PROTECTING YOUR PRACTICE 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 physician practice, the loss of a key person is not only a human tragedy, it can also represent the potential for significant financial loss.1

Though practice owners cannot protect themselves from the sudden loss of a physician, 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 they’re someone whose loss, due to death or disability, would cause a material financial setback to the practice. For example, a key person may be a physician whose production would take considerable time to replace. 

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.)2

Calculating Costs

When considering the coverage amount, practice owners 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, practice owners will then be able to make a decision that balances their 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 to recruit new physicians.

For most practices, their most important asset is their people. Yet they often overlook the need to insure those individuals who are critical to their success.

1. Brainyquote, 2021
2. 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.