Questions business owners ask us most often.
How can I maximize tax efficiency as a business owner?
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One of the most powerful tax strategies available to business owners is the defined benefit plan. Depending on your age and business income, you can contribute significantly more to a defined benefit plan than traditional retirement accounts—up to $300,000 annually in some cases. This reduces your taxable income, builds retirement security, and keeps more money in your business or personal wealth. We analyze your specific situation to determine if this strategy is right for you.
What are defined benefit plans and how do they work?
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A defined benefit plan is a qualified retirement plan that promises a specific monthly benefit at retirement, calculated based on salary history and years of service. Unlike traditional 401(k)s, defined benefit plans allow business owners to make substantially larger tax-deductible contributions. The plan is funded by the business, grows tax-deferred, and provides predictable retirement income. They're particularly advantageous for established businesses with stable or growing profits.
How much can I contribute to a defined benefit plan annually?
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Contribution limits depend on your age, income, and plan design, but defined benefit plans offer significantly higher contribution limits than other retirement vehicles. Many business owners can contribute $200,000–$300,000+ annually, depending on their circumstances. We work with actuaries to design a plan customized to your business structure and goals, maximizing contributions while remaining compliant with regulations.
What is your network of vertical specialists?
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We maintain relationships with industry-specific experts across all major sectors—healthcare, technology, manufacturing, professional services, real estate, and more. These vertical specialists understand the unique challenges, opportunities, and exit strategies specific to your industry. Rather than generic advice, you get strategies tailored to how your sector operates, what buyers look for, and how to position your business for maximum value.
How do you help business owners prepare for an exit?
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We guide you through every stage of business transition: from valuation and positioning your business to attract the right buyers, to negotiating terms, structuring the deal for tax efficiency, and ensuring a smooth handoff. We coordinate with legal, tax, and M&A professionals to ensure nothing falls through the cracks. The goal is maximizing your proceeds while minimizing disruption to your business during the transition.
What happens after I sell my business?
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Selling a business is a major life transition—not just financially, but personally. Many business owners struggle with the sudden shift from running operations to managing a large pool of capital. That's where we step in. We help you transition wealth into a diversified portfolio, address tax implications, plan for lifestyle changes, and explore new opportunities—whether that's philanthropy, starting another venture, or simply enjoying the fruits of your labor.
What does the RBC Echelon $20M+ UHNW platform offer?
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Our RBC Echelon platform is designed for ultra-high-net-worth individuals and families with $20 million or more in assets. Beyond traditional wealth management and investment advisory, it provides access to sophisticated estate planning, philanthropic strategies, lifestyle concierge services, alternative investments, and a network of specialized professionals. If you've built substantial wealth through a successful business exit or other means, RBC Echelon provides the comprehensive, coordinated support that complexity demands.
