401(k) vs. IRA: Which is better?

Planning for retirement in the United States involves many options, but two important ones are the 401(k) and the Individual Retirement Account (IRA). These are like tools to help you save money for your retirement. Deciding between them can be tricky, so we’re here to explain the differences, advantages, and disadvantages of each. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a better idea of which one might work best for your retirement goals.

Getting to Know 401(k)s and IRAs

Let’s start by understanding the basics of these retirement savings accounts:

401(k):

• A 401(k) is a retirement plan offered by your employer, but only if your employer provides it.
• You can put money into a 401(k) from your paycheck. You can choose how much, and some employers also add money to it, which is like getting free money for your retirement.
• There are two types of 401(k) accounts: traditional and Roth. Traditional 401(k) contributions lower your taxes now, while Roth 401(k) contributions use after-tax money, and you don’t pay taxes when you take it out in retirement.

IRA (Individual Retirement Account):

• An IRA is a personal retirement account you can open yourself through banks, brokerage firms, or online platforms.
• IRAs also have two types: traditional and Roth. Traditional IRA contributions can lower your taxes today, and with Roth IRAs, you use after-tax money, but you don’t pay taxes on it when you take it out in retirement.
• You can contribute to an IRA even if your employer doesn’t offer a 401(k) plan.

Key Differences: 401(k) vs. IRA

Now, let’s explore the main differences between these retirement accounts:

1. Employer Involvement:

401(k): Your employer is a big part of a 401(k). They offer it and might add money to it, plus they pick the plan provider.

IRA: With an IRA, it’s all on you. You open it and manage it, and your employer isn’t involved.

2. Contribution Limits:

401(k): In 2023, you can put up to $20,500 in your 401(k) (with an extra $6,500 if you’re 50 or older), and your employer’s contributions don’t count toward this limit.

IRA: The limit for an IRA in 2023 is $6,000 ($7,000 if you’re 50 or older).

3. Investment Choices:

401(k): Your investment options in a 401(k) are limited to what your employer offers. Usually, it’s a mix of mutual funds and other investments.

IRA: IRAs give you more choices. You can invest in stocks, bonds, mutual funds, ETFs, and more.

4. Accessibility:

401(k): It can be tricky to access your 401(k) money while you’re still working for the company. And if you take money out before age 59½, you might face penalties.

IRA: IRAs are usually more flexible. You can get your money before retirement age without big penalties, but with a traditional IRA, you might still pay taxes.

5. Employer Matching:

401(k): Many employers match your contributions to your 401(k), which means they give you extra money for your retirement.

IRA: IRAs don’t come with employer matches because they’re not tied to your job.

6. Income Limits:

401(k): Typically, there are no income restrictions for contributing to a traditional 401(k). But if you’re a high earner, there might be limits for contributing to a Roth 401(k).

IRA: Income limits affect whether you can make tax-deductible contributions to a traditional IRA or contribute to a Roth IRA.

7. Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs):

401(k): You must start taking money out of your 401(k) after you turn 72, even if you’re still working.

IRA: RMDs usually begin at age 72 for traditional IRAs. Roth IRAs don’t have RMDs during your lifetime.

Advantages and Disadvantages: 401(k) vs. IRA

Let’s weigh the pros and cons of each retirement account:

401(k) Advantages:

• Employer Matching: Many employers add money to your 401(k), boosting your savings.
• Higher Contribution Limits: You can usually put more money into a 401(k) compared to an IRA.
• Automatic Contributions: Money is taken from your paycheck, making saving easier.

401(k) Disadvantages:

• Limited Investment Choices: Your employer decides what’s available to invest in.
• Employer Control: Your employer picks the plan and sets rules.

IRA Advantages:

• More Investment Options: IRAs offer a wider range of choices, so you can customize your investments.
• Personal Control: You manage your IRA, from where to open it to how to invest your money.

IRA Disadvantages:

• Lower Contribution Limits: IRAs typically have lower annual limits, especially for high earners.
• No Employer Match: Unlike 401(k)s, IRAs don’t come with extra money from your employer.

Choosing the Right Retirement Savings for You

Deciding between a 401(k) and an IRA depends on your financial situation and goals. Here’s what to consider:

Choose a 401(k) if:

• Your Employer Matches: If your employer adds money to your 401(k), it’s like free money for your retirement.
• You Like Automatic Saving: If you want savings to happen automatically from your paycheck.
• You’re Maxing Out 401(k) Match: If you’re already getting the full employer match on your 401(k) and want to save more, consider opening an IRA too.

Choose an IRA if:

• No 401(k) at Work: If your employer doesn’t offer a 401(k) or if you’re self-employed.
• You Want Control and Choices: If you want more control over your investments and more options to choose from.
• Flexible Access: If you need to access your money before retirement age without big penalties.

Consider Both if:

• Maximizing Savings: If you want to save as much as possible, start with the 401(k) to get the match, and then open an IRA to save more.

Conclusion

Picking a 401(k) or an IRA isn’t one-size-fits-all. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, so your choice depends on your financial situation and what you want for your retirement.

In many cases, a good retirement strategy could involve both a 401(k) and an IRA. You can benefit from your employer’s extra contributions while also having more control and investment choices with an IRA.

Talking to a financial advisor can help you create a retirement plan that suits your needs and dreams. Make informed decisions to work toward a comfortable and secure retirement.