Compliance

NARSSA's Credibility & Leadership in Social Security

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the acronym for this professional designation?
RSSA®
What does the acronym stand for?
Registered Social Security Analyst®
What organization issues this designation?
National Association of Registered Social Security Analysts (NARSSA)
What is the accreditation status of the issuing organization?
NASBA-approved for CPAs (CPE)
IRS-approved CE provider for EAs and preparers
CFP Board-approved for CE
Broadridge-approved for CE
Approved in 47 states for insurance CE Learn more
FINRA-listed in the Professional Designations Database (note: FINRA does not endorse credentials)
SOC 2 Type 2 certified for data security
Learn more
What is the issuing organization's internet website address (URL)?
What are the stated areas of expertise for this designation?
Social Security rules and regulations
Retirement income planning
Optimization of Social Security claiming strategies
Coordination of Social Security benefits with tax, Medicare, and other retirement income sources
What are the ethical standards or code of ethics for this designation?
The RSSA® Code of Professional Conduct governs both personal and professional standards, emphasizing honesty, integrity, independence, competence, and client confidentiality. You may review it here.
Describe the process, if any, by which the designation may be revoked for violations of ethical or other standards?
NARSSA maintains a Professional Conduct Review process. If a designee is found to be in violation of the Code of Ethics or misuses the RSSA® mark, their designation may be suspended or revoked after a formal review by the Ethics and Conduct Committee.
Does the issuing organization have an investor-complaint process? If so, what is the internet address (URL) for the site? Please describe the investor complaint process in detail.
Yes. Complaints can be submitted via the contact form. Each complaint is reviewed by the NARSSA Ethics and Conduct Committee. If necessary, an investigation is initiated, and the designee is notified and given an opportunity to respond. Disciplinary action may follow if warranted.
Does the issuing organization have a public disciplinary process? If so, what is the internet address (URL) for the site? Please describe the public disciplinary process in detail.
NARSSA does not currently publish a public registry of disciplinary actions but maintains internal records and reserves the right to revoke credentials and notify third parties of such actions. The process includes formal review, notice to the designee, opportunity for response, and committee deliberation.

RSSA® credential holders are subject to a formal disciplinary process. Failure to comply with the Code of Conduct, trademark guidelines, or credential usage policies may result in corrective actions, including:
Revocation of certification
Legal action to protect the RSSA® trademark
Notification to employers or clients regarding unauthorized use
Learn more
Can an investor check the status of an investment professional with this designation online?
Yes. Learn more
What prerequisites or experience are required to obtain this designation?
There are no formal prerequisites (e.g., college degree, licenses) required to begin the RSSA® Program. The program is open to financial professionals, including advisors, CPAs, insurance agents, and others seeking Social Security expertise.
What educational requirements does this designation have?
Candidates must:
Complete five self-study educational training modules
Pass a comprehensive proctored final exam
Demonstrate practical application of Social Security planning strategies
Describe in detail the material and content of the required coursework, as well as the time period for completing the coursework and achieving the designation.
The RSSA® course includes five comprehensive modules:
Module I: Foundations of Social Security
Module II: Mastery of Advanced Topics
Module III: Bridging Benefits Across Related Programs
Module IV: Expert Practice & Client Communication
Module V: Social Security Software Case Studies

All module overviews include introductory video, course overview of topics covered, learning objectives, delivery method, program level, fields of study and CPE credits, program prerequisites and advanced preparation. Review questions will be given after all module chapters, and a module summary is provided. Total time to complete is approximately 20-25 hours. Most candidates complete the coursework and final exam within 2-4 weeks.
What examinations must be passed to receive this designation?
A final, proctored certification exam must be passed after completing the educational modules. The exam assesses knowledge of Social Security rules, claiming strategies, and case analysis. Learn more
Are there any fees or tuition that must be paid to receive this designation? If so, what is the estimated cost?
Yes. The one-time certification fee is $3,395, which includes education, exam, software access, and support. Annual renewal is $479 to maintain CE to achieve active status, access to software, and ongoing support.
What continuing education or experience requirements does this designation have?
To maintain an active RSSA® credential, members must:
Complete 4 hours of continuing education (CE) annually
Stay informed on Social Security updates and best practices
Review and abide by the Professional Code of Conduct
Maintain annual membership in good standing
Please provide any additional information that may be helpful in determining if this designation is appropriate for inclusion in a Professional Designation listing.
RSSA® is the only Social Security designation program that combines professional education, certification, and proprietary software to help advisors provide compliant, high-value Social Security planning. The program is widely used across financial advisory, insurance, CPA, and wealth management channels. Earning the RSSA® designation showcases an advisor's dedication to delivering specialized Social Security literacy and financial wellness guidance. A growing list of highly respected firms recognize and approve the RSSA® credential for their advisors, including: AmeriLife, LPL, Prudential, Broadridge, MassMutual, Osaic Wealth, Cetera Financial Group, Allstate, Guardian, and others.