How To Open a Solo 401k Plan
No matter what line of work you are in, a Solo 401k is always a good choice to plan for your retirement savings. The plan can be especially beneficial for self-employed people, offering them better tax benefits, enhanced financial flexibility, and savings.
Read on as we take a look at the benefits of having a Solo 401k and how to get started on your plan today.
What Is a Solo 401k Plan?
A Solo 401k Plan is one that is designed for an individual who owns a business with zero employees. The business owners who have one or more than one full-time employee are not eligible for this plan. Most such plans cover individuals and their spouses.
Benefits of a Solo 401k Plan
For sole business owners, freelancers, entrepreneurs, and independent contractors, a Solo 401k plan is one of the best options to start retirement savings.
Flexible Tax Deductions
One of the most desirable perks of having a Solo 401k is the ability to choose your tax advantage.
A Traditional Solo 401k Plan means that your contributions will reduce the income within the year of earning. It offers an initial tax break to reduce the burden.
On the other hand, a Roth 401k allows for the collection of tax-free distributions upon retirement. If you are concerned about the tax rates rising in the future, you should choose to pay your taxes now.
Loan Flexibility
While you continue to let your retirement fund grow, you have the choice of drawing a loan in times of financial hardships. If you have a Solo 401k, you can draw up to 50 percent of the plan value or $50,000 (whichever is less).
How To Open a Solo 401k
Choosing a Provider
Although most online brokers offer the option of opening a Solo 401k, an Employer Identification Number is required for all.
Completing The Paperwork
The next step is to complete and submit your account application and sign the plan adoption agreement. You can choose between a Traditional and a Roth Solo 401k Plan.
Setting Up Contributions
After the completion of all relevant paperwork, you can start to set up your contributions. For this purpose, you will have access to multiple investment options offered by the broker. These may include stocks, bonds, mutual and index funds, etc.
Minding the Deadlines
If you’d like to make a contribution for 2021, you must have your plan established by the end of the year with your employee contribution by December 31, 2021.
Additional Paperwork
In case your plan has $250,000 or more in assets, you will have to complete additional paperwork, including Forms 5500-EZ and 5500-SF. These forms have to be filled and submitted every year.
Additional Services
In case you wish to iron out the details of your retirement plan to meet your individual retirement goals, it might be beneficial to seek additional services from your provider or online broker. These services may include one-on-one guidance or assistance in financial management, etc. T