38:["$","$L39",null,{"category":"$3a","relatedArticles":[{"id":"cG9zdDoyNzc3NzI=","databaseId":277772,"postId":277772,"author":{"node":{"id":"dXNlcjoz","databaseId":3,"userId":3,"avatar":{"url":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/47938df052bf0a5283bd6b77ab786737?s=96&d=mm&r=g","size":96,"__typename":"Avatar"},"description":"SmartAsset employs a team of writers and editors with years of experience in the editorial, news and personal finance industries. Some staff members also hold the Certified Educator in Personal Finance (CEPF®) designation from the Institute for Financial Literacy.","additionalMeta":{"expertise":null,"__typename":"User_Additionalmeta"},"email":null,"firstName":"Michael","fullName":"SmartAsset Team","lastName":"Carvin","name":"SmartAsset Team","postCount":{"pageInfo":{"offsetPagination":{"total":1590,"__typename":"OffsetPaginationPageInfo"},"__typename":"UserToPostConnectionPageInfo"},"__typename":"UserToPostConnection"},"slug":"mcarvin","__typename":"User"},"__typename":"NodeWithAuthorToUserConnectionEdge"},"categories":{"nodes":[{"id":"dGVybToxOTQ3NA==","children":{"nodes":[],"__typename":"CategoryToCategoryConnection"},"databaseId":19474,"categoryId":19474,"link":"https://smartasset.com/planning-for-retirement/articles","name":"Retirement Planning","postCount":{"pageInfo":{"offsetPagination":{"total":609,"__typename":"OffsetPaginationPageInfo"},"__typename":"CategoryToPostConnectionPageInfo"},"__typename":"CategoryToPostConnection"},"slug":"planning-for-retirement","ancestors":{"nodes":[{"name":"Retirement","slug":"retirement","__typename":"Category"}],"__typename":"CategoryToAncestorsCategoryConnection"},"parent":{"node":{"name":"Retirement","id":"dGVybTo5Mw==","slug":"retirement","__typename":"Category"},"__typename":"CategoryToParentCategoryConnectionEdge"},"__typename":"Category"}],"__typename":"PostToCategoryConnection"},"content":"$3b","date":"2025-02-20T14:36:34","excerpt":"

Many Gen Xers are focused on strengthening their retirement savings as they move through their peak earning years. With fewer traditional pensions and questions about the future of Social Security, Gen X retirement funding strategies call on a mix of tax-advantaged accounts, strategic investing and catch-up contributions. Maximizing 401(k) plans, IRAs, and other investment opportunities […]

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His freelance \r\nbyline has appeared on CNBC.com and in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Washington Post, Kiplinger’s Personal Finance and other leading publications. Mark has written books including, “Not Just A Living: The Complete Guide to Creating a Business That Gives You A Life.” His favorite reporting is the kind that helps ordinary people increase their personal wealth and life satisfaction. A graduate of the University of Texas journalism program, he lives in Austin, Texas. In his spare time he enjoys reading, volunteering, performing in an acoustic music duo, whitewater kayaking, wilderness backpacking and competing in triathlons.","additionalMeta":{"expertise":null,"__typename":"User_Additionalmeta"},"email":null,"firstName":"William","fullName":"Mark Henricks","lastName":"Henricks","name":"Mark Henricks","postCount":{"pageInfo":{"offsetPagination":{"total":805,"__typename":"OffsetPaginationPageInfo"},"__typename":"UserToPostConnectionPageInfo"},"__typename":"UserToPostConnection"},"slug":"mhenricks","__typename":"User"},"reviewedBy":{"id":"dXNlcjoxNDQ=","databaseId":144,"userId":144,"avatar":{"url":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/e1f3d3a0e571088b1ba1f56a767f73d3?s=96&d=mm&r=g","size":96,"__typename":"Avatar"},"description":"Brandon is a Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®), Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP) and Enrolled Agent (EA) with more than 10 years of experience as a financial professional. 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As a certified educator in personal finance, he edits and writes content that focuses on retirement, investments, home buying and other financial topics.\r\n\r\nArturo is a bilingual native in English and Spanish, and also writes as a freelance journalist for NBC News, among other publications. 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","

A financial advisor could help you create a personalized retirement plan based on different goals and needs.

