This year, 401(k) plan contributions max out at $24,500 for workers under 50 and $32,500 for those 50 and over. You may not like your investment choicesWhen you save for retirement in a 401(k), you're limited to the investment options offered by that plan. But each 401(k) plan offers its own set of funds. But if you end up wanting to access your 401(k) before age 59 1/2, you could run into a problem. But as you can see, maxing out a 401(k) year after year may not work out well for you.