In this episode of Behind the Wealth, Roger Abel and Elias Randel answer two important listener questions that many people face when planning their financial future:

Andy Asks: I just got a big promotion. Should I increase my 401(k) contributions right away or focus on building a bigger emergency fund first? Roger and Elias break down the pros and cons of each approach — from the short-term benefits of cash reserves to the long-term power of compounding in your retirement accounts. They’ll also discuss how to develop a blended strategy.

Dave Asks: I’m 61 with multiple 401(k)s from past jobs. Should I leave them where they are, consolidate into my current plan, or roll them into an IRA? You’ll hear the advantages and disadvantages of each option so you can better evaluate what’s right for your own retirement path.

👉 Whether you’re navigating a raise, preparing for retirement, or simply looking to strengthen your financial foundation, this conversation is packed with practical insights you can use today.

Take control of your financial future: https://www.btwealthshow.com/start-planning

Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, member FINRA/SIPC.

The opinions voiced in this show are for general information purposes only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which investments may be appropriate for you, consult with your attorney, accountant, and financial or tax advisor prior to investing.

Premier Investments & Wealth Management and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice, please consult your tax professional.

Economic forecasts set forth may not develop as predicted and there can be no guarantee that strategies promoted will be successful.

There is no assurance that the techniques and strategies discussed are suitable for all investors or will yield positive outcomes. The purchase of certain securities may be required to effect some of the strategies. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal.

Asset allocation does not ensure a profit or protect against a loss.

There is no guarantee that a diversified portfolio will enhance overall returns or outperform a non-diversified portfolio. Diversification does not protect against market risk.

All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results.

All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly.

Contributions to a traditional IRA may be tax deductible in the contribution year, with current income tax due at withdrawal. Withdrawals prior to age 59 ½ may result in a 10% IRS penalty tax in addition to current income tax.

A Roth IRA offers tax deferral on any earnings in the account. Qualified withdrawals of earnings from the account are tax-free. Withdrawals of earnings prior to age 59 ½ or prior to the account being opened for 5 years, whichever is later, may result in a 10% IRS penalty tax. Limitations and restrictions may apply.

Consult your tax professional about eligibility to Roth and Traditional IRA contributions. Contributions and earnings in a Roth IRA can be withdrawn without paying taxes and penalties if the account owner is at least 59 ½ and has held their Roth IRA for at least five years.

A plan participant leaving an employer typically has four options (and may engage in a combination of these options), each choice offering advantages and disadvantages. Those options include Leave the money in their former employer’s plan, if permitted; Roll over the assets to their new employer’s plan, if one is available and rollovers are permitted; Roll over to an IRA; or Cash out the account value.

Premier Investments & Wealth Management and LPL Financial do not provide specific individualized tax or legal advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor.