Category: Solo(k) Plan Information

Tax Advantages of a Solo 401(k) for Small Business Owners

Siân Killingsworth / 24 Aug 2023 / 401(k) Plan Information, Solo(k) Plan Information

As a small business owner, gig worker, or self-employed individual, you juggle many responsibilities. Among the essential but often neglected areas is retirement planning. A solo 401(k) could offer you tax advantages that not only secure your financial future but also bring immediate fiscal benefits.

A solo 401(k) is a retirement savings plan designed specifically for self-employed individuals, small business owners without full-time employees, and freelancers. It allows for both employee and employer contributions, providing a way to save a significant amount for retirement while benefiting from tax advantages.

Ubiquity offers two types of solo 401(k) plans:

1. Single(k)^®: This is a straightforward solo 401(k) option that provides the essential features for retirement saving and tax advantages. It’s designed for simplicity and ease of use, making it ideal for small business owners who want a hassle-free way to start securing their financial future.
2. Single(k) Plus^®: This version includes additional features and services, like record-keeping and more extensive investment options. It offers greater customization and is designed for those who want to take a more active role in managing their retirement funds.

Both plans offer the core benefits of a solo 401(k), including tax-deferred growth and dual contribution benefits, but the record-kept Single(k) Plus provides a more comprehensive set of features for those looking for an elevated retirement planning experience.

Here is a detailed breakdown of what you stand to gain from saving in a solo 401(k):

1. Tax-Deferred Growth

What it Means:

In a solo 401(k), the returns you earn from your investments are not taxed immediately. They are tax-deferred, meaning you pay taxes only when you start making withdrawals in retirement.

Example:

If you invest $10,000 and it grows to $15,000 over a couple of years, you don’t owe taxes on the $5,000 gain until you withdraw it. This allows your investments to compound more quickly because you’re not siphoning off gains to pay taxes yearly.

2. Dual Contribution Benefits

Employee Contributions:

You can wear two hats: that of the employer and the employee. As an employee, you can defer a portion of your income into the plan. This pre-tax contribution reduces your current taxable income. For 2023, the maximum you can contribute as an employee is $22,500. If you are over 50, you can add an extra $7,500 as a catch-up contribution.

Employer Contributions:

You can also contribute as the employer, up to 25% of your compensation. These contributions further reduce your business’s taxable income because they are deductible expenses.

3. Enhanced Tax Savings

Contributions to a solo 401(k) may reduce your overall taxable income.

Example:

If you make $100,000 a year and contribute $22,500 to your 401(k), you’re only taxed on $77,500. This could potentially drop you into a lower tax bracket, saving you a substantial sum when tax time comes.

4. Control Over Investments

You have broad discretion over your investment choices in a solo 401(k), including stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and real estate.

Example:

Suppose you have expertise in the real estate market. You could diversify your solo 401(k) by adding real estate investments, tailoring your portfolio according to your risk tolerance and knowledge base.

5. Administrative Simplicity

When you work with a reputable plan provider, setting up and maintaining a solo 401(k) is typically straightforward.

Example:

Many providers offer digital platforms where you can monitor investments, make changes, and get customer support, all without the complicated paperwork that some other retirement plans require.

6. Loan Provision Flexibility

You can borrow from your solo 401(k) for sudden financial needs or business investment opportunities.

Example:

If your business needs a new piece of equipment costing $20,000, you could borrow from your solo 401(k) to make the purchase, then repay the loan over an agreed period.

7. Tailored Contributions

Solo 401(k) plans accommodate fluctuating incomes, allowing you to adjust your contributions accordingly.

Example:

If you have a profitable year and make $120,000, you can maximize your contributions. In a less prosperous year where you earn $70,000, you can reduce your contributions without facing any penalties.

8. Retirement Savings Discipline

Automatic contributions and tax incentives encourage you to consistently fund your retirement account, instilling a savings discipline that can serve you well long-term.

9. Efficient Estate Planning

By naming beneficiaries for your solo 401(k), you ensure a smoother transition of your retirement funds to your loved ones, avoiding the time-consuming and often costly probate process.

