A 401(k) plan is a type of retirement savings plan that allows employees to contribute a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out. This means that you can save for your future without having to pay taxes on those contributions upfront.
As an employee, you may be eligible to participate in a 401(k) plan through your employer. If this is the case, it's essential to understand how the plan works and what options are available to you.
One of the most critical aspects of a 401(k) plan is the contribution limit. As an employee, you can contribute up to $19,500 in 2022, or $26,000 if you are 50 or older.
It's also important to note that some employers may offer matching contributions, which means they will match a portion of your own contributions. This is essentially free money that can help your retirement savings grow faster.
It's essential to avoid common mistakes when it comes to 401(k) plans. One of the most critical errors is not contributing enough or consistently.
Another mistake is failing to take advantage of employer matching contributions. This can result in leaving thousands of dollars on the table, which could have a significant impact on your retirement savings.