A 401(k) in-plan Roth conversion (also called an 'in-plan Roth rollover') allows MASSMutual employees to transfer the non-Roth portion of your 401(k) account into a designated Roth account within the same plan. The amount that MASSMutual employees convert is subject to federal income tax in the year of the conversion (except for any nontaxable basis you have in the amount transferred), but qualified distributions from the Roth account in the future are entirely income tax-free. The 10% early distribution penalty doesn't apply to amounts you convert (but that tax may be reclaimed by the IRS if you take a non-qualified distribution from your Roth account within five years of the conversion).
What part of my account can I convert?
Assuming your MASSMutual 401(k) allows in-plan conversions (plans aren't required to), you can convert any vested part of your 401(k) plan account into a designated Roth account regardless of whether you're otherwise eligible for a plan distribution.
Keep in mind that if you're entitled to an eligible rollover distribution, you can always roll those dollars into a Roth IRA instead of using an in-plan conversion.
What else do I need to know?
If you have the choice of an in-plan conversion or a rollover to a Roth IRA, which should you choose? There are a number of factors to consider:
- In general, the investments available in an employer 401(k) plan are fairly limited, while virtually and type of investment is available in an IRA (on the other hand, your 401(k) plan may offer investments that you can't replicate in an IRA, or that aren't available at similar cost).
- An IRA may give you more flexibility with distributions. Your distribution options in a 401(k) plan depend on the terms of that particular plan, and your options may be limited.
- Finally, 401(k) plans typically enjoy more protection from creditors under federal law than do IRAs (consult a professional if creditor protection is important to you).
Caution: When evaluating whether to initiate a rollover from an employer plan to an IRA, always be sure to (1) ask about possible surrender charges that may be imposed by your employer plan, or new surrender charges that your IRA may impose, (2) compare investment fees and expenses charged by your IRA (and investment funds) with those charged by your employer plan (if any), and (3) understand any accumulated rights or guarantees that you may be giving up by transferring funds out of your employer plan.
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What is the primary purpose of the 401(k) plan offered by MASSMutual?
The primary purpose of the 401(k) plan offered by MASSMutual is to help employees save for retirement in a tax-advantaged way.
How can employees at MASSMutual enroll in the 401(k) plan?
Employees at MASSMutual can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
What types of contributions can employees make to their MASSMutual 401(k) accounts?
Employees can make pre-tax contributions, Roth (after-tax) contributions, and possibly catch-up contributions if they are age 50 or older.
Does MASSMutual offer a company match for 401(k) contributions?
Yes, MASSMutual offers a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, subject to specific terms and conditions.
What is the vesting schedule for the company match at MASSMutual?
The vesting schedule for the company match at MASSMutual typically follows a graded vesting schedule, which means employees earn ownership of the match over a period of time.
Can employees at MASSMutual take loans against their 401(k) savings?
Yes, employees at MASSMutual may have the option to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to plan rules and limits.
What investment options are available in the MASSMutual 401(k) plan?
The MASSMutual 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and possibly company stock.
Are there any fees associated with the MASSMutual 401(k) plan?
Yes, there may be fees associated with the MASSMutual 401(k) plan, such as administrative fees and investment management fees, which are outlined in the plan documents.
How often can employees change their contribution amounts in the MASSMutual 401(k) plan?
Employees can typically change their contribution amounts to the MASSMutual 401(k) plan on a regular basis, often at any time during the year.
What resources does MASSMutual provide to help employees manage their 401(k) investments?
MASSMutual provides various resources, including online tools, educational materials, and access to financial advisors to help employees manage their 401(k) investments.