What is correct regarding excess benefit plans?

• A. None of these options is correct.
• B. Employees recognize income when an unfunded plan is established.
• C. Both management and non-management employees may be covered.
• D. The plan must be funded.

Answer: (C)

Excess benefit plans are designed to provide benefits that exceed the limits imposed by the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) on qualified retirement plans. The primary goal is to supplement the retirement benefits of highly compensated employees.

The reasoning behind the correct answer lies in the fact that excess benefit plans can indeed cover both management and non-management employees, depending on the design of the plan. This flexibility allows employers to provide additional benefits to a broader range of employees, while ensuring they can still comply with tax regulations.

The other options present statements that do not accurately capture the nature of excess benefit plans. For example, stating that employees recognize income upon the establishment of an unfunded plan misconstrues the tax implications associated with such plans. The funding aspect is also misrepresented in options discussing mandatory funding, as these types of plans are generally unfunded and thus can be crafted to meet the employer's needs without requiring outside funding.