When you leave a job, you have several options for your 401(k), including leave it, roll it over to an IRA or your new 40(k), or cash it out. Each choice has different tax implications and can impact your ability to access your money, especially if you qualify for the Rule of 55. Key… Continue reading What to Do with Your 401(k) When Changing Jobs
401(k) mistakes aren’t just about saving too little – they’re also about poor planning. Common issues like tax-heavy accounts, lack of diversification, and early withdrawals can reduce your retirement income even if your balance is growing. Takeaways Saving money isn’t enough—you need a retirement strategy. Too much in pre-tax accounts can create future tax… Continue reading 401(k) Retirement Planning Mistakes to Avoid in 2026
The second quarter is a key time to reset your finances and stay on track for the year. From reviewing your budget to maximizing your 401(k) and rebalancing your investments, these smart money moves can help you strengthen your financial plan and make meaningful progress in 2026. How to Reset Your Finances in Q2… Continue reading Second Quarter Financial Checklist for 2026
Many retirement shortfalls aren’t caused by market crashes, but by everyday mistakes. These small decisions can quietly cost you years. Here are 12 common mistakes that can delay retirement and what to do instead. Why Small Mistakes Can Delay Your Retirement Most people don’t delay retirement because of one big mistake. It’s usually a… Continue reading 12 Mistakes That Can Delay Retirement (and What to Do Instead)
Your tax refund can be more than extra spending money. Using it strategically – such as boosting retirement savings, paying down debt, or building an emergency fund – may strengthen your long-term financial security. Make Your Tax Refund Work for Your Future If you’re expecting a tax refund this year, you may already have… Continue reading 3 Smart Ways to Use Your Tax Refund in 2026
When you die, your 401(k) only passes to the named beneficiary. Spouses can roll the account into their own IRA, but most non-spouse beneficiaries must withdraw the funds within 10 years, which can trigger substantial tax bills if not planned carefully. Who Inherits Your 401(k)? When it comes to your 401(k), one rule overrides… Continue reading What Happens to Your 401(k) When You Die?
The Rule of 55 allows certain workers to take penalty-free withdrawals from a 401(k) or 403(b) if they leave their job in or after the year they turn 55. Income taxes still apply, and the funds must remain in the employer’s plan to qualify. Key Takeaways The Rule of 55 allows penalty-free 401(k) or… Continue reading What Is the Rule of 55 for 401(k)s?
A 401(k) student loan match allows employers to make retirement contributions based on your qualified student loan payments instead of requiring direct 401(k) contributions. This SECURE 2.0 provision helps employees pay down debt while still earning valuable employer retirement matches. Key Takeaways Employers can match your student loan payments by contributing to your 401(k)… Continue reading How the 401(k) Student Loan Match Works
More than half of recent retirees say they regret how they saved, and only 2 in 5 feel on track with their original retirement plan. See what the data reveals and how to stress-test your 401(k) strategy before retirement begins. What’s Really Happening to Recent Retirees? There’s a gap between how retirement is supposed… Continue reading New Retirement Study: Why So Many Recent Retirees Have Regrets
A 401(k) can offer powerful tax advantages, but understanding how contributions, growth, and withdrawals are taxed is essential. Traditional 401(k)s lower your taxable income today, while Roth 401(k)s provide tax-free withdrawals later. Knowing the difference may help you keep more of your retirement savings. Key Takeaways Traditional 401(k) contributions reduce your taxable income today,… Continue reading 401(k) Tax Implications for 2026: What You Need to Know
