401(k) for Gig Workers and Freelancers: What Are Your Options?

The gig economy is booming. From rideshare drivers and freelance designers to independent consultants and delivery couriers, more Americans than ever are working for themselves. Flexibility, autonomy, and the ability to chart your own course are huge perks. But there’s a catch: gig workers and freelancers don’t have access to traditional employer-sponsored retirement plans like the classic 401(k). Without automatic payroll deductions, company matches, or HR departments nudging you to save, planning for retirement falls squarely on your shoulders.

If you’re a gig worker or freelancer, you might wonder: Can I even have a 401(k)? What are my options? How do I save for retirement when my income fluctuates from month to month? The good news is, you have more choices than you might think. With the right strategy and a bit of discipline, you can build a retirement nest egg that rivals (or even surpasses) your traditionally employed peers. Let’s delve into the much-asked question: 401(k) for gig workers and freelancers: what are your options?

Why Gig Workers Need a Retirement Plan

It’s easy to put off retirement planning when you’re hustling to land your next client or gig. But the risks of neglecting your future are real:

• No Employer Match: Unlike traditional employees, gig workers don’t get “free money” from employer matches. Every dollar you save is yours.
• No Payroll Deductions: Without automatic deductions, saving requires more self-discipline.
• No HR Guidance: There’s no benefits manager to walk you through your options or remind you to increase your contributions.

Add in inconsistent income and the temptation to spend during good months, and it’s no wonder many freelancers fall behind on retirement savings. But starting early and contributing regularly, even in small amounts, allows you to harness the power of compounding. The sooner you begin, the more your money can grow.

401(k) for Gig Workers and Freelancers: What Are Your Options?

The biggest hurdle facing freelancers and those based out of the gig economy is that they don’t have access to traditional employer-sponsored 401(k) plans. But fret not; there are multiple savings options tailored to their retirement. Before that, let’s examine why gig workers need a retirement plan.

401(k) and Other Retirement Options for Gig Workers

While you can’t join a traditional employer 401(k), there are several excellent retirement savings vehicles designed for the self-employed and freelancers.

Solo 401(k) — Individual 401(k)

A Solo 401(k) is tailor-made for self-employed people with no full-time employees (other than a spouse). It lets you play two roles: both employee and employer, allowing for higher contributions.

• Contribution Limits: For 2025, you can contribute up to $23,000 as an employee (plus a $7,500 catch-up if you’re 50+). As the employer, you can also contribute up to 25% of your net self-employment income, with total contributions capped at $69,000 (or $76,500 if 50+).
• Tax Advantages: Contributions reduce your taxable income, and investments grow tax-deferred until withdrawal.
• Roth Solo 401(k): Many providers now offer Roth options, letting you pay taxes now for tax-free withdrawals later.
• Loan Option: Some Solo 401(k)s allow you to borrow up to 50% of your balance (up to $50,000), just like a traditional plan.

SEP IRA

A Simplified Employee Pension (SEP) IRA is another popular choice for freelancers and small business owners.

• Who Should Consider: SEP IRAs are great for those with variable income and no or few employees.
• Contribution Limits: You can contribute up to 25% of your net earnings, up to $69,000 in 2025. Catch-up contributions are not allowed for those over 50.
• Simplicity: SEP IRAs are easy to set up and have minimal paperwork. However, if you have employees, you must contribute the same percentage for them as for yourself.
• Roth Option: SEP IRAs are pre-tax only, but you can convert to a Roth IRA later if you want tax-free withdrawals.

SIMPLE IRA

A Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees (SIMPLE) IRA is designed for small businesses with up to 100 employees, but freelancers can also use it.

• Contribution Limits: For 2025, you can contribute up to $16,000 as an employee, plus a $3,500 catch-up if you’re 50+.
• Employer Match: As your own employer, you must match up to 3% of your net earnings.
• Ease of Use: SIMPLE IRAs are easier to administer than 401(k)s but have lower contribution limits than Solo 401(k)s or SEP IRAs.

Traditional and Roth IRAs

If you’re just starting out or want a simple, flexible option, consider a traditional or Roth IRA.

