Retirement planning doesn’t end with a 401(k). Many savers discover that diversify your retirement income sources effectively is key to meeting different goals and mitigating future risks. Exploring alternative accounts brings tax flexibility, higher limits for some, and options for the self-employed or nonprofit workers.

In this guide, you’ll learn about employer-sponsored alternatives, individual IRAs, small-business solutions, annuities, life insurance vehicles, and strategic combinations to maximize your nest egg.

Why You Should Look Beyond Your 401(k)

While a 401(k) offers valuable tax deferral and potential employer match, it may not fit every situation. A single plan can leave savers exposed to market shifts, plan restrictions, or employer solvency issues. By considering a broader set of accounts, you tap into tax-free qualified withdrawals after retirement and specialized features that align with changing careers and income levels.

For nonprofit employees and government workers, unique vehicles exist. Self-employed individuals often benefit from plans with higher annual contribution limits for self-employed. Understanding these options ensures you harness every tool available.

Employer-Sponsored Plans: More Than a 401(k)

Beyond the familiar 401(k) and Roth 401(k), employers may offer a variety of defined contribution and benefit plans. Each has distinct cost structures, eligibility rules, and tax treatments.

• 403(b) and Roth 403(b) – nonprofit employee plans.
• 457(b) governmental – flexible catch-up for public-sector workers.
• SIMPLE IRA/401(k) and SEP IRA – streamlined for small employers and self-employed.
• Solo 401(k) – top limits for sole proprietors.
• Profit Sharing and 401(a) – employer-driven contribution models.
• Cash-Balance Plans and Defined Benefit Pensions – guaranteed income sources.
• Federal Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) – low-cost option for federal employees.
• Nonqualified Deferred Compensation (NQDC) – executive-level deferrals.

2026 Contribution Limits at a Glance

Note that total contributions cannot exceed your annual compensation. Some 401(k)s also permit post-tax deferrals beyond these limits, adding tax-deferred growth potential for high earners.

Tax Treatments and Key Features

Understanding account tax treatment drives smarter placement of savings. Roth vehicles use after-tax contributions for tax-free qualified withdrawals after retirement. Traditional accounts reduce taxable income today, deferring taxes until distribution.

Other highlights include:

• SIMPLE and SEP IRAs: Employer-funded, tax-deferred, higher limits for self-employed.
• Defined Benefit and Cash-Balance: Offer guaranteed payout streams set by formulas.
• TSP: Ultra-low fees, federal plan mirrors 401(k) structure.
• GIAs and NQDC: Nonqualified options for executives seeking deferred comp.

Individual Accounts and Income Eligibility

Traditional and Roth IRAs remain staples for individuals outside employer plans. Roth IRAs face phase-out based on modified adjusted gross income (MAGI), as follows:

Full Roth contribution for single filers requires MAGI under $153,000, with partial eligibility to $168,000. Joint filers can earn up to $242,000 for full and $252,000 for partial contributions. Spousal IRAs allow non-working partners to save if the other spouse earns income.

Also consider that IRAs offer flexible rollover options from employer plans, making them ideal for career changes or rollovers after leaving a job.

Optimal Strategies and Combination Approaches

Maximizing retirement readiness often means blending account types. A typical blueprint might look like:

• Max out employer 401(k)/403(b) for matching contributions.
• Fund Roth IRA for tax-free growth and bracket diversification.
• Use SEP IRA or Solo 401(k) for self-employed high earners.
• Employ catch-up contributions after age 50 or super catch-up at 60–63.
• Rollover old plans into IRAs for consolidated management.

Top IRA providers in 2026 combine low fees with robust tools and occasional matches:

• Charles Schwab: No minimums, wide SEP/SIMPLE support.
• Fidelity: Comprehensive calculators and plan rollovers.
• Robinhood: Up to 3% IRA match, attractive cash rates.
• Interactive Brokers: Extensive fund selection, low-cost trades.
• Other options: SoFi, E*TRADE, Acorns, Vanguard, TIAA.

Review your career path, tax projections, and retirement timeline to allocate contributions where they deliver maximum impact. Diversifying across pre-tax, Roth, and employer-driven accounts builds resilience against future tax changes and market volatility.

Ultimately, moving beyond the 401(k) enriches your retirement toolkit. By leveraging multiple account types for lasting security, you take command of your financial future and tailor strategies to evolving needs and life stages.