The Cash Balance Plan: How High Earners Can Shelter $200,000+ Annually
The Cash Balance Plan: How High Earners Can Shelter $200,000+ Annually
CORE INSIGHTS
- The Wall: High earners often hit the 401(k) limit (~$69k) and still have massive tax bills. The standard tools are not enough.
- The Sledgehammer: A Cash Balance Plan is a “Defined Benefit” plan that allows age-weighted contributions, often exceeding $200,000/year.
- Massive Deduction: These contributions are 100% tax-deductible. This can lower your tax bracket and save six figures in federal taxes instantly.
If you are earning over $500,000 as a business owner or partner, the Solo 401(k) is just an appetizer. The Cash Balance Plan is the main course. It essentially lets you squeeze a pension plan into your business to slash your IRS bill.
What-If Scenario: The $600k Earner (Age 55)
| Strategy | Contribution | Tax Bill (~35%) |
|---|---|---|
| Option A (Solo 401k Only) | ~$76,500 | $183,000 |
| Option B (401k + Cash Balance) | ~$245,000 | $113,000 |
Visualizing the Contribution Limit
*Figure 1: Contribution Capacity. The Cash Balance Plan (Red) dwarfs the 401(k) (Gray).*
Strategic Action Steps
This is not for volatile years. You must commit to funding this plan for at least 3-5 years. If your income drops next year, you still have to pay.
You cannot DIY this. You need a Third-Party Administrator (TPA) and an actuary to calculate your specific limit based on your age.
Maximize efficiency by pairing it with a 401(k) Profit Sharing plan. This “Combo Plan” is the gold standard for high-income tax reduction.
The Bottom Line: Who Should Choose What?
- Use Cash Balance: Business owners/Partners aged 40+ with consistent income > $400k who want to catch up on retirement.
- Stick to 401(k): If your income fluctuates wildly or you are under age 35 (contribution limits are lower for younger people).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Cash Balance Plan?
It is a type of Defined Benefit plan that acts like a ‘Super 401(k).’ It allows for massive tax-deductible contributions (often $100k-$300k) based on age and income.
Can I have a 401(k) too?
Yes. You can stack a Cash Balance Plan on top of a Solo 401(k). This combo is often called a ‘Combo Plan’ and maximizes your total deduction.
Is this mandatory every year?
Mostly yes. Unlike a 401(k) where contributions are discretionary, a Cash Balance Plan requires a commitment to fund it for at least 3-5 years.