Solo 401k
The Solo 401k is a retirement plan for self employed individuals or business owners with no W-2 employees other than a spouse. Sole proprietorships, independent contractors, partnerships and corporations (subchapter S and C corporations) would qualify for a Solo 401k retirement plan.
The deadline for establishing a Solo 401k is December 31st of the year in which you would like to receive the tax deduction or your fiscal year end.
What are some of the benefits of a Solo 401k?
- Solo 401k Contribution Limits - In 2010 and 2011 contributions of up to a maximum of $49,000 or up to $54,500 if age 50+ can be made into a Solo 401k.
- Flexible Annual Contributions - Solo 401k plan contributions can be increased or decreased or stopped on a year by year basis.
- Solo 401k Loans - Tax free loans are permitted with a Solo 401k plan. Loans up to 1/2 of the total value of the Solo 401k up to a maximum of $50,000 are permitted. IRS rules do not allow loans with IRAs, SEP IRAs, or Keogh (Money Purchase/Profit Sharing Plans).
- Tax Deferred Growth - Contributions and investment earnings grow tax deferred. After age 59 1/2 withdrawals can be withdrawn without penalty. Federal and state taxes if applicable will apply.
- Solo Roth 401k - There is an option to make Roth 401k contributions with the salary deferral portion of the Solo 401k. Contributions into a Solo Roth 401k are not tax deductible, but withdrawals are tax free after age 59 ½.
Solo 401k Advantages
There are 2 primary advantages of the solo 401k versus other self employed retirement plans.
- Potentially greater retirement contributions at the same income level, therefore maximizing retirement contributions and valuable tax deductions.
- The option of a tax free loan using the solo 401k's balance as collateral for the loan.
Learn more about the advantages of the Solo 401k.
