PBGC Posts ERISA 4044 Expense Load Factors for 2026

The Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) has posted ERISA 4044 expense load factors applicable for valuation dates after January 30, 2026 but before January 31, 2027. The 4044 expense is computed as $438 per participant for the first 100 participants and $274 per additional participant. 

PBGC's ERISA 4044 regulation provides guidance on the actuarial assumptions used to determine the present value of benefits in involuntary and distress terminations of single-employer plans (e.g., interest, mortality, retirement age, and an expense load). The 4044 expense is computed as specified dollar amounts per participant for the first 100 participants and per additional participant. These dollar amounts will change annually.