403(b) Audit Services:
Expert Guidance for Nonprofit and Educational Organizations
Managing a 403(b) plan requires careful attention to regulatory compliance and fiduciary responsibilities. At Ernst Wintter & Associates, we specialize in 403(b) audit services, providing dedicated support for educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and other tax-exempt entities. Our experienced auditors deliver a seamless audit process that minimizes disruption while ensuring thorough compliance with all requirements.
Why 403(b) Audits Are Essential
403(b) retirement plans are subject to rigorous oversight by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to safeguard participant interests and ensure proper fund management. For tax-exempt organizations, maintaining compliance is crucial to avoid penalties and protect your organization’s status.
A qualified, independent audit helps ensure your plan meets all regulatory requirements while providing peace of mind for your organization and plan participants.
Do You Need a 403(b) Audit?
Your plan requires an audit if:
- Your plan has 100 or more eligible participants at the beginning of the plan year.
- This includes active employees, retirees, separated employees, and deceased participants with beneficiaries
- Your plan must file Form 5500-SF or Schedule H of Form 5500
- Your plan has complex investment arrangements or multiple vendors
Key exceptions to consider:
- The 80-120 participant rule may apply if you filed Form 5500 in the previous year under specific conditions
- New plans operating for less than seven months may defer their first audit
- Certain church plans may be exempt from audit requirements
Not sure about your audit requirements? Our specialists can help determine your obligations and ensure full compliance.
How We Support Your 403(b) Audit
As members of the AICPA Employee Benefit Plan Audit Quality Center, our licensed CPAs bring specialized expertise in 403(b) plan audits. Here’s what sets our service apart:
Specialized Experience
We're well-versed in:
- Multiple vendor arrangements common in 403(b) plans
- Legacy annuity contracts and their documentation requirements
- Special considerations for different types of tax-exempt organizations
- Complex compliance requirements specific to 403(b) plans
Efficient
Process
We minimize disruption to your operations by:
- Working collaboratively with your staff, vendors, and third-party administrators
- Utilizing secure technology for efficient document sharing
- Providing clear timelines and expectations
- Offering remote audit capabilities when appropriate
Comprehensive Support
Our service includes:
- Clear communication throughout the audit process
- Guidance on DOL and IRS compliance requirements
- Review of plan operations and internal controls
- Actionable recommendations for improvement
- Assistance with Form 5500 filing requirements
Cost-Effective Solutions
We understand the budget constraints facing nonprofit organizations and educational institutions. Our services are:
- Tailored to your organization's specific needs
- Transparently priced with no hidden fees
- Designed to provide value while maintaining quality
- Focused on preventing costly compliance issue
Why Choose Ernst Wintter & Associates for Your 403(b) Audit?
As 403(b) audit specialists, we offer:
- Membership in the AICPA Employee Benefit Plan Audit Quality Center
- Deep understanding of nonprofit and educational organization needs
- Experienced team dedicated to employee benefit plan audits
- Strong track record of successful 403(b) plan audits
- Commitment to clear communication and responsive service
Resources to Support Your Financial Journey
At Ernst Wintter & Associates LLP, we offer more than accounting and audit servicesโwe offer resources for businesses and organizations seeking trusted financial guidance. Explore articles, checklists, and FAQs designed to help you understand complex audit requirements and prepare for your next financial review.
Getting Started
Ensure your 403(b) plan meets all compliance requirements while minimizing disruption to your organization. Contact us today to:
- Discuss your audit requirements
- Review our efficient audit process
- Get answers to your questions
- Receive a customized proposal
Contact our 403(b) audit specialists at (925) 20933-2626 or info@ewallp.com to schedule a consultation.
Certifications & Memberships
