA accounts, and seek guidance from legal and financial experts to ensure their assets are fully protected,' advises Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

In this article, we will discuss:

  1. The protection of retirement savings under ERISA-qualified plans.

  2. The limitations of ERISA protection, including potential risks from creditors.

  3. The role of state laws in protecting non-ERISA retirement accounts like IRAs.

For employees at Dell Technologies, an important issue is the security of retirement savings, especially when employees approach the retirement age or are retired. It is generally assumed that all retirement assets are protected from creditors. Nevertheless, the extent to which these assets are protected differs greatly depending on the type of retirement plan and the laws of the state. In this article, we explore the specifics of asset protection.

Plans Covered by ERISA: A Stronghold Against Creditors
Most of the retirement plans that meet the eligibility requirements of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) are generally safe. Such ERISA-qualified plans are also usually safe from the reach of creditors in the event of bankruptcy or civil suits. Importantly, this protection is maintained even if the company sponsoring the plan goes bankrupt. These assets are usually out of the reach of personal creditors.

To meet the ERISA requirements, a retirement plan must be offered by an employer or an employee organization and must meet certain federal requirements regarding membership reporting, funding, and vesting. Typical ERISA-qualified plans include profit-sharing plans, pensions, deferred compensation plans, and 401(k)s.

Furthermore, ERISA applies to some employee health and welfare benefits, such as:

  • Hospital, surgical, and medical coverage through Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plans.

  • Health care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs).

  • Dental and vision plans.

  • Prescription drug programs.

  • Disability insurance.

  • Specific welfare benefit plans under sections 419(a)(f)(6) and 419(e).

The anti-alienation clause in these plans prohibits the assignment of benefits and thus keeps the assets beyond the reach of most creditors.

Weaknesses of ERISA-Qualified Plans
Although they are very strong, ERISA plans are not foolproof. They can be subject to claims by:

  • A former spouse for child support or divorce settlements, with a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO).

  • The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for any unpaid federal income taxes.

  • The federal government in cases involving fines and penalties for crimes.

  • Creditors in the event that a plan participant breaches the terms of the plan.

The State of Non-ERISA Plans
The protection of retirement accounts that are not covered by ERISA, such as traditional and Roth IRAs, is not uniform. Some 403(b) plans offered by government or religious organizations may also not be ERISA plans.

Featured Video

Articles you may find interesting:

Loading...

BAPCPA provides some protection for IRA funds in bankruptcy, but such funds are not protected by ERISA.

State Laws and IRA Security
The protection of IRAs and other non-ERISA plans against creditors can vary greatly by state. Some offer little protection, while others offer almost none. It is imperative to know these nuances in order to manage the risk of potential creditor claims. Dell Technologies employees are encouraged to seek the advice of experienced local attorneys in order to navigate these complex legal situations.

Conclusion
The legality of protecting retirement funds from creditors depends on the type of retirement account, state laws, and certain exemptions. Although most employer-sponsored retirement plans are relatively safe, the legal framework is complex, and it is advisable to seek legal advice early to maximize the protection of retirement assets.

Sources:

Mavar, Tyson.  The Retirement Group, a Division of Wealth Enhancement Group . Interview. January 2025.

'ERISA: A Guide to Employee Retirement Income Security Act.'  U.S. Department of Labor , 2024,  www.dol.gov/general/topic/retirement/erisa . Accessed 31 Jan. 2025.

'How Bankruptcy Affects Retirement Accounts.'  National Bankruptcy Forum , 2023,  www.nationalbankruptcyforum.com/affects-of-bankruptcy-on-retirement-accounts . Accessed 31 Jan. 2025.

'State Laws and IRA Protection.'  Retirement Law Journal , vol. 12, no. 4, 2024, pp. 47-52.

'Understanding Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs).'  Internal Revenue Service , 2023,  www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/plan-participant-employee/understanding-qualified-domestic-relations-orders . Accessed 31 Jan. 2025.

What is the Dell Technologies 401(k) Savings Plan?

The Dell Technologies 401(k) Savings Plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save for their future by contributing a portion of their salary on a pre-tax or after-tax basis.

How can I enroll in the Dell Technologies 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can enroll in the Dell Technologies 401(k) Savings Plan through the employee benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

What types of contributions can I make to the Dell Technologies 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can make pre-tax contributions, Roth (after-tax) contributions, and, in some cases, catch-up contributions if they are age 50 or older.

Does Dell Technologies offer a company match for the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Dell Technologies provides a company match on employee contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan, which helps employees save more for retirement.

What is the vesting schedule for the Dell Technologies company match in the 401(k) Savings Plan?

The vesting schedule for the company match in the Dell Technologies 401(k) Savings Plan typically follows a graded vesting schedule over a period of years.

Can I take a loan from my Dell Technologies 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Dell Technologies allows employees to take loans from their 401(k) Savings Plan, subject to certain terms and conditions.

What investment options are available in the Dell Technologies 401(k) Savings Plan?

The Dell Technologies 401(k) Savings Plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and company stock.

How often can I change my contribution amount to the Dell Technologies 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can change their contribution amount to the Dell Technologies 401(k) Savings Plan at any time, typically through the employee benefits portal.

What happens to my Dell Technologies 401(k) Savings Plan if I leave the company?

If you leave Dell Technologies, you have several options for your 401(k) Savings Plan, including rolling it over to an IRA or a new employer’s plan, or cashing it out (though this may have tax implications).

Is there a minimum contribution requirement for the Dell Technologies 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Dell Technologies may have a minimum contribution requirement for participation in the 401(k) Savings Plan, which is typically outlined in the plan documents.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Dell Technologies provides a 401(k) plan with a generous company match. Employees have access to a range of investment options and financial planning resources.
Dell Technologies grants RSUs to its executives and key employees. RSUs vest over a period of three to four years, aligning employee interests with company success.
New call-to-action

Additional Articles

Check Out Articles for Dell Technologies employees

Loading...

For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Dell Technologies at One Dell Way Round Rock, TX 78682; or by calling them at (512) 338-4400.

*Please see disclaimer for more information

Relevant Articles

Check Out Articles for Dell Technologies employees