10/28/2026
What it could cost to wait until you're 40 to invest.
Start investing $1,000 a month at 40 and you could have about $810,000 by 65.
Start at 35 and it is about $1.2 million. That is $410,000 more for only $60,000 in additional contributions.
In an average year, the market falls about 14% from peak to low, so the right time to invest is as soon as possible.
And if your employer matches 50% of what you put in, up to a limit, that is a potential 50% gain before the market even moves.
Nobody wishes they'd started investing later. Do your future self a favor, and let's talk at welafa.com.
Hypothetical example for illustration only. Assumes $1,000 invested monthly to age 65, a 7% annual return compounded monthly, no taxes or fees. Not a guarantee. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. 14% figure: J.P. Morgan Asset Management, Guide to the Markets, S&P price index, 1980 to 2023, excludes dividends. Match terms vary by plan.
Wela Financial Advisory is an SEC-registered investment adviser.