Qualified Plan Financial Consultant (QPFC)
Credential Overview
QPFC is the professional credential for financial professionals who sell, advise, market or support qualified retirement plans. The QPFC program provides an understanding of general retirement planning concepts, terminology, distinctive features of qualified plans and the role of retirement plan professionals. QPFC is not an entry-level credential. A candidate will be expected to demonstrate a general proficiency of plan administration, compliance, investment, fiduciary, and ethics issues.
Education Requirements
Earning ASPPA’s QPFC credential requires successful completion of the following examinations:
Additional Requirements
In addition to passing the required examination series, a candidate must meet one of the following requirements:
- Series 6, 7 or 65 license issued by the FINRA (formerly NASD) and two letters of reference demonstrating at least two years of retirement plan related experience; or
- State-life or annuity insurance license and two letters of reference demonstrating at least two years of retirement plan related experience; or
- Investment Advisor Representative or Registered Investment Advisor credential and two letters of reference demonstrating at least two years of retirement plan related experience; or
- Two letters of reference demonstrating at least three years of investment-related experience in connection with retirement plans.
Apply for Credential
Applying for ASPPA credentialed membership requires submission of the appropriate form and two letters of recommendation reference that verifies the necessary work experience requirement.
For more information about ASPPA membership please click here.
Credential Continuing Education Requirements
All credentialed members must acquire 40 hours of Continuing Education (CE) credits in a two-year-cycle as well as renew your ASPPA Membership annually to retain credentials. For more information please click here.
QPFC Informational Video
The official launch of QPFC took place at the 2006 ASPPA 401(k) SUMMIT in Orlando, Florida. You can view the short QPFC video that highlights the reasons why there is such a positive buzz about this ASPPA credential for the sales and investment professional. View the QPFC Video!