Let's Get You Ready

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Gross annual income

Your salary before taxes. Find it on your most recent pay stub or offer letter.

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Your state

Affects your tax optimization strategy. 9 states have no income tax.

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Employer match %

Find in your benefits portal under "Plan Details" or "Employer Contributions." Or check your offer letter or ask HR. Example: "50% match up to 6%" means enter 3%.

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Your contribution %

The percentage of your salary you currently contribute. Find it in your 401k portal under "My Contributions" or "Election."

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Fund expense ratio

In your 401k portal, click on each fund you own and look for "Expense Ratio" or "Annual Fee." A good target is under 0.20%. Don't know it? Use our 0.50% industry average estimate.

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401k type

Is your 401k Traditional (pre-tax), Roth, or both? Find this in your portal under "Contribution Type" or "Election Type."

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Roth IRA

Do you have a Roth IRA at Fidelity, Vanguard, Schwab, or another brokerage? Just yes or no — no details needed.

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HSA

Do you have a Health Savings Account? Check your benefits portal or HealthEquity, Fidelity HSA, or Lively. Note if it is invested or sitting in cash.

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Emergency fund

Roughly how many months of expenses do you have saved in an easily accessible account? None, 1-2 months, or 3+ months.

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High-interest debt

Do you have credit card debt or personal loans? Roughly how much. This affects your optimal contribution strategy.

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Monthly investable cash

How much money is left over each month after rent, food, bills, and other essentials? A rough estimate is fine.

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That is everything!

You do not need account logins, Social Security numbers, or exact figures. Estimates work great.