","

Average Gen X Retirement Savings

","

Many Gen Xers find themselves facing a significant gap between the resources they want to have for retirement and their current reality. According to Nationwide’s 10th Annual Advisor Authority study, while 20% of Gen Xers believe they need at least $2 million to retire comfortably, only 7% have reached that milestone. Another 16% report having saved at least $1 million, but 30% have less than $100,000 set aside for retirement.

","

Schroder’s 2024 U.S. Retirement Survey describes a similar shortfall. Gen Xers it surveyed estimate they will need $1,069,746 to retire comfortably but anticipate having just $602,944 saved—a $466,802 gap that exceeds the expected shortfall of both Baby Boomers and Millennials. Additionally, only 14% of Gen Xers feel confident they have saved enough, and 54% worry about outliving their assets in retirement.

","

These surveys reflect Gen X expectations, which can vary significantly from actual experience. For example, Gallup polls over many years have consistently found that three of four retirees say they have enough money to live comfortably. Still, these figures underscore the financial challenges this generation perceives as they approach their retirement years.

","

Gen X Retirement Savings Strategies

","

","

For Gen Xers looking to grow their retirement savings, the following strategies could help improve financial preparedness and maximize retirement assets.

","

1. Max Out Employer-Sponsored Retirement Plans

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Taking full advantage of a 401(k) or 403(b) can significantly boost savings. In 2025, employees can contribute up to $23,500, with an additional $7,500 in catch-up contributions for those 50 and older. If an employer offers matching contributions, contributing at least enough to receive the full match provides an attractive and immediate return on investment.

","

2. Use IRAs for Additional Tax Benefits

","

For those who have maxed out their workplace plans or need additional savings vehicles, IRAs offer a tax-advantaged solution. A traditional IRA allows tax-deferred growth, while a Roth IRA provides tax-free withdrawals in retirement. Gen Xers earning within IRS limits may contribute up to $7,000 annually, plus an extra $1,000 for those 50 and older.

","

3. Harness the Triple Tax Benefits of an HSA

","

A health savings account (HSA), available to those with high-deductible health plans, offers a triple tax advantage: tax-deductible contributions, tax-free growth and tax-free withdrawals for qualified medical expenses. Healthcare can be a major retirement expense and an HSA can help offset future costs while serving as an additional savings vehicle. In 2025, the IRS permits individuals to contribute up to $4,300 to an HSA, while those with family coverage can contribute up to $8,550.

","

4. Reduce High-Interest Debt

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Carrying high-interest debt, such as credit cards, can make it hard to save for retirement. Prioritizing debt repayment frees up cash flow for investments and long-term financial growth. Debt management strategies like the snowball or avalanche method can help accelerate payoff.

","

5. Delay Social Security If Possible

","

While Gen Xers can begin claiming Social Security at 62, waiting until full retirement age – or even delaying until 70 – results in higher monthly benefits. For those who can afford to wait, this strategy can significantly increase guaranteed income during retirement.

","

6. Diversify Investments for Growth

","

A diversified portfolio that includes equities, fixed income and alternative investments can help Gen Xers achieve better long-term growth. Those behind on savings may consider a higher allocation to growth-oriented investments, such as stocks or real estate, while balancing risk tolerance and time horizon.

","

7. Increase Savings Rate Over Time

","

Even small increases in retirement contributions can add up. A strategy like increasing contributions by 1% annually or committing a portion of raises and bonuses to retirement accounts can accelerate savings without major lifestyle adjustments.

