The U.S. Department of Labor has launched a webpage commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), highlighting the law's impact on retirement security for American workers.
The new webpage provides a historical overview of ERISA and its role in protecting health, retirement savings, and other benefit plans for American workers. It also details how the department’s Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA) assists beneficiaries in claiming their benefits or reporting violations.
Signed into law in September 1974, ERISA was designed to protect employee benefit plan participants and their beneficiaries. Over the years, it has evolved to address the changing needs of workers and their families regarding retirement and healthcare.
“The Employee Income Retirement Security Act became law on Labor Day in 1974 and established strong protections for the hard-earned benefits of millions of America’s workers and their families,” explained Assistant Secretary for Employee Benefits Security Lisa M. Gomez. “As we mark its 50th anniversary, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring the benefits America’s workers earn are secure and ready to provide workers and their families with the financial security they’ve earned when they need it.”
The site also features testimonials from workers and retirees who sought assistance from EBSA benefits advisors when encountering difficulties obtaining their earned benefits. Additionally, it provides information on how to contact EBSA advisors for help with questions about benefits, complaints, and claims.
EBSA benefits advisors can be reached by calling (866) 444-3272 or visiting askebsa.dol.gov. All discussions with EBSA are free and confidential.
