Education Catalog Look to Ascensus for all your retirement, health, and education savings plan education solutions.
Table of Contents Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Instructor-Led Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–11 Ascend . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–5 IRA Institute . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 IRA and HSA Workshops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 IRA Essentials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 IRA Frontline Fundamentals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Advanced IRAs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Virtual IRAs A-Z . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 HSA Workshop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 HSA Frontline Fundamentals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 IRAdirect ® Workshop for General Users . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 IRAdirect ® Workshop for Advanced Users . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Distance Learning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12–16 HSA University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 IRA University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 IRA Institute Online . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 IRA Essentials OnDemand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Webinars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 eLearning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Training Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Training Organizers™ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Consumer Education Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Certification Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-19 Obtaining Certification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Continuing Education (CE) Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-21 Training Registration Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Ascensus education programs are here in one catalog so that you can better plan your training. Contact Ascensus at 800-346-3860 or education@ascensus.com with any questions you may have.
Introduction Stay competitive in today's marketplace by leveraging Ascensus' education programs in the growth and development of your staff. Ascensus offers training for all levels of employees, from frontline staff to senior executives, at all stages of their career paths. As the foremost provider of retirement, health, and education savings plan education, Ascensus has been delivering training to financial organizations for over 35 years.
Ascensus trainers Ascensus’ accredited instructors are some of the best in the industry. When they are not teaching, they research and consult on retirement, health, and education savings plan administration forms and documents, design course curricula, and conduct compliance reviews. Ascensus instructors also serve as the voice of Ascensus’ 800 Consulting service and webinars. Their years of industry experience and ERISA technical knowledge offer depth and insight to their teaching. Ascensus instructors have a deep understanding of IRAdirect® and general operational knowledge that further enhances their teaching.
Flexible formats Ascensus offers its education programs in flexible formats and multiple delivery methods so you can choose options that best fit your staff’s learning objectives and your budget. Mix and match our online and instructor-led delivery formats for a better learning experience.
Professional development and continuing education (CE) credits Ascensus recognizes the importance of staying current with retirement, health, and education savings plan rules and trends in today’s market. Earning and maintaining professional designations is an excellent way to obtain proficiency and highlights to clients your staff’s dedication to developing their expertise. Ascensus programs are submitted for numerous designations, including CIS, CIP, CISP, CTFA, CRSP, and CFP. Visit our website for additional details.
ascensus.com/academy
800-346-3860
education@ascensus.com
Instructor-Led Training
Ascend Join Ascensus’ highly-educated consultants at Ascend as they share their expertise and knowledge, along with the latest developments in the ever-changing retirement and other tax-favored savings plan industry. Ascend is the industry’s most comprehensive education conference. Attendees can choose from over 40 courses (basic and advanced) to better their understanding of retirement, health, and education savings plans. With its flexible format and interactive presentations on compliance topics and marketing opportunities, Ascend caters to your organization's objectives.
Why attend
Who should attend
There are many reasons to attend the Ascend education conference.
Retirement, health, and education savings plan professionals at all levels attend Ascend, bringing together all types of financial professionals.
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Stay current on the latest industry developments.
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Receive practical industry-leading ideas to take back to the office.
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Retirement plan product managers
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Relationship managers
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Earn a designation: Certified IRA Specialist or Certified Health Savings Professional.
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Operations and compliance managers and staff
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Personal bankers
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Network with industry peers.
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IRA administrators
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Learn through engaging activities and real-world case studies.
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Trust officers
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Build on your existing skills, or learn new skills.
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Investment advisors
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Client service managers
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Call center managers and support staff
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Individuals with retirement industry designations
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Third-party administrators
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Certified public accountants
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Instructor-Led Training
Ascend course topics* Whether you’re interested in learning the fundamentals or want to explore more advanced topics, Ascend covers all aspects of retirement, health, and education savings plans. Below is a sample listing of course topics.
