The Benefit Document Creator is a tool within BerniePortal's Compliance feature (powered by Mineral) that helps employers create ERISA-compliant benefits plan documents quickly and easily. Using guided wizards with built-in tool tips and access to live support, you can generate the required legal documentation for your employee benefits programs in minutes.
Key Features
- Easy-to-Use Wizards
Step-by-step guided workflows walk you through each document type. Helpful tool tips appear throughout the process to explain what information is needed and why.
- Document Creation in Minutes
Complete your plan documents quickly—no need to start from scratch or hire outside counsel for routine documentation.
- Expert Legal Oversight
The wizards are monitored and updated by Barrow Weatherhead Lent LLP, a law firm well-known for their ERISA expertise, ensuring your documents reflect current legal requirements.
- Live Support Access
If you have questions while creating a document, you can access live help directly within the tool.
- Centralized Document Storage
All created documents are stored in one location for easy access, organization, and retrieval during audits.
- E-Signature Capabilities
Collect electronic signatures from clients and employees directly within the platform.
- Partner Reporting
Access reporting features that support broker and partner workflows.
- Unlimited Document Creation
Create as many documents as you need—there are no limits on the number of plan documents you can generate.
Availability
The Benefit Document Creator is available with Compliance Premium and Compliance Ultimate tiers. It is not included in the Free tier.
→ See: [What are the different Compliance tiers available?] for a complete feature breakdown by tier.
Related Tools
BerniePortal's Compliance feature includes additional document creators that complement the Benefit Document Creator:
- Wrap Section 125 Document Creator – Create Section 125 cafeteria plan wrap documents to maintain ERISA compliance for your employee benefits programs
- Smart Employee Handbook Builder – Build and maintain federal and state-compliant employee handbooks
- Job Description Builder – Access customizable job description templates
- Custom Documents – Create custom document templates with proactive compliance alerts
→ See: [What is the Wrap Section 125 Document Creator?] for more information on creating Section 125 documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer to use the Benefit Document Creator?
No. The wizards are designed to guide you through the process with built-in tool tips and explanations. The documents are monitored and updated by ERISA legal experts to ensure compliance. However, if you have complex or unusual plan structures, you may want to consult with legal counsel.
How often should I update my plan documents?
Plan documents should be reviewed and updated whenever there are changes to your benefits offerings, plan design, or relevant laws and regulations. The system's proactive alerts can help notify you when updates may be needed.
Can I edit documents after they're created?
Yes, you can return to your stored documents to make updates as your plans change.
Are the documents specific to my state?
The documents are designed to meet federal ERISA requirements. State-specific considerations may apply depending on your benefits structure—consult the HR Compliance Library or an HR expert for state-specific guidance.