Navigating the world of retirement savings can be complex, but one investment tool stands out as a cornerstone of many Americans’ retirement plans: the 401(k) plan. Whether you’re just starting out in your career or nearing retirement age, understanding the ins and outs of your 401(k) can help you make informed decisions about your financial future. To help demystify this important investment vehicle, we’ve compiled the top 10 questions about 401(k) plans and provided comprehensive answers to guide you along the way:

1. What is a 401(k) Plan?: A 401(k) plan is a retirement savings account sponsored by an employer that allows employees to contribute a portion of their pre-tax income toward retirement savings. Employers may also offer matching contributions to incentivize employee participation.

2. How Much Can I Contribute to My 401(k)?: For 2024, the annual contribution limit for 401(k) plans is $20,500 for individuals under 50 years old. Those aged 50 and older can make catch-up contributions of an additional $6,500, bringing their total contribution limit to $27,000.

3. What are Employer Matching Contributions?: Some employers offer matching contributions to employees’ 401(k) plans, typically up to a certain percentage of the employee’s salary. It’s essential to take advantage of employer matches, as they represent free money toward your retirement savings.

4. What Investment Options are Available in a 401(k)?: 401(k) plans typically offer a range of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and index funds. It’s important to review and understand the available investment choices to build a diversified portfolio aligned with your risk tolerance and retirement goals.

5. Can I Change my 401(k) Investment Options?: Most 401(k) plans allow participants to change their investment options periodically. Regularly reviewing and adjusting your investment allocations can help ensure your portfolio remains aligned with your evolving financial situation and retirement objectives.

6. What Happens to My 401(k) if I Change Jobs?: When you leave a job, you have several options for your 401(k) account, including leaving it with your former employer, rolling it over into your new employer’s plan, rolling it over into an Individual Retirement Account (IRA), or cashing it out (which may incur taxes and penalties).

7. What are the Tax Implications of 401(k) Withdrawals?: Withdrawals from a traditional 401(k) are subject to ordinary income tax, while withdrawals from a Roth 401(k) (if available) are tax-free in retirement. Withdrawals made before age 59½ may also be subject to a 10% early withdrawal penalty.

8. What is a Roth 401(k) and Should I Consider it?: A Roth 401(k) allows participants to contribute after-tax dollars, with qualified withdrawals in retirement being tax-free. Consider a Roth 401(k) if you anticipate being in a higher tax bracket in retirement or want tax diversification in your retirement accounts.

9. Can I Borrow from My 401(k)?: Many 401(k) plans allow participants to take loans against their account balance, but it’s important to understand the potential implications, including interest charges and repayment requirements. Borrowing from your 401(k) should generally be considered a last resort.

10. When Should I Start Contributing to a 401(k)?: The earlier you start contributing to a 401(k), the better, thanks to the power of compounding returns. Even small contributions made early in your career can grow significantly over time, so don’t delay in getting started.

401(k)’s are a useful investing tool you should take full advantage of whenever possible. If you have further 401(k) questions or want an even more detailed look at these retirement accounts, tune into the latest episode of CAPitalize Your Finances, where we discuss 10 questions all related to the 401(k).