Robert’s problem, however, wasn’t a lack of income to direct to retirement – it was a success problem. He succeeded in leaving his corporate job early; he succeeded in establishing a profitable business. The sticking point was that Robert was so successful in his new endeavor, he was generating a lot of income but paying tax on that income at a very steep rate.
In response, Robert’s SYM advisor helped him to set up a defined benefit plan, which allowed him to make significant retirement plan contributions over and above what he would have been able to do using a 401(k) plan. This plan helped to defer a good part of his taxable income, postponed until after retirement. All in all, SYM helped Robert to defer taxes on more than $1 million income over a period of several years.
Good business owner financial planning helps people live how they want to live. Robert did the work to be successful in his business, and SYM captured the benefits of that success for the longer term. Robert knew he had a service that people were willing to pay for. His priorities were to provide for his spouse, children and grandchildren and create something for their future. SYM helped him to do just that.
Disclosure: The above scenario is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to depict an actual client or circumstances. This material is not financial advice, an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any security managed by SYM Financial Corporation (“SYM”). The opinions and assumptions expressed herein are those of SYM Financial Corporation (“SYM”) and are subject to change without notice. SYM is an independent investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. More information about SYM including our investment strategies, fees, and objectives can be found in our ADV Part 2, which is available upon request.