A profit-sharing plan gives employees a share in their company's profits based on its quarterly or annual earnings. It is up to the company to decide how much of its profits it wishes to share. Contributions to a profit-sharing plan are made by the company only; employees cannot make them, too.

Is profit-sharing the same as a 401k?

401(k) The key difference between a profit sharing plan and a 401(k) plan is that only employers contribute to a profit sharing plan. If employees can also make pre-tax, salary-deferred contributions, then the plan is a 401(k).

Is profit-sharing a good thing?

Profit-sharing plans can be a great way to improve and keep employee morale, loyalty, and retention up. They are also a good way to motivate employees in participating in earning and protecting company profits because as part of the plan they have a vested interest in doing so.