How does a 401(k) work?

@marion.bernhard 

A 401(k) is a retirement savings plan that is offered by an employer to its employees as a benefit. It allows employees to contribute a portion of their salary into a tax-advantaged investment account where the funds can grow over time.

Here's how a 401(k) generally works:

1. Eligibility: An employee becomes eligible to participate in a 401(k) plan based on certain criteria set by the employer, such as completing a probation period or reaching a specific age.
2. Contribution: Employees can choose to contribute a portion of their pre-tax salary, up to a specified limit set by the IRS each year. Some employers may also offer a matching contribution, where they match a percentage of the employee's contribution.
3. Tax advantages: The contributions made to a traditional 401(k) plan are not subject to income tax, meaning that the money is deducted from the employee's paycheck before taxes are applied. This reduces the individual's taxable income for the year. However, taxes are eventually paid when the funds are withdrawn during retirement.
4. Investment options: Once the contributions are made, the employee can select from a range of investment options offered by the plan, such as mutual funds, stocks, bonds, or target-date funds. The account balance can grow over time based on the performance of the chosen investments.
5. Vesting: Employer contributions to a 401(k) plan may be subject to a vesting period, which determines the employee's ownership of those contributions. Vesting often occurs over several years of service, ensuring that employees stay with the company for a certain duration before the employer's contributions become fully theirs.
6. Withdrawals and penalties: Withdrawals from a 401(k) account are generally allowed penalty-free after the age of 59.5. However, if funds are withdrawn before this age, they are typically subject to income tax and an additional early withdrawal penalty. There may also be certain circumstances, such as financial hardship or disability, under which early withdrawals are permitted without penalties.
7. Portability: If an employee changes jobs, they have the option to roll over their 401(k) funds into a new employer's plan, an Individual Retirement Account (IRA), or into their existing IRA. This ensures the continuity of their retirement savings and avoids potential tax consequences.

It's important to note that specific details of 401(k) plans may vary based on the employer, so it is advisable to review the plan documents and consult with a financial advisor to understand the specifics and make informed decisions.