Where do I go from here? My 401(k) has dropped by 23% recently and now I have just $200K. What mistakes did I make?

My 401(k) has dropped to about $200,000 and lost around 23% over the last few years. I’m trying to recover my losses, but my employer isn’t very supportive. Where can I get assistance? What should I consider? Is this situation normal? Robert Johnson, a certified financial analyst and finance professor at Creighton University, notes that […]
Implications of NASDAQ relocating to Texas for employment and 401(k) plans in San Antonio

Texas Poised as a Financial Hub with Nasdaq Office San Antonio – Texas might be stepping into the spotlight of the financial sector, as Nasdaq has announced plans to establish a regional office in the state. This initiative aligns Texas with the New York Stock Exchange and the proposed Texas Stock Exchange, a development that […]
New regulations allow for penalty-free early 401(k) withdrawals, but an advisor suggests the new uses may not be feasible.

New Rules Allow Withdrawals from 401(k) for Long-Term Care Insurance Workers now have a new option to plan for unpredictable health-related costs during retirement. Recent changes to 401(k) plans permit participants to make limited, penalty-free withdrawals to fund long-term care insurance. This insurance helps cover costs associated with daily living assistance, like bathing, dressing, and […]
Choosing between 401(k), Social Security, or a pension? The sequence you pick can lead to financial stability or trouble. Make the right decision in 2026.

Understanding Retirement Income and Taxes For many, Social Security serves as the foundation for retirement. A study from The Senior Citizens League in 2024 revealed that government benefits provide over half of the total income for 67% of older adults. However, if you’re among the one-third of seniors who have significant income from sources beyond […]
How Does Your 401(k) Balance Stack Up Against the Average for Individuals in Their 40s and 50s?

age group average 401(k) retirement savings target shortfall 40s $162,143 $1,428,571 $1,266,428 50s $251,758 $1,428,571 $1,176,813 For those considering retiring early, these figures serve as a starting point, not a definitive goal. Thorough planning and saving beyond the usual expectations can greatly influence whether you run out of funds or enjoy a comfortable retirement. Access […]
From Nothing to $23,500: Ways to Fully Utilize Your 401(k) Contributions

Important points To fully benefit from your 401(k), a significant savings rate is generally needed; building up over time is beneficial. Key moments like a raise or a job change can be ideal times to boost your contributions without straining your budget. Reaching an income milestone, such as $150,000, often makes it easier to maximize […]
Withdrawing from a 401K. Returning to work. Concerns about ACA expenses for the self-employed.

Updated December 11, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. ET Krisa Ostenzo anticipates having to withdraw from her savings to afford her $1,500 monthly health insurance plan once the extended tax credits from the Affordable Care Act (ACA) run out next year. She and her husband managed an optometry practice in rural Wisconsin for 35 years until […]
Various difficulties: My wife and I have elderly parents, only $29K in a 401(k), and are facing return-to-office requirements while living hundreds of miles away. We need assistance.

We’re a married couple facing the challenge of balancing our work obligations between Illinois and North Carolina. We rent in Illinois and have HSAs from both employers, along with a 401(k) with my wife’s job. I also have a 401(k) through my employer. We’re also aware of our aging parents, both in their 70s. After […]
Is an annuity right for your 401(k)? 6 financial experts discuss who benefits and who doesn’t.

Pensions in 401(k) Plans: A New Trend The SECURE 2.0 Act has opened doors for employers to include pensions in retirement plans for employees. Recently, Vanguard has started offering consistent payments to those enrolled in its 401(k) plans. This pension option lets workers allocate part of their retirement savings towards a pension, ensuring a steady […]
It’s becoming simpler to hold onto your 401(k) after retirement. Important information for those nearing retirement.

Deciding What to Do with Your 401(k) at Retirement When it comes time to retire, a critical choice for workers is what to do with their 401(k) savings. Should you keep the money in your employer’s plan, or roll it over into a personal account? Companies have begun to enhance their 401(k) offerings, making it […]