","

8. Explore Catch-Up Contributions

","

For those 50 and older, catch-up contributions provide a valuable opportunity to boost savings. Increasing contributions to 401(k)s, IRAs and HSAs in the final working years can help close savings gaps before retirement. Thanks to a provision of the SECURE 2.0 Act, those with 401(k)s and similar workplace retirement plans can contribute even more than the standard catch-up contribution limit between ages 60 and 63. In 2025, that means eligible participants can save an extra $11,250 in a 401(k) or similar plan, instead of just $7,500. As a result, Gen Xers can contribute up to $34,750 in 2025.

","

9. Consider Part-Time Work in Retirement

","

If full retirement savings goals are not met, part-time work can provide supplemental income and delay withdrawals from retirement accounts. This can help stretch savings and improve long-term financial security.

","

10. Work With a Financial Advisor

","

A financial professional can help create a personalized retirement plan, optimize tax strategies, and ensure investment choices align with long-term goals. For Gen Xers navigating complex financial decisions, professional guidance can provide clarity and direction.

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Closing the Savings Gap: An Example

","

Let’s take a look at a hypothetical 52-year-old Gen Xer who has saved $150,000 for retirement but realizes that they need to boost their savings. They earn $120,000 annually and decide to implement several strategies to improve their financial outlook.

","

First, they increase their 401(k) contributions to the 2025 limit of $23,500 and take advantage of the $7,500 catch-up contribution, bringing their total annual 401(k) contribution to $31,000. If they maintain this rate for the next eight years until age 60, assuming a 7% annual return, their 401(k) balance would grow to more than $575,000.

","

At 60, they can further accelerate their savings under the new catch-up contribution rules, allowing $11,250 per year for those aged 60-63. With this increase, they contribute $34,750 annually for four years. If they continue earning a 7% return, their balance could reach approximately $940,000 by age 64.

","

They also open an IRA, contributing $8,000 per year (including the $1,000 catch-up limit), and invest in an HSA to offset future healthcare costs. With strategic debt reduction and delaying Social Security until 67, they significantly improve their retirement outlook, bridging much of their initial savings gap.

","

Bottom Line

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","

Gen Xers looking to strengthen their retirement savings have a range of options to improve their financial outlook. Making the most of tax-advantaged accounts, adjusting investment strategies and increasing contributions over time can help build a stronger foundation for the future. Managing debt, considering part-time income and delaying Social Security benefits where possible can also provide more flexibility in retirement.

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Retirement Planning Tips

","$52","

Photo credit: ©iStock.com/fizkes, ©iStock.com/mediamasmedia, ©iStock.com/carlosalvarez

"],"experts":null,"link":"/planning-for-retirement/gen-x-retirement-savings","modifiedIso":"2025-02-20T14:36:35.000Z","published":{"datetime":"2025-2-20","readable":"February 20, 2025","readableExtended":"February 20, 2025, 2:36pm ET"},"publishedIso":"2025-02-20T14:36:34.000Z","shareInfo":{"title":"10 Ways Gen X Can Grow Retirement Savings","origin":"/retirement/gen-x-retirement-savings"},"isNewsArticle":true},{"id":"cG9zdDoyNzIyNjI=","databaseId":272262,"postId":272262,"author":{"node":{"id":"dXNlcjo5Mw==","databaseId":93,"userId":93,"avatar":{"url":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/04483497dbd73f712b504e401c9c7d22?s=96&d=mm&r=g","size":96,"__typename":"Avatar"},"description":"Mark Henricks has reported on personal finance, investing, retirement, \r\nentrepreneurship and other topics for more than 30 years. His freelance \r\nbyline has appeared on CNBC.com and in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Washington Post, Kiplinger’s Personal Finance and other leading publications. Mark has written books including, “Not Just A Living: The Complete Guide to Creating a Business That Gives You A Life.” His favorite reporting is the kind that helps ordinary people increase their personal wealth and life satisfaction. A graduate of the University of Texas journalism program, he lives in Austin, Texas. In his spare time he enjoys reading, volunteering, performing in an acoustic music duo, whitewater kayaking, wilderness backpacking and competing in triathlons.","additionalMeta":{"expertise":null,"__typename":"User_Additionalmeta"},"email":null,"firstName":"William","fullName":"Mark Henricks","lastName":"Henricks","name":"Mark Henricks","postCount":{"pageInfo":{"offsetPagination":{"total":805,"__typename":"OffsetPaginationPageInfo"},"__typename":"UserToPostConnectionPageInfo"},"__typename":"UserToPostConnection"},"slug":"mhenricks","__typename":"User"},"__typename":"NodeWithAuthorToUserConnectionEdge"},"categories":{"nodes":[{"id":"dGVybToxOTQ3OA==","children":{"nodes":[],"__typename":"CategoryToCategoryConnection"},"databaseId":19478,"categoryId":19478,"link":"https://smartasset.com/rollovers-and-conversions/articles","name":"Rollovers & Conversions","postCount":{"pageInfo":{"offsetPagination":{"total":54,"__typename":"OffsetPaginationPageInfo"},"__typename":"CategoryToPostConnectionPageInfo"},"__typename":"CategoryToPostConnection"},"slug":"rollovers-and-conversions","ancestors":{"nodes":[{"name":"Retirement","slug":"retirement","__typename":"Category"}],"__typename":"CategoryToAncestorsCategoryConnection"},"parent":{"node":{"name":"Retirement","id":"dGVybTo5Mw==","slug":"retirement","__typename":"Category"},"__typename":"CategoryToParentCategoryConnectionEdge"},"__typename":"Category"}],"__typename":"PostToCategoryConnection"},"content":"$53","date":"2025-01-16T09:53:19","excerpt":"

