Maryland Deferred Compensation Investment Account Plan is a retirement savings program available for public employees in the state of Maryland. It allows participants to save and invest funds for their future retirement. The Maryland Deferred Compensation Investment Account Plan offers various benefits to participants, including tax advantages and flexibility in choosing investment options. Participants have the ability to contribute a portion of their pre-tax income into the plan, which helps reduce their taxable income and potentially lower their overall tax bill. There are several types of investment options available within the Maryland Deferred Compensation Investment Account Plan. These options include: 1. Fixed Income Funds: These investments offer a stable return by investing in bonds, U.S. Treasury securities, or other fixed-income instruments. They are generally considered lower risk compared to other investment options. 2. Equity Funds: Equity funds invest in stocks of various companies, aiming to take advantage of the potential growth of the stock market. These funds may provide higher returns but also carry a higher level of risk. 3. Target Date Funds: These funds automatically adjust the asset allocation over time depending on the participant's planned retirement date. They offer a mix of equities, fixed income, and other assets, gradually becoming more conservative as the retirement date approaches. 4. Money Market Funds: These funds invest in short-term debt securities like Treasury bills and commercial paper. They aim to provide stability and preserve the principal investment while offering modest returns. 5. Balanced Funds: Balanced funds provide a mix of equities, fixed income securities, and cash equivalents. They aim to strike a balance between risk and return, offering a moderate level of risk with potential for growth. Participants in the Maryland Deferred Compensation Investment Account Plan have the flexibility to select one or multiple investment options based on their risk tolerance, investment goals, and time horizon until retirement. They can also make changes to their investment allocations as needed. It is important for participants to review and monitor their investment options periodically, considering factors such as market conditions, their retirement goals, and the desired level of risk. By actively managing their investments, participants can optimize their savings and potentially achieve their retirement goals more effectively through the Maryland Deferred Compensation Investment Account Plan.