Which of the following statements is true about qualified plans?

Qualified plans are retirement plans that meet the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code and are thus eligible for certain tax benefits. One of the key features of qualified plans is that they must comply with specific federal regulations, which are designed to protect participants and ensure that the plans operate fairly and benefit employees. These regulations include aspects like participation standards, contribution limits, and distribution rules, among others.

Qualified plans must adhere to these federal standards to qualify for tax benefits, such as tax-deferred growth and favorable tax treatment for both employer contributions and employee contributions. This compliance is significant because it ensures that the plans are reliable and provide the expected benefits to plan participants.

The options highlighting lack of federal standards, inability to accept employer contributions, or absence of tax benefits directly contradict the fundamental characteristics of qualified plans. Therefore, the accurate statement recognizes the important role of federal regulations in defining and maintaining qualified plans.