401k Plans and Stocks: The Importance of Diversification

Tuesday, May 4th, 2010

If you have a 401k plan, chances are your money is invested in stocks. Unless nearing retirement, investment experts recommended dabbling in the stock market. For those who are able to wait and survive the markets ups and downs, the stock market is a great way to invest, save, and make money for retirement. If [...]

401k Investments: Should You Choose or Let a Professional?

Tuesday, May 4th, 2010

401k plans are retirement plans designed to supplement pensions and social security. They are funded through employee payroll deductions. An employer has the ability to match all or a percentage of funds contributed. The money is then invested for long-term success. Most individuals opt for bonds, stocks, or a combination of the two. If you [...]

401k Cash Outs versus 401k Loans

Tuesday, May 4th, 2010

If you need money and have been saving for retirement with a 401k plan, you may turn to that plan. You may want to use the money to weather your current financial storm. If you are relatively unfamiliar with the ins and outs of 401k plans, you may be confused. Many individuals know they are [...]

Your 401k and Early Retirement

Tuesday, May 4th, 2010

The American dream is to retire early. Who wouldnt want to put work behind them and spend their days traveling, with friends and family, participating in hobbies, and relaxing? In the past, early retirement was an option for those in good financial standing. Most considered it a reward for good saving and careful planning. Today, [...]

Tips to Avoid Tapping Into Your 401k

Tuesday, May 4th, 2010

Millions of Americans prepare for retirement with 401k plans. With these plans, employees contribute money through payroll deductions. In many cases, employers match. That money is invested and it continues to grow overtime. When used correctly, the individual is able to retire comfortably with the money invested, made, and saved. The keyword is saved. Those [...]

401k Early Withdrawals: Are They Worth it?

Tuesday, May 4th, 2010

Did your employer offer you early retirement? Are you changing jobs? If so, you may wonder about your 401k. In the event of a job switch, you can rollover your 401k to your employers new plan, pay fees to keep it the same, rollover the account into an IRA, or accept a cash out. In [...]

The Pros and Cons of 401k Loans

Tuesday, May 4th, 2010

If you need money and cannot get a loan, due to poor credit, you may consider dipping into your 401k. Many companies allow their employees to borrow from their 401k plans. If you have this option, you may consider taking it. However, is it the best idea? Like most financial choices, 401k loans have their [...]

Questions to Ask About 401Ks

Tuesday, May 4th, 2010

You start a new job. Great! Not long, a company representative will educate you on the perks of your new job. For many, this includes a 401k program. Not all employers offer 401k plans. If yours does, take it! Social Security is unable to carry retirees through their golden years as it once did. Although [...]

How to Enroll in a 401k Program

Tuesday, May 4th, 2010

If you are getting your first job or if you are now starting the journey to save for retirement, a 401k plan is a great place to start. A 401k plan is a retirement savings program. They are employer sponsored. For that reason, you need to work for a company that has an available plan. [...]