A reader asks: A little about me: I’m 38 (getting close to middle age) and moved to the U.S. from India in 2008 for my master’s degree. I started working full-time in 2011 but delayed contributing to my 401(k) until 2014, as I wasn’t sure I’d stay here permanently. Life changed when I met … Read more
When people retire, they often take up activities like volunteering. But is this simply because they have more spare time on their hands or is something deeper happening? Drawing on novel research, Alina Velias, Sotiris Georganas and Ioannis Laliotis find evidence that retirement fosters greater kindness in people. How do you think you’ll feel when … Read more
Ever since I started saving for retirement in 1999, I’ve been a proponent of tax-deferred retirement vehicles like the 401(k) and skeptical of tax-now vehicles like the Roth IRA. Working in banking, I was already being taxed out the wazoo and had no desire to pay even more. Frankly, I wasn’t even familiar with the … Read more
The 401(k) contribution limit for employees in 2025 has increased to $23,500, up from $23,000 in 2024. The employer contribution limit also rises to $46,500, bringing the combined employee and employer 401(k) contribution limit to $70,000 for 2025. Don’t underestimate the power of employer 401(k) contributions, especially as you advance in your career. As you … Read more
Before retiring in 2012, I didn’t fear boredom or loneliness. It never occurred to me that I would be bored with so much potential freedom. My main fear was whether giving up a steady paycheck was an impetuous move that could lead me to financial ruin! After I left work, I found myself telling my … Read more
