What advantages does a Self-Directed Solo 401(k) have over a SEP-IRA?

A Rocket Dollar Self-Directed Solo 401(k) allows for employee salary deferral contributions, company matching, Roth contributions, and profit-sharing. The SEP-IRA only allows for profit-sharing contributions.

What are the advantages of a Self-Directed Solo 401(k)?

• Checkbook control for any investment
• You can reach the maximum annual contribution limit quicker since the Self-Directed Solo 401(k) has both salary deferral and profit sharing. (A SEP only includes profit sharing)
• Higher contribution limit for self-employed income deferrals. Individual employee salary deferrals are not allowed in SEP IRAs.
• Catch-up contribution limits for those 50 and older are $6,500.
• Employer contributions (company matching) of up to 25% of total salary compensation OR 20% of profit-sharing, click here to see the annual contribution limit.
• A designated Roth account option in a Solo 401(k), which is not available in the SEP-IRA

What if I have both a SEP and a Solo 401(k)?

You can have both accounts; however, in many situations, the Self-Directed Solo 401(k) has more benefits. Having both a SEP-IRA and a Self-Directed Solo 401(k) will not allow a business owner to defer more than the annual maximum IRS contribution limits.

Is there any time I should definitely go for a SEP-IRA?

If you have any number of full-time employees you will need to go for a SEP-IRA over a Solo 401(k). The SEP-IRA can be a great option for smaller workforces. If you are going to hire employees in the very near future, this can cause you to shut down contributing to a Solo 401(k). Be aware that you will have to give all employees company plan (employer) contributions equal to those of which you own. You can read more about the Self-Directed SEP-IRA here. Those with a large workforce, or ones with vastly different payscales, should probably have a corporate 401(k) and then invest with their own Rocket Dollar Traditional or Roth IRA on the side.

Other workers eligibility that could interfere with you opening a Solo 401(k)

This applies to ALL eligible workers for the plan.

• The employee is 21
• The employee has worked for the employer for at least 3 out of the last 5 years
• The employee has received at least $600 in compensation

This doesn't apply to

• Employees covered by a union agreement
• Employees who are non-resident aliens and don't collect US wages

See our 401(k) Plan