Ask HTM - Rule of 55 and Early Retirement, 5% Down Payments, & Transitioning a Kid to Financial Adulthood #772
Jan 8, 2024
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This episode of the podcast covers topics such as buying a house with 5% down, transitioning a child to financial adulthood, tapping a 401k early with the Rule of 55, and offering retirement benefits for small businesses. It also discusses the pros and cons of renting vs buying a house and provides insights on setting up a teenager for financial success. Additionally, it explores affordable 401k options for small businesses and mentions low-cost providers. The episode concludes with beer tasting and sponsor messages.
Small businesses can offer retirement plans through low-cost providers like Betterment and Guideline.
Utilizing the rule of 55 for early 401(k) distributions requires caution and proper planning for long-term savings and compounding growth.
Deep dives
Starter 401(k) Options for Small Businesses
If you have a small business and want to offer a retirement plan, there are options available to you. Two low-cost providers to consider are Betterment and Guideline. These providers offer 401(k) options for small businesses at competitive prices. Betterment has a slightly higher monthly fee but a smaller per-employee charge, while Guideline offers a lower monthly fee and a slightly higher per-employee charge. Fidelity is also worth considering for its cost-effective options. These providers make it easier for small businesses to offer competitive benefits and retain talented employees. It's worth exploring the specific features and pricing of each provider to find the best fit for your business.
Taking Advantage of the Rule of 55
The rule of 55 allows individuals who turn 55 during the calendar year and leave their job to take early distributions from their 401(k) without paying the early withdrawal penalty. While this is a helpful tax loophole, it's important to consider the potential impact on long-term savings and compounding. Utilizing the rule of 55 should be done with caution and proper planning, as tapping these funds too early can result in missed compounding growth. It's recommended to have a well-capitalized retirement plan and to consult with a financial advisor before utilizing the rule of 55.
Rolling Over 401(k) Funds and Transitioning to the Rule of 55
Yes, it is possible to roll over old 401(k) funds into a current employer's 401(k) plan and potentially take advantage of the rule of 55 when you reach the eligible age. Rolling over old 401(k) funds into a current plan consolidates your retirement savings and provides the opportunity to utilize these funds later. However, it's essential to carefully consider the long-term impact and ensure you have enough savings to last you through retirement. It's also important to note that not all employers offer the option to access funds under the rule of 55, so it's crucial to evaluate the specific provisions of your employer's plan.
Bringing Retirement Plan Options to Small Businesses
If you work for a small business that does not currently offer a retirement plan, you can recommend options like Betterment and Guideline to your employer. These providers offer low-cost and user-friendly starter 401(k) plans that make it easier for small businesses to provide retirement benefits to their employees. By informing your employer about these options, you can help them offer competitive benefits and retain talented employees.
Let’s dive into the week with some fresh listener questions we have lined up for you! And don't just stand on the sidelines- if you have a question you’d like us to answer, toss your voice memo our way. It only takes about 90 seconds to record and you can find a step by step guide over at HowToMoney.com/ask . Regardless of how random or bizarre you might think it is, we want to hear it!
1 - Does it make sense to buy a house with 5% down to avoid paying rent?
2 - What financial tasks should I cross off the list for my 18 year old daughter?
3 - The Rule of 55 allows me to tap a 401k early, but do 401k rollovers also qualify?
4 - How can a small business start offering retirement benefits on the cheap?
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During this episode we enjoyed a Violent Green by Ever Grain Brewing- a big thanks to Rhiannah for sending this one our way! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!