2024 Professional Development
Contents
About ASPPA & 2024 Virtual Classroom Schedule..................................................... 1 Sales/Client Engagement Track................................................................................... 5 Compliance Track......................................................................................................... 7 Introduction to Retirement Plans (IRP) Certificate...................................................... 9 Retirement Plan Fundamentals (RPF) Certificate........................................................ 11 Defined Benefit Administrator (DB-A) Certificate....................................................... 15 Qualified 401(k) Administrator (QKA®) Credential..................................................... 17 Qualified 401(k) Specialist (QKS) Credential............................................................... 21 Qualified 401(k) Consultant (QKC) Credential............................................................ 23 Cash Balance Specialist (CBS) Credential................................................................... 25 Qualified Pension Administrator (QPA) Credential.................................................... 27 Certified Pension Consultant (CPC) Credential.......................................................... 29 ERISA Outline Book (EOB)............................................................................................. 31
Table of
ASPPA Webcast Packages............................................................................................ 33 Pricing Summary........................................................................................................... 35
A B O UT A S P PA & 2 0 24 VI RTUA L C L A S S R O O M S C H E D U LE
In pursuit of these goals, ASPPA offers the retirement plan administrative and recordkeeping industry extensive educational opportunities, paired with a strong advocacy operation that puts us at the center of any legislative debates that could affect what you do for a living. Our educational offerings include certificate and continuing education programs, credentialing, and conferences. The American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries (ASPPA) and its four sister organizations — ASEA, NAPA, NTSA and PSCA — comprise the American Retirement Association, the national organization for retirement plan professionals. ASPPA is focused on two major goals: to educate retirement plan professionals, and to create a framework of public policy that gives every working American the ability to have a comfortable retirement.
American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries page 1
Experience the prestige of learning with ASPPA&U’s virtual classrooms, designed to elevate your professional journey through extensive education, training, and credentialing. From novice to expert, transform your potential into career success.
2024 Virtual Classroom Schedule Spring QKA-1
QKA-2
QKC
March 20
March 21
April 24
April 3
April 4
May 8
April 17
April 18
May 22
May 1
May 2
June 5
QKS TBA
Fall QKA-1
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QKA-2
October 2
October 1
October 16
October 15
October 30
October 29
November 13
November 12
CBS October 20
C O NTACT Tiffany Hanks 703.516.9300 x130 THanks@usaretirement.org
TE STI M O N IA L
ARA’s retirement industry training courses are helpful for new employees or those who want refreshers on certain aspects of the retirement
plan industry… We believe this type of training results in greater employee engagement and a superior experience for our clients. � Phil Eckman President of Workplace Solutions at Transamerica
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S A LE S/C LI E NT E N GAG E M E NT TR AC K & C O M P LIA N C E TR AC K
Retirement Plan Fundamentals (RPF) Certificate
Introduction to Retirement Plans (IRP) Certificate
Sales/Client Engagement Track page 5
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C O M P LIA N C E TR AC K
Compliance Track
CERTIFIED PENSION CONSULTANT
Defined Benefit Administrator (DB-A) Certificate
CERTIFIED PENSION CONSULTANT
QUALIFIED PENSION ADMINISTRATOR
Retirement Plan Fundamentals (RPF) Certificate
Introduction to Retirement Plans (IRP) Certificate
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C E RTI F I C ATE
S A LE S/C LI E NT E N GAG E M E NT TR AC K & C O M P LIA N C E TR AC K
LENGTH
CONTENT COVERED
1-2 hours
The online modules are as follows:
PREREQUISITE
Module 1:
Module 2:
None
Building your foundation of employer-sponsored retirement plans
Expanding your foundation of employer-sponsored retirement plans
CE CREDITS 2
INTRODUCTION TO RETIREMENT PLANS (IRP) CERTIFICATE When employees are new to the retirement field, there is a lot of industry-specific terminology and information for them to process starting from day one. The Introduction to Retirement Plans (IRP) Certificate Program was designed with those employees in mind. This certificate provides important foundational knowledge, concepts, and language to help all employees that are new to the retirement industry get oriented during their onboarding process. IRP breaks down key features of retirement plan operations in an easy to understand way. The first module builds basic knowledge about retirement plans — focusing on the what, who, why, how, and where — while the second module goes into more detail to expanding the foundation.
• The What
• Eligibility
TARGET AUDIENCE
– What is an employer-sponsored retirement plan?
