403b and 457 plans

Introducing Our New Plan Administrator……

We recently conducted a review of 403b and 457 plan administration service providers.  Our goal was to ensure that we are maintaining compliance, protecting our employees and receiving the best services available.  In evaluating service, the criteria we used included avoiding any disruption to our current venders, no added administrative fees, requiring that the service provider have undergone stringent audit reviews and that it does not take float or delay the processing of your 403b or 457 retirement contributions.  We also wanted local support and service from experienced professionals familiar with the education community. 

With those criteria and more in mind we are pleased to announce the selection of Great American Benefit Administrators (GABA) in partnership with Zuk Financial Group (ZUK) as the District’s new third party administrator and education service providers for our 403(b) and 457(b) plans, replacing ING’s Plan With Ease, effective November  1, 2009.  Please see www.gaplandata.com where information to support ongoing plan activity, as well as retirement savings in general can be found.  This is also the new location for you to access forms, request distributions or hardships, inquire about loans and/or other plan related activity.

GABA's role is not intended to replace the services provided to you by your financial advisor; rather is is here to ensure your retirement plan stays in compliance with IRS regulations. Please contact your financial advisor if you have retirement, 403(b) or general questions about these changes.  In the event you do not have a financial advisor, you have questions specific to the 457 plan or simply regarding this communication you may contact Zuk Financial Group at (888) 488-8480.

Please note if you are currently contributing to a 403b and/or 457 plan(s) you do not need to take any action.  Your contributions and allocations will not be affected.  If you are not currently contributing or would like to learn more about plan options this might be a good time to explore what is available to you.  Please watch for upcoming communications and/or presentations designed to provide you with additional information as we proceed with this transition. 

For your added convenience we have attached the approved 403 (b) and 457 vendor list. 

Regards,

John Bartolome

Business Manager, Fiscal Services

Sonoma Valley Unified School District

403b Vendor List

October 1, 2009

457 Vendor List*

October 1, 2009

                                                 Vendor Name

                                                American United Life (AUL), a OneAmerica Financial Partner

                                                            Annuity Investors (Great American Life Insurance Co.)

                                                            FTJ FundChoice, LLC

ING Life Insurance & Annuity Company

                                                            Life Insurance Company of the Southwest

                                                            Pacific Life Insurance Company

                                                            Security Benefit Group

                                               *Limited to specific product offerings.