: Is it worth investing in 401(k) if a company doesn't do matching? The company offers 401(k) but doesn't match your contribution at all. In this case, it worth investing in 401(k)? For what reasons might a 401(k) be preferred

Vote Up Vote Down   0 Reactions

Login to give Reaction!

There is a possible case where a person might opt to not use the 401k at all.

If your income for the year is higher than the tIRA deduction limit, which probably means your tax bracket is in the +25% range, and you want to lower your tax on income this year, you might opt to contribute [CO] to the 401k plan, and contribute to the tIRA the full amount (00 in 2018).

If no contributions have been made to any 401k plan through any employer for the year (Box 13 on your W2), then you are able to deduct the tIRA contribution for its full amount in your tax filing. Be aware, this includes Employer and Employee contributions total for the year.

Vote Up Vote Down   0 Reactions

Login to give Reaction!

Besides the employer match, a 401(k) plan has other benefits that IRAs do not have:

A 401(k) is convenient. The investment is automatically taken out of every paycheck. This encourages setting an investment plan and sticking to it. For some people, it can be tempting to skip planned investments into an IRA.
401(k) plans can have higher annual investment limits. If you would like to invest more than you are allowed in an IRA, your company's 401(k) might allow you to do this.
401(k) plans have no upper income limit to be eligible to contribute. If you make too much money to contribute pre-tax to an IRA, you might still be able to invest in a 401(k).
401(k) plans sometimes allow you to borrow your own money from your 401(k) and pay yourself interest. I don't recommend this practice for a few reasons, but this is an option that you don't get with an IRA.
Under certain circumstances, a 401(k) can allow you to retire early and withdraw at age 55 vs. 59-1/2 with an IRA. (Thanks @JoeTaxpayer )

However, 401(k) plans also have downsides. Inside a 401(k), you are generally limited to a handful of investment fund options selected by your employer. With some plans, you might find that your only investment options come with high expenses. With an IRA, you can invest in almost anything you want.

The employer match is the biggest benefit to the 401(k). But even without it, the 401(k) could still be the best option for you.

For a very broad overview of different retirement accounts in the U.S., see this answer. If you have a more specific question, feel free to ask a new question.