Most 401(k) advice stops at "contribute enough to get the match." But your 401(k) can hold far more than the number most people have memorized — and if you're a high earner, that gap could be worth millions by retirement.

In this replay episode, Eric and Kali break down the layers of a 401(k) that go beyond the standard employee contribution and explain:

• After-tax contributions
• Employer profit-sharing
• The mega backdoor Roth conversion strategy that lets high earners move a much larger amount into tax-advantaged accounts than most realize is possible

And if you're wondering if your 401(k) can help you retire before the standard withdrawal age, the answer is yes: using legitimate strategies like 72(t) distributions and the rule of 55 for accessing that money early without triggering a penalty.

But there are some pitfalls to watch out for, including vesting schedules that can cost you employer contributions if you leave too soon, the job-switch math error that leads to accidental over-contribution, and why your plan document (not HR, not your provider's call center) is the only place to get a straight answer.

This is a replay of a past episode. The specific dollar figures and IRS contribution limits referenced were accurate at the time of original recording and have since increased, but the strategies and planning principles remain fully relevant today. Friendly reminder to check current-year IRS limits before applying any numbers to your own plan!

Ready to create, use, and enjoy money for life? Request a complimentary consultation with us at BYH and discover how to optimize your investments, reduce your tax burden, and grow your wealth: https://beyondyourhammock.com/schedule