Your Takeaway

The solo 401(k) offers multiple tax advantages uniquely suited to the financial realities of small business owners, gig workers, and self-employed professionals. With options for immediate tax relief and long-term investment growth, a solo 401(k) should be a strong contender when considering retirement plans for your business.

Please refer to Important Information for details.

Why Solopreneurs Need Retirement Plans: Securing Your Future as a Small Business Owner

Siân Killingsworth / 19 Aug 2023 / 401(k) Plan Information, Solo(k) Plan Information

Sole proprietor. Solopreneur. Entrepreneur. The labels may differ, but the essence remains the same: you are a small business owner, a self-reliant individual pursuing a passion while managing multiple responsibilities. Among the myriad of tasks demanding your attention, planning for retirement might often get pushed to the background.

However, preparing for your financial future is more than just a prudent decision; it’s a necessity. Here’s why it’s essential for solopreneurs like yourself to leverage small business retirement plans, such as Solo 401(k), to ensure that your golden years are financially secure.

What is a Solo 401(k)?

Solo 401(k) plans, designed specifically for small business owners with no employees other than themselves and possibly a spouse, offer a gateway to future financial stability. They afford the same tax credits and loan options as traditional 401(k) plans offered by larger employers. One of the most alluring features (though there are many) of a solo 401(k) is that it combines the high savings potential of a traditional 401(k) with tailored benefits for solopreneurs.

Benefits of a Sole Proprietor 401(k) Plan

1. Tax Advantages and Savings

• The Solo 401(k) plans and other small business retirement plans offer a wealth of tax benefits, particularly for solopreneurs.
• The ability to deduct contributions from taxable income can lower your overall tax liability, making it an efficient strategy for wealth preservation.
• Saving pre-tax income in a retirement plan can lead to significant long-term gains, all while reaping immediate tax advantages.

2. Wealth Accumulation Through Compound Interest

• Retirement plans enable the accumulation of wealth through compound interest, a powerful tool for growth. Compound interest is every saver’s best friend.
• Regular contributions, even small ones, can lead to significant growth over the years, especially if started early in one’s career.
• Time plays a vital role in this process, allowing investments to grow and compound, creating a snowball effect that magnifies financial gains.

3. Flexibility and Control

• Small business owners benefit from greater control over their retirement savings, customizing it to suit their unique requirements.
• Options like the Solo 401(k) offer a diverse array of investment choices, empowering you to align your portfolio with your specific risk tolerance and preferences.
• You have the autonomy to define contribution limits and make adjustments based on the evolving needs of your business and personal finances.

4. Attracting and Retaining Talent

• As your business grows and you begin to hire, offering a retirement plan can be a competitive advantage in attracting and retaining quality employees.
• Retirement benefits often rank high among employee considerations, and by extending this offer, you signal your dedication to their long-term well-being.
• This not only fosters loyalty but can also become a magnet for highly skilled professionals.

5. Building Retirement Assets Separately from Business

• Establishing retirement assets distinct from your business assets is a wise move to mitigate risks tied to entrepreneurship.
• Diversifying your investments ensures that your retirement nest egg remains unaffected by unforeseen business challenges or downturns.
• This separation acts as a financial safety net, adding an extra layer of security to your future.

Building Bridges to a Secure Future

As a solopreneur, planning for retirement may seem like a distant concern, but it is an indispensable step towards securing a stable financial future. By investing in a small business retirement plan, like a small business 401(k), you not only set yourself up for a peaceful retirement but also unlock numerous benefits, including tax advantages, compound growth, customization, and potential talent attraction.

In the dynamic world of entrepreneurship, where uncertainty often rules, a well-thought-out retirement plan serves as a robust anchor. Your future self, enjoying the fruits of today’s wise decisions, will undoubtedly thank you.

Crafting a Robust Retirement Plan for Solo Entrepreneurs

Siân Killingsworth / 27 Jul 2023 / 401(k) Plan Information, Small Business 401k, Solo(k) Plan Information

Congratulations on taking the entrepreneurial leap and running your own small business. While being self-employed comes with numerous advantages, it also means you’re responsible for your own retirement planning — and that of any employees you have. But don’t worry, we’re here to help. Check out our seven top tips for creating a retirement plan tailored to your small business’s unique needs.

