Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Solo 401k Vs. Individual 401k

 Open Solo 401k | Open Individual 401k | Solo 401k Vs. Individual 401k

Before you proceed to Open Solo 401k, make sure you understand the differences between Solo 401k and Individual 401k. There really aren't too many differences; however, some do exist. In this blog we cover the differences and similarities between Solo 401k and Individual 401k. Here's a hint on the differences: it just has to do with the Solo 401k Provider--the company where you open the owner-only 401k.


Solo 401k Vs. Individual 401k

Solo 401k

  • Owner-only 401k that permits business owner to serve as trustee of the Solo 401k and, therefore, self-direct the funds into any investment that is not prohibited or disallowed. 
  • Trustee can invest in alternative investments such as precious metals (gold, silver) Gold Solo 401k, real estate (rentals, fixer-uppers, condos, rehabs, etc.) tax liens, trust deeds, private shares of companies, etc.
  • Allows for checkbook control (Solo 401k Checkbook Control)--this means Solo 401k trustee can place investments by simply writing a check. 
  • Solo 401k trustee can make a loan (Solo 401k Loan
  • Trustee can invest Solo 401k in life insurance for business owner and his or her beneficiaries
Individual 401k

  • Just like Solo 401k, Individual 401k is a type of self-employed 401k, but commonly offered by brokerage firms, banks and insurance companies.
  • Generally only allows for investing in equities (stocks and mutual funds), bonds, and Certificates of Deposits
  • Generally restricts participant loans
  • Does not permit checkbook control since the provider does not permit investments in alternative investments  (e.g., real estate, precious metals, tax liens, trust deeds).
 Similarities  Between Solo 401k and Individual 401k

  • They are both for the self-employed with no full-time employees
  • They both allow for annual contribution amount of $50,000 for 2012 or $55,500 if the business owner is age 50 or older.
  • They both require limited or no annual reporting
  • They both accept incoming transfer/rollovers from IRAs with the exception of Roth IRAs.
  • They both accept incoming rollovers from Thrift Savings Plans, Former Employer 401ks, 403b and 457.

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