Can Podcasters Open a Solo 401k?

Podcasting has grown into a real business model. If you’re earning money from ads, brand partnerships, exclusive content, or listener support, you’re likely running a business. And if you’re doing it on your own without full-time employees, you might be eligible for a Solo 401k.

This plan is built for self-employed professionals. It allows you to contribute large amounts toward retirement, reduce taxes, and invest how you want—all under one account.

Here’s what podcasters need to know about qualifying and getting started.

📌 Also Read: How to Set Up A Solo 401k Plan

Who Can Qualify For a Solo 401k?

A Solo 401k, or one-participant 401k, is designed for business owners with no full-time staff. If your podcast earns self-employment income and you don’t hire full-time help, you’re likely eligible.

✅ You Must Earn Self-Employment Income
Revenue from podcast ads, affiliate deals, branded content, premium episodes, or listener donations counts.

✅ No Full-Time Employees Allowed
To qualify, you must not employ anyone full-time (defined by the IRS as working over 1,000 hours per year).
If your spouse helps with editing, production, or marketing, they’re still allowed under the plan.

✅ Most Business Structures Qualify
Sole proprietors, LLCs, S corps, and partnerships are all eligible. What matters is that you don’t have full-time employees, other than a spouse.

📝 Tip: Bringing on a full-time assistant later? You’ll need to upgrade to a standard 401k plan that includes staff.

📌 Also Read: Important Forms for Solo 401k Owners

What You Need Before Opening a Solo 401k

Getting started doesn’t require a fancy business setup. But you’ll need to prepare a few things.

✅ Proof of Income
Track your net earnings or W-2 wages if incorporated. Your contribution limit is based on this figure.

✅ Spouse Participation (Optional)
A spouse who helps with the podcast may also contribute through the same Solo 401k plan.

✅ Business Legitimacy
You don’t need to form an LLC. But your podcast should operate as a real business with proper tax filing.

Why a Solo 401k Can Work for Podcasters

If your podcast is generating income, this plan can give you the flexibility to save more, especially in years when you earn more. It’s one of the few retirement accounts that scales with your business.

Contribution Limits for 2025

You can contribute in two roles: employee and employer.

✅ Employee contribution is up to $23,500
✅ Catch-up if age 50 or older is $7,500
✅ Special catch-up for ages 60–63 is $11,250
✅ Employer contribution is up to 25 percent of compensation
✅ Combined total is up to $70,000, or $81,250 with catch-ups

📝 Note: Your max contribution depends on your business structure. You’ll need to understand terms like net income, adjusted net income, and gross income after deductions.

Choose Traditional or Roth Contributions

Most Solo 401k plans offer two tax options:

Some providers allow a combination of both in a single plan.

Broad Investment Access

Solo 401ks let you choose how your money grows. Most allow:

Some providers offer access to private investments. Be sure to follow IRS rules to avoid prohibited transactions.

What You Get and What You Manage

A Solo 401k puts you in charge. As the plan administrator, you handle both the benefits and responsibilities of the account.

Benefits

Duties

📝 Note: It may help to work with a financial or tax advisor to stay compliant.

📌 Also Read: Solo 401k Vs SEP IRA

Should Podcasters Consider a Solo 401k?

If you’re earning self-employment income from your podcast and don’t have full-time staff, the Solo 401k could be worth exploring.

✅ You can contribute large amounts toward retirement
✅ You choose how your money is invested
✅ You have the option of Traditional or Roth
✅ It’s built to grow with your business

Set up your business properly. Keep clean records. And ask a professional if you need help making the most of the plan.

📌 Want more financial tips for creators? Check out these articles:

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