Updated 2026-03-30
How to Set Up & Enroll in Your 401(k)
Step-by-step enrollment guide with a paycheck impact calculator
Under SECURE Act 2.0, new plans must auto-enroll employees at 3-10% of salary. But the default rate may be lower than what you should save. Financial planners recommend 10-15% of gross income including employer match.
5 Steps to Enroll
- Check eligibility: Most employers offer enrollment during first 30-90 days or open enrollment
- Choose contribution rate: Start with at least enough for full employer match
- Select pre-tax or Roth: Based on current vs expected future tax bracket
- Pick investments: Target-date fund if unsure, or build a 3-fund portfolio
- Name a beneficiary: This overrides your will - update after life changes
Pavlo Pyskunov
Managing Director & Investment Fund Director
Pavlo Pyskunov analyzes employer-sponsored retirement plans using IRS publications and DOL Form 5500 filings, helping workers maximize their 401(k) savings through data-driven guidance.
Last updated: 2026-03-30