Let’s cut to the chase—if you’re running a business and you don’t have Corporate Owned Life Insurance (COLI) in your playbook, you’re leaving money on the table. We’re talking about one of the most powerful, yet underrated, strategies for protecting your business, securing your legacy, and building tax-advantaged wealth. COLI isn’t just insurance—it’s a financial powerhouse that smart business owners leverage to get ahead.
Why COLI is a Game-Changer
Imagine this: You’ve got a key employee, someone who’s critical to the success of your company. What happens if they suddenly pass away? The financial impact could be devastating. That’s where COLI steps in. It provides a cash influx when you need it most, ensuring your business can continue to operate smoothly, cover expenses, and even recruit a replacement without skipping a beat.
But that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
Tax-Advantaged Growth
COLI isn’t just about protecting your business—it’s also about growing your wealth. The cash value within a COLI policy grows tax-deferred, meaning you’re not paying taxes on the growth until you decide to access it. And here’s the kicker: when structured correctly, the death benefit is paid out tax-free. That’s right—no taxes, no headaches. Just pure, unadulterated financial power.
Funding Buy-Sell Agreements
If you’ve got partners in your business, you’ve probably thought about what happens if one of you passes away. A buy-sell agreement funded by COLI ensures that the surviving partners can buy out the deceased partner’s share without draining the company’s resources. It’s a seamless transition that protects the business and honors the legacy of the partner who’s no longer there.
Executive Compensation and Retention
Here’s a little-known secret: COLI can also be used as a powerful tool for executive compensation. You can set up a deferred compensation plan that’s funded by the cash value of a COLI policy. It’s a win-win—your key employees get a lucrative benefit that keeps them loyal, and your business gets to grow its assets in a tax-advantaged way.
The Bottom Line
Corporate Owned Life Insurance is the ultimate power move for business owners who think big. It’s not just about protection; it’s about growth, strategy, and securing your financial future. Whether you’re looking to safeguard your business, take care of your key people, or ensure a smooth transition of ownership, COLI gives you the tools to do it all—tax-free, with minimal risk, and maximum impact.
So, the question is, are you ready to take your business to the next level? If you’re not considering COLI, you’re not playing the game to win. Let’s fix that.