History I previously built my practice with Hawaii Client Services from 2011 through June 30, 2017. Effective July 1, 2017, I transferred my practice to my own entity. As of 2023, Hawaii5500's team has over 60 years in the local industry serving local clients from all islands.
Jeff Esmond, ERPA, CPC, QPA, QKA, CPFA
Credentials When looking for a consultant for your retirement plan, always ask, "What credentials do you currently hold and how long have you held them?"
Why are credentials important and relevant? From the American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries (ASPPA) website: "ASPPA credentials place you at the top of the pension profession...ASPPA membership represents the most committed individuals in the profession. ASPPA membership means more than being a credentialed professional. It’s an assurance of quality and integrity." The ASPPA credentials I hold are: CPC - Certified Pension Consultant, QPA - Qualified Pension Administrator, QKA - Qualified 401(k) Administrator
I also hold the ERPA which stands for Enrolled Retirement Plan Agent and which allows me to represent a retirement plan before the IRS.
The CPFA - Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor credential is sponsored by NAPA (National Association for Plan Advisors and is reflects knowledge, expertise and commitment to working with retirement plans
Continuing Education Credentials require annual ethics training along with up to 24 annual continuing education credits.
Personal When not focused on my family, including 3 school-aged children, and my business, since 2022 I have been serving as both Chair and Finance Chair of the Hawaii State Commission on Fatherhood. I have also been a long time board member of the Kaneohe Business Group.
I have spent many years in local Toastmasters clubs and have just rejoined dba Toastmasters in downtown Honolulu. I'm also a past elections precinct worker and I am an avid swimmer, swimming 2.5 km on average 4-5 times a week.