7 Steps to Build Your Plan

Step 1: Set retirement goals. 

• This one’s for you and your employees: Determine the age at which you plan to retire and estimate your desired retirement income.
• Consider factors such as your lifestyle expectations, healthcare costs, and potential financial obligations.
• Remember, retirement planning is not just about saving for the future but also about maintaining your desired standard of living.
• A 401(k) calculator can be a helpful resource for figuring out how much money is necessary for a comfortable retirement.

Step 2: Choose the right plan for you (and your small business).

• There are several retirement plan options available for self-employed individuals, such as a Solo 401(k), Safe Harbor plan provision, and so many more – here’s a comprehensive guide to choosing the plan that’s right for your small business.
• Research each plan’s features, contribution limits, and administrative requirements to find the best fit for your business.
• Seek professional advice from a retirement plan provider who can help you understand the nuances of each plan and make an informed decision.

Step 3: Understand contribution limits.

• Familiarize yourself with the contribution limits for each retirement plan option.
• For example, a Solo 401(k) allows higher contribution limits compared to other plans.
• Maximizing contributions will not only help your small business’s employees grow their retirement savings but also provide potential tax advantages to both you and them.
• In 2023, an individual can contribute up to $22,500, plus an extra $7,500 of catchup contributions.

Step 4: Automate your contributions.

• Treat your retirement savings as an essential business expense.
• Set up automatic contributions from your business income to your retirement plan.
• Automating your contributions ensures consistent and disciplined savings, making it easier to reach your retirement goals.

Step 5: Diversify your plan’s investments.

• While saving is crucial, investing retirement savings wisely is equally important.
• Consider diversifying your plan’s investments across various asset classes, such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds.
• Consult with a financial advisor or retirement plan provider to create an investment strategy aligned with your risk tolerance and long-term goals.

Step 6: Review and adjust regularly.

• Regularly review your retirement plan to ensure it stays on track.
• Assess your contributions, investment performance, and any changes in your business or personal circumstances.
• Make adjustments as needed to keep your retirement plan aligned with your evolving goals.

Step 7: Plan for the unexpected.

• Prepare for unforeseen events by having an emergency fund separate from your retirement savings.
• Ensure you have adequate insurance coverage to protect yourself, your business, your employees, and your loved ones.
• Planning for the unexpected helps safeguard your retirement savings and provides peace of mind.

Creating a retirement plan as a self-employed small business owner may seem daunting at first, but with the right approach and guidance, it becomes an achievable goal. By setting clear retirement goals, choosing the appropriate retirement plan, automating contributions, diversifying investments, and regularly reviewing and adjusting your plan, you can build a solid foundation for a comfortable retirement.

Please refer to Important Information for details.

401(k)s for Sole Proprietors: What You Need to Know

Siân Killingsworth / 6 Jul 2023 / 401(k) Plan Information, Solo(k) Plan Information

As a small business owner, planning for retirement might not be at the top of your to-do list – after all, running a business is a full-time job! However, it’s essential to consider your financial future and ensure you have a comfortable retirement. One of the most effective retirement planning tools available to sole proprietors is the 401(k) plan.

Benefits of a 401(k) for Sole Proprietors

Tax Advantages

• A 401(k) allows you to contribute pre-tax dollars, reducing your current taxable income. This means you can potentially save on your tax bill while building your retirement savings.

Retirement Savings

• With a 401(k), you can systematically save for your future. By contributing a portion of your income regularly, you’ll be better prepared to meet your financial goals.

Employer Contributions

• As a sole proprietor, you’re not only the boss but also the employee. The great news is that you can wear both hats when it comes to a 401(k). You can make employer contributions on top of your personal contributions, helping to grow your retirement nest egg even faster. Here’s everything you need to know about contributing to a solo 401(k).

Flexibility in Contribution Limits

• 401(k) plans offer higher contribution limits compared to other retirement accounts. As a sole proprietor, this means you can save more for retirement each year, maximizing your savings potential.

