CEBS Study Guide 2026
Everything you need to pass the CEBS exam in one place: the exam format, every topic to study, real practice questions with explanations, flashcards, and full-length practice tests. Free, no sign-up needed.
📋 CEBS Exam Format at a Glance
📚 CEBS Topics to Study (21)
✍️ Sample CEBS Questions & Answers
1. An 'excess benefit plan' under ERISA is a nonqualified plan established to:
An excess benefit plan is a top-hat plan that provides the benefit an executive would have received under the qualified plan but for the IRS limitations on contributions and benefits.
2. What is the best approach for a CEBS professional to manage organizational change?
Successful change management requires clear communication, stakeholder involvement, and providing adequate training and support to ensure smooth transitions.
3. What is a 'waiver of premium' provision in a group life or disability insurance policy?
A waiver of premium provision keeps the life or disability policy in force without requiring premium payments while the insured is totally disabled, as defined by the policy.
4. Which IRS code section governs nonqualified deferred compensation plans and imposes strict rules on deferral elections and distributions?
Section 409A governs nonqualified deferred compensation, requiring initial deferral elections before compensation is earned and limiting permissible distribution events.
5. Under COBRA, how long must continuation coverage generally be offered to a covered employee who is terminated (for reasons other than gross misconduct)?
COBRA requires that employers with 20 or more employees offer 18 months of continuation coverage to employees who lose coverage due to termination or reduction in hours.
6. An Incentive Stock Option (ISO) differs from a Nonstatutory Stock Option (NSO) primarily in that:
ISOs receive preferential tax treatment—no ordinary income tax at exercise—but the spread at exercise is an AMT preference item and must meet strict holding period requirements.