Anyone who works for a private-sector organization which sponsors retirement benefits such as pension plan or a 401(k) plan (or 403(b) for non-profits) receives an ERISA-governed benefit that becomes vested; i.e., non-forfeitable so long as the employee works for the employer for a sufficient number of years.
In general, retirement plans that are covered by ERISA are protected from creditors—and their lawsuits. A 401(k) is an ERISA-qualified plan, so it is likely protected if you get sued. There may be a few exceptions, such as charges brought by the federal government or if you allegedly wronged the plan.
Plans that fall under ERISA include defined benefits and defined contributions plans, 401 plans(k), 413b plans, EPSOPs, or profit-sharing plans. ERISA also covers private health plans such as health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).
ERISA also does not cover plans maintained outside the United States primarily for the benefit of nonresident aliens or unfunded excess benefit plans.
Qualified plans include 401(k) plans, 403(b) plans, profit-sharing plans, and Keogh (HR-10) plans. Nonqualified plans include deferred-compensation plans, executive bonus plans, and split-dollar life insurance plans.
Governmental entities, churches for their employees, and plans maintained solely for workers' compensation, unemployment, or disability laws are generally not covered by ERISA regulations. ERISA does not typically cover government and religious employers or plans maintained solely to comply with certain state laws.
All 403(b) plans are subject to Title I of ERISA unless an exemption applies.
ERISA plan is not subject to annual 5500 reporting. ERISA plan with over 100 participants does not require an annual audit. ERISA plan is not subject to the strict ERISA fiduciary standards, but it is subject to state law and other standards.
FBAR Exceptions Certain Accounts Jointly Owned by Spouses. Correspondent/Nostro Account. Governmental Entity. International Financial Institution.
If a financial account, such as a depository, custodial or retirement account, is held through a foreign branch or foreign affiliate of a U.S.-based financial institution, the foreign account is not a specified foreign financial asset and is not required to be reported on Form 8938.