SELF-EMPLOYED

Retirement Plans for the Self-Employed: Which One Fits?

Explore Solo 401(k), SEP IRA, and SIMPLE IRA options for self-employed savers and compare tax benefits.

June 12, 2026Financial Advisor7 min read

Why Retirement Planning Matters for Freelancers

Without an employer-sponsored plan, self-employed individuals need to choose a retirement vehicle that offers both savings and tax savings. The right plan can lower taxable income today.

Solo 401(k) Benefits

A Solo 401(k) allows high contribution limits and both employee and employer contributions. This can be especially powerful for self-employed taxpayers with consistent earnings.

SEP IRA Advantages

A SEP IRA is easier to administer and lets you contribute a percentage of your net self-employment income. It works well when income varies from year to year.

SIMPLE IRA for Smaller Businesses

A SIMPLE IRA can be a good choice if you have employees or want a lower-cost setup. It includes employer matching but has lower contribution limits than a Solo 401(k).

How to Choose the Best Plan

Compare contribution limits, administrative complexity, and your projected income. Use our calculators to estimate how each plan affects your take-home pay and tax burden.