Vol. XXI, Issue 27

May 26, 2022

Wespath's Chief Investment Officer Discusses Recent Stock Market Declines

Participants may be trying to understand recent stock market declines. In this video, Wespath's CIO Dave Zellner outlines our take on bear markets, how markets have been affected by recent Fed action, the impact on equities and bonds, and what comes next.

New Customer Service Call Experience

On May 23, Wespath transitioned to a new, streamlined voice response system for Customer Service. When calling Wespath's general number (1-800-851-2201), listen carefully to the new menu prompts before selecting an option. If you have a moment after your call, please participate in a brief survey so we can continue to further improve your customer service experience. Thank you for your patience during this transition. NOTE: we have not changed our phone number for plan sponsors or participants as part of this update.

Employee Retention Tax Credit Assistance Available to Local Churches

Paychex, the integrated payroll provider used by many local churches, is offering assistance to employers filing for the Employee Retention Tax Credit. The Employee Retention Credit is available to large and small churches (and tax-exempt organizations generally) if, in 2020 and/or 2021, they have either: suffered a certain level of decline in "gross receipts" or had to fully or partially suspend operations due to orders from a governmental authority due to COVID-19. (See more detail regarding the criteria in Wespath's February 2021 Update.) Churches may still be able to claim the credit for past eligible periods.

Click here for more information. You do not have to be a current Paychex client to utilize this service.

New Blog: Solar Power "Electrifying" Low Income Housing Communities

In our latest Investment Insights blog, Jon Strieter, impact investment analyst, shares why we're adding solar energy to several of our Positive Social Purpose investments, including how solar provides energy efficiency and utility cost savings for many communities.

Wespath Holiday Closing—Memorial Day

Wespath will be closed on Monday, May 30, in observance of Memorial Day. Customer Service assistance will be unavailable that day.

Benefits Access for participants can be used to access acount information and complete transactions 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The automated phone system, accessible by calling 1-800-851-2201, will also be available for participants.

The Benefit Access Portal for Plan Sponsors and Wespath Institutional Investor Portal will be available to plan sponsors, conferences and institutions.


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a general agency of The United Methodist Church
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