The District of Columbia Employees Savings Thrift Plan, also known as the DC 457 Plan, is a retirement savings option available to employees of the District of Columbia government. It is designed to help employees save and invest for their retirement years, offering them the opportunity to plan and secure a financially stable future. The DC Employees Savings Thrift Plan operates as a voluntary supplemental retirement plan which allows employees to contribute a portion of their salary on a pre-tax basis. These contributions, known as elective deferrals, are deducted directly from an employee's paycheck and are not subject to federal income taxes at the time of contribution. This tax advantage allows participants to potentially lower their taxable income, while simultaneously saving for retirement. One of the key features of the DC Employees Savings Thrift Plan is the ability for participants to choose from a list of investment options. These options include a range of mutual funds, each with its own risk profile and potential return. By diversifying their investments across multiple funds, participants have the opportunity to grow their retirement savings over time, while mitigating risk. Additionally, the DC Employees Savings Thrift Plan offers a matching contribution from the District of Columbia government. For every dollar an employee contributes up to a certain percentage of their salary (typically a maximum of 5%), the government matches a portion of that contribution. This matching contribution acts as an incentive for employees to save even more towards their retirement goals. It is important to note that there are no loans or withdrawals available from the DC Employees Savings Thrift Plan, except for specific circumstances such as hardship withdrawals or unforeseen financial emergencies. This feature ensures that the funds are primarily used for retirement purposes, encouraging long-term savings and financial security. Overall, the District of Columbia Employees Savings Thrift Plan serves as a valuable retirement savings tool for employees of the District of Columbia government. By offering tax advantages, a variety of investment options, and a matching contribution, it encourages employees to take an active role in securing their financial future.