The Operational Side of Retirement Planning: Avoiding the IRA and Employer Plan Errors Advisors Miss Most

Despite careful planning, many retirement account mistakes occur not because of poor advice, but because of operational failures involving rollovers, beneficiary designations, distributions, Roth transactions, and account reporting. These errors can trigger unintended taxes, penalties, failed estate planning outcomes, and costly correction procedures.

This session explores the operational side of retirement planning that advisors often encounter only after a transaction goes wrong. Through real-world case studies and practical examples, attendees will learn how to identify common IRA and employer plan errors before they occur, navigate correction options when mistakes happen, and implement procedures that help protect clients and preserve intended tax outcomes.

The presentation will cover operational pitfalls involving inherited accounts, Roth transactions, beneficiary designations, transfers versus rollovers, RMDs, reporting forms, and employer plan distributions. Advisors will leave with practical strategies they can immediately apply to improve compliance, reduce client risk, and avoid some of the most expensive retirement account mistakes.

Competency Level: Intermediate
FPA Competency: Critical Thinking
CFP Board Topic: Retirement Savings and Income Planning
CFP Board CE Credit Hours: TBD