IRA
HSA
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2022 IRA Reporting—What You Need To Know
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CHSP Exam Prep Workshop
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CIS II Exam Prep Workshop
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HSA Certification Workshop
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Common IRA Questions and How to Find the Answers
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HSA Fundamentals
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HSAs—Beyond the Basics
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Employer Plan Options—SEP and SIMPLE Plans
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IRA Amendments—What, How, and When
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IRA Compliance—How to Identify and Address Issues
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IRA Conversions and Special Portability Topics
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IRA Excess Contributions and How to Handle Them
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IRA Fundamentals
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IRA Legal Issues
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IRA Update
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QRP •
403(b) and 457—Let the Truth Be Told
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Defined Benefit Plans—Back to the Future
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QRP Distributions and Plan Loans
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QRP Fundamentals
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QRP Legal Issues
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QRP Update
IRA Withholding Requirements and Using the New Withholding Forms
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Where Did They Go?—How to Find Missing Plan Participants, IRA Owners, and Beneficiaries
Roth IRAs—What You Need To Know
IRAdirect®
IRA/Qualified Plan •
Advanced IRA and QRP Portability
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Beneficiary Basics—First Things First
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Exploring Penalty-Free QRP and IRA Distributions
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HSAs, 401(k)s, and 529s—Maximizing Your Savings
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IRA and QRP Beneficiary Options
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IRA and QRP Complex Beneficiary Concepts
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IRA and QRP Prohibited Transactions—What Owners Can’t Do
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Portability Topics for IRAs and QRPs
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Required Minimum Distributions—Yes, You Have to Take a Distribution!
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Social Security—Part of the Retirement Puzzle
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800-346-3860
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What’s in Your IRAdirect Toolbox
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The RMD Process of IRAdirect
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IRAdirect Death Claims Process
*Topics are subject to change.
education@ascensus.com
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Instructor-Led Training
IRA Institute IRA Institute is an advanced training program that provides in-depth, need-to-know IRA information to experienced IRA professionals. This program features extensive IRA reference materials, objective-based training methods, and practical applications of IRA rules. This program also prepares students for the Certified IRA Professional (CIP) or Certified IRA Services Professional (CISP) examinations. IRA Institute is available on-site (five full days) or as a flexible online option (12 weeks, see page 14).
Who should attend • Individuals who have earned the CIS II certification • IRA services professionals with two or more years of industry experience • Experienced IRA professionals interested in pursuing the CIP or CISP designation • Those looking to become recognized industry leaders
Course topics* •
Establishment and amendments
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Prohibited transactions
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Contributions
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Transfers and rollovers
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Conversions and recharacterizations
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Excess contributions
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IRA distributions and withholding
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Required minimum distributions
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Beneficiary distributions
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Reporting
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Handling legal issues
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SEP and SIMPLE IRA plans
*This is a sampling of topics. Additional topics may be covered.
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ascensus.com/academy
800-346-3860
education@ascensus.com
Instructor-Led Training
IRA and HSA Workshops Benefit from our experienced, knowledgeable instructors and extensive curriculum without leaving the office. From learning the basics to gaining a comprehensive understanding of IRAs and health savings accounts (HSAs), our workshops cover critical rules and operational issues. With instructor-led training, an Ascensus trainer will come to your organization in person or virtually and teach on a wide range of IRA and HSA topics, delivering high-quality content in a flexible, cost-effective format to suit your training objectives. We can integrate your organization’s forms, policies, and procedures into the training. Our trainers can tailor the curriculum to the staff being trained and answer your specific questions in person or virtually.
Advantages •
You select the topics, time, and place to fit your needs.
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Instructors will help develop professional and technical skills on an individual basis.
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There are no travel expenses or time away from the office.
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Train several employees at one time versus sending one or two individuals to off-site training.
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Professionally designed student guides and reference material are available.
IRA topics
HSA topics
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IRA Essentials
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HSA Frontline Fundamentals
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Advanced IRAs
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HSA Workshop
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IRA Frontline Fundamentals
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IRAdirect® Workshop for General Users
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IRAdirect® Workshop for Advanced Users
ascensus.com/academy
800-346-3860
education@ascensus.com
7
Instructor-Led Training
IRA Essentials
Advanced IRAs
Just starting out in the retirement services industry or need a refresher on IRAs? IRA Essentials is the ideal workshop for you. With hands-on exercises throughout the workshop, you'll leave able to work with IRA owners and process basic IRA transactions with confidence. This workshop is also offered in a flexible on-demand version (see page 14).
Advanced IRAs builds on the attendees’ basic IRA knowledge to address the more complex IRA issues that their financial organizations may handle. The instructor uses real-world exercises to help participants apply information to job-related situations. This is an advanced session; previous IRA knowledge is assumed.
