Retirement plan design has historically favored large corporations with the scale to spread costs and compliance across thousands of employees. Business owners had to choose between sponsoring a standalone 401(k) plan which can be …
Embedding a Cash Balance or Defined Benefit plan alongside a 401(k) can significantly increase annual retirement contributions for business owners. It also introduces coordinated deduction rules that shape how much can be funded each year.
When structured thoughtfully, a combo …
For many business owners, determining how much they can contribute to a 401(k) plan is straightforward. When compensation comes from W-2 wages, the numbers used for retirement plan calculations are clearly defined.
Self-employed individuals often face a more complex situation. …
Retirement plans are often designed at a moment in time. A small team. Predictable costs. Straightforward administration. At that stage, decisions feel manageable. Eligibility rules are simple. Contribution formulas are easy to model. The workforce is stable enough that testing …
Retirement plans are built on trust. Plan sponsors trust their providers to manage the technical work, keep the plan compliant, and protect participants’ best interests. Advisors trust that the plan is structured correctly …
A 401(k) plan supports employees and strengthens a company’s tax strategy. But not all plans are created equal. The real value comes from how contributions are allocated. That design decision determines whether your plan is simply a compliance checkbox or …
A Practical Guide for Plan Sponsors
When business owners hear the term “top-heavy,” their first reaction is often concern. That perception is common, but it is not accurate. In reality, top-heavy status is not a problem at all. For many …
If you’ve ever wondered whether your employer’s match counts toward your 401(k) contribution limit, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions we hear from business owners …
A 401(k) plan is one of the most powerful tools a business can use to support employees and strengthen its tax strategy. But not all plans are created equal. The real value comes from how contributions are allocated. That …
In December 2022, The SECURE Act 2.0 was passed bringing noteworthy changes to retirement savings in the United States. It works to make saving for retirement more accessible and flexible for individuals across various …