If you’re over 50, you’re eligible to make catch-up contributions to your 401(k) plan. These contributions can help you save more money for retirement and reduce your tax bill. To make a catch-up contribution, simply increase the amount you contribute to your 401(k) plan each year by the catch-up limit, which is $7,500 for 2023. … Read more
After reaching age 59 1/2, you have more flexibility in accessing your 401k savings. You can withdraw funds without facing the 10% early withdrawal penalty. Withdrawals are generally taxed as income in the year you receive them, so consider your tax bracket and other financial goals before making a withdrawal. You can choose to take … Read more
Determining if 401(k) contributions affect Medicaid eligibility involves considering the type of Medicaid program and the specific rules governing income calculation. In general, Medicaid programs may count current income, such as wages or Social Security benefits, but not assets, like retirement savings. However, 401(k) contributions may be considered income if they are made through an … Read more
Generally, when you leave a job, whether voluntarily or involuntarily, you have several options for your 401(k) account. You can keep the account with your former employer’s plan, roll it over to an Individual Retirement Account (IRA), or cash it out. If you choose to cash out, you’ll have to pay income taxes on the … Read more
401k loans do not directly impact your credit score. Lenders don’t consider 401k loans when evaluating your creditworthiness because they are not considered a form of debt. However, if you default on your 401k loan, it can have negative consequences for your finances that could indirectly affect your credit score. For instance, if you default, … Read more
Refinancing a 401k loan involves replacing your existing loan with a new loan from the same or a different lender. It can potentially lower your interest rate, extend your repayment term, or decrease your monthly payments. To refinance, you’ll need to check with your current lender to see if they offer refinancing options. If they … Read more
401(k) contributions are deducted from your paycheck before taxes are taken out, which reduces your taxable income. This means you pay less in taxes now. However, when you retire and start taking withdrawals from your 401(k), those withdrawals are taxed as ordinary income. So, while you don’t need to report 401(k) contributions on your taxes … Read more
In bankruptcy proceedings, the treatment of your 401k depends on the type of bankruptcy filed. In Chapter 7, most nonexempt assets, including 401ks, are liquidated to pay creditors. However, 401ks may be partially or fully protected in Chapter 13, which involves creating a repayment plan. Contributions made within one year before filing may be considered … Read more
To withdraw from your Merrill Lynch 401k, you’ll need to contact the plan administrator or visit their website. They will provide you with the necessary forms and instructions. The withdrawal process typically involves completing a withdrawal request form and specifying the amount and method of withdrawal you prefer. You may have options to receive your … Read more
Vesting is a term used in 401k plans to describe the process of gradually gaining ownership of the employer’s contributions to your account. When you start a new job, you typically need to work for a certain period of time before you become fully vested in your employer’s contributions. During this vesting period, you gradually … Read more