Who This Applies To
You currently have a Fidelity Self‑Employed 401(k) and are using Fidelity’s plan document and account package.
If you plan to make Roth employee deferrals, Fidelity requires that the plan be amended to allow Roth contributions and that a Designated Roth account be established under your existing plan.
Important Notes Up Front
- You are utilizing Fidelity’s Self‑Employed 401(k) plan design, not a third‑party plan document.
- Roth deferrals are not automatically available and must be explicitly enabled.
- Fidelity is the primary point of contact for questions related to forms, processing, and account setup.
Steps to Add Roth Deferrals to Your Fidelity Self‑Employed 401(k)
Step 1: Confirm Your Existing Plan – Your plan is titled “Fidelity Self‑Employed 401(k)”. – Roth deferrals are added through a plan addendum, not by opening a completely separate plan.
Step 2: Complete the Designated Roth Self‑Employed 401(k) Addendum – Fidelity requires submission of the Designated Roth Self‑Employed 401(k) Addendum. – This addendum formally updates your plan to permit designated Roth employee deferral contributions.
Step 3: Submit the Addendum to Fidelity – Submit the completed addendum following Fidelity’s instructions (online upload, secure message, or as otherwise directed by Fidelity). – Fidelity will process the addendum and enable Roth deferrals under your existing plan.
Step 4: Establish the Roth Account (If Required) – Once the addendum is processed, Fidelity will ensure the Designated Roth account is properly set up within your Self‑Employed 401(k). – Confirm that Roth deferrals can be accepted before initiating contributions.
After Roth Is Enabled
Once Roth deferrals are active:
- Confirm Roth availability with Fidelity
- Notify your payroll provider or payroll contact (if applicable) that Roth deferrals are now permitted
- Ensure contributions are clearly identified as:
- Traditional (pre‑tax) employee deferrals, or
- Roth employee deferrals
Need Help?
Because you are using Fidelity’s Self‑Employed 401(k) plan and forms, Fidelity is the best resource for: – Accessing the Designated Roth Addendum – Processing timelines – Confirmation that Roth deferrals are enabled
If you would like assistance evaluating whether Roth deferrals are appropriate for your situation, or how Roth fits into your broader retirement contribution strategy, please contact our team.
This flyer summarizes Fidelity’s current process for enabling Roth deferrals within a Fidelity Self‑Employed 401(k). Fidelity forms and procedures are subject to change.
