The W-2 form reports your annual earnings and withholdings to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). It is used to calculate your income tax liability. The W-2 does not include information about your 401(k) contributions. 401(k) contributions are made before taxes are taken out of your paycheck. This reduces your taxable income. The amount of your … Read more
You may be able to transfer funds from your current 401(k) plan into an existing Individual Retirement Account (IRA). This process, known as a rollover, allows you to consolidate your retirement savings. However, it’s important to note that specific rules apply, such as meeting income and contribution limits. Consider researching and consulting with a financial … Read more
When your employment ends, you may be eligible to withdraw funds from your 401(k) plan. The withdrawal process typically involves contacting your plan administrator, completing a withdrawal request form, and providing supporting documentation such as a termination letter or proof of separation. The withdrawal amount will depend on your plan’s rules and your account balance. … Read more
Fidelity Investments is a financial services company that offers a variety of investment products, including 401(k) plans. 401(k) plans are retirement savings accounts that allow employees to save money for retirement on a tax-advantaged basis. Employees can contribute to their 401(k) plans through payroll deductions, and employers may also make matching contributions. Fidelity will stop … Read more
Withdrawing money from a 401(k) while still working is generally not advisable due to tax implications. Withdrawals before age 59½ may trigger a 10% early withdrawal penalty in addition to income taxes on the funds withdrawn. Some exceptions to the early withdrawal penalty include using funds for certain hardship expenses, a first-time home purchase, or … Read more
An employee may choose to defer a portion of their salary into a 401(k) plan, which allows them to save for retirement. This is known as an elective deferral. The amount of the deferral is chosen by the employee and is deducted from their paycheck before taxes are calculated. The deferred income is invested in … Read more
Inheriting a 401k can be a significant financial event, bringing both potential benefits and considerations. Upon the death of an account holder, the designated beneficiary becomes responsible for managing the 401k. They have the option to keep the account as is or roll it over into an individual retirement account (IRA). If kept as a … Read more
FICA, the Federal Insurance Contributions Act, is a payroll tax that funds Social Security and Medicare. Generally, employer 401(k) contributions are not subject to FICA taxes, as the contributions are made on a pre-tax basis. This means that the employee does not pay FICA taxes on the money that is contributed to their 401(k) plan … Read more
Quitting your job can trigger the question of accessing your 401(k). The ability to withdraw depends on several factors. Generally, you must be at least 59½ to make penalty-free withdrawals. However, if you leave your job before 59½, there are exceptions. You can withdraw without penalty if you meet specific conditions, such as becoming disabled … Read more
When you retire, your 401k withdrawals are subject to income taxes. This is because the money you contributed to your 401k while working was pre-tax. This means that you didn’t pay taxes on that money when you earned it. However, when you withdraw the money from your 401k in retirement, it is considered taxable income. … Read more