CRASH COURSE

[Cynchbeast]

We need a crash course in cafeteria plans. We have done strictly retirement, but have an opportunity to take on a client with a plan covering dental, health and disability. Plan has over 100 people and so would require a 5500.

I would be particularly interested in any course that would give ERPA credits (kill 2 birds with one stone?).

We need to address both testing and reporting.

[TPApril]

I might suggest that welfare benefit plan 5500 work would also include plan document and spd design and preparation. Don't make the mistake of 'it's a scaled down 5500, how hard can it be?' just because on the surface it looks easy to fill in Schedule A information.

[Belgarath]

I know EBIA does some webinars and such, but I think they are generally pretty detailed, and not "crash course" type webinars.

I also would recommend caution. Cafeteria plans are not necessarily as simple as many would like to have you believe, and a crash course probably will give you just enough to be dangerous. Kind of like taking a crash course in 401(k)'s and then being told, "OK, now administer 401(k) plans."

Not saying you can't do it, but go into it with open eyes. If your intention is to administer just one plan, and not really getting into the cafeteria plan administration business, you may be asking for trouble.

Good luck!

[QDROphile]

If you think the EBIA all-day cafeteria plans program is not a crash course for someone who wants to get paid for any aspect of plan administration, then give up the illusion that you can handle plan administration. Attending the course would be introductory training.

[Belgarath]

Haven't seen any of the all-day programs - have seen a couple of very detailed 2 -hour programs where they are doing an in-depth presentation on one small subject. Didn't know they did one day (or longer?) courses, but then, I've never looked. Good to know they have them.

I no longer have illusions about anything. Well, maybe that our cat really loves me, but he probably just wants food.

[QDROphile]

Though all day might be considered a slow crash. The EBIA Cafeteria Plan Manual has a preferatory summary section that would be the outline for a crash course.

My intent was to express skepticism that adequate professional competence could be gained by simply attending a crash course, even the Cadillac of programs.