If your employer offers a 401(k) retirement plan and makes contributions to it on your behalf, you have a leg up in retirement investing. The suggestions in the following list can help you get the most from your 401(k) plan:
Contribute enough to get the full employer matching contribution.
Use education tools and retirement planning aids from your employer or plan provider to help develop and track your retirement plan.
Plan jointly with your spouse to get the maximum advantage from both your retirement plans.
Take any company stock your employer gives you, but don't invest your own money in it. Remember Enron.
Roll your retirement money directly into a new tax-deferred account when you change jobs. Don't cash it out.
Don't take a hardship withdrawal or loan unless absolutely necessary.
