What To Ask About 401(K) Plans Before Applying

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By Jason McDonald


Preparing for the future is vital, especially when it comes to retirement. You should want to retire at an age that's most comfortable, not to mention financially stable, for you. This is one of the many reasons why the likes of Robert Jain recommend 401(k) plans. For those that would like to learn about what these plans entail, and why you should consider signing up as soon as possible, here is what you should ask.

"How can a 401(k) be summed up?" By definition, a 401(k) plan is a savings plan that's designed for retirement purposes. It's usually offered by employers, meaning that if you've been at your place of work for a few years, you may be eligible to sign up. Furthermore, your employer may match what you contribute if the number is high enough. These are just a few details to give you a general idea of what a 401(k) plan is.

"Are there benefits to creating a 401(k) plan?" There are many reasons why employees should look into this type of plan. For one, the contributions you make to the plan aren't taxed. It's also worth noting that employers will often match contributions made by their workers. In other words, those that sign up for these plans have the chance to benefit from free money being added to their accounts. These are just a few reasons why 401(k)s matter.

"How different are 401(k) and IRA plans?" In a word, very. Despite the fact that these plans have the same intended purpose - to save for retirement - they're structured differently. For example, while 401(k) plans are sponsored by employers, IRA plans are prepared by third-party brokers. Furthermore, IRAs plans have numerous investment options, while 401(k) plans have a fixed collection of options. These are just a few reasons why names such as Bob Jain recommend that you weight these retirement plan options to determine which one will be most beneficial.

"I'm interested in signing up, but how will I know if I'm eligible for a 401(k)?" There are numerous requirements that must be met before one is deemed eligible. For one, an applicant must be at least 21 years of age. They must also have been employed by their business for anywhere from 1 to 2 years, depending on the specific plan. Speak to your insurance agent or employer to learn more about specific requirements that you must meet.




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