Transferring retirement savings from a 401(k) or similar tax-deferred account to a Roth IRA can help keep you from having to make taxable withdrawals by the time your reach your mid 70s. This can reduce your tax burden after retiring, but it won’t necessarily save on taxes overall. That’s because any funds converted to a […]

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As a spokesperson for SmartAsset, she has been cited by Bloomberg, CNBC, Business Insider, Fox News, The Hill and many more. Jaclyn was previously an editor for CNET Money, where she covered banking, investing, credit cards and real estate. She also served as managing editor of small business content for Bizfluent, Work.Chron and AZCentral, and as a research consultant for NAPCO Media. 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","

Conversion may still make sense if you expect to be in a higher tax bracket after retiring and reaching the mandatory withdrawal age, don’t need the RMD money, want to preserve wealth for your heirs or in other circumstances. But the most effective conversion strategy is likely not be based on converting a set percentage of your 401(k) each year. Rather, you may be better off calculating the conversion amount based on the effect on your tax bracket.

","

A financial advisor can help you assess the pros and cons of a Roth conversion strategy. Use this free tool to get matched today.

","

Roth Conversion Rules

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If you’re 58 now and leave your retirement savings in the 401(k), you’ll have to start taking required minimum distributions (RMDs) of pre-determined amounts each year starting at age 75. These withdrawals will be treated as taxable income, and the resulting tax bill will reduce the income you have available to pay living expenses in retirement.

","

You can convert funds from tax-deferred to tax-free by transferring them from a 401(k), IRA or other tax-deferred retirement savings account to a Roth IRA. Once in the Roth account, the funds are not subject to RMD rules, so you won’t have to worry about having to withdraw money you don’t need for living expenses.

","

If you do need the money you’ve saved for retirement, you can withdraw from Roth accounts without owing any taxes or penalties. The only limitation here is that you must wait at least five years after the conversion before making withdrawals if you make the conversion before you are age 59.5.

","

Roth conversions come at a cost, however, because the converted amounts will be treated like ordinary income on your current tax return. Converting a large 401(k) can, therefore, lead to a sizable tax bill in the short-term. With this in mind, many people doing conversions opt to do so gradually, converting a portion of the 401(k) year over several years to spread out the tax bill and prevent yourself from entering higher tax brackets where your money will be charged at higher rates.

","

The decision to convert a 401(k) to a Roth, and how much to convert, rests on several interdependent factors, including your current income and anticipated taxable income after retirement. It’s also worth keeping in mind the fact that Roth withdrawals are not considered when determining income levels that affect Social Security benefit taxation and Medicare premiums.

