Intro to 401(k) Plans (Completed)

NOTE: Go to My Professional Profile in your CCH CPELink account settings to ensure your name, and PTIN number; matches your PTIN card

401(k) plans remain a cornerstone of retirement planning, but recent legislative changes and evolving strategies make it essential for professionals to stay informed. This course provides accountants, tax advisors, and financial planners with a comprehensive understanding of 401(k) plan structures, contribution types, and compliance requirements. You’ll learn how to optimize traditional and Roth contributions, leverage employer matching and profit-sharing opportunities, and apply advanced strategies such as mega-backdoor Roth conversions. The session also covers SECURE Act 2.0 updates, safe harbor provisions, and compliance considerations to help you guide clients toward maximum retirement savings and tax efficiency.

Stay ahead of regulatory changes and position yourself as a trusted advisor in retirement planning.

Who Should Attend
If you work in finance, tax, wealth management, or employee benefits, this session will give you the tools to confidently guide clients through 401(k) planning.

Topics Covered

• 401(k) plan structure and funding sources (employee and employer contributions)
• Eligibility and vesting rules, including long-term part-time provisions
• Traditional vs. Roth 401(k) contributions and tax treatment
• Employee after-tax contributions and mega-backdoor Roth strategies
• Catch-up contributions for participants aged 50
• Profit-sharing and stock bonus plan integration
• Employer matching formulas and timing considerations
• SECURE Act 2.0 updates (student loan match, Roth employer match, vesting rules)
• Safe harbor 401(k) provisions and compliance options
• Election deadlines, IRS compensation limits, and overfunding considerations
• Strategies for executives, including NUA treatment on employer stock

Learning Objectives

• Explain the key features, contribution limits, and eligibility rules for 401(k) plans
• Differentiate between traditional, Roth, and after-tax contributions, including tax implications and withdrawal rules
• Apply strategies for maximizing employer match, profit-sharing, and stock bonus plan benefits
• Interpret SECURE Act 2.0 updates related to employer matching, Roth contributions, and student loan match provisions
• Identify the benefits and requirements of safe harbor 401(k) plans and compliance methods

Level
Intermediate

Instructional Method
Group: Internet-based

NASBA Field of Study
Taxes (1 hour)

Program Prerequisites
Basic understanding of 401(k) plans

Advance Preparation
None