Compare small business retirement plans featuring Vanguard investments
Every small business is different, and retirement plans are not one-size-fits-all. Compare SEP IRA, SIMPLE IRA, and Individual(k) plans side by side to see how they work, what they cost, and which may fit your goals.
Explore your options
A flexible, employer-funded plan.
Employer contributions only
You can change how much you contribute each year
Simple to manage
An easy-to-manage plan with employee participation.
Employees can contribute
Employer contributions are required
Straightforward to set up and maintain
Higher savings potential for owner-only businesses.
Employee and employer contributions
Higher combined contribution limits
Designed for businesses with no employees (other than a spouse)
A flexible, employer-funded plan.
Employer contributions only
You can change how much you contribute each year
Simple to manage
Employees can contribute
Employer contributions are required
Straightforward to set up and maintain
Employee and employer contributions
Higher combined contribution limits
Compare plan features
See how each plan stacks up across contributions, costs, and flexibility.
Plan features | SEP IRA | SIMPLE IRA | Individual(k) |
|---|---|---|---|
Employer size | Any size | Up to 100 employees | Any size |
Who contributes | Employer only | Employer + employee | Employer + employee |
Employee salary deferrals | No | Yes | Yes |
Employer contributions | Required for all eligible employees | Required annually (3% match or 2% nonelective) | Up to 25% of the employee’s compensation, not to exceed annual maximums. |
Contribution limits | Employer-only, up to 25% of compensation* | Lower than 401(k) | Highest limits |
Investment choices | A variety of Vanguard mutual funds | ||
Costs** |
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Ideal for | Businesses wanting employer-only funding | Small businesses wanting employee participation | Businesses wanting higher limits, broad features, and scalability |
*Subject to annual IRS limits.
** Pricing is subject to change. Excludes investment expenses.
Find the right small business retirement plan
Share a few details and we’ll help you find a plan that fits your business and your goals.