Maine’s trusted retirement program
Maine Restaurants, give your employees the opportunity to save for their future with Maine Retirement Investment Trust (MERIT), a trusted retirement savings option created for Mainers, by Mainers. With MERIT, access a retirement savings program that’s easy to implement with no fees for employers.
Key Information
Is MERIT mandatory?
MERIT is required for employers who have five or more employees, have been in business two years, if they do not already offer a qualified workplace retirement savings plan. If they offer a workplace retirement plan, they are required to certify an exemption.
Do part-time employees count?
Yes, all W-2 employees, full-time or part-time, employees count towards the five employee criteria.
Do I have to match employee contributions?
No, employers are not allowed to match employees’ contributions using MERIT.
Do my employees have to participate?
No, employees are not required to participate. They can opt out of MERIT at any time.
What if my restaurant is seasonal?
Seasonal businesses are also required to register or certify an exemption with MERIT. You can find more about operating a seasonal business with MERIT here.
What if my restaurant uses Toast?
If your business uses Toast for payroll, follow the instructions on our website.
Resources
Help Center
Find employer portal guides, walkthrough videos, and frequently asked questions.
How to Register
Step-by-step guides to onboarding, adding employees, setting up payroll and more.
Payroll Provider Integration
QuickBooks Integration
If you use QuickBooks Online, easily integrate with MERIT.
Gusto Integration Guide
Do you use Gusto? See how to integrate MERIT and Gusto.
Other payroll providers
Review over 50 payroll providers that integrate with MERIT including Maine-based providers: Bangor Payroll, Paper Trails, Payroll Management, Yarmouth Payroll.
Maine Restaurants
You’re serving Maine people every day — now you can help your employees build financial security, too.
• No fees or contribution matches for employers.
• Integrates with over 50 payroll providers.
• Dedicated Help Center, FAQs and customer service.
