Timothy Sumer

How often have you heard you should take advantage of your 401k max contribution rate? We hear it all the time! Unfortunately 401k plans have been oversold as the suitable replacement for the disappearing pension. The max contribution you can make intro your 401k is almost always far larger than any employer match. So the questions becomes: "what is the optimal way to save for retirement?" Should you max out your 401k? That depends!!! Do you want to retire early? If so, where will your early retirement withdrawals come from? It is possible to make a separation from service distribution at or after age 55, but the request needs to be done correctly to avoid any 10% penalty. Are you a high earner? If so, does making a max contribution to a tax deferred vehicle really make sense? Do you have faith that our government spending will get under control? Tax deferred vehicles have their place, but too much tax deferred money can set you up for a major tax headache ...