Matches, Roth vs. traditional and a plan for every decade.
Build the habits
A simple budget, a starter emergency fund and the full 401(k) match if you have one.
Grow and protect
Pay off high-interest debt, build three to six months of savings and raise contributions with every raise.
Peak earning years
Keep lifestyle creep in check, check your insurance and revisit your retirement target.
Catch up
Catch-up contributions open at 50. Picture your first year of retirement in detail.
Plan the paycheck
Decide when to claim Social Security and how you’ll turn savings into a monthly income.
The short version — then read the full guide.
| Retirement accountsGeneral rules — check current IRS limits | Traditional401(k) or IRA |
Tax-free laterRoth401(k) or IRA |
|---|---|---|
| Taxes | ||
| Lowers your taxes today | ||
| Tax-free withdrawals in retirement | qualified | |
| Good fit if… | ||
| You expect a lower tax rate later | ||
| You’re early in your career | Partial | |
| You want both | Split your contributions | Split your contributions |
| No features match your search. | ||
General information only. Rules, limits and income caps change — ask a tax professional.
Set a target and a timeline.
Good Cents is general education, not financial advice. Talk to a licensed professional about your own situation.
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