This tool assists individuals who are self-employed or small business owners with no employees (excluding a spouse) in determining the optimal amount to contribute to their Solo 401(k) plan. It considers factors such as net self-employment income, age, and any catch-up contribution eligibility to calculate the maximum allowable contributions. For example, a self-employed individual with $100,000 in net earnings can use this tool to see the maximum employee and employer contributions permissible under IRS guidelines, potentially reducing their taxable income.
The significance of accurately calculating retirement contributions lies in maximizing tax advantages and securing a comfortable future. This calculation ensures compliance with IRS regulations, preventing penalties for over-contribution. Historically, the Solo 401(k) has provided a powerful savings vehicle for entrepreneurs, offering higher contribution limits than traditional IRAs and simplifying retirement planning for single-person businesses.