Retirement isn't one big decision. It's a series of small ones: which account to use, how much to contribute, and when to start. This guide breaks each one down in plain language, so you can build a plan with confidence instead of guesswork.
01
The building blocks of retirement savings: Pre-tax vs. post-tax contributions, tax deferral, and how compound interest works over time, with a practical example for you to see.
02
Your account options, explained: 401(k)s, 403(b)s, Traditional and Roth IRAs, and taxable brokerage accounts. What each one is for, and where it can fit in your overall plan.
03
2026 contribution limits and income rules: The current 401(k), IRA, and Roth IRA limits, including catch-up contributions if you're 50 or older.
04
A simple order of operations: A four-step framework many savers use to decide where their next dollar goes, and why your own order may be different.
Compound Interest
See an example of how a $500 monthly habit could grow over 30 years at a 7% yearly return, and why time is on your side. This is an illustration only, not a promise of results.
Employer matching
Learn how matching works, why vesting rules matter, and how to make sure you're not leaving free money on the table.
Roth vs. Traditional
A side-by-side look at how each account is taxed, so you can see which one may fit your situation.
Required distributions
Know when the IRS requires you to start withdrawing from Traditional accounts, the penalty for missing one, and how the age changes in 2033.
2026 contribution limits
The 2026 dollar limits for 401(k)s, IRAs, and Roth IRAs, plus the higher catch-up limits that start at age 50 and rise again from 60 to 63.
A savings order to consider
A simple four-step framework many savers follow, and why it is a starting point and not a one-size-fits-all rule.
