A Solo 401(k) is a retirement account designed for self-employed business owners with no full-time employees. Solo 401(k)’s allow you to maximize retirement savings and have the flexibility to invest in traditional and alternative investments tax-free or by deferring taxes.
Who is a Solo 401(k) for?
Any small business owner with an Employer Identification Number (EIN) and no other employees (your spouse is one exception – more on that below!)
Examples of who meet the above criteria:
- Freelancers
- Consulting services with contract workers
- Real Estate Agents/Investors
- Side-hustlers
- One-person businesses
Benefits of a Solo 401(k)
Solo 401(k)s provide several advantages over other types of retirement accounts. Most notable is that the contribution limits are typically the highest among retirement plans.
With a solo 401(k), you wear both hats and can make contributions as both employer and employee.
Employee Contribution Limits
- For 2020 and 2021, the maximum employee contribution limit for a 401(k) is $19,500
- For ages 50 and older, you can make an additional catch-up contribution of $6500
Employer Contribution Limits
- For 2021, you can contribute up to the employer maximum of $38,500 or 25% of compensation
- Mixed with the employee contribution, this equals a total of $58,000
Flexible Investing Options
- You have ability to choose between Traditional and Roth Plans
- If a spouse is employed by the same business, he/she is eligible for the full employee/employer contribution, effectively doubling the total contribution limit.
- Solo 401(k) funds can be invested in real estate and other alternative assets in addition to stocks, mutual funds and bonds.
When a Solo 401(k) is not the best option
The primary limitation for a Solo 401(k) is the single employee rule. If you do take on additional employees, you will no longer be eligible for a Solo 401(k) and will have to look into other retirement options such as an SEP IRA, SIMPLE IRA, Defined Benefit Plan, or 401(k).
Is a Solo 401(k) right for you?
There’s no doubt – Solo 401(k)s are incredibly effective tools for self-employed business owners. Find out if it is the right move for your business and personal financial situation. Contact us to learn more, or check out our self-employed retirement plans page for more retirement options.