How to Save for Retirement Without a 401(k)

By Christy Bieber – Updated Jan 1, 2026 at 6:10 PM EST

Key Points

Investing in a Roth IRA allows you to take tax-free withdrawals after age 59 1/2.
A taxable brokerage account can supplement savings in retirement plans.
Self-employed individuals can open a solo 401(k) or SEP IRA to access higher contribution limits.
The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook ›

It may not be easy to save for retirement without a 401(k), but it's also not impossible.

According to a study by the Aspen Institute, 55 million Americans are faced with that very challenge because they have no access to a workplace 401(k), or the benefits it provides, including automatic enrollment and contributions, high contribution limits, or employer-matching funds.

Loading paragraph...

An infographic outlining four different ways to save money for retirement without a 401(k) account. — Image source: The Motley Fool.

Loading paragraph...

Tax Status	Modified Adjusted Gross Income	Contribution Allowed
Single or head of household	Less than $153,000	Full contribution
Single or head of household	$153,000 to $168,000	Partial contribution
Single or head of household	$168,000 or more	No contribution
Married, filing jointly	Less than $242,000	Full contribution
Married, filing jointly	$242,000 to $252,000	Partial contribution
Married, filing jointly	$252,000 or more	No contribution

Loading paragraph...

How Much Do I Need to Retire Comfortably?

The end of work doesn't mean the bills stop. How much should you save for a great retirement?

Loading paragraph...

FAQ about saving for retirement without a 401(k)

Loading faq...

About the Author

Christy Bieber is a contributing Motley Fool retirement and Social Security expert covering retirement planning, 401(k)s, IRAs, and other personal finance topics. Christy has written about finance since 2008 and previously taught business courses at Bryant & Stratton College. She holds a law degree from UCLA and a bachelor’s degree in English, media, and communication with a certificate in business management from the University of Rochester. In law school, she earned three CALI Awards for Excellence for the highest scores in civil procedure and contract law exams.

TMFChristyB

The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.