Voluntary
Does my Missouri business have to offer a retirement plan?
Short answer
No. Missouri doesn’t require employers to offer a retirement plan. A 2023 law created the Show-Me MyRetirement Savings Plan, a voluntary 401(k) for employers with 50 or fewer employees, but it hasn’t launched yet.
Who must comply
No Missouri employer is required to offer a plan. Under RSMo §285.1000 and §285.1015, the Show-Me MyRetirement Savings Plan would be open on a voluntary basis to employers with 50 or fewer employees and to self-employed people.
Deadlines
There are no state registration deadlines. The law required the plan to open by September 1, 2025, but it hasn’t launched and no launch date has been announced.
Penalties
There are no state penalties for not offering a retirement plan.
How to get exempt
No exemption is needed because there is no mandate.
Show-Me MyRetirement Savings Plan or a 401(k)?
Missouri’s planned program is a 401(k) shared by many employers, so 401(k) limits would apply: employees could defer $24,500 in 2026 and $25,500 in 2027, plus catch-ups from age 50. The law lets employers contribute and lets employees choose pre-tax or Roth.
Sources
Missouri Revisor of Statutes: RSMo §285.1000 Definitions (revisor.mo.gov) Missouri Revisor of Statutes: RSMo §285.1015 Plan requirements (revisor.mo.gov) Georgetown University Center for Retirement Initiatives: States: 2026 state program status (as of November 6, 2026) (cri.georgetown.edu) Internal Revenue Service: 401(k) limit increases to $24,500 for 2026, IRA limit increases to $7,500 (irs.gov) Internal Revenue Service: COLA increases for dollar limitations on benefits and contributions (irs.gov)
This page is general information, not legal or tax advice. Confirm current rules with the state program before acting.
