Keep your retirement account in balance

Your retirement strategy does not have to stay static. As markets shift, your retirement account balance and overall investment mix can change over time, sometimes in ways you may not notice right away.

Taking a moment to check in now and then may help you stay aligned with your long-term goals and feel more comfortable with how your money is invested.

Why your investment mix can shift

If you are saving through a workplace retirement plan, like a 401(k), 403(b) or 457 plan, your contributions are typically spread across different types of investments, such as stocks, bonds and cash. This approach is designed to reflect your goals and your comfort level with risk.

Over time, those investments will not all perform the same way. Some may grow faster, while others may grow more slowly or fluctuate differently. As that happens, your original mix can gradually shift.

What rebalancing means for your account

Rebalancing is a way of bringing your investment mix back in line with the strategy you have chosen. It typically involves adjusting how your money is distributed across investments, so it reflects your intended allocation.

For example, if one part of your portfolio has grown more quickly, it may now represent a larger share than you planned. Rebalancing can help bring things back toward your preferred mix.

How rebalancing may help you stay aligned

Rebalancing is not about reacting to every market movement. Instead, it is a way to stay connected to your overall approach as markets change.

By reviewing your portfolio and making adjustments when needed, you may be able to:

• Keep your investment mix aligned with your goals
• Maintain a level of risk that feels right for you
• Stay focused on your long-term timeline

Rebalancing does not ensure a profit or protect against losses, but it can help you stay consistent with the strategy you have chosen over time.

When to review your retirement portfolio

Markets move whether we are watching closely or not, which is why periodic check-ins can be helpful. Reviewing your retirement account from time to time may help you understand whether your current allocation still reflects your preferences.

You might consider reviewing your portfolio:

• At regular intervals that work for you
• After major market changes
• When your goals or timeline shifts

Even small adjustments along the way can help you stay connected to your plan.

Tools that may make it easier

Some workplace retirement plans offer features like automatic rebalancing, which can help maintain your target investment mix over time.

If available to you in your retirement plan, this may simplify the process and help you stay aligned without needing frequent manual updates.

A steady approach, over time

There is no single right moment to adjust your portfolio, just opportunities to stay engaged with your strategy.

By checking in periodically and making thoughtful adjustments when needed, you can continue moving forward in a way that can help reflect your goals, your timeline, and what feels right for you.