• Contribution Limits: For 2025, you can put away up to $7,000 per year ($8,000 if you’re 50+).
• Traditional IRA: Contributions may be tax-deductible, and withdrawals are taxed as income in retirement.
• Roth IRA: Contributions are after-tax, but withdrawals in retirement are tax-free.
• Flexibility: IRAs are easy to set up and offer many investment options.

New Retirement Platforms for Gig Workers

Fintech companies are stepping up to fill the gap for freelancers. Platforms like Beem, Acorns, and others offer 401(k)-like plans, automated savings, and easy-to-use apps designed specifically for gig workers. These platforms often allow you to set up recurring contributions, round up spare change, and invest with minimal effort.

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) as Supplemental Retirement

An HSA can double as a retirement account if you have a high-deductible health plan.

• Triple Tax Advantage: Contributions are tax-deductible, grow tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are tax-free.
• Retirement Flexibility: After age 65, you can use HSA funds for any purpose (though non-medical withdrawals are taxed as income).

How to Choose the Right Plan for Your Situation

Factors to Consider

Choosing the best retirement plan as a gig worker depends on several factors:

• Income Level: Higher earners may benefit from the larger contribution limits of a Solo 401(k) or SEP IRA.
• Business Structure: If you have employees, a SIMPLE IRA or SEP IRA may be the best fit.
• Flexibility: If your income fluctuates, look for plans that allow for variable contributions.
• Tax Treatment: Decide whether you want to lower your tax bill now (traditional, SEP, SIMPLE) or enjoy tax-free withdrawals later (Roth options).
• Administrative Complexity: Solo 401(k) s require more paperwork than IRAs, but they offer higher limits and loan options.

Take time to review your finances, business goals, and preferences. You can even combine accounts (e.g., contribute to a Solo 401(k) and a Roth IRA in the same year, if eligible).

Overcoming Common Barriers to Saving

Irregular Income and Saving Consistently

One of the biggest challenges for freelancers is inconsistent cash flow. Here’s how to stay on track:

• Automate Contributions: Set up automatic transfers to your retirement account whenever you get paid. Even small, regular contributions add up.
• Budget for Lean Months: Use budgeting tools to plan for months when work slows down, ensuring you can still save something.
• Set Goals and Track Progress: Visualize your savings targets and celebrate milestones to stay motivated.

Emergency Funds and Financial Safety Nets

Before maxing out your retirement accounts, build an emergency fund with three to six months of living expenses. This provides a buffer so you don’t have to dip into retirement savings when unexpected bills arise. Once your emergency fund is in place, you can confidently increase your retirement contributions.

How Beem Can Help Gig Workers Save for Retirement

Beem is designed with gig workers and freelancers in mind, offering digital tools that make retirement saving easier and more effective:

• Budget Planner: Track your income, expenses, and retirement contributions in one place. See where your money goes and identify opportunities to save more.
• Reminders for Tax Payments and Deposits: Set up alerts for quarterly estimated tax payments and regular retirement contributions, so nothing slips through the cracks.
• Visualize Progress: Monitor your long-term savings goals with easy-to-read charts and projections. Adjust your plan as your business grows or your income changes.
• Explore Account Options: Use Beem’s resources to compare Solo 401(k)s, SEP IRAs, and other plans, ensuring you choose the best fit for your needs.

With Beem, you can take control of your retirement future, even without a traditional employer.

Conclusion

Gig workers and freelancers face unique challenges and opportunities. You can build a secure financial future on your terms by proactively choosing the right retirement plan, automating your savings, and using digital tools like Beem. Don’t wait for the “perfect” time to start; a dollar saved today is a step toward the retirement you deserve. Take control, start small if needed, and watch your nest egg grow as your business and career thrive.

With careful planning and the help of digital tools like Beem, you can take control of your retirement savings and build a more secure financial future. It is a smart wallet app with numerous features, from cash advances to help with budgeting and even tax calculations. In addition, Beem’s Everdraft™ lets you withdraw up to $1,000 instantly and with no checks. Download the app here.

FAQs About 401(k) for Gig Workers and Freelancers