Who should attend •
Those who need to learn the basics of traditional and Roth IRAs
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Those who want an updated, general refresher on IRA rules
Course topics*
Who should attend •
An IRA administrator, personal banker, or member services personnel who has a working knowledge of basic IRA operations and wishes to expand your expertise and provide enhanced customer service
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A financial professional who recognizes that IRAs play an integral role in retirement planning
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A compliance specialist with procedural oversight of IRA policies and practices
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Support personnel responsible for promotional materials that describe the services provided by your financial organization
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Introduction to IRAs
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Establishing an IRA
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IRA funding
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IRA distributions
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IRA portability
Course topics*
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Reporting
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IRA updates
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IRA excess contributions
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Required minimum distributions
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Beneficiary options
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Advanced portability
IRA Frontline Fundamentals IRA Frontline Fundamentals is a half-day workshop that provides a basic foundation of IRA knowledge. Exercises are included to help participants apply information to job-related situations. You'll leave this session able to confidently process basic IRA transactions. This is a beginner’s session; no previous IRA knowledge is assumed.
*Topics are subject to change.
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800-346-3860
education@ascensus.com
Instructor-Led Training
Virtual IRAs A-Z IRAs A to Z gives you a comprehensive overview of fundamental IRA concepts. Exercises are included throughout the day to help you apply information to job-related situations. You will leave this session with increased confidence and a better understanding of how to handle most common IRA transactions. Limited IRA knowledge is assumed, but a basic understanding of IRAs is beneficial.
Who should attend • IRA administrators, personal bankers, or member services personnel who have a working knowledge of basic IRA operations and wishes to expand their expertise and provide enhanced customer service • Compliance specialists with procedural oversight of IRA policies and practices
Course topics* •
Introduction to IRAs
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IRA funding
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Moving IRA assets
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IRA distributions and beneficiary options
ascensus.com/academy
800-346-3860
education@ascensus.com
9
Instructor-Led Training
HSA Workshop
HSA Frontline Fundamentals
Attend the HSA Workshop for a comprehensive HSA curriculum and a practical understanding of critical rules and operational issues. This workshop covers all aspects of a successful HSA program.
HSA Frontline Fundamentals is a half-day workshop that gives attendees a basic foundation of HSA knowledge. Exercises help participants apply information to realworld scenarios. Attendees will leave this session able to confidently process basic HSA transactions. This is a beginner's session; no previous HSA knowledge is assumed.
Who should attend •
Those who need to become more comfortable with HSA rules
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Those who are responsible for ensuring a compliant HSA department
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Those who are responsible for internal systems, HSA transaction codes, and proper HSA administration
Course topics may include* •
Introduction to HSAs
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Establishing an HSA
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HSA funding
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HSA distributions
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HSA portability
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HSA compliance
*Topics are subject to change.
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ascensus.com/academy
800-346-3860
education@ascensus.com
Instructor-Led Training
IRAdirect® Workshop for General Users
IRAdirect® Workshop for Advanced Users
The IRAdirect Workshop for General Users is a half-day course that gives attendees a solid foundation of knowledge about IRAdirect functionality and operations. Attendees will leave able to confidently work within the IRAdirect software and process basic IRA transactions.
The IRAdirect Workshop for Advanced Users is a half-day course that gives attendees a solid foundation of the role of an Advanced User in IRAdirect. Attendees will leave this session able to confidently work within the IRAdirect software and process General User IRA transactions.
Who should attend
Who should attend
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IRAdirect general users
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IRAdirect advanced users
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IRAdirect advanced users
Course topics*
Course topics*
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Homepage overview
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Homepage overview
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Calendar
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User guide and manuals
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Investment maintenance
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IRAdirect training videos
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Financial organization information
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The Link newsletter
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Approving forms from general users
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Account owner tree
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Form wizards
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Completing common form wizards
Required minimum distribution (RMD) process, RMD election in the account owner tree, and verifying RMD payments
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Financial disclosure calculator
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Blank forms
Death claim process, death claim in the account owner tree, and verifying outstanding death claims
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Reports
*Topics are subject to change.
ascensus.com/academy
800-346-3860
education@ascensus.com
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Distance Learning
HSA University This flexible five-week learning course combines weekly webinars and self-paced eLearning modules to give you the education and confidence you need to pass the Certified Health Savings Professional (CHSP) exam. Throughout HSA University, you will attend one weekly 75-minute webinar and complete self-paced, on-demand eLearning modules. This blended approach allows you to build your HSA skills and become a CHSP without leaving the office. HSA University and the CHSP designation are both endorsed by the National Association of Federally-Insured Credit Unions (NAFCU). Registration is open to all organizations regardless of financial affiliations.
