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Key-Person Life Insurance (Deductible? Sometimes)

Company-owned life on a critical exec — cash value grows tax-deferred, death benefit tax-free.

Overview

Company buys life insurance on a key executive (owner, top salesperson, CTO) — premiums non-deductible, but death benefit and cash value grow tax-free (§101(j) notice/consent required to preserve tax-free death benefit). Provides continuity capital if key person dies. Can double as executive-bonus §162 plan or SERP funding.

Best fit
Businesses reliant on 1–3 key peoplePartnerships with buy-sell needsFamily businesses funding succession
Estimated impact
$1M–$10M tax-free liquidity on key person's death

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