Free Money: Retirement & Equity
The match is a raise they hope you won't take. Capture every dollar.
Disclaimer
Not investment or tax advice. Read your plan SPD and consult qualified professionals for personal decisions.
🎬 Part 2: Roth, Vesting & Equity Basics
Download transcript (PDF)Your deliverable
Free money is already in your offer letter. Confirm you're capturing it.
401(k) Match Worksheet — fill online (includes IRS limit checks) or PDFEmployer match is compensation they hope you'll ignore. Log into your retirement portal today and confirm your deferral % against the match threshold.
Quick reference
- Your deferral % vs match threshold — check today in your retirement portal.
- Vesting determines what employer contributions you keep when you leave.
- Equity comp (RSU, ESPP, options) has significant tax complexity — read plan docs.
Checklist
- Read 401(k)/403(b) SPD for match + vesting
- Check IRS 401(k) and 403(b) contribution limits for this plan year — 401(k) · 403(b)
- Confirm catch-up contribution rules if age 50+ (see IRS retirement plans)
- Update beneficiary designations
- Review fund expense ratios
- If you have equity, note next vest date