","

Remember, a financial advisor can help you determine and execute an appropriate strategy based on your circumstances.

","

Roth Conversion in Action

","

If you are a relatively high earner with $100,000 in taxable income, you will likely be in the 22% marginal income tax bracket and would owe $13,841 in federal income tax on your 2024 return. Converting 10% of your $1.7-million 401(k) would add $170,000 to your current taxable income. As a single filer, the resulting $270,000 in income would lift you to the 35% bracket and result in a federal tax bill of approximately $59,754 for that year.

","

If you instead follow a strategy of converting only enough to lift you to the top of the next-highest bracket, you could convert $91,950. This would keep you in the 24% bracket and result in a current tax bill of $35,606.

","

Neither of these gradual conversion strategies would completely empty your 401(k) in 17 years, when you’ll reach age 75 and be subject to RMDs. So you’ll still have to take some taxable mandatory withdrawals, or you may have to bite the bullet and take on higher tax rates to convert the entire 401(k) in time. Ultimately, there are a lot of dynamics at play with your income and taxes over time. But given the difficulty of forecasting income tax rates and your own income that far in the future, it can make sense to have funds in a 401(k) as well as a Roth to provide you with flexibility.

","

Consider speaking with a financial advisor to further explore the tradeoffs for a Roth conversion based on your circumstances and goals.

","

Bottom Line

","

Converting funds from a 401(k) to a Roth IRA can help you avoid RMDs and future taxes. However, the conversion will cost you today in the form of added income taxes. You may still want to do the conversion, especially if you think you’ll be in a higher tax bracket after retirement. However, a conversion strategy based converting just enough funds to lift your income the top of your current or the next-highest tax bracket is likely to make more sense than aiming to convert a set percentage each year.

","

Tips

","$65","

Photo credit: ©iStock.com/Abdullah Durmaz

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Retiring at 30 may seem impossible. But with smart planning and strict saving habits, it can be done. The idea of early retirement has grown popular, especially through the Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) movement, which focuses on saving aggressively and making wise investments. To figure out how much you need, consider your current savings, […]

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","

A financial advisor can help you create a plan to manage savings, investments and long-term financial security.

","

How to Calculate How Much You Need to Retire at 30

","

Retiring at 30 requires careful planning and a clear idea of your future expenses. Start by estimating costs for housing, travel, healthcare and daily needs. Knowing how much you’ll need each year helps set a savings goal for early retirement.

","

Building enough savings quickly often means living frugally and saving aggressively. Many early retirees aim to save at least 50% of their income by cutting unnecessary expenses and prioritizing savings over luxury. A minimalist lifestyle and smart financial planning can help speed up financial independence.

","

Healthcare is another key concern for early retirees since Medicare isn’t available until age 65. Look into private insurance, health-sharing plans, or other options to stay covered. Setting aside funds in a health savings account (HSA) can also help manage future medical expenses.

","

Ways to Save Enough to Retire Early

","

Creating a detailed budget is key for those who want to retire early. Start by tracking your expenses and finding areas to cut back, like eating out less or reducing unnecessary spending. Living below your means allows you to save more for retirement. A budget not only helps you build savings but also encourages smart financial habits for the future.

","

Maximizing contributions to retirement accounts is another important step. Use employer-sponsored plans like 401(k)s, especially if matching contributions are offered. Opening an individual retirement account (IRA) can further grow your savings with tax benefits.

","

While saving is important, investing allows your money to grow at a faster rate. Diversify your investment portfolio to balance risk and reward, focusing on a mix of stocks, bonds and other assets.

","

Example of a Retirement Savings Portfolio for Age 30

","

","

A well-planned savings portfolio can help support your long-term financial stability. One common retirement guideline recommends saving between 25 and 30 times your expected annual expenses. So, if you plan to spend $60,000 annually, you would need $1.5 million using the 25x rule or $1.8 million using the 30x rule.

