The top two priorities for just about every employer should be keeping benefits affordable while bolstering mental health programs.

For the annual review, an investment policy statement is highly recommended, which outlines general rules for the manager, provides the general investment goals and objectives and describes the strategies to employ.

No slowdown is expected in the coming months when it comes to employer-sponsored health care and retirement plans. Here are some of the big-ticket items.

Those who proactively get ahead of the game's new rules will be best positioned to serve the needs of their companies, as well as current and former plan participants, while also protecting themselves against liability.