Vanguard Solo 401k Ascensus Options and Benefits

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The Vanguard Solo 401k Ascensus plan offers a range of options and benefits that can help you achieve your retirement goals.

One of the key benefits of this plan is that it allows for high contributions, up to $57,000 in 2022, plus an additional $6,500 catch-up contribution if you're 50 or older.

This means you can save significantly more for retirement compared to a traditional IRA or 401(k) plan.

Choosing a Provider

Ascensus has been a trusted provider for over 40 years, helping small businesses save for what matters. They offer versatile capabilities, insights, and experience to meet your plan's needs.

You can also open other plan types for small business owners directly through Ascensus by visiting their website.

Vanguard is another option to consider, especially for side hustlers and business owners who want a Solo 401(k) account. They don't charge a setup fee, but there are some limitations to keep in mind, such as no loans on your money or hardship withdrawals before age 59 ½.

Experienced Provider

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Ascensus has been around for over 40 years, founded with a single purpose: to help people save for what matters. They've been doing this for a long time, with a wealth of experience to draw from.

As an industry leader, Ascensus provides versatile capabilities and insights to meet your plan's needs. This means they have a deep understanding of the retirement and college savings space.

You can open other types of plans for your small business directly through Ascensus. Their website is a great resource to learn more about what they offer.

With Ascensus, you'll benefit from their extensive retirement experience, which spans all stages of your financial journey. This is a big plus for those looking for a reliable partner in their retirement planning.

Vanguard vs Fidelity 401(k)

When considering a Vanguard 401(k) plan, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons. We have clients who prefer Vanguard over Fidelity, but ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference.

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Vanguard and Fidelity are both reputable companies with their own strengths and weaknesses. The business owner needs to decide which company they would rather work with.

If you're already doing business with Vanguard, it might make sense to open up an account with them. This way, you can consolidate your financial holdings using their app.

Fidelity also offers a solo 401(k) plan that's worth considering. It's a good option if you're already a Fidelity customer.

In the end, the decision between Vanguard and Fidelity comes down to which company you're already working with.

Step 1: Contact

Contacting the right provider is a crucial step in choosing the best Solo 401k for your needs.

First, you'll need to reach out to the provider's customer service team to initiate the process.

You can contact Ascensus, the company mentioned in the example, at 14362 N Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd, Suite 1000, Scottsdale, AZ 85260.

Their customer service team can be reached by phone at 877-765-6401 or by email at [email protected].

Be sure to ask about any paperwork they require for the transfer and confirm any timelines to avoid delays, just as the example suggests.

Why Choose a Plan?

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Choosing a provider for your Solo 401(k) account is a crucial decision. Ascensus, for instance, is an industry leader that has been around for over 40 years, providing versatile capabilities and experience to meet your plan's needs.

There are many options to consider, but Vanguard is a great choice for side hustlers and solo business owners. They don't charge a setup fee, which can be a significant cost savings.

However, it's essential to be aware of the limitations of Vanguard's Solo 401(k) plan. For example, you can't take a loan on your money, and early withdrawals are only possible with a hardship withdrawal before age 59 ½.

One key benefit of Vanguard's plan is that they don't charge a setup fee, but they do have some trading fees. These fees are minimal, but it's essential to keep them in mind when choosing your investments.

Here are the current 401(k) contribution limits:

Ultimately, the right provider for you will depend on your individual circumstances and needs.

Vanguard Solo 401(k) Options

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You can set up a Vanguard Solo 401(k) account online if you're already a Vanguard client, by logging into your account and choosing Individual 401(k).

To start the process, you'll need to get an Employee Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, which only takes a few minutes to obtain.

You'll also need to sign a few Vanguard documents, which they'll send to you, and return the originals while keeping a copy for yourself.

Vanguard requires all contributions to be made online, and the entire process takes about 2 weeks to complete.

You can choose to handle the plan administration yourself, or assign it to your spouse, accountant, or anyone else you designate.

Here are the key features of a Vanguard Solo 401(k) plan:

  • IRS Approved 401(k) documents
  • Ongoing Plan Maintenance & Support
  • Unlimited Free Rollovers
  • No Transaction Fees
  • Bank, Brokerage & Crypto Account Access
  • Line of Credit Up to $50,000
  • IRS Opinion Letter
  • Form 5500-EZ Preparation
  • One-Click Annual IRS-Required Document Maintenance
  • Download Documents In 3 Hours

Transitioning to a Solo 401(k)

Transitioning to a Solo 401(k) is a big decision, and it's essential to do it right. Contact a professional today, and they can help you navigate the process.

A trustee-to-trustee transfer is often the best way to move your funds without incurring penalties or taxes. This type of direct rollover allows your assets to move seamlessly from one account to another.

You'll need to complete the necessary paperwork before transferring your funds.

What Is Ascensus and Why Are Users Transitioning?

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Ascensus is one of the largest independent retirement and college savings services providers in the U.S. Many Vanguard users were shifted to Ascensus after Vanguard exited the Solo 401k market, but they quickly encountered frustrating limitations.

Higher fees were a major concern, as users were used to Vanguard's cost-efficiency. Ascensus has a reputation for being respected in the retirement space.

Limited investment options compared to their previous plans made it harder for users to pursue more diverse and alternative investments. Users faced more complex paperwork and slower response times.

The ability to transfer Solo 401k funds from Ascensus to a more robust plan has become a priority for many account holders looking for control over their retirement portfolios.

When to Transition Your 401(k)

You should transition your 401(k) when you're ready to take control of your retirement savings. This is often the case when you're self-employed or have a side hustle.

A solo 401(k) can be a great option for self-directed investing, allowing you to explore different investment opportunities. Our team can assist you in transitioning your account and guide you through the process.

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To avoid penalties and taxes, consider a trustee-to-trustee transfer when moving your funds. This direct rollover allows your assets to move seamlessly from one account to another.

Trading non-Fidelity funds in a Fidelity account can come with a cost, but trading Fidelity funds is free. This is something to keep in mind when deciding how to manage your investments.

If you're looking to make a change, it's essential to research and understand the options available to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Vanguard use Ascensus?

Vanguard investments are offered through Ascensus Individual(k) plans, but they are not a direct partner. Ascensus provides administrative services for Vanguard funds in this plan.

What is the downside of a Solo 401k?

The downside of a Solo 401k is that it requires more setup and management, including annual IRS filings and potentially higher fees. This added complexity may outweigh the benefits for some individuals.

Is Vanguard a good 401k provider?

Vanguard is a good choice for 401k investing due to its low cost structure and commitment to shareholders. Its reputation for low fees and reasonable expenses makes it well-suited for long-term investing.

Doyle Macejkovic-Becker

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Doyle Macejkovic-Becker is a meticulous and detail-oriented copy editor with a passion for refining written content. With a keen eye for grammar, syntax, and clarity, Doyle has honed their skills across a range of article categories, including Retirement Planning. Their expertise lies in distilling complex ideas into concise, engaging prose that resonates with readers.

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