Do You Want the Carrot — or the Stick?

Most business owners don’t realize they’ve already been forced to choose. Either way they have to make a choice.

Why Business Owners Get Blindsided

  • Retirement plans are no longer optional in many states
  • Most owners don’t know if their current setup qualifies
  • State-sponsored plans check a box — but leave money on the table
  • Doing nothing is now the most expensive option

The Stick: What Happens If You Ignore This

State Mandates

  • Automatic enrollment requirements
  • Escalating penalties
  • No customization

Talent Risk

  • Employees expect benefits
  • Competitors will offer better plans
  • Retention quietly erodes


Loss of Control

  • State plans aren’t built for owners
  • No tax strategy
  • No flexibility

The Carrot: How Smart Owners Turn This Into an Advantage

  • SECURE Act 2.0 tax credits (startup + contributions)
  • Employer contributions with no current tax liability
  • QBI income control through plan design
  • Owner-weighted outcomes (legally)

"This isn’t a retirement decision. It’s a tax decision."