4 Types of Accounts Every Six-Figure Earner Should Have

Making six-figures is an achievement. But without structure, it’s just income moving fast. If your goal is financial freedom, security, and growth, your money needs the right homes to do its thing.

Here are 4 accounts every six-figure earner should have to move from earning well to building wealth with intention.

1. High-Yield Savings Account (HYSA)

Purpose: Emergency fund + short-term goals

Think of this as your financial safety net. Life throws curveballs, job changes, unexpected medical bills, or even spontaneous opportunities. A HYSA keeps money accessible and grows at a higher interest rate than a standard checking account.

Use this for:

• 3–6 months of living expenses

• Short-term savings goals like a vacation, wedding, or new car

Why it matters: Liquidity + growth mean peace of mind. You don’t have to stress about dipping into investments or taking high-interest loans when life happens.

2. Tax-Deferred Account

Purpose: Retirement planning + immediate tax reduction

These accounts allow your money to grow before taxes are taken out. Over time, this can dramatically reduce your taxable income while compounding your retirement savings.

Examples include:

• 401(k) or 403(b) (with employer match)

• Traditional IRA

Why it matters: Tax-deferred growth means you get to keep more of what you earn now while earning free money through employer matching programs.

3. Tax-Free Account

Purpose: Retirement planning + tax-free growth + tax free income

Unlike tax-deferred accounts, tax-free accounts let your money grow and be withdrawn tax-free, creating flexibility in retirement and reducing future tax burdens.

Examples include:

• Roth IRA

• Roth 401(k)

• Health Savings Accounts (HSA)

• Life Insurance Retirement Plan (LIRP)

Why it matters: Tax-free growth + withdrawals mean more control over your money when it matters most. This is where strategic planning can truly accelerate your wealth-building journey.

4. Brokerage Account

Purpose: Growth + accessibility

This is where your money goes to work. Unlike your savings or tax advantaged accounts, a brokerage account is designed for investing in growth-focused vehicles.

Why it’s powerful:

• Growth potential beyond regular income

• No income or contribution limitations

• Access funds when opportunities arise

Why it matters: Think of it as your financial playground: your money can grow while still being accessible for life’s big moments.

Together, these accounts form a balanced ecosystem that lets you protect, grow, and strategically access your money. Having all four in place means you’re not just earning six figures, you’re positioning yourself for real wealth, freedom, and options. Making six-figures is nice, but having structure and strategy is what makes it lasting.