What is a 401(k)?

Understanding the Basics of a 401(k)

When it comes to preparing for your retirement, a 401(k) is something you’ve likely heard of before. If you’re an active professional or someone in the workforce, chances are you’ve encountered the term 401(k) or even have one.

But what exactly is a 401(k)? 

A 401(k) is a company-sponsored retirement savings plan that allows employees to invest a portion of their paycheck into retirement accounts. Within this structure, a fraction of your paycheck is channeled directly into a designated investment account. This approach fosters future financial security. Plus, it empowers you to choose investments that align with your objectives.

The Benefits of a 401(k)

One notable benefit of a 401(k) is the ability to automate your retirement savings contribution. It offers flexibility in choosing your contribution amount up to federal limits. In addition, your employer may add an extra layer of incentive by offering a matching contribution. 

When your employer engages in dollar-for-dollar or percentage-based matches, it essentially translates to free funds that double the impact of your account. Also, the contributions you make may even reduce your current taxable income, resulting in potential payroll deductions from taxes.

Traditional vs. Roth 401(k): Understanding the Differences

Traditional 401(k): The traditional version offers an upfront tax break on your savings, effectively reducing your taxable income.

Roth 401(k): Roth 401(k) requires contributions from after-tax dollars, with the payoff being tax-free withdrawals in retirement.

Key Points

• A 401(k) is a retirement savings plan offered by employers, allowing workers to allocate a portion of their salary into this account.
• Some companies might match a portion of these savings with their own contributions.
• Two primary 401(k) variants: traditional and Roth.

• Traditional 401(k):

  • Funded with pre-tax dollars.
  • Lowers present taxable income.
  • Withdrawals during retirement are taxable. 

• Roth 401(k):

  • Contributions made from post-tax earnings.
  • No immediate tax advantage.
  • Withdrawals in retirement are tax-free.

401(k) vs. IRA: What’s the difference?

In addition to the 401(k) offered by employers, individuals can independently establish another kind of retirement savings tool called an Individual Retirement Account (IRA).

An IRA provides tax benefits similar to a 401(k) and can be set up through various platforms like brokerage firms, IRA-specific software, or banks. Typically, IRAs grant a wider range of investment choices in comparison to 401(k)s. Furthermore, they offer individuals greater control in directing their investments and deciding on their allocation.

IRAs exist in various forms, but the two most common types are:

Traditional IRAs: A Traditional IRA allows you to make contributions with pre-tax dollars, offering the possibility of a tax deduction depending on your income level and eligibility for an employer-sponsored retirement plan. The invested funds grow tax-deferred, meaning you won't owe taxes on your earnings until you make withdrawals during retirement.

Roth IRAs: A Roth IRA allows you to make contributions using post-tax dollars. That means the benefit lies in the fact that qualified withdrawals during retirement are entirely tax-free. Additionally, Roth IRAs offer more flexibility in terms of withdrawal rules, allowing you to take out your post-tax contributions (but not your earnings) at any time without incurring penalties. It's important to note that eligibility to contribute to a Roth IRA is based on your income, and there are income limits that may restrict your ability to contribute.

IRA Contributions

The IRS establishes annual contribution limits for IRAs, often adjusting based on one's age. Given the advantages of IRAs, those preparing for retirement often consider these limits when planning.

Leaving Your Employer? Here's What You Can Do With Your 401(k)

What happens to your hard-earned 401(k) savings if you decide to part ways with your current employer? 

Luckily, you have options. You can choose to leave your funds with your former employer's plan, transfer it over to a new employer's 401(k) plan, or rollover your funds to an Individual Retirement Account (IRA).

Did you know companies like iTrustCapital can help you seamlessly rollover an old 401(k) into a tax-advantaged IRA? We strive to empower you in taking charge of your financial status where you can access and self-trade alternative digital assets like cryptocurrencies and precious metals within your IRA.

Interested to learn more about 401(k)’s? Read more below.

What to do with an Old 401(k): Key Options and Decisions

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