Hold on to your hats, folks! Today, we’re diving into some jaw-dropping 401(k) statistics that might make you rethink your retirement strategy. These numbers will not only surprise you, but they’ll also provide valuable insights into how you can make the most of your hard-earned money. Ready to get your mind blown? Let’s dive in!
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of 401(k) Loans
Did you know that a staggering 17% of individuals currently have an outstanding 401(k) loan? That’s right, nearly 1 in 5 people are tapping into their retirement savings to use those dollars today. But is this a wise move? Spoiler alert: it’s not! Borrowing from your future self can have long-lasting consequences, and it’s best to avoid this financial pitfall if you can.
Missing Out on Free Money: A Heartbreaking Tale
Here’s a statistic that might make you weep: 34% of 401(k) participants are not receiving their full employer match. That’s like saying no to free money! This is a major violation of the second rule in the financial order of operations. If you’re not taking advantage of your employer’s match, it’s time to reevaluate your strategy and make sure you’re not leaving valuable dollars on the table.
The Underutilized Power of Roth 401(k) Plans
In a rare positive twist, 80% of 401(k) plans now offer a Roth option, which hasn’t always been the case. But here’s the kicker: less than 20% of participants are taking advantage of this powerful tool. Are you part of the 80% missing out? If so, it’s time to learn more about Roth 401(k)s and why they could be a game-changer for your retirement.
New Funding Limits: Seize the Opportunity!
Attention, all retirement savers! In 2023, there’s a new salary deferral limit for 401(k) contributions. You can now contribute up to $22,500, either in pre-tax or Roth contributions. And if you’re turning 50 this year (hello, 1973 babies!), you can defer up to a whopping $30,000!
This $2,000 increase from last year is a significant jump, and it’s crucial to take advantage of this opportunity to supercharge your retirement savings.
The Sky’s the Limit: Total Annual Contribution Limits
But wait, there’s more! The total annual contribution limit, which includes both your contributions and your employer’s, has increased to $66,000. If you’re over 50, this number goes up to $73,500. These generous limits provide an incredible opportunity for you to sock away dollars for your golden years.
And for those who are truly committed to maximizing their retirement savings, don’t forget about the “apex predator” move: the mega backdoor Roth contribution. We’ll cover this powerful strategy in another article, so stay tuned!
The Bottom Line
These shocking 401(k) statistics reveal some startling trends and opportunities in retirement planning. Whether you’re missing out on employer matches, neglecting the power of Roth 401(k)s, or not taking full advantage of increased contribution limits, there’s always room for improvement.
So, what are you waiting for? Use these mind-blowing statistics to reassess your retirement strategy and set yourself up for long-term financial success. After all, isn’t that what we’re all striving for?