Retirement

Annual contribution limits for 401(k) plans have been raised to $18,500 this year, with catch-up contribution limits capped at $6,000.

Education offerings, student debt repayment programs and helping employees with short-term money issues will be big employer priorities this year.

Engaged savers, specifically those who are near the end of work, deserve an appropriate spectrum of risk options.

Employees looking to launch a business should consider collecting their retirement benefits early.

Plans sponsors can remove many of the barriers that prevent employees from taking full advantage of 401(k)s.

Financial Finesse and the Global Retirement Partners Advisor Alliance are two years into a program that now reaches more than 500 employers, including New York’s finest.

Beginning in February, the credit card giant will match 200% of an employee’s contributions to the company plan, up to 5% of the individual’s salary.

Retirees will have to alter the way they file taxes under the new tax law, including making two years' worth of charitable donations every other year to exceed the standard deduction and itemize.

Employers should develop the equivalent of an independent or objective credit score for plans that serve as a tool for gauging the value of each fund.

Employers should review documents before sending them out to employees, understand plan provisions and consult advisers when needed, among other guidelines.