Better 401(k) compliance for state-mandated retirement laws
Switch to a flexible 401(k) solution — perfect for businesses in CA, IL, NY, MN, and more.
Don't settle for state plans — choose ESG
State-mandated retirement laws are here or coming across the U.S. — from CalSavers and Illinois Secure Choice to MN Secure Choice (Jan 2026) and NY Secure Choice. Many owners are frustrated with rigid state portals and poor service. ESG's 401(k) gives businesses a better path in:
- •Active States: CA, CO, CT, DE, IL, MA, MD, NJ, OR, VA, WA
- •Upcoming States: HI, MN, MO, NV, NM, NY, RI, VT
states, one compliant 401(k) built to travel with your business wherever it grows.
Dedicated onboarding support from your ESG contact — every step, every filing.
Why choose ESG over state plans?
Our 401(k) solution outshines state programs like CalSavers, OregonSaves, and RetireReady NJ:
- •Expert guidance — at no cost to you. Launch your 401(k) with our $3,997 onboarding — fully offset by tax credits (up to $16,500 over 3 years).
- •Seamless payroll sync with 500+ platforms, unlike state plan restrictions.
- •Stress-free compliance. We handle Form 5500 signing. Employees get mobile access — a 40% satisfaction boost.
Benefits of an ESG 401(k) in any state
We make compliance easy across states like CO, CT, DE, and beyond.
- •Tailored setup for mandates like MyCTSavings (CT) or DE EARNS (DE).
- •Mobile access for employees, unlike rigid state portals in MD or VA.
- •Proven results for businesses that offer a 401(k):
*Consult your CPA for actual tax deductions available to your business. Source: Wolters Kluwer, Betterment, Benzinga, BLS.
State-specific deadlines and requirements
California — CalSavers
1+ employees must register by Dec 31, 2025, or face $250/employee fines.
Illinois — Secure Choice
5+ employees, register ASAP or face civil penalties.
Oregon — OregonSaves
1+ employees, comply now or face penalties.
New Jersey — RetireReady NJ
25+ employees. Nov 15, 2024 deadline has passed; fines up to $500/employee.
Minnesota — MN Secure Choice
Starts Jan 2026 — 5+ employees must offer a plan.
New York — Secure Choice Savings
In development — 10+ employees, coming soon.
State auto-IRAs are spreading fast — here's where things stand
According to The Pew Charitable Trusts, 15 states now run active auto-IRA programs and over 1 million workers have saved more than $2.5 billion. Two more states have passed legislation and are implementing programs — with active bills in DC, MA, MI, PA, and beyond.
Translation: mandates aren't going away. A private 401(k) with ESG keeps you compliant no matter which state acts next.
states with active auto-IRA programs
workers saving through state programs
total assets accumulated to date
additional states implementing now
Source: Pew Charitable Trusts, updated July 2026.
Explore state-by-state program status
Hover any state to see its auto-IRA or retirement savings program status. Live data from Pew.
Map © The Pew Charitable Trusts. Embedded from pew.org.
Frequently Asked Questions
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