National 401(k) Day is more than just a calendar event. It is a powerful reminder to take control of your financial future. Observed on the Friday after Labor Day, this annual event encourages individuals to assess their retirement savings, adjust their contributions and make sure their 401(k) plans support their long-term goals.

Whether you are just starting to save or have been contributing for years, National 401(k) Day is the perfect time to review your progress and take meaningful steps toward financial wellness.

Why National 401(k) Day Matters

You might wonder: What is National 401(k) Day, and why should I care? Simply put, it is a national initiative designed to increase awareness about retirement readiness. It reminds participants to evaluate whether their current savings align with their future needs. With rising health care costs, inflation and longer life expectancies, retirement planning is more important than ever.

5 Things to Do on National 401(k) Day

1. Check your 401(k) contributions
Are you contributing enough to meet your retirement goals? Review your current contributions and see if there is room to increase them. Even a 1 percent bump can significantly boost your retirement savings over time.

2. Review and rebalance your investments
Markets change, and so does your life. Make sure your investments still match your risk tolerance, time horizon and overall strategy. This is a good time to rebalance your portfolio if certain assets have grown disproportionately.

3. Max out the employer match
If your employer offers a match, contribute at least enough to earn the full benefit. That is essentially free money helping to grow your 401(k). Skipping it means leaving part of your compensation behind.

4. Assess your retirement goals

Are you on track to retire when and how you want? Consider the following:

• Your ideal retirement age
• Estimated health care costs
• Desired lifestyle and location
• Potential income gaps

If anything has changed, you may need to adjust your contributions or revisit your broader financial plan.

5. Evaluate fees and available resources
Explore your plan’s tools, calculators and advisory services. Understanding the fees tied to your investments can help improve your long-term growth potential.

How to Celebrate National 401(k) Day

You do not need to throw a party. Celebrating means being proactive about your future. Here are a few ways to mark the occasion:

• Log in to your retirement plan portal and update your contribution settings
• Share tips with coworkers or host a lunch-and-learn
• Meet with a financial advisor or attend a virtual retirement workshop
• Encourage your HR team to promote financial wellness resources

Take the Next Step Toward Retirement Confidence

National 401(k) Day is more than a moment—it is a movement toward better retirement planning. Every small step you take today helps build a more secure tomorrow.

If you are an American Trust Retirement participant, your plan includes helpful tools and expert guidance. Make this day count by taking one step forward.

FAQ: National 401(k) Day and Retirement Planning

What is National 401(k) Day?
National 401(k) Day is held each year on the Friday after Labor Day. It is a national effort to encourage employees to review and optimize their retirement savings plans.

How much can I contribute to my 401(k) annually?
For 2025, you can contribute up to $23,500 if you are under age 50. If you are 50 or older, you can make a catch-up contribution, raising the total to $31,000. You can read more about the 2025 401(k) contribution limits  for a detailed breakdown.

How do I adjust my 401(k) contributions?
Log in to your retirement account portal and find the contribution or deferral settings. You can typically change your contributions at any time.