We carefully manage retirement plan expenses to keep fees low so leaders can keep more of their retirement income.

• Portico's fees cover only our costs.
• We do not have layers of complex fees — no sales commissions, 12b-1 fees or revenue sharing.

We offer social purpose funds compatible with ELCA social teachings and policies. Using ELCA social criteria as a guide, we:

• Invest in activities that positively benefit the community while achieving acceptable returns
• Avoid investing in companies with business practices that conflict with ELCA social teachings and policy documents
• We act on behalf of members to positively influence decisions made by companies in which we are invested using proxy voting and the filing of shareholder resolutions

By negotiating one set of benefits for members across the country, Portico provides consistency and efficiency.

• Consistent benefits allow spiritual discernment to guide the call process rather than benefit considerations.
• The purchasing power of our members reduces administrative costs and secures broad provider networks, discounted group pricing, and access to high-caliber investment managers and recordkeeping services.
• According to a 2013 Towers Watson study of nearly 700 U.S. employers, the ELCA health plan operates 15% more efficiently than other employer-sponsored plans and results in $20 million savings annually.

Our health plan pools resources to pay for health care needed by leaders and their families. Together, we can:

• Provide care for those in serious need — 1% of members incur 1/3 of annual medical claims
• Save about 10% by avoiding commissions and fees built into the price of fully-insured plans
• Invest in wellness benefits considered “extras” in commercial plans like dental benefits and fitness center programs