Exam Weight: ~3 questions (2.3% of exam)
Retirement plans are among the most heavily tested topics on the Series 65 exam. You need to understand how different plans work, their tax treatment, contribution limits, distribution rules, and who bears the investment risk.
This unit covers individual retirement accounts (traditional and Roth IRAs), self-employed plans (Solo 401(k)), employer-sponsored qualified plans (401(k), 403(b), 457(b), defined benefit pensions), the IRA-based small-employer plans (SEP IRA and SIMPLE IRA), and nonqualified deferred compensation arrangements.
What You'll Learn
- Understand Traditional and Roth IRA contribution limits, tax treatment, conversion rules, rollover rules, and distribution requirements
- Learn Solo 401(k) eligibility, contribution limits, and advantages for self-employed individuals
- Compare qualified retirement plans including defined benefit pensions, 401(k), 403(b), and 457(b)
- Learn SEP and SIMPLE IRAs for small businesses and the self-employed
- Distinguish nonqualified plans including deferred compensation, SERPs, and excess benefit plans from qualified plans