All Resources

SECURE 2.0 and Retirement Planning: What Advisors Need to Know in 2026

Engage Clients · Relationship management · Article

Retirement Plan Updates for 2026: What Advisors Need to Know

Learn more about this year’s SECURE 2.0 changes and how to use them to differentiate your practice and deliver better client outcomes. 

Even as we settle into a new year, the retirement planning landscape continues to shift in response to a changing regulatory and policy environment, market volatility, inflation pressures, and numerous other factors. These changes can bring more complexity—and more opportunities—for advisors and their clients. And while advisors can’t control the markets or changing demographics, they can understand and navigate policy shifts in a way that helps drive the best possible outcomes for their clients.

The first step toward leveraging these policy shifts is understanding what’s changed. Enhanced contribution limits, a Roth-only catch-up requirement, evolving withdrawal strategies, and expanded incentives for small businesses are all redefining how advisors can support clients through this tax season and beyond. 

Maximize Client Impact: Year-End Planning Strategies for Advisors

Engage Clients · Relationship management · Article

Year-End Strategies to Boost Client Outcomes

To maintain a competitive edge in your practice and deliver lasting value, integrating innovative wealth strategies with retirement-focused solutions is essential. Addressing both immediate and long-term goals strengthens client relationships, while also highlighting your expertise in comprehensive financial planning. This dual approach not only enhances client outcomes but also positions your practice as a reliable partner in navigating the complexities of financial and retirement strategies.

Annual Cost of Living Adjustments (COLAs) for Retirement Plans

Engage Clients · Participant education · Information Guide

Annual COLAs for Retirement Plans

Explore how cost of living adjustments (COLAs) impact contribution limits and the operations of qualified retirement plans, SEP plans, and SIMPLE plans. Learn about the annual adjustments required by Section 415 of the Internal Revenue Code and how they affect your clients' retirement planning.

How Consistent Service from Dedicated Relationship Managers Benefits Advisors and Their Clients

Engage Clients · Relationship management · Video

Advisor Story: Consistent Service for Client Satisfaction

Watch how dedicated service teams can enhance client relationships and achieve retirement plan goals. Our Advisor Stories series showcases real-world insights and strategies from successful advisors.  

Boosting Participation Rates and Retirement Savings: Strategies for Advisors Partnering with Ascensus

Engage Clients · Relationship management · Video

Advisor Story: Strategic Planning to Achieve Client Goals

Learn how advisors can transform retirement plan participation rates through strategic planning and personalized support. 
 
 Our Advisor Stories series showcases real-world insights and strategies from successful advisors.

Helping Clients Achieve Financial Success Through Tailored Guidance and Support

Engage Clients · Participant education · Video

Advisor Story: Supportive Financial Planning for Clients

Explore how advisors can make a significant impact on clients' financial journeys through personalized guidance and support. 
 
 Our Advisor Stories series showcases real-world insights and strategies from successful advisors.

How Financial Advisors Can Help Younger Generations Understand the Importance of Saving for Retirement

Engage Clients · Participant education · Article

Inspiring Young Clients to Save

Use these tips to encourage younger generations to start saving for retirement — enhancing your advisory practice and fostering long-term client relationships. 

How to Stand Out as a Financial Advisor: Demonstrating Your Value

Engage Clients · Relationship management · Article

Demonstrating Your Value as an Advisor

Understand what retirement plan sponsors look for in a financial advisor to effectively showcase your value and grow your business.

Maximizing Client Savings: Simple Strategies for Financial Advisors

Engage Clients · Participant education · Article

Finding Savings Opportunities for Clients

Help clients find simple opportunities to save more money, positioning yourself as a supportive and effective advisor.

Building Strong Client Relationships: Trust Tips for Advisors Working Remotely

Engage Clients · Relationship management · Article

Developing Client Trust Remotely

Learn how mastering technology, offering comprehensive resources, and prioritizing two-way communication can help you build trust with clients as an advisor.  

Three Ways to Effectively Educate Retirement Plan Participants as an Advisor

Engage Clients · Participant education · Article

Educating Plan Participants Effectively

Enhance your advisory practice by bridging the financial literacy gap among clients, positioning yourself as a valuable resource and trusted advisor. 

Effective Preparation Techniques for Financial Advisors Meeting New Clients

Engage Clients · Relationship management · Article

Preparing for Effective New Client Meetings

Prepare for new client meetings by anticipating key questions and providing thoughtful answers to build trust and establish long-lasting relationships.

How to Help Clients Stay on Track with Retirement Savings Goals

Engage Clients · Participant education · Article

Keeping Client Savings on Track

Guide clients to stay on track with their retirement savings goals, fostering retirement confidence and long-term financial success. 

How Advisors Can Optimize Retirement Plans for Client Success Using Ascensus Plan Health Reports

Engage Clients · Relationship management · Products and Services

Plan Health Reporting for Client Success

Explore a sample of our Plan Health Report to leverage research and data provided by our recordkeeping platform. These insights help you understand specific plan activities, compare plans to others, and identify features that drive optimal retirement readiness.

How to Navigate Risk Tolerance Conversations with Clients

Engage Clients · Participant education · Article

Discussing Risk Tolerance with Clients

Help your clients confidently navigate their investment journey by understanding and managing their risk tolerance, positioning yourself as their trusted financial guide.

Effective Strategies for Enhancing Client Relationships as an Advisor

Engage Clients · Relationship management · Article

Building Trust with Clients

Enhance client retention and grow your advisory practice by building strong relationships through effective communication and personalized engagement.

Integrated Financial Wellness Programs for Advisors: Improve Client Outcomes & Strengthen Relationships

Engage Clients · Plan design & capabilities · Participant education · Employer education · Build my brand · Products and Services

How Financial Wellness Programs Elevate Your Advisory Practice

Through Ascensus, advisors can offer a fully integrated financial wellness program powered by Financial Finesse. This holistic financial wellness benefits program combines retirement plan administration with fundamental financial education and coaching. It is designed to help improve employee financial well-being by addressing daily finances, such as debt and budgeting, so they can save more effectively for retirement.