Accredited Retirement Advisor (ARA)



This credential recognizes professionals who have a thorough knowledge of topics relevant to retirement planning and special issues of senior citizens including tax planning and tax preparation for decedents, estates, and trusts; and applying your knowledge and skills in real-life situations when serving aging clients.

How do I become ARA accredited & what are the requirements?

To become an Accredited Retirement Advisor®, you must pass the 100 question ARA examination which is offered twice a year at testing centers around the country.

Accredited Retirement Advisor® Exam Blueprint

Retirement Plans, Benefits & Retirement Distribution (21 questions)
Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, Veteran's Benefits, Retirement Plans, Retirement Plan Distribution and Planning

Insurance, Health Care, Senior and Long-Term Care Options (21 questions)
Health Insurance, Long Term Care Insurance, Health Care, Long-Term Care, Life Insurance, Senior Housing Options and Issues

Estates, Trusts, Estate Planning & Taxation Considerations
 (44 questions)
Estates, Trusts, Estate Planning, Taxation of Estates Form 706, Decedent’s Final Return, Gift Tax Returns Form 709, Special Considerations for the Self-Employed

Personal Residence Issues (10 questions)

Ethics & Professionalism in Serving Aging Clients (4 questions)