Approved IAR CE Courses

The lynchpin of the securities industry is the customer, and they must be considered above all else. If registered representative are to maintain high standards of ethical behavior, they must know and understand both the customer’s many facets, as well as the security they are recommending. FINRA has set up two “sister” rules that ensure fair dealing with the customer: 2090 (Know Your Customer) and 2111 (Suitability). This course examines certain facts essential to knowing the customer and making suitable recommendations.

This course discusses the key aspects of the FINRA Know Your Customer rule. The course contrasts Know Your Customer requirements with variable annuity suitability requirements. Additionally, this course reviews the features of a variable annuity and supervisory responsibilities in regards to variable annuities.

Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping advisory work, and its greatest risks often extend beyond the technology itself to how firms describe, use, supervise, and rely on it. This course gives IARs a practical roadmap for spotting AI washing, testing technology claims, protecting confidential client information, and reviewing AI-assisted research, communications, and recommendations before they reach a client. Using memorable frameworks such as FACTS, CLAIM, and REVIEW, learners will work through realistic advisory scenarios and build the judgment needed to separate useful innovation from unsupported hype. This course is designed to help advisers use AI with greater confidence while preserving fiduciary integrity, regulatory discipline, and client trust.

This course provides a detailed overview of the standards and best practices for off-channel communications within the financial services industry. It covers regulatory requirements from agencies like FINRA, the SEC, and the CFTC, emphasizing compliance in using digital platforms, social media, and electronic communication methods. Through case studies, real-world examples, and regulatory guidelines, learners will understand the potential risks and compliance obligations associated with off-channel communication. Ultimately, the course aims to help financial professions maintain regulatory standards and protect both the firm and clients in an increasingly digital environment.

This course familiarizes agents with the retirement planning market and the retirement planning process by covering three main areas: analyzing and identifying retirement income needs and how to address those needs, health care and health insurance options, and estate and distribution planning. Topics include needs analysis, Social Security, life insurance and annuities, investment products, qualified plans and IRAs, plans for small business owners, long-term care, and wealth distribution.

This course will introduce the registered representative to some specific risks seniors face in today’s investment environment. We will closely examine the need for protecting the senior’s assets from “external” risks such as fraud, identity theft, investment risks, and “internal” risks such as the senior’s own mental health. The regulatory agencies are encouraging firms to increase their awareness of the dangers to seniors. As such, we will identify warning signs and present potential safeguards throughout the course.

Learn about pension, profit-sharing and 401(k) plans, as well as IRAs, Keoghs, and nonqualified deferred compensation. This course explains qualification and tax rules for each type of plan and examines each plan's design from the perspective of both employers and employees. Plan installation, administration, and termination are fully explained.

Retirees need to stretch their assets for 20-30 years or more. Savvy distribution planning can help. Learn when to tap different asset categories and how taxable funds differ from tax-free and tax-deferred funds. Manage your clients' risk so they won't outlive their resources.

This course provides a thorough examination of qualified tuition programs (QTPs), more commonly referred to as Section 529 college funding plans. These plans can be either prepaid tuition plans or college savings plans for payment of qualified higher education expenses. The course addresses the different plans and their respective benefits, as well as the rules that govern contributions to and distributions from these plans. Other issues addressed include the required coordination between QTPs and other education expense programs; the effect of QTPs on student eligibility for financial aid; the associated income, gift, and/or estate tax treatments for both contributions and distributions; and some of the important considerations in choosing a QTP.

Understand the financial concerns facing your retired clients. This course will help you increase the value of the consultative services you provide your clients by offering strategic solutions to address those concerns and make you aware of the market conduct and ethical issues involved in serving the senior market.