What to Do After Maxing Out Your Retirement Accounts

Planning for retirement allows you to provide yourself with financial security so you can live comfortably. Retirement accounts help you build up your money and maxing out these accounts gives you the full benefits. Once you’ve maxed out your accounts, you may be left wondering where you can put more money in order to maximize your retirement savings. 

Put Money in an HSA 

Health Savings Account or HSA is a great option for any additional money you may have. An HSA is an account where you can contribute pre-tax dollars. The money will roll over from year to year and you can keep adding to prepare for retirement or any eventual medical needs. The money in an HSA can be used for any qualifying medical expenses. 

You can choose to spend it however you’d like. This is beneficial to have in retirement when medical needs tend to increase. Money in an HSA will also have interest, so the money will grow over time. In order to have an HSA account, you must first have an HSA-qualifying health plan. 

Invest in a Taxable Account 

Most retirement accounts are tax-advantaged meaning they are exempt from taxes or receive other tax benefits. A taxable account is one in which any money earned in that account will be taxed during the financial year it was earned. Investing in these accounts allows more flexibility since there are no age restrictions and you can withdraw money at any time. 

With a taxable account, you can invest in stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and any other investment you choose. You have full control over where your money goes and you can choose what risks you want to take. The highest long-term capital gains rate is 20% versus 37% for ordinary income. Investing in a taxable account is a great solution for anyone who’s maxed out their retirement accounts. 

Real Estate Investments 

If you’ve maxed out several retirement accounts and have invested your money in other accounts, there are even more investment options available. Investing in real estate, for example, can be very interesting and lucrative. There is a lot of variety in real estate investment. You can manage a rental property, flip houses, own commercial real estate, and much more. You can find an option that is interesting to you and keep it up as long as you choose. Like any investment, there are risks involved and it’s important to do research before getting started. 

 

Having excess money after maxing out retirement accounts is a blessing. You have more money you can grow and set aside for retirement. There are many options to consider, so take your time and find what works for you.

 

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