Learn how to maximize your investments so your 401(k) or retirement plan will accumulate $1 million. About 150,000 people have a 401(k) of $1 million or more in 2017 and 152,000 IRA’s have $1 million or more. Here are the steps to take: 1. Start as soon as possible. 2. Invest the maximum or at least get the match. 401(k) & 403 (b) = $18,500 Roth IRA benefits phase out (you can’t contribute) if you earn too much money. IRA $5,500 3. If you’re over age 50, add the catch up provision. 401(k) $18,500 + 6,000 = $24,500 IRA $5,500 + $1,000 4. Invest in stocks. 10% average annual return. $3,000 per year for 35 years @10% = $978k $8,000 per year for 25 years @ 10% = $952,000 $24,000 per year for 15 years @ 10% = $939,000   5. Don’t use target funds. 6. Get comfortable with risk. 7. Stay the course.