Financial planning questions for executives
Executive compensation often mixes salary, bonus, equity and sometimes deferred compensation, along with benefits that change with seniority. These are the questions executives commonly organize.
Compensation mix
How much of total pay is fixed versus variable? How much is in company stock? If deferred compensation is offered, what are the distribution rules and risks?
Benefits and protection
Do employer life and disability benefits match your needs, and what happens to them if you leave? Is supplemental coverage worth reviewing, given that group coverage is often capped or tied to base salary only?
Transitions
What happens to unvested equity, deferred compensation and benefits if you change roles, leave or the company is acquired? Knowing this ahead of time helps when opportunities arise.
What to gather
- Fixed versus variable pay
- Deferred compensation rules, if any
- Benefits that end if you leave
- Treatment of unvested equity in a transition
Free Sam's List diagnostic
Take the free Financial Complexity Review. Built by Sam's List. Related Sam's List profile: Anthony Syracuse.
Browse the directory
Frequently asked questions
Is deferred compensation the same as a 401(k)?
No. Non-qualified deferred compensation plans follow different rules and may carry company credit risk. Plan documents explain the details.
Is this financial planning guide advice?
No. Sam's List writes these guides for education. They describe common questions and processes, not advice for your specific situation.
Sam's List is a directory. Listing or paid status does not imply endorsement or ranking.