The Bogleheads' Guide to Investing

How to Find Hidden Fees and Expenses If your plan permits you to direct the investment assets in your account, the plan administrator should provide you with a copy of the prospectus, which will show all the fund administrative expenses, including sales charges. Your plan administrator should provide you with a description of any other transaction fees and expenses that will be charged. Account statements are usually provided at least once a year. If a yearly statement is not forthcoming, ask for it. Failure or delay in receiving account statements is a warning sign that your company plan may be in jeopardy. Your 401( k) Summary Plan Description (SPD) will tell you what the plan provides and how it operates. It may tell you if administrative expenses are paid by your plan (you) or by your employer.