For many people, investing money into a 401(k) is the foundation of their retirement. Unfortunately, most investors don't fully understand how these plans work or how to take full advantage of them. From contribution limits to employer matches and tax strategies, small decisions made today can have a significant impact on your long-term financial future. Without a clear understanding, it's easy to miss opportunities and make costly mistakes that could affect your income in retirement.

In this episode, SHP co-founder Matthew Peck is once again joined by SHP's Raphael Hanna to break down the fundamentals of 401(k) planning. With years of experience helping clients navigate retirement strategies, Raphael shares practical insights into how these plans function and how to approach them with a long-term perspective.

Together, they walk through the key components of a 401(k), including how to determine your contribution amount, how employer matching and vesting schedules work, and the differences between pre-tax and Roth contributions. They highlight common pitfalls to avoid and how proactive planning can help you maximize your retirement savings, giving you greater confidence as you approach retirement.

In this podcast interview, you'll learn:

• The importance of fully understanding your 401(k) as it has replaced traditional pensions for many people.
• How to determine the right contribution amount based on your income, expenses, and long-term goals.
• How employer matching and vesting schedules work and why leaving early could mean losing valuable benefits.
• The key differences between pre-tax and Roth 401(k) contributions and how each impacts your taxes over time.
• Why tax diversification across pre-tax, Roth, and after-tax accounts can provide more flexibility in retirement.
• What to consider when rolling over a 401(k) or using in-service distributions to gain more control over your investments.

Want the Full Show Notes?

To get access to the full show notes, including audio, transcripts, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SHPfinancial.com/podcast

Connect With Us on Social

• Facebook
• LinkedIn
• YouTube

SHP Financial Co-Founder, Matt Peck, CFP®, CIMA®, and Lead Advisor, Laura Russo, sit down for their quarterly market update. Matt and Laura will take a look back at Q1, discuss the current state of the markets, where we are headed, and what this means for your future and finances. They'll also address key questions submitted by our clients. Visit shpfinancial.com for more information!

Financial planning is a lifelong process that evolves with each stage of life. Yet many people either start too late or focus on the wrong priorities and miss key opportunities that could significantly impact their long-term financial success. Without a clear roadmap, it's easy to overlook critical strategies that compound over time.

Today, Derek Gregoire is joined by SHP Financial Advisor Chris Willis to walk through the financial priorities everyone should consider at each stage of life. From early investing habits to retirement income strategies, Chris shares practical insights drawn from both his own experience and working with clients across multiple generations.

Together, they discuss several key strategies, including leveraging compound interest early, optimizing tax efficiency in your 40s and 50s, and navigating critical retirement milestones such as Social Security, Medicare, and required minimum distributions. Throughout the conversation, they highlight the importance of proactive planning at every stage, which helps build wealth, reduce stress, and create a more confident path as you approach retirement.

In this podcast interview, you'll learn:

• Why investing early creates a massive long-term advantage and how small monthly contributions can grow into significant wealth over time.
• Why investing in yourself can increase your long-term earning potential.
• The key financial priorities to focus on in each stage of life.
• The importance of life insurance and estate planning to protect your family's future.
• Why tax planning becomes critical in your 40s and 50s and the importance of diversifying your assets from a tax perspective.
• How Social Security timing impacts your overall retirement plan and strategies to reduce taxes on retirement income and distributions

Want the Full Show Notes?

To get access to the full show notes, including audio, transcripts, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SHPfinancial.com/podcast

Connect With Us on Social

• Facebook
• LinkedIn
• YouTube