Employee Retirement Benefits Explained

What's the difference between a traditional and Roth 401(k), 403(b), ESOP and profit-sharing plan? Find out.

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Working for a company with a retirement plan does not necessarily mean that you are a member of the plan, or that you will actually get retirement benefits, or that the benefits will be as much as you think. It's important to know what you've got.

The following stories will help you figure out what sort of retirement plan your employer (or perspective employer) offers, how you can benefit from that plan and what drawbacks there are to the plan.

10 Questions to Ask

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You need to understand the basics of your employer's retirement plan.

401(k) Plans

These accounts offer employees a tax-advantaged way to save for retirement.

Roth 401(k)

This new option gives employees access to tax-free income in retirement.

Employee Stock Ownership Plans and Profit-Sharing Plans

These plans, that let employees share in their companies' profits, have advantages and disadvantages.