Understanding retirement accounts is essential for long-term financial planning. Here’s the core points from the lesson:
401(k)s allow automated payroll contributions (up to $23,500 in 2025 for those under 50), often include employer matching, and offer pre-tax or Roth contribution options
Contributions reduce taxable income but are still subject to payroll taxes like Social Security and Medicare
IRAs (individual retirement arrangements) are similar to 401(k)s but are personally managed, have lower contribution limits, and don’t include employer matching
IRA contributions may be tax-deductible or Roth-eligible depending on your income, unlike 401(k)s which have no income-based restrictions for pre-tax contributions