From the Executive Editor

Hello ASEA—

Hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving and holiday season. I hope next year is back to the normal we once knew.

As we live in somewhat of a divided nation, our first article concerns the epitome of a divided nation, the Civil War. Incredibly, the last Civil War-era pension died just a few months ago. David Kupstas, Chief Actuary of the ACG Retirement Plan Design and Administration Division, tells us more in his article found here. 

Our next article comes from ASEA’s new President, Justin Bonestroo, Senior Vice President at CBIZ Retirement Plan Services. Justin’s article provides a look back, a current view, and a glimpse into the future. Much like A Christmas Carol, we hope you will enjoy Justin’s article, which can be found here. 

Also, we have a technical article that all fine actuaries should be on top of. The IRS on Nov. 6 issued final regulations that update the life expectancy and distribution period tables used for purposes of determining required minimum distributions (RMDs). John Iekel, Senior Writer/Editor at American Retirement Association, wrote an article on the subject, which you can find here.

Recently, I was asked to perform calculations as part of litigation by former employees against their former employer. I looked for articles on expert witness testimony and could not find any, other than an ASPPA outline (which was great help, along with the ASOP). If you have any experience as an expert witness, ASEA wants to hear from you. Please contact me at [email protected] and tell us about your experiences in the form of an ASEA article.

OK, folks. Enjoy your time away from the office and with your loved ones.

All the best,

Alan