Acerca de
Protecting Your Business from the Loss of a Key Person
Charles de Gaulle once remarked, "The graveyards are full of indispensable men." While we know that life goes on regardless of the loss of any "indispensable" person, for a small business, the loss of a key person is not only a human tragedy, but it can also represent the potential for significant financial loss.
Though business owners cannot protect themselves from the unexpected and sudden loss of a key employee, they may be able to protect themselves from the financial consequences of such a loss through the purchase of what is called "key person insurance."
Who's Key?
There is no legal definition for who a key person is, but he or she is someone whose loss, due to death or disability, would cause a material financial setback to the business. For example, a key person may be a top salesperson whose production would take considerable time to replace. Or perhaps it's someone who is guaranteeing the business access to needed future capital.
Key person insurance is a standard insurance policy that is usually owned by the business and whose premiums are paid by the business. These premiums are generally non-deductible. The benefits of the policy are paid to the business in the event that the insured key person dies or becomes disabled. (Coverage for death and disability are separate policies.)1
Calculating Costs
When considering the coverage amount, the business owner should first calculate the financial impact of the loss of a key person. The next step is to ascertain the cost of insurance for that amount. With that information, the business owner will then be able to make a decision that balances his or her protection needs with what the business can afford.
The proceeds may be used in any manner deemed appropriate. For example, the proceeds may be needed to meet day-to-day expenses, pay off debts, or recruit new talent to the organization.
For most businesses, their most important asset is their people. Yet, while they insure their other assets—such as buildings and cars—they often overlook the wisdom of doing the same for those individuals who are critical to their success.
1. Several factors will affect the cost and availability of life insurance, including age, health, and the type and amount of insurance purchased. Life insurance policies have expenses, including mortality and other charges. If a policy is surrendered prematurely, the policyholder also may pay surrender charges and have income tax implications. You should consider determining whether you are insurable before implementing a strategy involving life insurance. Any guarantees associated with a policy are dependent on the ability of the issuing insurance company to continue making claim payments.
The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright 2026 FMG Suite.
There are no warranties implied. White Aspen Capital is a registered investment adviser located in Henderson, Nevada. White Aspen Capital may only transact business in those states in which it is registered, or qualifies for an exemption or exclusion from registration requirements. Whiteaspencapital.com is limited to the dissemination of general information pertaining to its advisory services, together with access to additional investment-related information, publications, and links. Accordingly, the publication of White Aspen Capital web site on the Internet should not be construed by any consumer and/or prospective client as White Aspen Capital solicitation to effect, or attempt to effect transactions in securities, or the rendering of personalized investment advice for compensation, over the Internet. Any subsequent, direct communication by White Aspen Capital with a prospective client shall be conducted by a representative that is either registered or qualifies for an exemption or exclusion from registration in the state where the prospective client resides. For information pertaining to the registration status of White Aspen Capital, please contact the state securities regulators for those states in which White Aspen Capital maintains a registration filing. A copy of White Aspen Capital’s current written disclosure statement discussing White Aspen Capital’s business operations, services, and fees is available at the SEC’s investment adviser public information website – www.adviserinfo.sec.gov or from White Aspen Capital upon written request. This newsletter and information are provided for guidance and information purposes only. Investments involve risk and unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy. This website and information are not intended to provide investment, tax, or legal advice. Prepared by Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc. Copyright 2026.