Potential for Increased Employee Recruitment and Retention

• If you decide to expand your business and hire employees, offering a 401(k) plan can be a powerful tool to attract and retain top talent. It demonstrates your commitment to their long-term financial wellbeing.

Considerations for Sole Proprietors:

Start Early

• Time is your biggest ally when it comes to retirement savings.Because of compound interest, the sooner you start contributing to a 401(k), the more time your money has to grow. Don’t delay; begin building your retirement savings today!

Understand Contribution Limits

• It’s crucial to be aware of the annual contribution limits set by the IRS. For 2023, the maximum employee contribution is $22,500, with an additional catch-up contribution of $7,500 if you’re 50 years or older. Employer contributions are generally capped at 25% of compensation or 20% for sole proprietors.

Consider a Solo 401(k)

• As a sole proprietor, you may qualify for a Solo 401(k), also known as an Individual 401(k). This type of plan is designed specifically for self-employed individuals and offers higher contribution limits and flexibility compared to other retirement plans.

Seek Professional Guidance

• Navigating the complexities of retirement planning and choosing the right 401(k) plan can be overwhelming. Consider consulting a retirement plan provider or financial advisor who specializes in small business retirement solutions. They can help you understand the options available and tailor a plan to your specific needs.

Pros and Cons of 401(k)s for Sole Proprietors:

Pros:

1. Tax Advantages

By contributing to a 401(k), you can take advantage of tax savings. Your contributions are made with pre-tax dollars, reducing your taxable income for the current year.

2. Retirement Savings

A 401(k) plan provides a structured and disciplined approach to saving for retirement. By contributing regularly, you’re taking proactive steps towards securing your financial future.

3. Flexibility in Contribution Limits

401(k) plans offer higher contribution limits compared to other retirement accounts. As a sole proprietor, this flexibility allows you to save more for retirement each year. The ability to contribute larger amounts can help accelerate your retirement savings and ensure you’re on track to meet your financial goals.

Cons:

1. Administrative Burden

Being a sole proprietor comes with various responsibilities, and managing a 401(k) plan adds to the administrative tasks. You’ll need to stay updated on compliance regulations, track contributions, and ensure timely reporting. Consider working with a plan provider who can help handle those responsibilities for you.

2. Cost

While the long-term benefits of a 401(k) plan can outweigh the costs, it’s essential to consider the associated expenses. Look for a 401(k) plan with low, flat fees and a high customer satisfaction rating. (It’s us, hi.)

3. Limited Access to Funds

One drawback of a 401(k) plan is that withdrawals before the age of 59 ½ are generally subject to penalties and taxes. If you anticipate needing access to your funds before retirement, you may want to explore other options or consider setting aside emergency savings separately.

By weighing the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision about whether a 401(k) plan is suitable for your business. Remember to consider your long-term goals, financial situation, and capacity to handle the administrative requirements.

5 Retirement Planning Tips for Small Business Owners

Robby Forsythe / 23 Jun 2023 / 401(k) Plan Information, Solo(k) Plan Information

Retirement planning is an important part of everyone’s financial picture–but it’s especially important for small business owners. After all, as a small business owner, you need to plan for not only your retirement, but you must also ensure you’re providing your employees with the resources they need to thrive in the future. So we’re breaking down the fundamentals of picking the small business 401(k) that’s right for you (and your crew).

PSA: Retirement planning is important.

And for small business owners, we might even say it’s essential. First, it allows you to save money for your retirement, which can help you maintain your lifestyle and cover your expenses after you retire.

Second, offering a comprehensive benefits package—including a small business 401(k)—can be a powerful recruiting tool for attracting and retaining top-tier candidates. It’s also likely to provide tax benefits to you and your small business. Here are five easy tips to make retirement planning for you (and your small business) a breeze.

1. Take advantage of the tax breaks.

Yep, you read that right: Providing a 401(k) plan to your small business employees can help lower your tax bill. There are three main ways this can benefit you:

• You become eligible for tax deductions¹. For example, when you open a new plan, you can qualify for up to $5,000 for the first three years (and add an extra $500 if you have automatic enrollment).
• Both you and your employees benefit from tax deferral, since contributions to the plan are made on a pre-tax basis.
• Tax free growth. That’s right—your money grows, without any taxes, until you withdraw it in retirement, helping the funds increase more quickly over time due to compound interest.

