Journey to an ESOP & Beyond

EP 25 - Employee Benefit Plan Audits: What ESOP Companies Need to Know

Jason Miller & Makenzie Wirth Season 7 Episode 25

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0:00 | 41:13

In this episode, Makenzie Wirth sits down with David Thrush, Principal in Doeren Mayhew’s Audit Department and National ESOP Practice Leader, to break down why employee benefit plan (EBP) audits are essential for ESOP companies. With extensive experience in ERISA compliance, employee benefit plan audits, and ESOP administration, David explains how EBP audits support accurate Form 5500 reporting and what companies should be doing now to prepare for upcoming deadlines. From building an annual ESOP calendar to coordinating with service providers, reviewing census data, participant statements, valuations, and distributions, this conversation highlights the year‑round planning and compliance practices every ESOP company must embrace to stay compliant and avoid surprises.

If you’re looking to strengthen your ESOP processes, improve audit readiness, and stay ahead of regulatory requirements, this episode is a must‑listen.