Adding a Roth Account to Your E*TRADE Individual 401(k)

Who This Applies To

You currently have an ETRADE Individual 401(k) using ETRADE’s plan document and account package. This typically includes a Traditional Individual 401(k) and, once enabled, a Roth Individual 401(k) under the same plan.

If you plan to make Roth employee deferrals, E*TRADE requires that you open a separate Roth Individual 401(k) account that is properly linked to your existing plan.


Important Notes Up Front

  • You are utilizing **E*TRADE’s Individual 401(k) plan design**, not a third‑party plan document.
  • Traditional and Roth assets are held in separate accounts, but must be tied to the same plan.
  • Accuracy is critical—the Plan Name and Plan Number must match exactly or the new Roth account will not be linked correctly.
  • E*TRADE can be contacted directly with questions related to forms, processing, or plan details.

Steps to Add a Roth Individual 401(k) Account

Step 1: Start a New Individual 401(k) Application – To add a Roth account, E*TRADE requires submission of a new Individual 401(k) application. – The application can be completed using **E*TRADE’s online application process**.

Step 2: Link the Roth Account to Your Existing Plan When completing the application: – Indicate that you are adding a Roth Individual 401(k) account – Link the new Roth account to your existing Traditional Individual 401(k)

⚠️ Critical Requirement – The Plan Name and Plan Number must exactly match your existing E*TRADE Individual 401(k) plan documentation. – If this information does not match, the Roth account will not be properly linked to your plan.

Step 3: Locate Your Plan Information (If Needed) – If you do not have a copy of your original plan documents showing the Plan Name and Plan Number, E*TRADE recommends calling their retirement team for assistance.

**E*TRADE Tax & Retirement Department
📞 877‑921‑2434**

Step 4: Submit and Confirm Setup – Submit the completed application – Confirm with E*TRADE that the Roth account has been successfully linked to your existing Individual 401(k) plan


After the Roth Account Is Open

Once the Roth Individual 401(k) account is established:

  • Confirm the Roth account number with E*TRADE
  • Notify your payroll provider or payroll contact (if applicable) that Roth deferrals should be directed to the Roth account
  • Ensure contributions are clearly identified as:
    • Traditional (pre‑tax) employee deferrals, or
    • Roth employee deferrals

Need Help?

Because you are using **E*TRADE’s Individual 401(k) plan and account package**, E*TRADE is the best resource for: – Application assistance – Confirming Plan Name and Plan Number – Account linking and processing timelines

If you would like help evaluating whether Roth deferrals are appropriate, or how Roth fits into your overall retirement contribution strategy, please contact our team.


This flyer summarizes ETRADE’s current process for adding a Roth Individual 401(k) account. ETRADE forms and procedures are subject to change.

Paul Sundin

About the Author

Paul Sundin, CPA | Founder & CEO of Emparion

Paul Sundin is a CPA with over 30 years of experience with tax planning and retirement structuring. He has helped thousands of business owners, including Inc. 5000 companies, global brands, and Silicon Valley startups.

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Emparion, LLC does not provide legal, investment or tax advice. The information herein is general and educational in nature and should not be considered legal or tax advice. Tax laws and regulations are complex and subject to change, which can materially impact financial results. Emparion cannot guarantee that the information herein is accurate, complete, or timely. Emparion makes no warranties with regard to such information or results obtained by its use, and disclaims any liability arising out of your use of, or any tax position taken in reliance on, such information. Please consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific situation.