Can anyone direct me to an article that summarizes how the changeover to the GATT assumptions works? I am pulling my hair out trying to understand this stuff! We have a DB plan that was submitted for a determination letter in February and the IRS has responded with a number of requests for revision concerning the implementation of 417(e)(3), but I just do not understand what they are asking for. If anyone knows of a plain-English explanation, please let me know! Thanks.

I don't mean to be rude, but how did you operate the DB plan if you or people in your office do not know the workings of 417(e)? I would consult with the actuary that signed the schedule B's, because I don't think this is a question that necessarily can be answered simply.

If there is no luck there, perhaps you could post the actual questions the IRS is asking.

if you can obtain or own the defined benefit answer book or the pension answer book, perhaps that would be a good place to start getting some summarized information.

these books are published by aspen publications.

This is really difficult material and I know of no plain-English explanations. You do not say who you are, what your expertise, background and so on are, so it is difficult to give you specific advice. The only way I know to get a handle on the rules is to study the Internal Revenue Code language and the language of the regulations over and over until you understand it. You are probably going to have to study the historical material too, so that you have a proper background. Or, you can go out and hire one of the very few people who understand what all of this is about -- we are probably talking about an experienced, senior pension plan consulting actuary or an experienced, senior pension plan attorney.