How Much Should a 1099 CRNA Save for Retirement?
As a 1099 CRNA, you're responsible not just for delivering exceptional care—but also for managing your business and planning for your future. That includes one of the most important financial questions you'll face: How much should I be saving for retirement?
Without an employer-sponsored 401(k) or automatic contributions, retirement planning can feel overwhelming. But with the right strategy, 1099 CRNAs are in a unique position to maximize tax advantages, grow wealth faster, and retire with confidence.
Let’s break down how much you should be saving, and the best ways to get there.
The 20% Rule: A General Guideline
Most financial experts recommend saving 15%–20% of your gross income toward retirement. For W-2 employees, that might include employer matches. As a 1099 CRNA, however, you're flying solo—so the full responsibility falls on you.
If you're earning $200,000 a year, that means setting aside $30,000–$40,000 annually for retirement.
Is that doable? Absolutely. But it takes intentional planning, especially with fluctuating income and higher tax obligations.
What’s Your Retirement Number?
The better approach is to calculate your personal retirement goal—often referred to as your “retirement number.” This depends on:
Your target retirement age
Desired lifestyle and annual spending in retirement
Estimated healthcare costs
Other assets or income sources (pensions, Social Security, etc.)
A good starting formula:
Annual income needed in retirement × 25 = target nest egg
If you plan to live on $100,000 per year, your goal should be roughly $2.5 million.
This gives you a benchmark to reverse-engineer your savings rate.
What Accounts Should 1099 CRNAs Use?
One of the biggest advantages of being self-employed is access to higher contribution limits and more flexible options. At CBFC, we help CRNAs maximize accounts like:
Solo 401(k):
Contribute up to $23,000 in 2025 ($30,500 if 50+) as employee
Add up to 25% of net earnings as employer
Total limit: $69,000 (or $76,500 if 50+)
Pre-tax or Roth options available
SEP IRA:
Simpler to set up than a Solo 401(k)
Contribute up to 25% of net earnings, max $69,000 in 2025
No Roth option, but great for those with fewer admin needs
Roth IRA:
Income limits apply
$7,000 contribution limit ($8,000 if 50+)
Still useful for long-term tax planning
We often recommend a layered approach: contribute to a Solo 401(k) and max out a Roth IRA if eligible.
How CBFC Helps CRNAs Build a Retirement Strategy
We specialize in helping 1099 CRNAs:
Set realistic retirement goals
Choose the best mix of tax-deferred and tax-free accounts
Implement automated saving strategies
Understand how retirement planning fits into broader cash flow, tax, and investment decisions
We don’t believe in cookie-cutter financial plans. Every CRNA’s lifestyle, goals, and income vary—and so should their retirement strategy.
Final Thoughts
Saving for retirement as a 1099 CRNA isn’t just possible—it can be powerful. With no cap on your earning potential and flexible account options, you’re in a great position to build long-term wealth. The key is starting early, contributing consistently, and making sure your plan grows with your career.
Need help building a retirement strategy that fits your life and income?
Connect with CBFC today to schedule a consultation—we’ll help you take the guesswork out of your future.