– Determining eligibility
New employees to the retirement industry with little to no experience.
– What is ERISA?
– Allowable excluded employees
– What are the types of employer-sponsored retirement plans?
– Age and service requirements
VALUE PROPOSITION For streamlined onboarding of new hires into the retirement industry, the IRP certificate is key. It offers foundational knowledge and vital industry-specific terminology, reducing training costs and time. Adopt IRP to ensure your new hires are equipped for their roles and poised for future growth in the retirement industry.
FORMAT Two self-paced, interactive online modules, each with a 15-question assessment at the end that must be passed (a passing score is 80% or higher) to earn the certificate. The assessments are open book with unlimited attempts.
• The Who
– Entry dates • Contributions
– Who is involved in a retirement plan? • The Why
– Types of contributions – Vesting
– Why do employers offer plans? – Why are there so many plans? – Why are some plans called “qualified” plans? • The How
– Where the money goes • Distributions – Who decides when money can come out of a retirement plan?
– How are retirement plans funded?
– When can the participant take money out?
– How are the contributions managed?
– How much is available for distribution?
• The Where – Where are the details of the plan?
– What payment types are available? – What is the amount subject to taxation? • Maintenance – Plan Operation – Form 5500 – Compliance testing requirements
IRP sets up new employees with a solid foundation and can be followed up with the Retirement Plan Fundamentals (RPF) Certificate Program, which is geared towards those with 6-12 months of industry experience.
PRICING 1-49 Users
$400
50-99 Users
$360
100+ Users
Custom Pricing
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C E RTI F I C ATE
S A LE S/C LI E NT E N GAG E M E NT TR AC K & C O M P LIA N C E TR AC K
Module 4: Participant Loans
Now that your new employees have learned a lot of foundational concepts from on the job training as well as online courses such as Introduction to Retirement Plans (IRP), how can they continue to level up? The Retirement Plan Fundamentals (RPF) Certificate Program will deepen that foundational education for individuals with 6-12 months of industry experience. RPF provides practical knowledge for employees who support plan operations and administration by providing realistic scenarios and questions that they may encounter. By completing RPF, employees will be able to assist participants and employers better and even make calculations such as maximum loan amounts and to test for appropriate plan coverage. RPF is also a great program to take before the Qualified 401(k) Administrator (QKA®) Credential Program.
RETIREMENT PLAN FUNDAMENTALS (RPF) CERTIFICATE LENGTH
VALUE PROPOSITION
10-15 hours
Enhance your team’s capability and contribution to your organization through the RPF Certificate Program. This program provides hands-on, scenario-driven learning. With RPF, your staff gains the proficiency to offer top-tier support in plan operations, administration, and direct participant engagements. Equip them with the tools to not just understand but excel in real-world interactions and challenges they’ll encounter daily.
PREREQUISITE None; however, it’s strongly encouraged to take the Introduction to Retirement Plans (IRP) Certificate Program.
CE CREDITS 15
FORMAT
TARGET AUDIENCE
Six self-paced, interactive online modules comprised of units. Each unit includes guiding reading material (a downloadable PDF document) and knowledge check questions.
Call Center Employees, New Administrators, Distribution and Loans Specialists, and anyone who wants to expand their retirement plan foundational knowledge
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• Unit 1: Rules that Govern Participant Loans • Unit 2: Calculating the Loan Amount and Refinancing • Unit 3: Repayment Requirements and Consequences of Defaults • Unit 4: Advantages and Disadvantages of Loans
Module 5: Testing CONTENT COVERED The online modules are as follows:
Module 1: Lifecycle of a Plan
• Unit 1: Highly Compensated Employees • Unit 2: Minimum Coverage Testing • Unit 3: Annual Limits
• Unit 1: Why Do Employers Establish Qualified Plans?
• Unit 4: Nondiscrimination Testing
• Unit 2: What is the Process for Setting Up the Plan?
• Unit 5: Top-Heavy Testing
• Unit 3: Who is Covered?
• Unit 6: Annual Reporting
• Unit 4: How Does Money Get Into the Plan?
Module 6: New Business
• Unit 5: When Can People Take Money Out?
• Unit 1: Preparation for a “Simple” Conversion
• Unit 6: How Does a Plan Maintain Tax Qualification?
• Unit 2: Completing the Conversion Process
• Unit 7: Who Helps Manage the Plan?