Who should attend Whether you are looking to earn the CHSP designation and become a recognized industry leader, or to acquire in-depth, up-to-date knowledge about HSAs, consider attending HSA University.
Course topics and schedule* •
Week 1–Kickoff and HSA overview
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Week 2–Introduction and establishment
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Week 3–Funding HSAs
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Week 4–HSA distribution issues
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Week 5–Portability and compliance
*Topics are subject to change.
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800-346-3860
education@ascensus.com
Distance Learning
IRA University Ascensus offers a unique distance learning opportunity that combines self-paced eLearning modules with realtime webinars and access to an IRA social network. IRA University will provide you with the tools to build a solid IRA knowledge base and become a Certified IRA Specialist I (CIS I). This six-week course includes a 90-minute weekly webinar session with an instructor followed by a self-paced, on-demand eLearning module. This blended learning approach gives you the flexibility to build IRA skills without the travel expense.
Who should attend •
Those wanting to become a CIS I
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Those new to IRAs or needing a refresher on IRAs
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Frontline financial organization employees who provide back-up support to the IRA specialist
Webinar and eLearning topics •
Getting started (webinar only)
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IRAs–benefits and contributions
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Establishing an IRA
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IRA distribution basics
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IRA distributions overview and Roth distributions
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Traditional IRA distributions
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Portability
FastTrack option Fast-track the CIS I and II certification process, and earn both designations in fewer than 12 months when you complete IRA University and attend Ascend. 1.
Register for IRA University.
2. Register for Ascend and the CIS II exam. Using a special coupon code, save $402 on your Ascend registration (coupon code provided in your IRA University registration confirmation email). 3. Participate in the IRA University six-week blended course, and pass the exam to receive your CIS I certification. 4. Attend Ascend and pass the exam to earn your CIS II certification.
Audience •
Staff wanting to become a CIS II
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Staff new to IRAs and looking to become an expert quickly
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Staff at financial organizations just beginning to offer IRAs
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Front-line financial organization employees who provide back-up support to the IRA specialist ascensus.com/academy
800-346-3860
education@ascensus.com
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Distance Learning
IRA Institute Online IRA Institute Online is a comprehensive 12-week, web-based IRA training program that teaches in-depth, essential IRA information. It is the only approved online training program that prepares attendees for taking the Certified IRA Professional (CIP) or Certified IRA Services Professional (CISP) examinations. IRA Institute is also available as a five-day on-site training program (see page 6).
Who should attend • Individuals who have earned the CIS II certification • IRA services professionals with two or more years of industry experience • Experienced IRA professionals interested in pursuing the CIP or CISP designation • Those looking to become recognized industry leaders
Course topics* •
Establishment and amendments
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Prohibited transactions
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Contributions
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Transfers and rollovers
•
Conversions and recharacterizations
•
Excess contributions
•
IRA distributions and withholding
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Required minimum distributions
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Beneficiary distributions
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Reporting
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Handling legal issues
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SEP and SIMPLE IRA plans
*This is a sampling of topics. Additional topics may be covered.
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ascensus.com/academy
800-346-3860
education@ascensus.com
Distance Learning
IRA Essentials OnDemand IRA Essentials OnDemand is perfect for those who need an introduction to IRAs but cannot attend a face-to-face IRA training session. IRA reference materials, job aids, quizzes, and videos blend together to create an immersive educational experience. IRA Essentials OnDemand is a flexible, online version of our popular IRA Essentials on-site workshop. IRA Essentials is also available as an on-site workshop (see page 8).
Designed for those who need to •
Learn the basic rules that govern traditional and Roth IRAs
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Complete an updated, general refresher on IRA rules
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Earn CE credits
Course topics •
Introduction to IRAs
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Establishing an IRA
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IRA funding
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IRA distributions
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IRA portability
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Reporting
ascensus.com/academy
800-346-3860
education@ascensus.com
15
Distance Learning
Webinars Ascensus webinars are a great way to train multiple staff members at one time, in one location, for one low price. You choose the webinar topic and the date, ensuring that your staff is properly trained on the topics you deem most appropriate. All webinars are available live or by digital delivery and last approximately 75 minutes, including time for questions and answers. Workbooks are included.
