401(k) retirement savings plans
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Get startedMaximize your retirement savings with a 401(k) plan
A 401(k) is a retirement savings plan that you receive through your employer as part of your benefits package. This plan has tax advantages as an incentive to invest and save for retirement. Your employer may even offer a match, which means they make a contribution based on what you invest. The money is yours, so you keep it even if you change jobs.
Equitable’s commitment to our clients
For over 165 years, we’ve been working with clients across generations, building on what’s proven and pursuing what’s possible.1
- We provide innovative products and services designed to meet your retirement income goals.
- You’ll receive personalized financial planning support to help you make informed decisions about your retirement savings.
- We offer a wealth of educational resources to help you understand your investment options and the benefits of your 401(k).
Benefits of a 401(k) plan
Investing in a 401(k) plan has many advantages, including the potential for employer-matching contributions, tax advantages and the ability to grow your retirement savings.
Pre-tax contributions
Contributions are made with pre-tax dollars, which can lower your taxable income, potentially lowering your tax bracket and therefore, what you may owe.
Tax-deferred investment earnings
Earnings on your investments grow tax-deferred until you withdraw them in retirement.
Employer matching contributions
Many employers offer matching contributions, which is additional money added to your retirement savings.
Automatic payroll deductions
Contributions can be automatically deducted from your paycheck, making it easier to save consistently.
Flexibility in investment options
Choose from a variety of investment options that suit your risk tolerance and retirement goals.
Compounding interest
The power of compound interest can significantly grow your savings over time, especially if you start early.
Tools and resources
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Retirement calculator
Try the retirement calculator to see if you’re saving enough for the retirement you envision.
Insights and inspiration
Equitable Perspectives offers timely financial news, tips, stories and advice.
Frequently asked questions
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What are the contribution limits for a 401(k) plan?
- For 2025, the contribution limit is $23,500 for individuals under 50.
- Individuals aged 50+ can contribute an additional $7,500 or $11,250 for ages 60-63 as a catch-up contribution.
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What is an employer match?
- An employer match is when your employer contributes additional funds to your 401(k) based on the amount you contribute. For example, an employer might match 50% of your contributions up to 6% of your salary.
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What is the benefit of pre-tax contributions?
- Pre-tax contributions are deducted from your gross income, reducing your taxable income for the year, and potentially lowering your tax bracket. Your earnings grow tax-deferred until you withdraw the money.
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How does compounding interest benefit my savings?
- Thanks to the power of compound interest, every dollar you invest has the potential to grow. That’s because when you have money invested, it earns interest. Eventually, your interest can earn interest. This is known as compound interest.
By putting $150 in pre-tax dollars per pay period into y our 401(k) plan, your savings could grow to $331,685 in 30 years.3
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When can I withdraw money from my 401(k) without penalties?
- You can withdraw funds without penalties starting at age 59½. Early withdrawals may incur a 10% penalty in addition to regular income taxes.
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How do required minimum distributions (RMDs) work?An RMD is a mandatory withdrawal that individuals must take from their retirement accounts, such as traditional IRAs, 401(k)s, 403(b)s and other tax-deferred retirement plans, starting at age 73 (or 70½ if you reached that age before January 1, 2020). Understanding RMDs is crucial for effective retirement planning and tax management.
Get started
Investing in an Equitable Financial 401(k) plan is not just a smart financial decision: it's an investment in your future retirement. With Equitable's proven track record and commitment to our clients, you can trust that your retirement savings are in good hands.
Ready to start saving?
Enroll in a 401(k) retirement savings plan.
1 This applies specifically and exclusively to Equitable Financial Life Insurance Company (Equitable Financial).
2 Based on 2023 federal tax tables, assuming married filing jointly (source: irs.gov). Figures do not take into account any other sources of income, state or local income taxes, tax credits or deductions.
3 This assumes a hypothetical 7.5% return and there are no withdrawals. Withdrawals are subject to ordinary income tax and, if made before age 59½, may be subject to an additional 10% federal income tax. This example is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to represent an expected or guaranteed rate of return for any investment vehicle. This example does not take potential taxes, investment management fees or product-related charges into account. Your rate of return will vary. Amounts are fully taxable upon withdrawal and the accumulation values illustrated will be reduced, based on an individual’s tax rate.
Equitable is the brand name of the retirement and protection subsidiaries of Equitable Holdings, Inc., including Equitable Financial Life Insurance Company (Equitable Financial) (NY, NY); Equitable Financial Life Insurance Company of America (Equitable America), an AZ stock company with an administrative office located in Charlotte, NC; and Equitable Distributors, LLC. The obligations of Equitable Financial and Equitable America are backed solely by their claims-paying abilities.