Best Solo 401k Brokerages in 2025

If you’re self-employed, a freelancer, or run your own small business, a Solo 401k can boost your retirement savings and offer you high contribution limits plus flexible investment choices. Choosing the right brokerage makes all the difference when you want to secure your future.

We select our top brokerages by looking at:

Read on to learn how these providers stack up and which one might be the best fit for you.

📌 Also read: What Is a Solo 401k? Rules, Eligibility, and FAQ

2025 Best Solo 401k Plan Providers – Quick Comparison

Provider	One-Time Setup Fee	Ongoing Fees	Roth Option?	IRA/Plan Rollovers Accepted?	Loans Available?	Investment Options
Carry	$0	Basic: $29/month (or $299/year) Pro: $49/month (or $499/year) VIP: $500–$1,500/month. No AUM fees.	Yes. Supports traditional pre-tax and Roth contributions, including Mega Backdoor Roth.	Yes	Yes. Can borrow up to 50% of account balance (max $50k).	Self-directed access to stocks, ETFs, robo-advisor portfolios, real estate, private equity, and crypto (via IRA).
Fidelity	$0	No annual maintenance fees.	No (yet). Roth 401(k) to be added by January 1, 2026.	Yes	Does not allow loans or hardship withdrawals.	Fidelity and non-Fidelity mutual funds, stocks, bonds, ETFs, CDs.
E-Trade	$0	No ongoing plan fees. $0 commission for stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, options.	Yes. Allows both traditional and Roth 401(k) contributions.	Yes	Yes. Loans available from traditional and Roth 401k accounts.	Mutual funds, ETFs, individual stocks, bonds, options.
Merrill Edge	$100 one-time setup fee (non-refundable).	Plan admin: $20/month (< $250k assets), $25/month (≥$250k). Participant: $3/month + 0.52% annual AUM fee.	Yes. Roth 401(k) available alongside traditional deferrals.	Yes	Yes, loans are available (subject to plan limits).	Mutual funds and model portfolios (Morningstar-designed)

1. Carry

Carry stands out with its modern Solo 401k solution that offers flexibility and ease. It charges no setup fees, supports both Roth and traditional pre-tax contributions, accepts IRA rollovers, and even lets you borrow against your account. 

You get a wide range of investment choices such as stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, and full brokerage access. This option works well for active investors and small business owners who want extra control over their retirement savings.

Pros:

✅ Supports Roth and traditional contributions, including Mega Backdoor Roth

✅ Allows IRA rollovers and loans

✅ Wide range of investment options

Cons:

❌ Fewer third-party tools available, with improvements underway

❌ Service features are evolving as the platform grows

❌ External research resources are in the process of expanding

2. Fidelity

Fidelity delivers a Solo 401k option that focuses on low costs and a broad selection of investments. It carries a strong reputation for reliable customer service and supports IRA rollovers, which can help you move funds from another account. 

However, it does not offer a Roth option (for the moment) or allow loans. This plan suits traders who appreciate a trusted name and are comfortable with a slightly slower deposit process.

Pros:

✅ Low-cost with competitive expense ratios

✅ Great customer service

✅ Trusted in the investment community

Cons:

❌ No option for Roth contributions at present time

❌ Lacks loan features

❌ Limited digital automation for contributions may be inconvenient for some users

3. E-Trade

E-Trade offers a Solo 401k plan that balances flexibility with straightforward portfolio management. It supports both Roth and traditional contributions, accepts IRA rollovers, and lets you take loans — all without extra fees. 

You also gain access to many investment choices like stocks, ETFs, and mutual funds on a solid brokerage platform. This plan is a strong option if you want to keep costs low while managing your portfolio on your own terms.

Pros:

✅ No plan administration fees

✅ Allows IRA rollovers and loans

✅ Advanced brokerage tools support active portfolio management

Cons:

❌ Complex fee structure for some investment products

❌ Limited support for non-traditional investment options

❌ The platform’s advanced features can feel overly complex for beginners

4. Merrill Edge

Merrill Edge provides a Solo 401k option that covers both Roth and traditional contributions, supports IRA rollovers, and allows loans. It offers curated model portfolios and a solid selection of mutual funds that appeal to investors who like guided, hands-off investing. 

Keep in mind that this option comes with higher fees, including a $100 setup fee, monthly charges, and an annual asset-based fee. It typically suits those who value professional support despite the extra cost.

Pros:

✅ Offers guided investing through curated model portfolios

✅ Provides access to a broad selection of mutual funds and other investment products

✅ Integrated research and portfolio analysis tools

Cons:

❌ Higher fees (setup, monthly, and annual charges)

❌ More complex fee schedule compared to some fee-free competitors

❌ Costs may offset benefits for investors with smaller account balances

Which Solo 401k Provider Should You Choose?

Your ideal Solo 401k provider depends on your business style and investment goals. If you want a plan that keeps costs low and offers plenty of control, Carry makes a strong case. Carry offers zero setup or ongoing fees, supports both Roth and traditional contributions, and even lets you take loans. Plus, it features a Mega Backdoor Roth option that can help you boost your retirement savings beyond regular limits.

Other providers have their own strengths. E-Trade delivers excellent flexibility and affordability for active investors. Fidelity appeals with low-cost structures and a trusted reputation, despite a few trade-offs. Merrill Edge suits investors who prefer guided, hands-off investing and are comfortable with a slightly higher cost. 

Consider these factors carefully to decide which provider best matches your retirement goals.