Paths to Membership
To serve the range of professionals seeking to participate in ASPPA, four paths have been devised for interested individuals to follow in order to become members.
PATH ONE: Affiliate Membership
The Affiliate membership is for those who have an interest in the retirement plan industry. This membership does not require the completion of any exams, but may be ideal for individuals who wish to enjoy member benefits while completing the requirements for ASPPA credentials.
PATH TWO : Consultants and Administrators
Retirement plan professionals from a variety of disciplines may be qualified for this member classification. This is the path for individuals from: plan and trust administration, financial and benefit administration, benefits consulting and insurance, and investment management. Credentials developed by ASPPA for these professionals include: Qualifed Plan Financial Consultant (QPFC), Qualified 401(k) Administrator (QKA), Qualified Pension Administrator (QPA) and the Certified Pension Consultant (CPC).
PATH THREE : Associated Professionals
The accomplishments of retirement plan professionals who already hold credentials or degrees in law and accounting are recognized by ASPPA as Associated Professional Members (APM). A minimum of three years experience in pension-related employment qualifies candidates to apply for APM memberships. No ASPPA examinations are required for the APM credential.
PATH FOUR : Actuaries
ASPPA, the Society of Actuaries, and the Joint Board for the Enrollment of Actuaries co-sponsor an educational program leading to enrollment to perform actuarial services under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). ASPPA
Apply for Credentials
Applying for ASPPA credentialed membership requires submission of the appropriate form. Before completing an application form, candidates should review the Paths to Membership to ensure that they have met the requirements for credentialed membership.
Application are processed on an ongoing basis. The ASPPA Board of Directors approves new credentials once a month. Applicants are mailed scheduled approval date notices and notified by mail once the applications for credentials are approved.
Application Forms
Forms are in PDF format and require Adobe® Reader® to access.