Plan Design

After a thorough review of client objectives, we have the experience and expertise to implement the best possible combinations to maximize member appreciation and the return on the taxpayer's benefit dollars.

City-parish retirement system on solid ground, actuary says
- Baton Rouge Advocate Sept. 26, 1997

"Another year of strong investment gains has the city-parish retirement system in solid financial shape, system actuary Randall Stanley of Atlanta told the retirement board Tuesday morning."

Actuarial Valuations

The valuation process is incomplete until a full analysis of all parameters has been studied, results compared to prior years and other standards, and understandable explanations offered for deviations from expected.

Detailed Gain/Loss Analysis

This detailed analysis quantifies the impact of each element of experience and explains changes in funding requirements for the year to the plan trustees. It consists of a detailed comparison of actuarial and expected experience, for each assumption. Consequently, it serves as an audit of the realism of each assumption and leads to the orderly development of experience data for subsequent assumption refinements.

Pension Needs $23.4 million
- Miami Herald Jan. 30, 2002

"The fund's assets are currently valued at about $1.1 billion, which includes all retired and active members, said Randall Stanley, the Atlanta-based actuary who drafted the report. Stanley said the fund's value dropped 10% last fiscal year."

Benchmark Actuarial Valuations/Actuarial Audits

The benchmark actuarial valuation is an audit of the results of the current or previous actuary. It isolates and quantifies any differences in interpretation of Plan provisions, actuarial assumptions, or actuarial methodology. For a new client, the benchmark valuation is the initial starting point for the detailed gain/loss analysis.

Experience Studies

The experiece study is typically a multi-year comparison of actual and expected experience. It is similar to the annual gain/loss analysis but focusses on the goal of assumption refinements. It provides an orderly framework for recommended assumption refinements and assists trustees in making informed decisions.

DROP Studies

A properly designed DROP is undoubtedly the most popular option in recent years. Variations in DROPs include traditional DROPs, actuarially equavalent back DROPs, and retroactive DROPs. Not all DROP designs are financially advantageous to all members or for all employers.

Forecasting

We have the expertise and tools to project cost and expense levels, together with other key financial data, under common funding methods. This approach is extremely useful in choosing the best funding method and assumptions to fit the financial objectives of the client.

Internal Assistance

We recognize there are some instances in which our client is best served by assistance with designing internal systems. Through our sister organization, ACTECH, we make available the latest computer tools designed for internal client operations, including individual benefit calculations and, where appropriate, the annual actuarial valuation processing.

General Plan Administration

As full service consultants, we recognize that the tasks associated with plan administration do not end with actuarial valuations or defined contribution plan recordkeeping. Thus, we offer a complete range of reporting and plan compliance services, including:

Preparation of Government Forms and Related Participant Disclosure Material
Consulting with regard to Plan Distributions
Benefit Calculations and Certifications

Employee Communications

We offer assistance in drafting employee communication materials, as well as preparation of comprehensive individual member statements.

Special Plans

We offer expertise in designing and drafting nonqualified excess benefit programs.

SH&A represents a fresh, unencumbered application of professional expertise and enthusiasm to a constantly changing environment.