How does an organization become a sponsor for ERPA CPE credits?

The potential sponsor must give the IRS a written outline and/or textbook for the program(s).

In order to become an approved ERPA CPE sponsor, the program must:

• Be developed by individuals qualified in retirement plan matters;
• Provide current subject matter;
• Have instructors, discussion leaders, and speakers who are qualified with respect to program content;
• Have some means for evaluation of technical content and presentation;
• Provide certificates of completion to successful participants; and
• Maintain records to verify the participants’ attendance and successful completion for 3 years.

Generally, the course description/program should include the following information:

• Scope and purpose of the program;
• A general outline of the program;
• Information about the instructor, discussion leader or speaker; 
• Each program/course title; 
• An indication of when/where the program will be held;
• Number of CPE hours that will be given for each course/session/meeting;
• Type of program/course (webcast, conference, meeting, etc.);
• Who will be attending the program/course;
• Indication that a majority of the subject matter includes Federal tax matters relating to retirement plans; and 
• General talking points.

For further information on the ERPA CPE sponsor program please see Circular 230 or e-mail your questions to tege.ep.erpa@irs.gov.