Retirement Planning for the Self-Employed (2026 Guide)

Takes freelancers and solopreneurs from “I should really deal with this” to an open, funded, automated retirement plan — in about an afternoon.

Here’s what you’ll walk away knowing:

Which account is actually right for you. The whole guide builds to one decision: Solo 401(k) or SEP-IRA. You’ll see them side by side, with real 2026 numbers, and know exactly which one gives you more room — because at most income levels, the gap is thousands of dollars.

How much you can really contribute. The employer contribution math confuses everyone (hint: “25%” is really ~20% for you). We break the formula down line by line, with worked examples, so you can calculate your own 2026 number with confidence — up to the$72,000 ceiling.

How to save on income that never sits still. The percentage-based system, the paycheck buffer, and the spring “true-up” move that lets you decide your contribution after the year ends, once you know your real profit.

The tax play made obvious. Pre-tax vs. Roth decided in one simple rule, the deadlines you can’t miss, and how a single contribution can shave thousands off your tax bill.

What’s inside:

1.  20-page guide, 9 focused chapters, zero jargon

2. Fillable contribution worksheet — run your own 2026 number

3. The every-dollar split + savings-system worksheet

4. 90-day setup checklist

5. Plain-English glossary

6. Written for U.S. freelancers and solopreneurs with no employees. Every figure is current for the 2026 tax year.

Features:

• Solo 401(k) vs SEP-IRA, decided with real 2026 numbers

• Calculate exactly how much you can contribute — up to $72,000

• A saving system built for irregular, lumpy income

• Fillable worksheets + 90-day setup checklist included

• Plain English, no finance degree required — written for freelancers with no employees

Stack money. Be wise.

Build the plan nobody handed you.

Digital download — no physical item shipped. Educational content, not personalized tax or financial advice.