For millions of Americans forging their own paths as entrepreneurs, consultants, or part-time professionals, retirement planning can feel like trying to hit a moving target. There’s no HR department offering a 401(k), no employer match, and often, no steady paycheck. But that doesn’t mean long-term financial security is out of reach.

“Without employer-backed benefits, individuals need to be extra diligent in managing their retirement savings strategy,” says Nasrin Mazooji, Chief Operating Officer at Ubiquity, a pioneer in small business retirement solutions. “First, they have to identify and navigate their options, then establish some key saving habits to keep them in control and on track towards their goals.”

The good news? Today’s retirement landscape is more accessible and technology-driven than ever-especially for those who know where to look. Here are some expert-backed strategies to help part-time professionals build meaningful wealth for tomorrow, even if they’re not clocking into a traditional job today.

1. Start Where You Are: IRAs, Solo 401(k)s, and HSAs

For self-employed individuals earning non-passive income, Traditional and Roth IRAs are solid entry points. These accounts allow you to contribute up to $7,000 annually (or $8,000 if you’re over 50), with varying tax advantages depending on your income and filing status.

“For those who have the capacity to save beyond IRA limits, solo 401(k) plans offer a valuable opportunity to significantly increase annual contributions, provided they are established by the tax filing deadline,” Mazooji explains. “In both cases, setting up automatic contributions can help maintain savings discipline with minimal ongoing effort.”

Another overlooked gem? The Health Savings Account (HSA). If you have a high-deductible health plan, an HSA can be a triple tax-advantaged powerhouse: contributions are tax-deductible, investments grow tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified healthcare expenses are tax-exempt.

2. Think Percentages, Not Dollar Amounts

One of the biggest challenges for gig workers and freelancers is inconsistent income. Instead of committing to a fixed monthly deposit, consider saving a percentage of your earnings. This approach flexes with your cash flow while helping you build discipline over time.

“Since income can vary considerably for gig workers, freelancers, and consultants, it’s often more effective to save a consistent percentage of earnings rather than committing to a fixed dollar amount,” adds Mazooji.

That flexibility empowers you to stay on track without derailing your budget during leaner months.

3. Take Advantage of SECURE 2.0 Changes

Thanks to the SECURE 2.0 Act, part-time workers now have increased access to employer-sponsored retirement plans. If you’re working multiple part-time jobs or accumulating long-term part-time hours, you may now qualify for a 401(k) where you previously didn’t.

“Part-time employees may also see new opportunities thanks to recent changes under SECURE 2.0, which expanded 401(k) eligibility to long-term part-time workers who have completed at least 500 hours of service per year for two consecutive years,” says Mazooji. “This gives more part-time workers access to employer-sponsored retirement plans that previously may have been out of reach.”

Even if you don’t qualify through an employer, solo retirement options can still offer robust savings power with fewer administrative hoops.

4. Embrace the Autonomy

While not having a traditional employer might seem like a disadvantage, it also grants you full control. You get to choose your plan, your provider, and your investments. That kind of agency is rare and powerful.

With the right tools and consistent contributions, entrepreneurs and freelancers can not only catch up to their traditionally employed peers but often outpace them in retirement readiness.

The Takeaway

Self-employment doesn’t mean going at it alone when it comes to retirement. With tailored plans like Solo 401(k)s, tax-smart options like HSAs, and flexible strategies designed for income variability, building a secure financial future is entirely possible-if not easier than ever before.

Mazooji sums it up best: “With a thoughtful strategy and steady discipline, individuals without full-time employment can still build meaningful long-term retirement security.”

And for entrepreneurs, that might be the most empowering investment of all.

Written in partnership with Tom White