• Unit 3: Complicating Factors
Module 2: Contributions
• Case Studies
• Unit 1: Eligibility • Unit 2: Plan Entry and Participation • Unit 3: Contribution Types • Unit 4: Tracking Employee Account Information
Module 3: Distributions • Unit 1: The Distribution Process
PRICING 1-50 Users
$585
51-100 Users
$520
101-200 Users
$490
200+Users
$470
Unlimited Users
Custom Pricing
• Unit 2: Termination of Employment • Unit 3: In-Service Withdrawals • Unit 4: Hardship Withdrawals • Unit 5: Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) • Unit 6: Other Distributable Events • Unit 7: Employer Responsibility
Each module has an assessment at the end that must be passed (a passing score is 80% or higher) to earn the certificate. The assessments are open book with unlimited attempts.
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TE STI M O N IA L
Outsourcing some of the technical industry training (e.g., IRP (Introduction to Retirement Plans) and RPF (Retirement Plan Fundamentals) training courses) will help us page 13
accelerate the speed at which someone can become proficient in this business, and we believe ARA can satisfy those development goals better than if we were to take on that challenge internally. � Craig Reid President of MMA Securities LLC
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C E RTI F I C ATE
C O M P LIA N C E TR AC K
LENGTH 12-15 hours
PREREQUISITE None
CE CREDITS 7.5
DEFINED BENEFIT ADMINISTRATOR (DB-A) CERTIFICATE The Defined Benefit Administrator (DB-A) Certificate Program is designed for individuals who provide administrative support to defined benefit plans, with a focus on compliance requirements. The DB-A Study Guide covers contributions, applicable deadlines, calculations for termination and retirement benefits, and other critically important aspects of these plans. It does not delve deeply into actuarial calculations (e.g., mechanics of funding calculations) but covers them sufficiently so that a passing candidate could effectively consult with a DB plan client.
TARGET AUDIENCE Entry level to intermediate level defined benefit plan administrators
VALUE PROPOSITION Through the DB-A Certificate Program, enhance your non-actuarial staff’s understanding of qualified defined benefit plans. This program equips entry to intermediate level administrators, allowing them to confidently consult with clients and provide valuable support to plan actuaries. Transform your administrators into wellinformed consultants.
FORMAT
CONTENT COVERED
An online PDF Study Guide and an online assessment.
The DB-A Study Guide PDF consists of the following chapters: • Chapter 1: Introduction to Defined Benefit Plans
Each chapter in the DB-A Study Guide provides a review of key administrative concepts with practical examples and sample test questions and solutions to help learners apply and assess their knowledge of the material. To earn the certificate, learners must pass the program assessment (a passing score is 75% or higher). The assessment is 75 questions and open book with unlimited attempts.
• Chapter 2: Accrued and Normal Retirement Benefits • Chapter 3: Present Value Calculations and Alternate Forms of Benefits • Chapter 4: Hybrid and Floor Offset Defined Benefit Pension Plans • Chapter 5: Benefits after Normal Retirement Age • Chapter 6: Early Retirement, Death, and Disability • Chapter 7: Benefit Limitations under IRC §415 • Chapter 8: Permitted Disparity • Chapter 9: Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) • Chapter 10: Distribution Issues
PRICING
• Chapter 11: Participant and PBGC Notices
Cost per User
$420
• Chapter 12: Plan Assets • Chapter 13: Valuations • Chapter 14: Funding/Accounting Reports • Chapter 15: Code of Professional Conduct • Appendix
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C R E D E NTIA L
C O M P LIA N C E TR AC K
LENGTH 40 hours
PREREQUISITE Retirement Plan Fundamentals (RPF) Certificate Program or 3 years of relevant experience in retirement plan administration
CE CREDITS QKA-1: 9.5 QKA-2: 10
TARGET AUDIENCE Administrators, Account Managers, Implementation Managers and anyone who deals with compliance
If your employees have been in the industry for a few years and need to advance the knowledge they gained through the Retirement Plan Fundamental (RPF) Certificate Program, then look no further than QKA®! The Qualified 401(k) Administrator (QKA®) Credential Program is the leading education credential for retirement plan professionals. Earning the QKA® credential attests that the holder possesses the knowledge and skills required to implement and administer defined contribution retirement plans. Learners will walk through a plan management and a testing and compliance program full of engaging scenarios and activities while learning the core knowledge needed for 401(k) plan administration and testing. QKA® is also frequently paired with the Qualified 401(k) Consultant (QKC) Credential Program.
