Expert: Shirley McAllister, CPP, PHR - 8/25/2009

Question
I worked for a small privately owned company that closed on 4/2009. I requested a distribution form and was sent one. I filled out form with the help of the firm handling my 401k. I told them that the company no longer exists, then was that they will not have to sign. After waiting a while, I called to find out it it has been processed and was told no and then I was told to talk to the plan manager. I was then told by him that he still will have to sign. I have tried to call my former employer home and the number has been changed and also the plan manager and he has not returned my calls. If the company no longer exists, will my former employer still have to sign and if he doesn't what can I do? What are the plan manager's responsibilities since he want return my calls and is there a government agency I can go to to report this? I have been unemployed since April and is in great financial stress.

Answer
Employee Benefits Security Administration of the U.S. Department of Labor (EBSA)

http://www.dol.gov/ebsa/aboutebsa/main.html

U.S. Department of Labor
Employee Benefits Security Administration
Public Disclosure Room
200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Suite N-1513
Washington, DC 20210
Tel 202.693.8673

Shirley