| | Learn the differences between a 401(k) and a 457 plan - Mar. 20, 2000 |
 | | A Section 457 plan is a nonqualified deferred compensation plan of a governmental agency or tax-exempt organization. Contributions are not taxable in the year the compensation is earned. The taxes on contributions and earnings are deferred until cash is withdrawn, just as with a qualified profit sharing plan such as a 401(k) or deductible IRA. |
 | | Withdrawals from 457 plans are limited to a few specific circumstances fairly similar to other retirement plans. As a nonqualified plan, however, there are a few differences between 457 plans and 401(k)s. |
 | | You are also limited to a maximum contribution of $2,000 per year. The tax-free earnings and distributions of a Roth along with the fact that Roths are not subject to RMDs at age 70-1/2 provide a lot of estate planning benefits if the primary goal of the investment is to maximize wealth for the beneficiaries. |
| money.cnn.com /2000/03/20/pensions/q_retire_askexperts (467 words) |