Goldman Sachs 401(k) Guide: Benefits, Options & Rollover
Everything Goldman Sachs employees need to know about their 401(k) plan, including matching, investment options, and what to do when you leave.
Key Takeaways
- 1Goldman Sachs offers generous 401(k) matching
- 2GS Personal Financial Management provides investment options
- 3Vesting schedule applies to employer contributions
- 4Rollover options available when you leave Goldman
- 5Former GS employees can diversify beyond finance-heavy holdings
- 6Gold IRA provides non-correlated asset diversification
- 7Compare fees before deciding rollover destination
Goldman Sachs 401(k) Plan Overview
Goldman Sachs offers a competitive 401(k) plan as part of its total compensation package. The plan is administered through GS Personal Financial Management (PFM) and offers a range of investment options.
- Administered through GS Personal Financial Management
- Both Traditional and Roth 401(k) options available
- Automatic enrollment for eligible employees
- Company matching program
- Access to institutional-class investments
Plan Administrator
For current plan questions, contact GS Personal Financial Management through the Goldman Sachs employee portal or HR.
Goldman Sachs 401(k) Matching
Goldman Sachs provides employer matching contributions, though specifics may vary by role and tenure.
- Employer match formula varies by employee level
- Match contributions vest over time
- Contributing at least enough to maximize match is recommended
- Match goes into same investment elections as your contributions
- Discretionary profit-sharing contributions may also apply
Don't Leave Money Behind
Always contribute at least enough to get the full employer match. It's an immediate 50-100% return on that portion of your contribution.
Investment Options in GS 401(k)
Goldman Sachs 401(k) plans typically offer a range of investment options, often including Goldman-managed funds.
- Target-date funds for hands-off investing
- Index funds tracking major markets
- Actively managed funds (including GS funds)
- Bond and fixed income options
- Company stock (for some employees)
- Self-directed brokerage option (if available)
Concentration Risk
If you work in finance and invest 401(k) heavily in financial sector funds, you're doubly exposed to finance industry risk. Diversify.
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When You Leave Goldman Sachs
Leaving Goldman Sachs (voluntarily, laid off, or retired) triggers important 401(k) decisions.
- **Vested balance**: You keep all your contributions + vested employer match
- **Non-vested**: Employer contributions not yet vested are forfeited
- **Loan repayment**: Outstanding loans typically due within 60 days
- **No rush**: You have time to decide, but don't forget about your account
- **Access changes**: Employee portal access may be limited after departure
Goldman Sachs 401(k) Rollover Options
Former Goldman employees have several options for their 401(k).
| Option | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Roll to IRA | More investment options, control |
| Roll to new employer 401(k) | Keep it simple, loan access |
| Roll to Gold IRA | Diversify away from financial markets |
| Leave in GS plan | Limited options, may charge fees |
| Cash out | NOT recommended - huge tax hit |
Diversifying Beyond Finance
As a Goldman Sachs employee, your career income is tied to financial markets. Your 401(k) may also be heavily invested in stocks and bonds. Consider whether diversifying into gold makes sense.
- Career already tied to financial sector performance
- 401(k) likely heavy in stocks and bonds
- Gold moves independently of stock market
- Physical gold provides counterparty diversification
- Former GS employees often have substantial 401(k) balances
- Roll portion to Gold IRA while keeping rest in stocks/bonds
Frequently Asked Questions
1How do I access my Goldman Sachs 401(k) after leaving?
Contact GS Personal Financial Management for instructions on accessing your account after employment ends. You may need to create new login credentials or contact them by phone.
2Can I roll over my GS 401(k) to any IRA?
Yes. Once you leave Goldman Sachs, you can roll your 401(k) to any IRA custodian - Fidelity, Schwab, Vanguard, Gold IRA companies, or others.
3What happens to my Goldman stock in the 401(k)?
If your 401(k) holds Goldman Sachs stock, consider Net Unrealized Appreciation (NUA) rules before rolling over. NUA can provide favorable tax treatment on company stock. Consult a tax advisor.
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