Who should attend •
Retirement and other tax-favored savings plan administrators seeking ongoing education
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Industry professionals looking to become more comfortable with retirement, health, and education savings plan rules
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Those responsible for IRA, HSA, and Coverdell ESA compliance
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Those looking for an update on the latest retirement, health, and education savings plan industry changes
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Individuals needing continuing education credits for various designations
eLearning Ascensus’ self-paced eLearning courses are a cost-effective, flexible training solution bringing convenience and expertise to retirement and savings plan industry professionals nationwide. Courses range from basic to advanced and are approved for continuing education credits. Attendees can take any course at any time and review the material whenever necessary. At the end of each course, attendees have the option to take a test and immediately view the results, to help identify topics they may need to review in greater detail. Individual courses are available through Ascensus University using our learning management system (LMS), or can be used within your own LMS. Our library is SCORMand AICC-compliant. To aid in the learning process, each course includes embedded links with pop-up details and Q&As with helpful hints. While each course is designed to take 60 to 90 minutes, attendees can work at their own pace and save the course to come back to later.
Course topics*
*This is a sampling of eLearning courses. Additional courses are available.
Basic eLearning Courses:
Basic-to-Advanced eLearning Courses
Advanced eLearning Courses
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Conversions
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Coverdell Education Savings Accounts
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529 Plans
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HSA Basics
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Establishing an IRA
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IRA Contributions
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Funding HSAs
Comparing Roth and Traditional IRAs
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IRA to IRA Transfers and Rollovers
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HSA Distribution Issues
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Qualified Plan Basics
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HSAs - Introduction and Establishment
Employer-Sponsored Plan Portability Handling IRA Legal Issues
Traditional IRA RMDs
HSA Portability and Compliance
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•
• •
Individual(k)™
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IRA Authoritative Hierarchy
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IRA Beneficiary Options
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IRA Compliance
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IRA Distributions
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IRA Required Reporting
IRA Excess Contributions and Recharacterizations
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SEP Plans
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Roth 401(k)
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SIMPLE IRA Plans
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Substantially Equal Periodic Payments
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Training Materials
Training Organizers™ Looking for a way to efficiently train staff on IRA and HSA fundamentals? Ascensus’ IRA and HSA Training Organizers™ may be the answer. Designed to accommodate all learning styles, each Training Organizer is a comprehensive toolkit that a financial organization can use to effectively customize its internal training program to meet the needs of its team.
Components •
Trainer Guide – General instruction, helpful training tips, references to specific presentation slides, and optional handouts, activities, and tests with all the answers
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Trainer Material – Slide presentation, training agenda, IRS documents, helpful forms, optional handouts, student exercises, and exams
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Presentation Notes – Built-in easel, and talking points for specific slide topics
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Student Guide – General instruction and plenty of room for notes
Consumer Education Materials Deliver the right message, the right way, at the right time. Our expert consumer education content is designed to get their attention and help you grow your business.
Lobby Brochures Hands-on engagement material that provides your clients with a deeper dive on key savings topics
eBrochures Digital versions of our popular lobby brochures that you can upload and use on your consumer-facing website
Micro Learning Series 3-4 minute educational videos which can be placed on your website or played on your lobby TVs
ascensus.com/academy
800-346-3860
education@ascensus.com
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Certification Programs
Certification Programs Attaining the Certified IRA Specialist (CIS), Certified IRA Professional (CIP), Certified IRA Services Professional (CISP), and Certified Health Savings Professional (CHSP) designations will help fulfill your career and give your IRA and HSA clients the peace of mind that comes from working with a professional IRA or HSA representative. Achieve a certification through these defined skill levels:
Certified IRA Specialist I (CIS I)
Certified IRA Services Professional (CISP)
This level of certification demonstrates proficiency in completing basic IRA transactions. Topics include opening IRAs, contributions, distributions, federal tax withholding, and basic IRA tax reporting.
This certification was launched in conjunction with the American Bankers Association (ABA) to establish a high standard of knowledge and competency for IRAs. It provides formal recognition to those individuals meeting specific standards of experience, ethics, knowledge, and performance in the IRA industry.
Certified IRA Specialist II (CIS II) This level of certification demonstrates expertise in a variety of advanced IRA transactions—excess contributions, recharacterizations, rollovers and transfers, required minimum distributions, conversions, death-claim processes, and withholding.
The CISP certification allows clients, beneficiaries, IRA rollover candidates, and employers to identify skilled, knowledgeable professionals.
