How To Plan Your 401k Contributions
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1. The 2026 contribution limits
Most employees never hit the combined limit because they don’t have 25%+ employer matches. But if you do — some tech and finance employers go that high — you can shelter up to $70k/year.
2. The employer match: free money
Roth IRA goes before the rest of your 401(k) because it gives you more flexibility: broader investment choices and tax-free withdrawal of contributions anytime.
3. Priority order for retirement contributions
Your contributions are always 100% yours. Employer matches may be subject to a vesting schedule:
4. Traditional vs Roth 401(k)
Leaving before fully vested forfeits unvested employer money. If you’re thinking about switching jobs, check your vesting schedule — delaying a jump by 6 months could be worth $10k+.
5. The math of pre-tax vs post-tax
Most plans allow loans up to 50% of your balance or $50k (whichever is less). No credit check, interest paid back to yourself. But:
6. Vesting schedules
Use only for genuine emergencies with no alternative.
7. 401(k) loans: usually a bad idea
Withdrawing before age 59½ triggers a 10% penalty plus ordinary income tax on the amount. Exceptions include: SEPP 72(t) substantially equal periodic payments, hardship (very narrow definition), first-time home purchase ($10k lifetime), disability, and the Rule of 55 (separated from employer in the year you turn 55).
8. Early withdrawal penalty and exceptions
Traditional 401(k) RMDs start at age 73 (rising to 75 by 2033 under SECURE 2.0). Roth 401(k) RMDs were eliminated starting in 2024, matching Roth IRA rules. If you have a sizable traditional balance, RMDs can push you into higher tax brackets — consider Roth conversions in low-income years between retirement and 73.
9. Required minimum distributions (RMDs)
Most plans offer 15-30 funds. For nearly everyone, the right choice is:
10. Investment selection inside the 401(k)
Check expense ratios. A 1% fee difference compounded over 30 years costs roughly 25% of your final balance. Anything over 0.5% deserves scrutiny.
11. When maxing out is premature
Don’t max the 401(k) if you:
12. Common mistakes
Match-first is non-negotiable. Beyond the match, other financial priorities often win.
13. Run the numbers
Enter your salary, contribution rate, employer match, and years to retirement to see what your 401(k) could be worth at 65.