For the first time in six years, limits for IRAs are rising. 401(k) accounts and IRAs will see an increase of $500 in contribution maximums for 2019. Check out the table below for the details:
How can you take advantage?
Contributing the full amount allowable to a retirement plan will maximize your tax savings and increase your compound interest earnings potential. Need help making these contributions a reality? Here are some ideas:
- Contribute your raise or bonus. A great time to contribute to a retirement plan is when you receive a raise or bonus. It allows you to take some or all of the additional income and invest in your future without changing your current lifestyle. Your investment will go even further if your employer offers a plan that matches your contribution.
- Cut your spending. Start by reviewing your ongoing expenses and creating a budget. Maybe you have a subscription you can cancel or a service provider you can contact to negotiate a lower rate. Then look for ways to reduce your spending on day-to-day expenses – like food, for example. Some ideas to lower food costs are bringing lunch to work, skipping the coffee shop, limiting dinner out at restaurants and shopping at less expensive grocery stores. Use this money to fund your account.
- Add a side job. At some point, there are only so many expenses you can cut. Picking up some side income might be the way to go. Whether it’s a part-time retail job or starting your own small business, the additional income might be enough to get you to your savings goal.
- Automate your contributions. Most plans offer a way to contribute automatically. If you have a plan through work, check to see if it has an auto-escalation feature that increases contributions over time. If you are investing in an individual plan, set up auto contributions to pull from your bank account on a monthly basis.
Working through these ideas now gives you a great chance to take advantage of the benefits of funding new or existing retirement accounts. Why not take full advantage of the tax benefits they provide? Please call if you have any questions.
As always, feel free to pass this Tip along to friends, and reach out if you need help with your personal tax and finance situation.