","

Investments will help maintain your retirement savings over time. With a 4% withdrawal rate, you could withdraw $60,000 per year from a $1.5 million portfolio ($1,500,000 × 0.04) or $72,000 per year from a $1.8 million portfolio ($1,800,000 × 0.04). And with a 5% withdrawal rate, the annual withdrawals would be $75,000 from $1.5 million ($1,500,000 × 0.05) and $90,000 from $1.8 million ($1,800,000 × 0.05).

","

Since you cannot claim Social Security benefits until age 62, you will have to rely on savings, investments, or other income sources as an early retiree. Common income sources include rental income, dividends, or side businesses, which can help reduce dependence on savings and offer you more financial security.

","

Tips to Help You Retire at 30

","

Retiring at 30 requires a combination of strategic steps. Here are five common tips to help you prepare:

","$78","

Bottom Line

","

","

Retiring at 30 takes careful planning and smart money habits. Start by deciding the lifestyle you want and estimating your yearly expenses. This helps set a savings goal that will last for decades. Early retirement isn’t just about saving money—it’s about building a plan that supports your long-term needs and goals.

","

Retirement Planning Tips

","$79","

"],"experts":null,"link":"/planning-for-retirement/how-much-money-do-you-need-to-retire-at-30","modifiedIso":"2025-03-05T20:55:16.000Z","published":{"datetime":"2025-3-5","readable":"March 5, 2025","readableExtended":"March 5, 2025, 8:55pm ET"},"publishedIso":"2025-03-05T20:55:15.000Z","shareInfo":{"title":"How Much Money Do You Need to Retire at Age 30?","origin":"/retirement/how-much-money-do-you-need-to-retire-at-30"},"isNewsArticle":true},{"id":"cG9zdDoyNzg2OTM=","databaseId":278693,"postId":278693,"author":{"node":{"id":"dXNlcjoz","databaseId":3,"userId":3,"avatar":{"url":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/47938df052bf0a5283bd6b77ab786737?s=96&d=mm&r=g","size":96,"__typename":"Avatar"},"description":"SmartAsset employs a team of writers and editors with years of experience in the editorial, news and personal finance industries. Some staff members also hold the Certified Educator in Personal Finance (CEPF®) designation from the Institute for Financial Literacy.","additionalMeta":{"expertise":null,"__typename":"User_Additionalmeta"},"email":null,"firstName":"Michael","fullName":"SmartAsset Team","lastName":"Carvin","name":"SmartAsset Team","postCount":{"pageInfo":{"offsetPagination":{"total":1590,"__typename":"OffsetPaginationPageInfo"},"__typename":"UserToPostConnectionPageInfo"},"__typename":"UserToPostConnection"},"slug":"mcarvin","__typename":"User"},"__typename":"NodeWithAuthorToUserConnectionEdge"},"categories":{"nodes":[{"id":"dGVybToxOTQ3OA==","children":{"nodes":[],"__typename":"CategoryToCategoryConnection"},"databaseId":19478,"categoryId":19478,"link":"https://smartasset.com/rollovers-and-conversions/articles","name":"Rollovers & Conversions","postCount":{"pageInfo":{"offsetPagination":{"total":54,"__typename":"OffsetPaginationPageInfo"},"__typename":"CategoryToPostConnectionPageInfo"},"__typename":"CategoryToPostConnection"},"slug":"rollovers-and-conversions","ancestors":{"nodes":[{"name":"Retirement","slug":"retirement","__typename":"Category"}],"__typename":"CategoryToAncestorsCategoryConnection"},"parent":{"node":{"name":"Retirement","id":"dGVybTo5Mw==","slug":"retirement","__typename":"Category"},"__typename":"CategoryToParentCategoryConnectionEdge"},"__typename":"Category"}],"__typename":"PostToCategoryConnection"},"content":"$7a","date":"2025-02-27T19:18:13","excerpt":"

