The flexible contribution scheme of solo 401K has made it possible for self-employed individuals to contribute whenever they want to. If they do not feel like contributing this year, they can just make their contribution next year. If they want to contribute to their solo 401K this year, then they would need to consult and get in touch with a tax professional just so they can do the contributions properly. If you were an employee, then you would need to contribute and you need to keep on contributing especially since the contributions are made on a monthly basis. Well, the fact remains that you were an employee. Now, you are no longer an employee because you have put up your own business. Again, please make sure that you consult a tax professional because you would need to key in the taxes that you would to consider when you make your contribution.