PRICING 1-9 Users
$835
VALUE PROPOSITION
CONTENT COVERED
401(k) Plan administration can be complex. The QKA® Credential Program delivers actionable skills for professionals through engaging, scenario-based learning. The program imparts the essential practices and detailed technical know-how vital for proficient administration and testing of 401(k) plans. Elevate your team’s capabilities, ensuring they’re not just informed but ready to excel in 401(k) management.
The online courses are as follows:
QKA-1: Plan Management Package • Course 1: Plan Types • Course 2: Plan Qualification • Course 3: Employee Contributions • Course 4: Distributions • Course 5: Participant Loans • Course 6: Eligibility
FORMAT
• Course 7: Vesting
18 interactive online courses, broken up into two packages: QKA-1 and QKA-2.
• Course 8: Employer Contributions
Each package includes a practice exam with feedback and an online proctored credential exam. The courses come with downloadable resource guides and reference materials to supplement the core content.
• Course 9: Safe Harbor 401(k) Plans
QKA-2: Testing and Compliance Package • QKA-1 Refresh (includes all the Resource Guides from QKA-1) • Course 1: Compensation • Course 2: HCEs • Course 3: Coverage • Course 4: ADP/ACP Testing Part 1 • Course 5: ADP/ACP Testing Part 2
10-19 Users
$655
20+ Users
$485
Exam Only
$420
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• Course 6: Top-Heavy Plans and Key Employees • Course 7: Form 5500 and Government Reporting • Course 8: Plan Disclosures • Course 9: Ethics
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C O NTACT Tiffany Hanks 703.516.9300 x130 THanks@usaretirement.org
TE STI M O N IA L
Being a Credentialed ASPPA member demonstrates my commitment to professionalism and high ethical standards in the retirement plan industry. Having a credential enhances my professional reputation, credibility, page 19
and advisor confidence. As an ASPPA member I have a large network of retirement plan professionals (CPA’s, actuaries, consultants, and other industry experts). These resources help me navigate complex retirement plan rules and regulations and stay informed about industry developments, changing or proposed legislation or planspecific issues. � Julie Costello, QKA® Regional Vice President, MAP Retirement
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C O NTACT Tiffany Hanks 703.516.9300 x130 THanks@usaretirement.org
C R E D E NTIA L
S A LE S/C LI E NT E N GAG E M E NT TR AC K
LENGTH 15-20 hours
PREREQUISITE Retirement Plan Fundamentals (RPF) Certificate Program or 3 years of experience The Qualified 401(k) Specialist (QKS) Credential Program is geared towards retirement plan professionals who are required to sell and work with clients on defined contribution retirement plans. This program provides education to expand their skills and knowledge of 401(k) plans to ensure the plans are set up correctly and maintained properly throughout all stages. Learners will be able to demonstrate knowledge of 401(k) legal and regulatory requirements and communicate with plan sponsors, advisors, and participants about plan concepts and principles such as vesting and plan design options.
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CE CREDITS TBA
TARGET AUDIENCE Salespeople, Wholesalers, Client Relationship Managers, and others who work in a client-facing role that is not compliance based
CONTENT COVERED * The online modules are as follows: • Module 1: Plan Fundamentals • Module 2: Plan Types and Considerations • Module 3: Plan Design • Module 4: Takeovers and Conversions • Module 5: Fiduciary Responsibilities
VALUE PROPOSITION
• Module 6: Retirement Plan Contributions
Equip your client-facing professionals with the QKS Credential Program. Designed for those in sales and client relationship roles, it enhances their understanding of retirement plans, allowing them to identify opportunities, anticipate potential issues, and engage clients efficiently and ethically. Boost their confidence and effectiveness in driving sales and offering solutions without delving into the depths of compliance intricacies.
• Module 7: Distributions, Vesting, and Loans • Module 8: Annual Administration • Module 9: Reporting and Disclosures • Module 10: Common Errors and Corrections • Module 11: Ethics * Subject to change
PRICING 1-9 Users
$835
10-19 Users
$655
FORMAT
20+ Users
$485
11 interactive online modules, practice exam, and proctored exam.