2. Understand the different types of retirement plans.

There are several types of retirement plans available to small business owners. Some of the most common for small businesses are:

401(k) Plan

A 401(k) plan is a type of employer-sponsored retirement savings plan that allows employees to contribute a portion of their salary on a pre-tax basis. The contributions are invested in a selection of investment options such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, chosen by the employee. The earnings in a 401(k) grow tax-deferred until withdrawal, typically in retirement.

In 2023, the IRS permits 401(k) contributions up to $22,500 plus an extra $7,500 for those over age 50. Employers may also offer matching contributions, where they contribute a percentage of the employee’s contributions, further boosting retirement savings. As both the employer and the employee, the individual can make contributions as both, potentially allowing for higher contribution limits.

Solo 401(k) Plan

If you’re self-employed, a solo 401(k) could be right for you. Also known as an individual 401(k) or self-employed 401(k), a solo 401(k) is a retirement savings plan designed for self-employed individuals or business owners with no employees except for a spouse. It offers similar features as a traditional 401(k) plan, allowing for tax-deferred contributions and investment growth.

As with the group 401(k) plan, small business owners can make contributions as both employer and employee. See our Retirement Contribution Limits page for more details. A solo 401(k) plan provides the opportunity for self-employed individuals to save for retirement and enjoy potential tax benefits.

IRA Plan

An IRA (Individual Retirement Account) is a type of retirement plan that allows individuals to save and invest for retirement with tax advantages. It is an account that individuals open and manage independently (meaning it is not sponsored by an employer). Contributions to an IRA may be tax-deductible depending on the type of IRA and your income level, but the maximum amount of savings permitted by the IRS is only $6,500. The earnings in an IRA grow tax-deferred until withdrawal, typically in retirement, when they are subject to taxation.

3. Choose the right retirement plan…

Choosing the right retirement plan can be challenging for small business owners. You need to consider several factors, such as the size of your business, the number of employees, and your budget. Looking to get started? This handy guide to picking the perfect plan for you (and your employees) has you covered.

4. …And the right provider.

Yep, picking the right provider matters too. Look for one who offers flat fees², low prices, and has plenty of experience implementing small business 401(k)s.

Allow us to introduce ourselves: We’ve been tried and trusted since 1999, and offer the best flat-fee 401(k) plans for small businesses. But don’t just take our word for it–because we’re also ranked #1 on Google Reviews³.

5. Offer a match if you can!

An employer match is a great way to get your small business’s employees to participate in your plan. While it may seem counterintuitive, offering a match can actually help you save money on taxes, hiring and onboarding costs, and more–making it a smart investment for any small business.

Retirement planning is not only crucial for your personal financial security but also for attracting and retaining top-tier talent. By taking advantage of tax breaks, understanding different retirement plans, choosing the right plan and provider, and offering an employer match, you can ensure a smooth retirement planning process for both you and your small business. Start planning today to secure a prosperous future.

1 Eligible employers can receive a tax credit of up to $5,000 over three years for starting a 401(k) plan, subject to IRS requirements. Employers with 50 or fewer employees qualify for a 100% tax credit, while those with 100-50 employees can receive a 50% tax credit. Additional eligibility criteria include having at least one non-highly compensated employee, an employee who received at least $5,000 in compensation in the preceding year and having substantially the same employees receiving contributions or benefits from another plan sponsored by the employer, a member of a controlled group, or a predecessor within the three tax years prior to becoming eligible. Employers with automatic enrollment plans can receive an extra tax credit of $500 per year for a three-year taxable period. 

2 Decimal, Inc. charges flat fees for recordkeeping and administrative services. Third-party service providers may assess asset-based fees to customers. We advise Plan Sponsors to review all service agreements with providers, such as investment advisors, custodians, and broker-dealers, to evaluate the total cost of the plan. 

3 Google ratings for Ubiquity Retirement + Savings products and services are determined by customer reviews. The rating calculation methodology is available here. The rates shown were last updated on January 12, 2023, and are based on reviews from 2014 to 2023. —