Pros of 401(k) Plans:

1. Employer Contributions: Many employers offer matching contributions, which is essentially free money added to your retirement savings.

2. Tax Advantages: Contributions are typically made with pre-tax dollars, reducing your current taxable income. The investment grows tax-deferred until withdrawal.

3. Contribution Limits: The annual contribution limit for 2024 is $20,500 (or $27,000 for individuals 50 and older), allowing you to save a significant amount for retirement.

4. Automatic Contributions: Contributions are often deducted directly from your paycheck, making saving for retirement more convenient and consistent.

5. Investment Options: 401(k) plans usually offer a range of investment options, allowing you to tailor your investments to your risk tolerance and retirement goals.

401(k)

Cons of 401(k) Plans:

1. Limited Investment Choices: While there are usually multiple options, the choices within a 401(k) plan may be more limited compared to an individual retirement account (IRA).

2. Early Withdrawal Penalties: Withdrawing funds before age 59½ typically incurs a 10% penalty, in addition to ordinary income tax on the withdrawal.

3. Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs): Starting at age 73, you must begin taking RMDs from your 401(k) account, which can impact your tax situation and retirement income strategy.

4. Employer Restrictions: Your investment choices and withdrawal options may be limited by your employer's plan rules.

5. Fees: Some 401(k) plans may have administrative fees or investment fees that can eat into your returns over time.

Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs):

RMDs are mandatory withdrawals from certain retirement accounts, including traditional 401(k) plans, starting at age 73 (or 70½ if you reached that age before January 1, 2020). The purpose is to ensure that retirees withdraw a minimum amount from their retirement accounts each year and pay the necessary taxes on that income. The specific amount is calculated based on your age and the balance of your retirement accounts. Failure to take RMDs can result in substantial penalties.