The Blackout Period Notice, a recent addition to the notice requirements for profit-sharing or 401(k) plans, requires at least 30 days' (but not more than 60 days') advance notice before a plan is closed to participant transactions. During blackout periods, participants (and beneficiaries) cannot direct investments, take loans, or request distributions. Typically, blackout periods occur when plans change recordkeepers or investment options, or when plans add participants due to a corporate merger or acquisition.

Reporting To The Government