Retirement Planning Articles

SEP and SIMPLE plans are retirement options designed for small businesses to simplify administration and reduce financial burdens. SEP plans allow employers to make discretionary contributions to employees' SEP-IRAs, while SIMPLE plans involve employer matching contributions based on employee salary reductions. Both plans offer unique advantages, including tax benefits and minimal IRS filing requirements.

Lumsden McCormick presents a highlight summary of the significant cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) effective for 2025.

A solo 401(k) is an excellent retirement savings option for self-employed individuals and small business owners with no employees, offering high contribution limits and tax savings. With flexible contributions and loan options, this plan allows for substantial, deductible retirement investments. However, solo 401(k)s require more administrative work, making them best suited for business owners with significant income and a commitment to maximizing retirement savings.

In 2025, the Social Security wage base will rise to $176,100, increasing payroll tax obligations for employers with high earners. Employers and self-employed individuals will continue to pay FICA taxes at the same rates, with Social Security tax capped at the new wage base and no cap for Medicare. Businesses should plan for these changes and consult for compliance guidance.

Self-directed IRAs can enhance traditional and Roth IRAs' benefits by allowing investments in alternative assets, potentially offering higher returns. However, they come with significant risks and tax implications that require careful management. Individuals considering self-directed IRAs should evaluate these factors to optimize their estate planning strategies.

If you’re a small business owner, you may be reluctant to set up a retirement plan because of the administrative burdens. Here are two options to consider that have far fewer requirements than traditional qualified retirement plans.

The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023 that was signed into law on December 29, 2022 by President Joe Biden includes the SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022, which introduces over 90 changes to the federal rules governing workplace retirement plans. This landmark legislation builds on the original SECURE Act that was enacted on December 19, 2019, and aims to expand coverage and increase retirement savings while simplifying and clarifying retirement plan rules.

Everyone knows the benefits of a 401(k) plan.  You can build substantial wealth with maximizing your contributions and diversifying between traditional and Roth 401(k) pans.