Sign up to save your podcasts
Or
Share From Match to Millions: A Practical Guide to 401(k), Vesting, and Roth Strategy
Share to email
Share to Facebook
Share to X
Share to email
Share to Facebook
Share to X
Or
From Match to Millions: A Practical Guide to 401(k), Vesting, and Roth Strategy
Pensions are fading, and the 401(k) is now the primary engine for a real retirement paycheck. We unpack what that shift means for your money, from how much to save to which account type—pre-tax or Roth—gives you the most control over future taxes. We start by challenging the “save to the match” mindset and show why 15% is a more reliable target for long-term security, especially if you didn’t start in your early twenties.
We dig into the fine print that quietly costs people thousands: vesting schedules and small-balance cash-outs when changing jobs. You’ll learn how to time career moves so you keep employer dollars, and how to roll old 401(k)s in minutes instead of paying taxes and penalties on a forced distribution. Then we get practical about investing inside the plan—when a target-date fund is “good enough,” what to check for (fees, glide path, risk), and how to build a simple, low-cost, diversified mix if your default option isn’t pulling its weight.
The conversation peaks with the Roth 401(k), a standout strategy for younger and higher-earning listeners who want tax-free income later. We clear up the biggest myth—there’s no income limit for Roth 401(k) contributions—and walk through how employer money differs from yours at tax time. With current contribution limits of $23,500 under 50 (plus $7,500 catch-up if you’re 50+), we lay out step-up tactics to reach 15% without shocking your budget. By treating your 401(k) like your future paycheck, and combining smart savings, vesting awareness, clean rollovers, and tax-savvy investing, you’ll build a plan that compounds quietly and pays loudly.
If this helped, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs a nudge on their 401(k), and leave a quick review so others can find it. Your future self will thank you.
Envision Financial Planning. 5100 Poplar Avenue, Suite 2428, Memphis, TN 38137. (901) 422-7526. This communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the United States. Advisory Services offered through Envision Financial Planning, a Registered Investment Adviser.
View all episodes
By Stacey Hyde
5
33 ratings
Pensions are fading, and the 401(k) is now the primary engine for a real retirement paycheck. We unpack what that shift means for your money, from how much to save to which account type—pre-tax or Roth—gives you the most control over future taxes. We start by challenging the “save to the match” mindset and show why 15% is a more reliable target for long-term security, especially if you didn’t start in your early twenties.
We dig into the fine print that quietly costs people thousands: vesting schedules and small-balance cash-outs when changing jobs. You’ll learn how to time career moves so you keep employer dollars, and how to roll old 401(k)s in minutes instead of paying taxes and penalties on a forced distribution. Then we get practical about investing inside the plan—when a target-date fund is “good enough,” what to check for (fees, glide path, risk), and how to build a simple, low-cost, diversified mix if your default option isn’t pulling its weight.
The conversation peaks with the Roth 401(k), a standout strategy for younger and higher-earning listeners who want tax-free income later. We clear up the biggest myth—there’s no income limit for Roth 401(k) contributions—and walk through how employer money differs from yours at tax time. With current contribution limits of $23,500 under 50 (plus $7,500 catch-up if you’re 50+), we lay out step-up tactics to reach 15% without shocking your budget. By treating your 401(k) like your future paycheck, and combining smart savings, vesting awareness, clean rollovers, and tax-savvy investing, you’ll build a plan that compounds quietly and pays loudly.
If this helped, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs a nudge on their 401(k), and leave a quick review so others can find it. Your future self will thank you.
Envision Financial Planning. 5100 Poplar Avenue, Suite 2428, Memphis, TN 38137. (901) 422-7526. This communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the United States. Advisory Services offered through Envision Financial Planning, a Registered Investment Adviser.