Exam Only
$420
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C R E D E NTIA L C O M P LIA N C E TR AC K
FORMAT An online PDF Study Guide, practice exam, and proctored exam. The QKC Study Guide provides a review of key concepts that will appear on the online proctored credential exam. Each chapter also concludes with sample test questions and solutions to help learners apply and assess their knowledge of the material.
CONTENT COVERED
LENGTH
The Study Guide consists of the following chapters:
3-6 months
PREREQUISITE Qualified 401(k) Administrator (QKA®) Credential Program
CE CREDITS 20
• Chapter 1: Plans Covering More Than One Employer and Leased Employees • Chapter 2: Other Employer Situations • Chapter 3: Controlled Groups and Affiliated Service Groups • Chapter 4: Compensation • Chapter 5: Average Benefit Test and Special Rules
TARGET AUDIENCE High-Level Administrators, Managers/Team Leaders, and Compliance Analysts
VALUE PROPOSITION
Do you have employees that want to complement their QKA® credential and demonstrate their comprehensive understanding of 401(k) plan design? The Qualified 401(k) Consultant (QKC) Credential Program focuses on advanced defined contribution testing and plan design techniques. This program provides an exhaustive study guide of common complex topics that will prepare candidates to earn their QKC credential. The study guide also serves as a useful reference for any retirement plan professional’s day-to-day activities. Topics covered include employer deductions, aggregation, disaggregation, restructuring, ESOPs, calculation of excise tax on a prohibited transaction, and ethics.
Empower your high-level professionals with the QKC credential. This program examines intricate 401(k) topics, ensuring seasoned staff can administer advanced plans. With this program, watch your team amplify client satisfaction, uncover fresh revenue streams, enhance operational efficiency, and confidently serve with a consultative approach. Equip them to navigate complex challenges, drive results, and stand out in their consultative roles.
• Chapter 6: Nondiscrimination • Chapter 7: Employee Stock Ownership Plan • Chapter 8: Fiduciary Standards • Chapter 9: Prohibited Transactions • Chapter 10: Distributions Upon Death and Life Insurance • Chapter 11: Code of Professional Conduct
PRICING
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1-9 Users
$835
10-19 Users
$655
20+ Users
$485
Exam Only
$420
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C O NTACT Tiffany Hanks 703.516.9300 x130 THanks@usaretirement.org
C R E D E NTIA L
S A LE S/C LI E NT E N GAG E M E NT TR AC K & C O M P LIA N C E TR AC K
CONTENT COVERED *
The Cash Balance Specialist (CBS) Credential Program provides learners with the knowledge needed to work with cash balance plans on a daily basis. Learners will be equipped with the information necessary to interpret and enforce standard requirements of cash balance plans. This includes issues specific to working with cash balance plans such as eligibility, annual contributions, conversions, accruals, testing, and distribution rules. By the end of the program, employees will be able to work in conjunction with actuaries, employers, and even the IRS.
The online modules are as follows: • Module 1: Introduction to Cash Balance Plans • Module 2: Eligibility and Coverage • Module 3: Qualification Requirements • Module 4: Age Discrimination and Market Rate of Return • Module 5: Compensation, Benefit, and Deduction Limits • Module 6: Nondiscrimination Testing • Module 7: Distributions • Module 8: Early or Late Retirement, Death, and Disability • Module 9: Plan Conversions and Other Special Rules • Module 10: Fiduciary Considerations
LENGTH
TARGET AUDIENCE
25-30 hours total
Plan consultants, TPAs, and Administrators
PREREQUISITE
VALUE PROPOSITION
Qualified 401(k) Administrator (QKA®) Credential Program or commensurate years of on the job experience/education
For professionals frequently engaging with cash balance plans, the CBS Credential Program offers an in-depth exploration into the unique challenges and nuances of these plans. It’s an invaluable tool, ensuring employees navigate the complexities of cash balance plans with confidence and precision.
