Retirement Planning
401(k)s, IRAs, withdrawal strategy, and the math of retiring on your terms, for every stage of the journey.
64 guides in Retirement Planning, page 3 of 3
Average 401(k) Balance by Age in 2026: How Do You Compare?
The average and median 401(k) balance by age from Vanguard's How America Saves 2026 (2025 data): $167,970 average, $44,115 median. Plus retirement savings by age across all accounts, and how much you should have.
Roth 401(k) vs. Roth IRA: Which Should You Choose?
Roth 401(k) vs. Roth IRA in 2026: contribution limits, income rules, employer match, RMDs, and withdrawals compared, plus which one to fund first and how to use both.
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP): How the Federal Retirement Plan Works
The TSP is the 401(k)-style plan for federal employees and the military: the G, F, C, S, I and L funds, the agency match of up to 5%, and the $24,500 limit for 2026.
What Is a 401(k) Plan?
What a 401(k) is, how it works, and the 2025 & 2026 contribution limits ($24,500 for 2026, plus catch-up if 50+). Pros, cons, and how to start.
How to Create a Sustainable Withdrawal Strategy for Retirement
Discover how to craft a reliable withdrawal plan for a worry-free retirement. Act now and secure your financial future!
The Impact of Social Security Changes on Your Retirement Plan
Discover how new Social Security rules affect your retirement. Read now to secure your financial future and maximize benefits!
Healthcare Costs in Retirement: How Much to Plan For in 2026
Fidelity's 2026 estimate is $185,500 in after-tax savings for a 65-year-old's healthcare in retirement, before long-term care. The 2026 Medicare costs line by line (Part B $202.90 a month, $283 deductible, $1,736 hospital deductible, $2,100 drug cap), long-term care prices, the gap before 65, and how an HSA helps.
Retirement Planning for Gig Workers and Freelancers
Secure your future as a gig worker or freelancer. Learn the best retirement tips now, your future self will thank you!
Retirement Planning for Women: The Numbers and What to Do About Them
Women 65 and older had a median income of $28,240 in 2025, against $44,720 for men, and a 65-year-old woman can expect to live about 2.6 years longer than a man. The data behind the gap, the Social Security spousal and survivor rules that matter most, and seven steps to close it.
Saving for Retirement: When and How to Start
Jumpstart your secure future. Learn when to begin saving, how to budget effectively, and watch your retirement dreams flourish! Start now.
How Does TSP Compare to 401(k) and IRA Plans?
Learn the key differences between TSP, 401(k), and IRA plans. Find out which retirement option fits your goals. Start planning today!
The Best Retirement Plans for Self-Employed Individuals
Discover the best retirement plans for self-employed individuals. Learn how to choose the right plan for your future. Start planning today!
How to Create a Retirement Income Stream That Lasts
Learn how to create a steady retirement income stream that lasts. Explore key strategies to ensure financial security in retirement today.
Cash Balance Plan: How It Works, 2026 Limits and Who It Suits
A cash balance plan is a defined benefit pension that shows your benefit as an account balance. How pay credits and interest credits work, the 2026 IRS limits ($290,000 annual benefit), 3-year vesting, PBGC coverage, pairing with a 401(k), and a worked example for a business owner.
What Happened to Traditional Pensions?
Why traditional pensions vanished, what replaced them (401(k)s and IRAs), and how to build your own pension-like retirement income today.
Nonqualified Deferred Compensation (NQDC) Plans: 409A Rules, Taxes and Risks
A nonqualified deferred compensation plan lets executives defer pay beyond 401(k) limits. How NQDC plans work, the Section 409A election and payout rules, when FICA and income tax are due, the 20% penalty, why your money is at risk if the company fails, and how to decide whether to defer.