Is it permissable for a db plan to charge a participant the cost of calculating a benefit certification? if so, and the ppt takes a lump sum, can the plan reduce the lump sum amount by the cost of the calculation? any references to regs, etc. would be greatly appreciated...even if the answer is nope.

I don't see how a plan could make such a charge. BTW, is the plan paying the expense? should it? Perhaps the plan sponsor could charge, but why do so? The determination of the benefit is a part of having the plan in the first place.

This discussion might be relevant.
http://benefitslink.com/boards/index.php?showtopic=20684