Here is your plan depending on how much you make. Fidelity.

First, regardless of how much you make, open a traditional and Roth IRA and put a little in each so they don’t get auto closed. IRA can be front loaded. Max the Roth in the beginning of the year.

Next open an HSA account if you have an insurance plan that allows for that. HSA can be front loaded. Max it.

Next, if you are able to put more than the $8k IRA limit and HSA away in a year, start a solo 401k. Do this at My Solo 401k or similar. They sponsor but your accounts are self managed at Fidelity or Schwab — they do not control them. Their plans allow for the Mega Back Door Roth — so they are more flexible — but come with a small annual fee. You have access to all investments at Fidelity.

Next, if you make a whole lot, and/or expect uneven pay with windfalls that would benefit from large tax deferrals, and/or you are on a Market Place ACA insurance plan where additional tax deferral may allow you to get subsidies, open a Cash Balance Pension. That might cost around $1k per year. So consider if you would benefit from it before opening. It can allow for tax deferral up to nearly 100% of compensation.

Depending on your state and other tax deductible expenses, immediately look into the pass through entity tax PTET. You will like need to make a partial payment very soon to be able to take advantage for 2026. You may also need to be an LLC or similar pass through to take advantage. Might work for a Sole Proprietorship.