Choosing between a pension lump sum (rolled into an IRA) and a monthly annuity in 2026: how interest rates, longevity, spousal protection, PBGC limits, inflation, rollover taxes, and break-even age should drive your once-and-done decision.
A practical 2026 guide to cash balance pension plans for business owners, doctors, lawyers, and consultants. How they allow $100k-$300k+ in tax-deductible contributions, why they dwarf 401(k) limits, stacking with a 401(k) and profit sharing, the actuary's role, funding risk, costs, and IRA rollovers at retirement.
If you hold highly appreciated employer stock inside a 401(k) or ESOP, a simple IRA rollover can quietly cost you tens of thousands in taxes. This 2026 guide explains the NUA election—paying ordinary income tax only on the cost basis now and long-term capital gains on the appreciation later—plus the lump-sum rules, when NUA beats a rollover, and the mistakes that permanently void it.