As you progress through your career, you may accumulate multiple retirement accounts from different employers, including 401(k) plans, IRAs or other investment vehicles. As a result, you may end up wondering if you should consolidate your retirement accounts. Retirement account consolidation can simplify portfolio management, potentially reduce fees and provide a clearer financial picture. However, […]

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Her work has appeared in a variety of publications, including SmartAsset, The Week, LendingTree, SoFi, Credible, CNN Underscored, Forbes, Policygenius, Buy Side from WSJ and Atticus, among others. She holds a BA in English from Depauw University and an MFA in Fiction from Queens University of Charlotte.","additionalMeta":{"expertise":null,"__typename":"User_Additionalmeta"},"email":null,"firstName":"Becca","fullName":"Becca Stanek","lastName":"Stanek","name":"Becca Stanek","postCount":{"pageInfo":{"offsetPagination":{"total":21,"__typename":"OffsetPaginationPageInfo"},"__typename":"UserToPostConnectionPageInfo"},"__typename":"UserToPostConnection"},"slug":"bstanek","__typename":"User"},"reviewedBy":{"id":"dXNlcjoxNDQ=","databaseId":144,"userId":144,"avatar":{"url":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/e1f3d3a0e571088b1ba1f56a767f73d3?s=96&d=mm&r=g","size":96,"__typename":"Avatar"},"description":"Brandon is a Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®), Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP) and Enrolled Agent (EA) with more than 10 years of experience as a financial professional. 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","

A financial advisor can help you assess whether consolidating your retirement accounts aligns with your overall retirement strategy.

","

What to Consider Before Consolidating Retirement Accounts

","

Deciding whether to consolidate your retirement accounts involves evaluating several factors, including ease of management, investment flexibility, fees and tax implications. Here’s a breakdown of four factors.

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Account Fees and Costs

","

One of the main reasons people consolidate retirement accounts is to reduce fees. Different retirement accounts charge varying administrative and management fees, which can eat into your returns over time.

","

If you have older 401(k) accounts with high fees, rolling them into a lower cost IRA may save you money. On the other hand, some employer-sponsored plans offer lower fees than IRAs, so compare costs before making a move.

","

Investment Options

","

Investment flexibility is another key consideration. Employer-sponsored 401(k) plans may have limited investment choices, while IRAs typically offer a broader range of funds, stocks and bonds. If your current retirement plans restrict your investment strategy, consolidating into an IRA could provide more options.

","

However, some employer-sponsored plans offer exclusive institutional funds with lower costs than individual IRAs do. Reviewing the available investment choices in each account will help determine whether consolidation makes sense.

","

Tax Implications

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The tax treatment of your retirement accounts is an essential factor in deciding whether to consolidate. If you transfer a traditional 401(k) into a traditional IRA, the move is typically tax-free. However, rolling a traditional 401(k) into a Roth IRA triggers a taxable event, requiring you to pay income taxes on the converted amount.

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Additionally, some employer plans allow penalty-free withdrawals if you leave your job at age 55, whereas IRAs require you to wait until you are 59 ½. Consolidating could impact your ability to access funds early, so understanding the tax implications before making changes is crucial.

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Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)

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Once you reach age 73, the IRS requires you to take required minimum distributions (RMDs) from traditional retirement accounts. Keeping multiple accounts may complicate tracking and calculating RMDs, making consolidation beneficial for easier management.

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However, some employer plans offer deferred RMDs if you’re still working, so consolidating into an IRA may not always be advantageous.

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How to Consolidate Your Retirement Accounts

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If you decide that consolidating your retirement accounts is the right move, following a structured process will help you make a smooth transition and avoid tax penalties:

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Tips for Consolidating Your Retirement Accounts

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When consolidating retirement accounts, there are several important factors to keep in mind. Here are four general things that can help you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes:

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Bottom Line

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Consolidating retirement accounts can make management easier, lower fees and increase investment options, but it may not be right for everyone. Rolling multiple accounts into one IRA or 401(k) has benefits, but factors like employer plan perks, taxes, and required withdrawals should be considered.

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Retirement Planning Tips

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