CE CREDITS TBA
• Module 11: Spousal Rights, Consent, and QDROs • Module 12: Reporting and Government Interaction • Module 13: Plan Termination • Module 14: Ethics * Subject to change
PRICING 1-9 Users
$835
10-19 Users
$655
20+ Users
$485
Exam Only
$420
FORMAT 14 interactive online modules, practice exam, and proctored exam
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C O NTACT Tiffany Hanks 703.516.9300 x130 THanks@usaretirement.org
C R E D E NTIA L
C O M P LIA N C E TR AC K
LENGTH 3-6 months
PREREQUISITE Qualified 401(k) Administrator (QKA®) and Qualified 401(k) Consultant (QKC) Credential Programs
CE CREDITS 20
TARGET AUDIENCE
What is the next move for learners who have a strong foundation with the basics of defined contribution administration and have years of on the job training, including credentials such as QKA® and QKC? The Qualified Pension Administrator (QPA) Credential Program focuses on advanced technical knowledge of defined benefit plan administration. Topics covered in the study guide include types of defined benefit plans, benefit accrual methods, QDROs, and benefit calculations and valuations. QPA equips those already assisting in or aspiring to perform technical and administrative functions such as determination of eligibility benefits, computation of benefits, plan recordkeeping, trust accounting and disclosure, and compliance requirements.
Defined Benefit Administrators, Project Managers, ERISA Consultants, and anyone working with defined benefit plans, especially in a client-facing and technical capacity (Compliance Testers, Relationship Managers, and Implementation Team Members)
VALUE PROPOSITION Raise your team’s proficiency in compliance and defined benefit plan administration with the QPA credential. Ideal for professionals in technical and client-facing roles — from Defined Benefit Analysts to ERISA Consultants—this program stands as a testament to their deep understanding and practical application of defined benefit principles. With the QPA, they not only showcase their expertise but are fully prepared to address complex challenges and deliver impactful solutions.
• Chapter 1: Introduction to Defined Benefit Plans • Chapter 3: Present Value Calculations and Alternate Forms of Benefits • Chapter 4: Hybrid and Floor Offset Defined Benefit Pension Plans • Chapter 5: Benefits after Normal Retirement Age • Chapter 6: Early Retirement, Death, and Disability • Chapter 7: Benefit Limitations Under §IRC 415 • Chapter 8: Permitted Disparity • Chapter 9: Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) • Chapter 10: Distribution Issues • Chapter 11: Participant and PBGC Notices • Chapter 12: Plan Assets • Chapter 13: Valuations
An online PDF Study Guide, practice exam, and proctored exam.
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The Study Guide is divided into the following chapters:
• Chapter 2: Accrued and Normal Retirement Benefits
FORMAT
QUALIFIED PENSION ADMINISTRATOR
CONTENT COVERED
The QPA Study Guide covers different key concepts in a manner that prepares learners for the online proctored credential exam. Each chapter concludes with practical examples and sample test questions and solutions to help learners apply and assess their knowledge of the material.
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• Chapter 14: Funding/Accounting Reports • Chapter 15: Code of Professional Conduct
PRICING 1-9 Users
$835
10-19 Users
$655
20+ Users
$485
Exam Only
$420
C O NTACT Tiffany Hanks 703.516.9300 x130 THanks@usaretirement.org
C R E D E NTIA L
C O M P LIA N C E TR AC K
CONTENT COVERED The CPC Study Guide contains the following chapters: • Chapter 1: Related Groups and Business Transactions • Chapter 2: Coverage and Nondiscrimination • Chapter 3: 401(k) Plans Cash or Deferred Arrangements (CODA) Basics • Chapter 4: Defined Benefit Plans
CERTIFIED PENSION CONSULTANT
• Chapter 5: Distributions and Loans • Chapter 6: Fiduciary Topics • Chapter 7: Correction Programs • Chapter 8: Plan Design
As ASPPA’s highest credential, the Certified Pension Consultant (CPC) credential is for individuals who want to demonstrate mastery of the detailed knowledge necessary to serve as a qualified plan consultant in all areas of plan design and administration. The CPC Program prepares candidates to fulfill departmental leadership roles in compliance, relationship management, plan documents, and operations — drawing on years of accumulated retirement plan knowledge and experience. CPC credential holders are qualified to consult on complex situations relating to business entities and related groups, coverage and nondiscrimination, 401(k) plans, defined benefit plans, distributions and loans, fiduciary responsibilities, including ERISA 404(c), correction programs and ethics, and plan design.
