TPA Services for Plans with Self-Directed Brokerage Accounts
Some plans are structured around self-directed brokerage accounts, where participants hold assets directly through a brokerage custodian rather than a traditional recordkeeping platform. These plans require a TPA that understands how that structure works and what it demands from an administrative standpoint.
RPG provides full third-party administration for plans where all assets are held through one or more self-directed brokerage accounts (SDBAs). We handle plan compliance, government filings, and all TPA functions. The brokerage custodian maintains participant accounts, processes trades, and holds plan assets under a separate agreement with the plan sponsor.
Who This Structure Works For
SDBA plans are most common in situations where participants want broad investment flexibility, and the advisor is already managing assets through a brokerage relationship.
The structure gives participants direct access to a wide range of investment options. The TPA function stays separate and is handled by RPG.
What RPG handles:
Plan document drafting and maintenance
Nondiscrimination and coverage testing
Employer contribution and vesting calculations
Benefit determinations and distribution processing
Loan administration and QDRO review
Annual Form 5500 filing and government reporting
Participant notices
Ongoing consulting
Coordination with the brokerage custodian
What RPG doesn’t handle:
RPG does not monitor individual SDBA accounts, execute trades, value plan assets, or identify prohibited transactions arising within brokerage accounts.
Those responsibilities remain with the custodian and the plan fiduciaries. Our role is plan administration and compliance.
Interested in TPA services for an SDBA plan?
Contact us to discuss your plan’s structure.
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