Free Planning Tool
Retirement contribution maximizer.
Find out how much you can contribute to a Solo 401(k), SEP-IRA, or SIMPLE IRA based on your self-employment income — and see your estimated tax savings and after-tax cost at your marginal rate.
Your information
2026 contribution limits
Marginal rate: 24%
| Solo 401(k)★ | SEP-IRA | SIMPLE IRA | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Employee deferral | $24,500 | — | $17,000 |
| Employer contribution | $30,000 | $30,000 | $4,500 |
| Total max contribution | $54,500 | $30,000 | $21,500 |
| Est. federal tax savings | $13,080 | $7,200 | $5,160 |
| After-tax cost | $41,420 | $22,800 | $16,340 |
| Deadline | Establish by Oct 15 (tax year); fund by tax filing deadline (incl. extensions) | Establish and fund by tax filing deadline (incl. extensions) | Must be established by Oct 1 of the year being funded |
Best plan for your situation
Solo 401(k) allows the highest contribution for most owners earning above $100,000. It's the highest-leverage retirement deduction available to you.
Roth Solo 401(k) option
Solo 401(k) also offers a Roth contribution option on the employee deferral — allowing after-tax contributions that grow tax-free. Consult your plan provider.
Work with Matt
Ready to build a plan?
Matt Reese, CPA works with S-corp owners to maximize retirement contributions and coordinate them with reasonable compensation, entity structure, and the full tax plan.
Tax services provided through Reese CPA. This page is educational and does not constitute tax advice.