The online modules are as follows: • Investments Module (Core Module) • Fiduciary Topics Module (Core Module) • Distributions & Loans Module (Core Module) • Related Groups & Business Transactions Module (Core Module)
LENGTH
TARGET AUDIENCE
• ESOPs (Elective Module)
40-50 hours
Leadership roles (e.g., Compliance Testers, Relationship Managers, Implementation, Plan Documents, Operations) and anyone who performs the technical and administrative functions of qualified plan administration
• Governmental & Tax-Exempt Plans (Elective Module)
PREREQUISITE • Qualified 401(k) Administrator (QKA®) Credential Program • Qualified 401(k) Consultant (QKC) Credential Program • Qualified Pension Administrator (QPA) Credential Program
CE CREDITS 18
VALUE PROPOSITION Elevate your team to the pinnacle of retirement plan consulting with the CPC Credential Program. This advanced training solidifies their position as top-tier experts in retirement plans. As the apex ASPPA credential, obtaining the CPC is a hallmark of unmatched expertise, positioning them as key consultants in the dynamic landscape of qualified plan administration. Having a CPC in your firm signals that you high level of technical proficiency in your firm and can standout in this competitive landscape.
• Nonqualified Plans (Elective Module) • Cash Balance Plans (Elective Module)
PRICING Package
$1,075
Exam
$520
FORMAT An online PDF Study Guide, 6 online modules with corresponding PDF resources, practice exam, and proctored exam.
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E R I S A O UTLI N E B O O K
The ERISA Outline Book (EOB) is an online, fully searchable and crossreferenced resource for qualified plan research. With ASPPA’s EOB, the answers to everyday questions and the most difficult client issues are at your fingertips. If you’re looking for a thorough reference source or study guide on qualified plans, this is the one to have! It is authored by Sal Tripodi (APM, J.D., LL.M) and updated by Robert Richter (APM, J.D., LL.M, Retirement Education Counsel) annually. The EOB contains detailed explanations and analysis of the qualified retirement plan provisions of ERISA, the IRC, regulatory guidance, and applicable case law.
ERISA OUTLINE BOOK (EOB)
CONTENT COVERED The EOB consists of the following chapters: • Volume 1 (Chapters 1A, 1B, and 2) – How To Use This Book – Chapter 1A: Important Definitions — Part I (A Through M) – Chapter 1B: Important Definitions — Part II (N Through Z) – Chapter 2: Eligibility Rules • Volume 2 (Chapters 3A and 3B) – Chapter 3A: Accruing Benefits — Part 1 (DC Plan Allocations; DB Plan Accruals) – Chapter 3B: Accruing Benefits — Part 2 (Special Rules; Protection of Benefits) • Volume 3 (Chapters 4, 5, and 6) – Chapter 4: Vesting Rules – Chapter 5: Section 415 Limits – Chapter 6: Plan Distributions
LENGTH Approximately 10,000 pages
TARGET AUDIENCE Anyone who has (or gets) questions about plan administration, nondiscrimination testing, compensation definitions, plan eligibility and limits, or ERISA.
VALUE PROPOSITION The EOB is the retirement industry’s go-to single source with an unparalleled depth of coverage on qualified plans.
• Volume 4 (Chapters 7, 8, and 9) – Chapter 7: Taxation Rules – Chapter 8: Coverage Testing
5 Users
$2,170
10 Users
$4,110
– Chapter 11: 401(k) and 401(m) Testing
50 Users
$8,200
– Chapter 12: Simplified Employee Pensions (SEPs), Simple-IRA Plans, IRAs, Roth IRAs, and HSAs
Unlimited Users
$21,550
EOB Print Edition
$950
EOB Shipping
$36
– Chapter 9: Nondiscrimination Testing • Volume 5 (Chapters 10, 11, and 12) – Chapter 10: Permitted Disparity
• Volume 6 (Chapters 13A and 13B)
FORMAT ASPPA’s online platform allows users to effortlessly navigate the EOB, perform quick and advanced searches, take notes and bookmark content, copy, paste, and print easily, and even send content links to subscriber colleagues. EOB online now includes over 40,000 links to source material (e.g., legislation as well as DOL and IRS guidance).
PRICING
– Chapter 13A: Title I of ERISA — Part 1 Reporting and Disclosure Requirements; Minimum Plan Standards – Chapter 13B: Title I of ERISA — Part 2 Fiduciary Issues and Enforcement • Volume 7 (Chapters 14 and 15) – Chapter 14: Prohibited Transactions
Each Online Edition subscription provides 12 months of full access to the website 24/7. The online EOB subscription is updated on a quarterly basis providing purchasers with the most relevant content available. A print version of the EOB is also available in a nine-volume book set.
