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aspa.org

Membership Overview

Related Links
: Member Application Forms
: Professional Credentials

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Professionals from many disciplines who have dedicated their careers to retirement plan services and pension policy are members of ASPPA. They include consultants, administrators, insurance professionals, financial planners, accountants, attorneys, actuaries and human resource managers.

All members are obligated to uphold ASPPA's Code of Professional Conduct. The Code declares the observance of “the highest standards of practice” and calls on members to “uphold the dignity and honor of the profession.”

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, accounting, financial science, actuarial science, insurance or other related disciplines 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 confers the credential, Member, Society of Pension Actuaries (MSPA) on Enrolled Actuaries.

In addition, candidates may take advantage of an additional educational program for actuaries leading to the credential, Fellow, Society of Pension Actuaries (FSPA).