Certified IRA Professional (CIP)
The CHSP designation sets an industry standard in HSA expertise on a variety of HSA transactions. This certification demonstrates a practical understanding of the critical rules and operational issues of HSAs. Areas of focus include establishment, contributions, distributions, reporting, and portability. Those who pass the CHSP exam and attain the CHSP designation will be recognized industry experts on HSAs. The CHSP certification is endorsed by NAFCU but open to all eligible applicants regardless of financial affiliation.
The CIP certification recognizes a standard of knowledge for operations and transaction processing. It also enables clients to easily identify skilled, knowledgeable IRA professionals. Topics include IRA documentation and maintenance requirements, IRA eligibility and contribution rules, retirement plan portability, IRA distribution requirements, IRA fees and investments, SEP and SIMPLE IRA plans, and retirement planning. The CIP certification is endorsed by the National Association of Federally-Insured Credit Unions (NAFCU) but open to all eligible applicants regardless of financial affiliation.
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Certified Health Savings Professional (CHSP)
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Certification Programs
Obtaining Certification CIS I and CIS II certifications
CHSP certification
To obtain the CIS I certification, you must attend IRA University. To pursue the CIS II certification, you must attend Ascend. After completing IRA University, you can schedule the CIS I online exam, which allows you to access your course materials and notes. Following Ascend, you can schedule the online CIS II exam, which allows you to access your course materials and notes throughout the exam. To become certified, you must earn 80 percent or above on the exam within 30 days of attending Ascend or completing IRA University.
To qualify for the CHSP certification, candidates must meet one of the following experience and education requirements:
CIP certification
If the candidate does not have the minimum experience requirement, a letter of qualification/recommendation must be submitted by the candidate's employer.
To pursue the CIP certification, you must first have a minimum of two years experience with an IRA program or have achieved the CIS II certification. You must then pass the CIP exam. To prepare for the exam, many individuals choose to attend IRA Institute (instructor-led or online).
•
A minimum of one year of HSA operational or technical experience
•
Graduation from the Ascensus HSA University, Ascend, or equivalent on-site approved training event
•
Achievement of a passing score of 80% on the CHSP exam
CISP certification To pursue the CISP certification, you must have a minimum of two years of dedicated IRA operational and technical experience, and have an ABA-approved educational program, such as the Ascensus IRA Institute or IRA Institute Online. In lieu of the approved educational program, four years of dedicated IRA operational and technical experience will be accepted. You must then schedule and pass the CISP written exam. To find more information about the CISP application process and when the exam is offered, go to the American Bankers Association website at https://www.aba.com/ training-events/certifications/certified-ira-servicesprofessional.
ascensus.com/academy
800-346-3860
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19
Continuing Education (CE) Chart
Continuing Education Credits 2022 Designation
AAMS
Ascend
IRA Essentials/ Advanced IRA, IRAs A-Z or HSA Workshop
IRA Essentials OnDemand
IRA/HSA Frontline IRA Institute IRA Fundamentals (onsite or University ** online)
HSA University
Compliance Understanding the Webinar or New Withholding digital version Rules Webinar
*
*
*
*
*
--
--
*
*
* * 1.5 per course*** * 1.5 per HSA course
---
---
---
---
---
---
-*
---
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
*
--
7.25
--
-3.75 HSA course only
--
--
13.25
1.5 HSA only
HSA course only
--
--
--
--
--
*
--
--
7.25
3.75
33.5
--
13.25
1.5
1.25
7.25
7.25
3.75
33.5
15 CIS I only
13.25
1.5
1.25
credits pending until 8/1/2022
7.25
7.25
3.75
33.5
--
13.25
1.5
1.25
* * *
7.25 * *
* * *
* * *
* * *
----
----
* * *
* * *
CRSP
credits pending until 8/1/2022
*
7.25
3.75
33.5
--
13.25
1.5
1.25
CTFA
credits pending until 8/1/2022
7.25
7.25
3.75
33.5
--
13.25
1.5
1.25
NCCO
1.5 per course
7.25
7.25
3.75
33.5
--
13.25
1.5
1.25
QKA
*
7.25
--
--
--
--
--
*
--
QPA QPFC RICP RP
* * * *
---*
-----
--* *
-----
-----
-----
* * * *
-----
AIF/AIFA CFA CFP ChFC CHSP CIMA
* 1.5 per course 1.5 per course
CIP CIS
CISP CPC CRC CRPC/CRPS
