Overview of EA-2A exam
The EA-2A exam syllabus has grown considerably. In 2006, it included these areas:
- Cost methods
- Ancillary benefits
- Gains and losses
- Optional forms and actuarial equivalence
- Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Section 412 minimum funding
- IRC Section 404 maximum deductible limits
- Numerous Internal Revenue Service regulations, revenue rulings, revenue procedures and notices
The Pension Protection Act of 2006 was passed into law in August 2006. This year, the syllabus has been expanded to include these topics:
- IRC Section 430 minimum funding for single-employer plans
- IRC Section 436 benefit based limitations for single-employer plans
- IRC Section 431 minimum funding for multiemployer plans
- IRC Section 432 funding for multiemployer plans in endangered or critical status
- IRC Section 415 maximum benefit limitations (also on 2007 EA-2B exam)
- IRC Section 416 Top Heavy rules (also on 2007 EA-2B exam)
- IRC Section 414(l) rules for mergers and spinoffs (added 07/25/07)
I’ve been busy writing up the new materials for the fall EA-2A seminar. It is a bit challenging, since the Joint Board has not yet released the details of exactly what will be on the exam. It is possible that the exam syllabus may not include IRC 432 and IRC 436.
I’ve attached a copy of the Spring 2007 Joint Board Announcement. There is a short blurb on page 3 and page 21 about the changes:
Spring 2007 Joint Board Announcement
“The syllabus, suggested readings and general conditions below are representative of those for past examinations, but will be revised substantially to reflect changes under PPA 2006.”