What type of plan allows for extra tax-deferred savings for retirement?

The correct option allows individuals to set aside money specifically for retirement in a manner that the contributions can grow without being taxed until withdrawal. A 401(k) plan is a type of defined contribution plan, typically sponsored by an employer, which allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out. This tax-deferred nature means that individuals can potentially lower their taxable income for the year in which they make contributions, thus providing a significant advantage for long-term retirement savings.

Participants in a 401(k) often have the option to receive matching contributions from their employer, further enhancing their savings potential. The growth of the investments in a 401(k) is also tax-deferred, meaning individuals won’t pay taxes on the gains until they withdraw the money, usually during retirement when they may be in a lower tax bracket.

The other choices do not specifically highlight the extra tax-deferred savings feature as effectively as the 401(k) does. For instance, while defined benefit plans provide retirement income, they do not offer the same type of contribution flexibility. A general retirement plan could refer to various types of plans, and a defined contribution plan, although it could include 401(k)s, is not as specifically defined without that context. Therefore,