Why Founders Who Get Paid Build Better Businesses

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You’re the architect. Treat yourself like one.

You didn’t build this business to be underpaid and overextended.

You are the backbone, the brilliance, and the beating heart behind your brand - and it’s time your salary reflects that.

Here are 5 reasons you need to pay yourself a Founder’s Salary (besides the obvious fact that you’re a whole asset):

1. 💼 Build the Asset, Honor the Architect: Your business isn’t a hustle - it’s an asset in the making. Paying yourself creates separation between you and the machine, so it can grow beyond you, while you stay resourced, clear, and creative.

2. 📊 S Corp = Tax Strategy: Planning to save on self-employment tax (15.3%) by becoming an S Corp? The IRS requires that you pay yourself a “reasonable salary” first before taking distributions. IRS rules, not mine.

3. 🔥 Burnout is Not a Business Model: Working for free isn’t noble - it’s a fast track to resentment. Paying yourself allows you to thrive while you build, not just survive.

4. ✅ It Makes Your Business Look Legit: Founders who pay themselves signal to investors, lenders, and partners that they run a real business. Professionalism starts with how you treat yourself.

5. 💰 Stability = Smarter Cash Flow: A consistent salary creates predictability in your finances. This allows you to budget confidently, invest wisely, and grow sustainably - no more scrambling at month’s end.

Your move? If you haven’t carved out a salary yet - let’s change that. You deserve to be well-paid for the empire you’re building.

Let’s Talk Strategy 👉 ​Schedule a Consultation Call

Here’s to your success,
​
Dani Lee Engelke
​CEO & Founder, Valorè Financial​