Financial Resolutions for 2006: Fully Fund 401k

Here's an easy resolution for me to keep (I had to include one easy one, didn't I?): Fully fund my 401k.

I've fully funded my 401k for as long as I can remember -- probably seven or eight years now. I started doing it shortly after we paid off our house (up until then, I just put in enough to get the entire employer match) and haven't looked back. As you can imagine, it's turned into quite a nice next egg through the years.

If you're not fully funding your 401k (or at least putting in enough to get the employer match), I'd encourage you strongly to consider doing so. There are so many advantages to 401ks that not taking advantage of them, at least in part, is usually a very bad financial decision.

For more on 401ks, see these past posts:

• How Much Goes in the 401k?
• Need cash? Don't rob your 401k
• A Job-hopper's Guide to 401k Rollovers

Comments

[Craig Gardner]

I agree. I've been maxing out my 401(K) for many years as well. I actually didn't miss the take-home income in short order. We adjusted quickly and just let the monthly contributions accumulate. I use a self-directed account that provides a lot of flexibility. It's been great and would highly recommend it over using company funds which are usually high cost and average performers.