If you run a business and treat your 401(k) as a box you ticked once, this is for you. Few owners realise how much room sits inside that one plan.

Matt Ruttenberg breaks down the retirement plan stack, how a 401(k) becomes a real tax strategy, and when growth signals it's time to rethink the structure.

About the Guest:

Matt Ruttenberg is co-owner and CMO of Life, Inc. Retirement Services, an independent 401(k) administration firm building customized plans for small and mid-sized businesses. He has been recognized among NAPA's Top 50 Young Guns under 40.

Key Takeaways:

Used well, a 401(k) is a tax strategy, not just a recruiting checkbox.
Picture a retirement plan stack: deferrals, match or profit-sharing (up to $72,000 in 2026), high-end contributions, then executive benefits.
Custom plan documents let each layer maximize the one above it; boilerplate plans cost more.
Your CPA is the quarterback, not the whole team; specialists belong in the room.
Learn what's available before you need it, so you don't miss the deadlines.

Connect With the Guest:

Matt Ruttenberg, Life, Inc. Retirement Services

Website: 401k.expert
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mattruttenberg
Email: matt.ruttenberg@lifeincrs.com

Episode Chapters:

(timestamps approximate)

[00:00] The 401(k) Blind Spot: the decision most owners make once and never revisit

[02:00] Why "A 401(k) Is a 401(k)" Is a Myth

[04:30] The Retirement Plan Stack, Layer by Layer

[09:00] Boilerplate vs Custom: why your plan document matters

[11:00] The Tax Bill That Wakes You Up: when to rethink your structure

[13:00] Your CPA Is the Quarterback, Not the Whole Team

[16:00] One Practical First Step and Where to Start

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