CBS – Cash Balance Specialist
🧭 Overview
CBS – Cash Balance Specialist is a professional designation offered by the American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries (ASPPA), part of the American Retirement Association (ARA). It is designed for retirement plan professionals who specialize in the design, implementation, and administration of cash balance plans—a hybrid retirement structure combining features of defined benefit and defined contribution plans.
The CBS credential equips consultants, actuaries, and administrators with the technical knowledge needed to navigate IRS regulations, accrual formulas, nondiscrimination testing, and plan funding strategies. It is ideal for professionals working with high-income clients, professional service firms, and small businesses seeking tax-efficient retirement solutions.
📚 Curriculum & Requirements
- Online course covering cash balance plan fundamentals, compliance, funding, and design strategies
- Final exam required for certification
- Recommended: Prior completion of QKA or QPA designation
- Continuing education: 40 hours every two years
🤝 Community & Recognition
CBS designees are part of ASPPA’s broader credentialed community, gaining access to technical resources, peer networking, and continuing education. The designation is recognized by plan sponsors and financial professionals seeking advanced expertise in customized retirement plan design.
📜 Quick Facts
Issuing Organization: American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries (ASPPA)
Website: asppa-net.org
Credential Focus: Cash balance plan design, compliance, funding, nondiscrimination testing
Audience: Retirement plan consultants, actuaries, TPAs, financial advisors
Continuing Education: 40 hours every two years
Related Designations: QPA, CPC, MSPA
