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Vanguard Individual 401(k)

A straightforward, low-cost retirement plan for the self-employed.

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Overview

Vanguard's Individual 401(k) allows self-employed individuals and small business owners with no employees to save for retirement with high contribution limits. The plan offers access to Vanguard's well-known lineup of low-cost mutual funds and ETFs. While the plan itself has no setup or maintenance fees, there may be annual fees for the underlying investments.

✨ Key Features

  • No setup or maintenance fees for the plan
  • Access to a wide selection of Vanguard mutual funds and ETFs
  • Traditional and Roth contribution options
  • Rollover acceptance from other retirement plans

🎯 Key Differentiators

  • Focus on low-cost index funds and ETFs
  • Strong brand reputation for investor-friendly practices

Unique Value: Offers a no-frills, low-cost Individual 401(k) plan with access to Vanguard's renowned selection of investment products.

🎯 Use Cases (2)

Retirement savings for freelancers who prefer a low-cost, index-fund-based investment strategy Long-term, tax-advantaged investing for sole proprietors

✅ Best For

  • Building a diversified retirement portfolio with a focus on low expense ratios
  • Consolidating retirement assets into a single, low-cost plan

💡 Check With Vendor

Verify these considerations match your specific requirements:

  • Businesses with employees (other than a spouse)
  • Investors who want to actively trade individual stocks or invest in non-Vanguard funds without potential transaction fees
  • Individuals who require a loan option from their 401(k)

🏆 Alternatives

Fidelity Charles Schwab E*TRADE

While it may lack some features like a loan option, its primary appeal is its alignment with a low-cost, passive investing philosophy.

💻 Platforms

Web iOS Android

🛟 Support Options

  • ✓ Email Support
  • ✓ Phone Support
  • ✓ Dedicated Support (NA tier)

🔒 Compliance & Security

✓ GDPR

💰 Pricing

Contact for pricing
Free Tier Available

Free tier: No setup or maintenance fees for the plan. Annual account service fees may apply to the underlying brokerage account depending on the balance.

📊 Market Info

Customers: NA

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