All topics · Step 4: Invest every month

Accounts and the 401(k).

Where you invest matters as much as what you invest in. Start with the free money from your employer.

Use the free toolSee the 20 lessons
Step 1See where you standStep 2Build your cushionStep 3Clear expensive debtStep 4Invest every month
Free tool

401(k) match calculator

$
Check your plan's rules. A common example: 50% of what you put in, up to 6% of salary.
Free money from your employer each year

You put in
Full match possible
Left on the table

Match rules vary by employer. Your plan documents or HR have the exact numbers. Educational only.

Want the whole investing plan in one short guide?See the Invest Simply ($12)

Change any number and the result updates. Nothing you type leaves your device.

Remember

Three things to know.

Get the full match first

If your employer matches 401(k) contributions, put in enough to get all of it. It's an instant return.

Then use tax-friendly accounts

In the US, a Roth or traditional IRA is a common next step. The tax savings add up over decades.

Keep it simple

One low-cost fund in each account is enough for most people.

Lessons

20 lessons, 30 seconds each.

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Questions

Good questions.

What is a 401(k)?
A US retirement account through your job. Money goes in from your paycheck, often before tax, and many employers add extra.
Roth or traditional?
Traditional saves tax now. Roth saves tax later. Many people starting out, on lower incomes, choose Roth.
I'm not in the US.
Most countries have tax-friendly accounts: an ISA in the UK, a Tax-Free Savings Account in South Africa. Our Invest Simply guide lists them.
What if I change jobs?
Your 401(k) money is yours. You can usually leave it or move it to an IRA. Check any rules on the employer's part.
Up next · Step 4

Crashes and fear

Markets fall sometimes, often a lot. Here's how to stay calm, and why your cushion matters.
All topics

Step 1: See where you stand

Getting started20 lessonsBudget and spending20 lessonsMyths and mistakes20 lessonsStart with any amount20 lessons

Step 2: Build your cushion

Emergency fund20 lessonsWork is changing20 lessons

Step 3: Clear expensive debt

Debt and credit cards20 lessons

Step 4: Invest every month

Index funds20 lessonsCompounding and time20 lessonsFees20 lessonsAccounts and the 401(k)20 lessonsCrashes and fear20 lessons