Guideline

Guideline provides automated investment management services for employer-sponsored retirement accounts. The services also include plan set-up and administration, enrollment and education, recordkeeping, compliance with Retirement Income Security Act, and reporting.

The company stated that it is the only provider that does not charge plan participants (i.e. employees) with any fees. Guideline charges the employers with a straightforward pricing of one flat fee per participant, in contrast to the asset-based fee model predominant in the industry (i.e. fee is charged on account balances).

Guideline offers three subscription tiers for a 401(k) plan service: Starter, Core, and Enterprise. The Starter plan costs USD 39/month plus USD 4/month per active participant, offering basic features with a USD 6,000 employee contribution limit. The Core plan, priced at USD 89/month plus USD 8/month per active participant, provides more robust features including a USD 23,000 employee contribution limit, Safe Harbor or Traditional 401(k) options, employer contributions, and profit-sharing capabilities. The Enterprise plan, at USD 149/month, offers the most customization with exclusive pricing options, premium support, and access to Participant Perks. The higher tiers incrementally add features such as flexible plan design, vesting schedules, 401(k) loans, and support for plan transfers. All plans include basic administration services, while the Enterprise tier provides additional benefits like dedicated support, priority assistance, and exclusive pricing options.

Key customers and partnerships

As of August 2024, the company had invested USD 15 billion dollars for retirements.