*Course is eligible for CE credits for this designation. For number of credits available, client will need to contact designation sponsoring organization. **This course is available in limited locations. Contact your Ascensus Sales Representative for information. ***Courses not eligible for credit: CHSP Exam Prep Workshop, CIS II Exam Prep Workshop, HSA Certification Workshop, IRAdirect sessions, AAMS AIF/AIFA CFA CFP ChFC CHSP CIMA CIP
20
Accredited Asset Management Specialist Accredited Investment Fiduciary/Analyst Chartered Financial Analyst Certified Financial Planner Chartered Financial Consultant Certified Health Savings Professional Certified Investment Management Analyst Certified IRA Professional
CIS CISP CPC CRC CRPC CRPS CRSP CTFA
Certified IRA Specialist Certified IRA Services Professional Certified Pension Consultant Certified Retirement Counselor Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor Chartered Retirement Plans Specialist Certified Retirement Services Professional Certified Trust & Financial Advisor
ascensus.com/academy
800-346-3860
NCCO QKA QPA QPFC RICP RP CRSP CTFA
--
2/23/2022
NAFCU Certified Compliance Officer Qualified 401(k) Administrator Qualified Pension Administrator Qualified Plan Financial Consultant Retirement Income Certified Professional Registered Paraplanner Certified Retirement Services Professional Certified Trust & Financial Advisor
education@ascensus.com
Continuing Education (CE) Chart
eLearning Courses CE credits for eLearning are available only for the designations listed.
Designation
CHSP
CIP/NCCO
CIS
CISP
CRSP
CTFA
529 Plans
n/a
1.25
1.25
1.25
1.25
1.25
Comparing Roth & Traditional IRAs
n/a
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
Conversions
n/a
1.75
1.5
1.75
1.75
1.75
Coverdell Education Saving Accounts
n/a
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
Employer Sponsored Plan Portability
n/a
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
Establishing an IRA
n/a
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
1
1
1
1
1
1
Handling IRA Legal Issues
n/a
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
HSA Basics
1.5
1.75
1.75
2
2
2
HSA Distribution Issues
1
1
1
1
1
1
HSAs - Introduction and Establishment
1
1
1
1
1
1
HSA Portability and Compliance
1
1
1
1
1
1
Individual(k)
n/a
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
IRA Authoritative Hierarchy
n/a
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
IRA Beneficiary Options
n/a
2.5
2.5
2.5
2.5
2.5
IRA Compliance
n/a
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
IRA Contributions
n/a
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
IRA Distributions
n/a
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
IRA Excess Contributions and Recharacterizations
n/a
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
IRA Required Reporting
n/a
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
IRA to IRA Transfers and Rollovers
n/a
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
QPlan Basics
n/a
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
Roth 401(k)
n/a
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
SEP Plans
n/a
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
SIMPLE IRAs
n/a
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
Substantially Equal Periodic Payments
n/a
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
Traditional IRA RMD
n/a
2.25
2.25
2.25
2.25
2.25
Funding HSAs
2/23/2022
ascensus.com/academy
800-346-3860
education@ascensus.com
21
Training Registration Fees
Training Registration Fees Ascend $1,399 per attendee
IRA Institute $1,799 on-site per attendee $1,695 online per attendee
IRA University $1,199 per attendee Registration includes the CIS I exam, an added value of $299.
IRA Essentials OnDemand
$249 per attendee (30 days unlimited access) Contact us for unlimited access pricing, covering your entire organization.
Webinars Mix and match your webinar and digital delivery purchases to save. $199 each for up to four webinars or digital delivery $175 each for five or more webinars or digital delivery
eLearning
$899 per attendee Registration includes the cost of the CHSP exam.
Select individual courses or purchase the entire library. Contact us to discuss pricing for your organization. 30-day unlimited access to Ascensus University, including our entire library is available for $399 per user.
IRA FastTrack
Instructor-Led Workshops
$2,495 per attendee Registration includes an IRA University session, Ascend, and the CIS I and CIS II exam.
Stock curriculum starts at $2,500 per day plus expenses and materials.
HSA University
IRA and HSA Workshops $299 per attendee per class
Ascensus® and the Ascensus logo are trademarks of Ascensus, LLC. IRAdirect® is a registered trademark of Ascensus, LLC. IRA Training Organizer™ , HSA Training Organizer™, and Individual(k)™ are trademarks of Ascensus, LLC.
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