How do I open a retirement account when my self-employment income is unpredictable?

Unpredictable income is exactly why a SEP-IRA or Solo 401(k) shines: contributions are discretionary, so you decide each year how much to add based on actual profit, with no mandatory funding. In a lean year you can contribute little or nothing; in a strong year you can max out. A practical approach is to open the account now, fund it with whatever you can monthly, then top it up with a lump sum before your tax deadline once you know your final numbers. Avoid a SIMPLE IRA or defined-benefit plan if your income swings wildly, since both carry required contributions. Estimate your capacity with the Self-Employed Hub at wealthserene.com/tools/self-employed-hub.