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Understanding 401(k) plans

Author

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  • Ramon P. DeGennaro
  • Deborah L. Murphy

Abstract

Questions about the future of the Social Security system continue to surface. As a result, interest in employer-sponsored retirement plans and other retirement investment options increases. But the restrictions and rules associated with various defined benefit plans such as 401(k), 403 (b), and 457 plans can be confusing, and these plans have risks of their own. The authors explore these plans and explain the need to view retirement savings as only one part of a portfolio.

Suggested Citation

  • Ramon P. DeGennaro & Deborah L. Murphy, 2004. "Understanding 401(k) plans," FRB Atlanta Working Paper 2004-21, Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta.
    • Handle: RePEc:fip:fedawp:2004-21
    as

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    File URL: https://www.frbatlanta.org/-/media/documents/research/publications/wp/2004/wp0421.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Ramon P. DeGennaro & James B. Thomson, 1992. "Capital forbearance and thrifts: an ex post examination of regulatory gambling," Working Papers (Old Series) 9209, Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland.
    2. Ramon P. DeGennaro, 2003. "Asset allocation and section 529 plans," FRB Atlanta Working Paper 2003-1, Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta.
    3. Gunthorpe, Deborah & Levy, Azriel, 1996. "Optimal Growth Portfolios Reconciling Theory and Practice," Review of Quantitative Finance and Accounting, Springer, vol. 7(2), pages 177-186, September.
    4. David E. Altig & Jagadeesh Gokhale, 1997. "Social Security privatization: a simple proposal," Working Papers (Old Series) 9703, Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland.
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