Surgent’s A Guide to the 401(k): Concepts and Strategies
Description
This course delivers a comprehensive, practitioner-focused analysis of 401(k) plans, emphasizing rules, planning opportunities, and common execution risks faced by employees, executives, and business owners. Participants will develop a detailed understanding of plan mechanics, contribution limits, testing requirements, and timing rules, with particular attention to avoiding overfunding, coordinating multiple plans, and maximizing employer benefits.
The course examines employee and employer contribution structures, including elective deferrals, catch-up contributions, after-tax contributions, matching and profit-sharing formulas, and special coordination issues for executives, multiple employers, and solo 401(k) plans. Participants learn how to identify and implement advanced strategies such as Roth vs. traditional optimization, mega Roth planning, in-plan conversions, and effective use of employer stock through net unrealized appreciation (NUA).
Distribution planning is a core focus, including tax treatment, early distribution penalties, rollover mechanics, and basis tracking across pre-tax, Roth, and after-tax sources. The course emphasizes practical decision-making when evaluating lump sum vs. annuity options, executing rollovers correctly, managing withholding and tax payments, and applying penalty exceptions. Special scenarios, including inherited 401(k) accounts, trust beneficiaries, and Roth-specific timing rules, are also addressed.
Objective
Identify planning opportunities related to 401(k) plans Anticipate compliance issues related to 401(k) plans Evaluate advanced strategies related to 401(k) plans Apply 401(k) rules confidently in complex client situations
Advanced Preparation
None
Required Knowledge
None
Who Should Attend
Accounting and finance practitioners desiring the latest information regarding 401(K) planning
Credit Types
- CPE – Taxes
- Enrolled Agent
Registration Fees
| Registration | Type | Price |
|---|---|---|
| WRS40026: Registration – Member | Mem | $105 |
| WRS40026: Registration – Non-Member | NM | $230 |
The North Carolina Association of Certified Public Accountants is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State boards of accountancy have final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit. Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be submitted to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors through its website: www.nasbaregistry.org/.For information regarding refund, complaint, program cancellation or other policies, visit our Registration Policies page or call 800-469-1352.