National Association of Plan Advisors (NAPA)
The National Association of Plan Advisors (NAPA) is the premier professional organization for retirement plan advisors and a core affiliate of the American Retirement Association (ARA). NAPA supports advisors who serve employer‑sponsored retirement plans through advocacy, education, credentialing, and industry leadership. Its mission is to strengthen retirement outcomes for American workers by elevating the expertise and professionalism of plan advisors.
📜 Flagship Designations
- CPFA – Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor — Recognizes advisors who demonstrate expertise in fiduciary responsibilities, plan design, participant engagement, and ERISA‑aligned best practices for employer‑sponsored retirement plans.
- (k)RS – 401(k) Rollover Specialist — Focuses on rollover compliance, suitability, and best practices for advisors assisting clients with IRA rollovers and plan‑to‑plan transfers.
- N(k)S – NAPA Qualified 401(k) Specialist — Demonstrates advanced knowledge in selling, servicing, and advising on defined contribution plans, including plan structure, investment menus, and participant support.
- QPFC – Qualified Plan Financial Consultant — Recognizes professionals with expertise in retirement plan consulting, plan sales, and client relationship management across 401(k), 403(b), and other employer‑sponsored plans.
🧭 Overview
NAPA was created by and for retirement plan advisors to advance the profession and support advisors who work directly with plan sponsors, fiduciaries, and participants. As part of the American Retirement Association, NAPA plays a central role in shaping retirement policy, promoting fiduciary best practices, and providing high‑quality education for advisors serving defined contribution plans.
NAPA’s credentialing programs—such as CPFA, (k)RS, and N(k)S—equip advisors with the technical knowledge, ethical framework, and practical skills needed to improve participant outcomes and support plan sponsors in meeting their fiduciary obligations.
🤝 Community & Support
NAPA supports a nationwide network of more than 20,000 retirement plan professionals through conferences, publications, advocacy initiatives, and peer collaboration. Signature events include the NAPA 401(k) Summit and the NAPA Rise Women in Retirement Leadership Forum. Members gain access to legislative updates, business intelligence, and continuing education tailored to the evolving retirement landscape.
📌 Quick Facts
- Website: napa-net.org
- Founded: 2014
- Headquarters: Arlington, VA, United States
- Phone: 703‑516‑9300
- Credential Focus: Retirement plan fiduciary education, rollover compliance, participant engagement
- Flagship Designations: CPFA, (k)RS
🏛 Sector Assignment
- Primary Sector: Financial Planning, Wealth Management & Investment Advisory
- Secondary Sector: Retirement Plans & Employer‑Sponsored Benefits
🗂 Category Assignment
- Retirement Plan Fiduciary Advisory
- Defined Contribution Plan Consulting
- Rollover Compliance & Suitability
- Participant Engagement & Education
- Plan Sponsor Support & ERISA Best Practices
🔗 Related Providers
- CFP Board – Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards
- College for Financial Planning
- Investments & Wealth Institute (IWI)
- CFA Institute
- American Bankers Association (ABA)
