Here's Your Annual Eligibility Notice for 403(b)/457 Retirement Plans

Heartland AEA offers employees the opportunity to voluntarily save for retirement by participating in the Iowa Department of Administrative Services’ Retirement Investors’ Club (RIC) 403(b) and/or 457 plans. You are eligible to participate in these plans whether or not you are actively contributing to them. 

Highlights of the RIC plans: 

• The minimum contribution is $12.50 per pay period. 
• You have the option of pre-tax contributions (before state and federal income taxes are computed) and/or post-tax Roth contributions. You should work with your financial advisor to determine what is best for your retirement planning. 
• The Agency does not offer matching funds, but it is still very beneficial for you to start saving for retirement, even if you are only able to start with a small amount. 
• For 2021, the maximum amount you may contribute per year is 100% of your compensation up to $19,500. Also, if you are age 50 or older, you may contribute an additional $6,500. In some cases, you may also be able to make additional catch-up contributions. A calculation is required to determine if you’re eligible for this special provision. 

Basic steps to start participating in the RIC plans: 

• Create an account with one of the plan investment providers. 
• Make your investment election (how you want your money invested). 
• Complete Heartland AEA’s Election Form to begin your payroll deduction. Election forms can be found on Employee Online > Menu > Payroll Information > Retirement. 

To learn more about these plans, visit the RIC’s 403(b) webpage and the RIC’s 457 webpage. Use the left-hand navigation section to find out more information on these plans. 

This Notice is not intended as tax or legal advice. You are encouraged to contact your financial advisor or tax professional with any tax or legal questions. If you have any questions about participating in these retirement plans, contact Steve Jordan, Senior Payroll Specialist.