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401(k) facts & stats

7 fact-checked facts about 401(k) retirement plan basics and terms, each with the reason behind it. 5 more are in today's round and join this page after it closes.

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The basics

A 401(k) is primarily designed to help people save for what?

AnswerRetirement

401(k) plans are employer-sponsored retirement savings accounts.

What is an 'employer match' in a 401(k)?

AnswerEmployer contributions based on what the employee contributes

Employers may add money in proportion to employee contributions.

Going deeper

How are contributions to a Roth 401(k) generally made?

AnswerWith after-tax dollars

Roth contributions are taxed now; qualified withdrawals can be tax-free.

In a 401(k), what does 'vesting' refer to?

AnswerWhen you fully own employer contributions

Vesting schedules determine when employer contributions become yours.

Withdrawals from a 401(k) before what age may generally face an extra 10% tax?

Answer59½

The IRS generally applies an additional 10% tax to withdrawals before age 59½, with exceptions.

Expert level

The 401(k) section was added to the US tax code by the Revenue Act of which year?

Answer1978

The Revenue Act of 1978 created section 401(k).

A 457(b) plan is mainly offered to which workers?

AnswerState and local government employees

457(b) plans are deferred compensation plans for government employees.

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