Blog

Plain-English articles on Solo 401(k) plans.

Education for self-employed and 1099 professionals - plan rules, structure, real-estate considerations and administration. Educational only; not legal, tax or investment advice.

Wealth Management

Mastering Your Finances with the 70/15/15 Budgeting Method

Tired of complicated budgeting systems that never stick? The 70/15/15 rule offers a simple, flexible way to manage your money - no matter your income level or profession. In this blog, we break down how to divide your income into needs, wants, and savings to create a sustainable financial plan that works. Whether you're a solo business owner, first responder, or side hustler, this method helps you live well today while preparing for tomorrow. Plus, see how pairing it with a Solo 401(k) can take your savings even further.

By Garrett Clark

Solo Business Guidance

Nobody Told Me My Side Business Could Unlock a Better Retirement Plan

Millions of Americans have a side business, freelance, consult, sell products online, or earn income from a passion project - but many don't realize that this extra income may qualify them for a powerful retirement savings opportunity. If you have eligible self-employment income, a Solo 401(k) could offer benefits beyond what many traditional retirement accounts provide, including the potential for higher contribution opportunities, expanded investment flexibility, and the ability to roll over eligible retirement assets from former employer plans. In this guide, we'll explain how a side business may unlock access to a Solo 401(k), who may qualify, and why it's worth exploring if you're building income outside of your full-time job.

By Garrett Clark

Tax Planning

IF YOU’RE 1099 AND DON’T HAVE THIS… YOU’RE OVERPAYING ON TAXES

The truth is simple. If you're 1099 and don’t have a Solo 401(k), you’re likely overpaying taxes every single year.

By Garrett Clark

Investment Guidance

Non-Recourse Lending in Self-Directed Accounts

Learn how non-recourse lending works inside a Solo 401(k) or Self-Directed IRA and how it can help you scale real estate investments without personal liability. This guide breaks down the structure, tax advantages, key rules, and when this strategy makes sense so you can make informed investment decisions.

By Garrett Clark

Retirement planning

Mid-Year Solo 401(k) Checkup: Are You on Track?

Is your Solo 401(k) on track this year? A mid-year review can help you maximize contributions, evaluate investments, stay compliant with IRS rules, and prepare for year-end tax planning. In this guide, learn the key steps every self-employed business owner should take to keep their retirement strategy aligned with their financial goals and make the most of the flexibility a Solo 401(k) offers.

By Garrett Clark

Solo Business Guidance

I Have a W-2 Job and a Side Business, Can I Have a Solo 401(k)?

Understanding How a Solo 401(k) Works Alongside Your Employer's 401(k). Many professionals work a full-time W-2 job while earning additional income through a side business, consulting, freelancing, or other self-employment activities. One of the most common questions they ask is whether they can also open a Solo 401(k). The answer is often yes, provided you have eligible self-employment income and meet the plan requirements. In this guide, we'll explain who qualifies, how contributions work when you have both a W-2 job and a side business, the benefits of a Solo 401(k), and how you may be able to roll an old employer-sponsored 401(k) into your Solo 401(k) after leaving your job.

By Garrett Clark

Estate Planning

Planning for the Future: How a 401(k) Fits Into Your Estate Strategy

When it comes to planning for the future, your 401(k) is more than just a retirement account - it’s a powerful estate planning tool. This blog explores how a 401(k), including Solo 401(k)s, fits into your overall estate strategy, helping you protect your legacy, minimize taxes, and ensure your assets are passed on according to your wishes. From beneficiary designations to trust considerations and Roth conversions, we break down key steps to take now so your retirement savings can support your loved ones later.

By Garrett Clark

Solo Business Guidance

MARKETING ON A MICRO-BUDGET

Think you need a big budget to make a big impact? Think again. This blog reveals how solo entrepreneurs can market effectively without breaking the bank. From building an authentic brand voice to leveraging free tools, organic content, and grassroots outreach, you'll learn how to turn limited resources into lasting visibility. Whether you're just starting out or tightening up your expenses, these strategies will help you stretch every marketing dollar further - without sacrificing results.

By Garrett Clark

Retirement planning

How to Get in Trouble With Your Solo 401(k)

7 Costly Mistakes That Could Ruin Your Retirement Plan

By Garrett Clark

Wealth Management

How to Catch Up If You Started Saving Late

Many successful entrepreneurs and self-employed professionals don't begin saving for retirement as early as they planned, but that doesn't mean it's too late to build long-term financial security. In this guide, you'll learn practical strategies to catch up on retirement savings, maximize your contributions, reduce common financial roadblocks, and take advantage of the unique benefits a Solo 401(k) can offer eligible business owners. Whether you're in your 30s, 40s, 50s, or beyond, the right plan today can help put you on a stronger path toward retirement.

By Garrett Clark

Financial Guidance

How Solo 401(k) Loans Work

A Solo 401(k) is one of the most powerful retirement tools available to self-employed individuals and small business owners. While most people focus on its tax advantages and investment flexibility, one of its most valuable and often overlooked features is the ability to borrow from your own retirement account.

By Garrett Clark

Solo Business Guidance

How to Pay Yourself as a Business Owner: The Smart Way to Build Wealth and Save for Retirement

Paying yourself as a business owner involves more than simply transferring money from your business account. Learn how to create a sustainable compensation strategy, avoid common financial mistakes, manage cash flow, prepare for taxes, and incorporate retirement planning with a Solo 401(k) to support both your business and your long-term financial goals.

By Garrett Clark

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