401k Problems

Are you losing money in your or your spouse's 401(k)?

You sure might be. 401(k) plans are notorious for having hidden fees, a lack of diversification, and negative tax implications. War, inflation, and stock market volatility can also have a huge impact. What can you do to protect yourself? Scroll to dig deeper into a topic, or just click to "Schedule a 401(k) Review" to get your questions answered.

"Patient education about 401(k) plan...

Steve was very informative about educating me in the transition from a 401K plan to a 403B plan. Steve was very patient with me and thoroughly answered all my questions and addressed my concerns. It was a pleasure working with Steve because he genuinely cares about his teachers!

Stacy Diggs, Winslow

"Reduced risk from stock market crashing...

When I had questions about my tax shelter, Mr. Carter sat with me and broke down the information that I needed to know. Thinking of my future and financial matters, I decided to proceed with changes to increase my investment and put in less of a risk on the market. I am really glad I did that.

Maria Lalave, Camden

Why to review your 401(k) now...

IvyWest Financial's partners have completed audits of hundreds of 401k plans.

1. Many teachers and their spouses have not been told about the high fees they are paying.

2. You may not have been told that your entire savings could be wiped out in a stock market crash and take years to recover.

3. You may have been told your savings are diversified because you have a lot of different mutual funds, but don’t know that those funds often have the same companies in them - putting your retirement at risk.

4. You may not be aware that the combination of fees, stock market decreases, inflation, and taxes that the government will charge you when you take money out, could leave you with very little money in your retirement years.

That is why we offer a complimentary 401k account audit.

During my TPAF and Retirement Review I was very impressed with Steve Carter. He answered my questions and basically was there to help me. It didn’t matter if I signed up with him or not, he was willing to assist me. When I told him I needed time to think about what I wanted to do with my investments at that point in my life, he said no problem. I did not feel pressured at all.

I did decide to invest differently and mostly because I was impressed with Steve’s knowledge and helpfulness. Every time we needed to meet Steve asked me what was the best time for me and he would make it happen. He takes the clients needs into consideration and that doesn’t happen much anymore.

I have had some problems getting my previous company to release me and I was never on my own. Steve was there to help me through the process. I have met with several others during a review and none of them helped me like he has. I trust him and I believe that he really wants the best for his clients.

Alice j stewart, teacher

Dudley Elementary School, Camden, NJ

"A great help for me and my family...

Steve was a great help for me who delivered a very good presentation to me about retirement. He explained a few options that would benefit me and my family after I retire. Mr. Carter knows the business and I recommend him to anybody who needs assistance with PLANNING for their retirement.

L. Marty Johnson, Pennsauken

"Explained options to increase savings...

Steve was able to answer all the questions that I had concerning my retirement. He explained the various options I have available to me and showed me ways that I could increase my retirement savings. I was not aware of these options and I now feel more confident of my future, especially as I reach retirement age.

Denise Moran, Winslow

What can you do about your 401(k) problems?

Step #1. Understand your 401(k) details.

We've described the problems and solutions as best we can in this website. But, you really need to understand the policy details. Let's just start with quick call or chat online.

Step #2. Make changes to your 401(k).

There may be better options inside your 401(k) that have lower fees. You may be able to move your money to something that pays better.

Step #3. Get help with your 401(k) paperwork.

You are busy and maybe even overwhelmed. We can help you step-by-step to do what you need to do.

5 Star Ratings (Read Reviews)

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"Made process easy…patient...

Steve was very helpful in explaining my 403B to me and calculating when I can retire. He came to me at my school and was very accommodating with the time of our meeting. I know he lives very far away and it meant a lot that he made the process so easy for me to do. He had some issues with my old company and he was very patient and walked me through the process of what to do step by step. I was so pleased with him that I referred him to a co-worker and she too was very pleased with his work. Thanks again Steve!

Amy Nicholls, Kindergarten Teacher

"Explained in terms I understand…quick...

Steve Carter was extremely helpful during my TPAF and retirement review. It was all brand new information for me, and Steve was able to explain everything in language and terms that I would understand. He works around your schedule and makes sure his appointments are quick! I am very pleased with my experience!

Bridget, Ocean Township

Step 1

Schedule Quick Chat

Step 2

Make a Plan

Step 3

We'll Help You Do It

What's the process like?

The process is very easy - especially since we've switched to web conferences via Zoom or Google Meet during COVID times.

Schedule a meeting online. We can review your policies and make a plan. Then Steve will give you whatever support you need to implement it.

About  IvyWest Financial

Steve Carter has focused on helping educators with their financial planning and retirement planning for more than 25 years. He has talked to thousands of teachers and is passionate about helping them take simple steps to improve their financial situations. Steve and his wife reside in Manasquan, New Jersey and travel frequently to South Carolina. 

Sam Ingersoll has worked with numerous non-profits and after spending time in the financial services, real estate, and mortgage industries, is now a passionate advocate for consumers. Sam's wife is a physician and they have four children including one with Down syndrome and two adopted through state social services.

While IvyWest Financial serves many affluent families, our practice has become increasingly devoted to supporting educators and teachers who do so much to help our children.