### Question
How is the "qualified election period" defined?


### Answer
The term **qualified election period** is defined in *26 U.S.C. § 401* as follows -

> the 6-plan-year period beginning with the later of—



(I) the 1st plan year in which the individual first became a qualified participant, or



(II) the 1st plan year beginning after December 31, 1986

#### Citation:
  - *26 U.S.C. § 401*
  - Heading: **Subtitle A-Income Taxes > CHAPTER 1-NORMAL TAXES AND SURTAXES > Subchapter D-Deferred Compensation, Etc. > PART I-PENSION, PROFIT-SHARING, STOCK BONUS PLANS, ETC. > Subpart A-General Rule**

