What is a fully insured Section 412(e)(3) pension plan primarily funded by?

A fully insured Section 412(e)(3) pension plan is primarily funded by cash value life insurance or annuity contracts. This type of pension plan is designed to provide defined benefits to employees while utilizing specific funding vehicles that are guaranteed to provide a predictable payout when the retirement benefits are due. The cash value life insurance policies or annuity contracts ensure that the funds are secure and will accumulate value over time, aligning with the plan’s obligation to pay retirement benefits.

The nature of these funding options allows for certain tax advantages, as the cash value grows tax-deferred and can be utilized within the context of the plan's benefits. This structure supports the goal of ensuring that the promised retirement benefits are not only backed by a reliable source but also that they comply with specific IRS regulations concerning pension funding, especially for defined benefit plans.

In contrast, other funding sources like stocks, bonds, or real estate investments carry varying degrees of risk and may not offer the guarantees that are a hallmark of a fully insured plan. Cash contributions alone do not equate to the insurance aspect that characterizes a Section 412(e)(3) pension plan. Therefore, cash value life insurance or annuity contracts present the most appropriate and compliant method of funding for this specific type of pension