– Chapter 15: Tables, Checklists, and Quick Reference Guides • Volume 8 (Chapters 16, 17) – Chapter 16: Other Employer-Sponsored Deferred Compensation Plans (Section 403(b) Plans; Section 457 Plans; and Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plans) – Chapter 17: Reference Tables, Dollar Limits, Life Expectancy Tables, and Interest Rate Tables
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C O NTACT Tiffany Hanks 703.516.9300 x130 THanks@usaretirement.org
A S P PA W E B C A ST PAC K AG E S
ASPPA webcasts are an easy, timely way to learn and earn continuing education credits, deepen knowledge, and maintain credentials. The current list of on-demand webcasts covers over 30 topics including SECURE 2.0, ADP and ACP testing techniques, and Long-Term Part-Time Employees. Since regulations and the retirement plan landscape evolve, new webcasts are added regularly. Whether participants attend the live webcast or watch the recorded version later, they can earn a CE credit.
LENGTH Webcast lengths range from 50 minutes to 8 hours
CE CREDITS Varies
TARGET AUDIENCE Anyone — including credentialed members who need continuing education credits — looking for industry training on a variety of hot topics
VALUE PROPOSITION
CONTENT COVERED
Webcasts are a convenient and engaging way to gain the latest insights on industry topics and evolving regulations. They are also an easy way to help your employees earn their CE.
The suite of webcasts offered in 2024 is to be determined; however, here are some live webcasts that were offered in 2023:
Webcasts are a convenient and engaging way to gain the latest insights on industry topics and evolving regulations.
• Fiduciaries: Who Are They?
FORMAT
• Ethics — Working with the ARA Code of Conduct
We have two packages available. A 20 CE Package allows your to select 20 CE’s worth of webcast content. We also have an Unlimited Package that gives you access to the entire catalog of ASPPA webcasts. This package includes registration to upcoming live webcasts as well. All webcast packages provide on-demand access to recent webcasts, with unlimited logins. Webcast Packages are available for 365 days from date of purchase.
• Are You Feeling SECURE About Distributions?
• Plan Corrections Workshop: Self-correction and SECURE 2.0 Changes
• Eligible Automatic Enrollment Arrangements — A Refresher • Aggregation Aggravation: Identifying Controlled and Affiliated Service Groups • Coverage Testing Concepts & Case Studies • Best Practices on Handling Beneficiary Designations
PRICING
ASPPA WEBCAST PACKAGES
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20 CE Webcast Package
$13,900
Unlimited Package
$32,250
C O NTACT Tiffany Hanks 703.516.9300 x130 THanks@usaretirement.org
P R I C I N G S U M MA RY
Pricing Summary IRP PRICING
QKC PRICING 1-9 Users
$835
10-19 Users
$655
20+ Users
$485
5 Users
$2,170
Exam Only
$420
10 Users
$4,110
50 Users
$8,200
Unlimited Users
$21,550
CBS PRICING
EOB PRICING
1-49 Users
$400
1-9 Users
$835
EOB Print Edition
$950
50-99 Users
$360
10-19 Users
$655
EOB Shipping
$36
100+ Users
Custom Pricing
20+ Users
$485
Exam Only
$420
QKA® PRICING 1-9 Users
$835
10-19 Users
$655
QPA PRICING
20+ Users
$485
1-9 Users
$835
Exam Only
$420
10-19 Users
$655
20+ Users
$485
Exam Only
$420
WEBCAST PRICING 20 CE Webcast Package
$13,900
Unlimited Package
$32,250
RPF PRICING 1-50 Users
$585
51-100 Users
$520
101-200 Users
$490
200+Users
$470
Unlimited Users
Custom Pricing
DB-A PRICING Cost per User
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$420
QKS PRICING 1-9 Users
$835
10-19 Users
$655
CPC PRICING
20+ Users
$485
Package
$1,075
Exam Only
$420
Exam
$520
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C O NTACT Tiffany Hanks 703.516.9300 x130 THanks@usaretirement.org
TE STI M O N IA L
For employees, an ASPPA/ ARA credential burnishes their own reputation in the industry and strengthens our credibility among plan sponsors…
Clients rely on us for expertise and deep knowledge on their behalf. The credential not only builds that knowledge, but also codifies it. � Nathan Voris Director of Investments, Insights and Consultant Services at Schwab
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C O NTACT Tiffany Hanks 703.516.9300 x130 THanks@usaretirement.org
4401 N. Fairfax Dr. | Ste. 600 Arlington, VA 22203 P 703.516.9300 F 703.516.9308 asppa-net.org