DEFINE THE CONTRIBUTION AND WE'LL GROW THE BENEFITS:

It's been a good year (so far) for 401(k) savers, with average balances hitting another record high amid strong stock market gains and an increase in contributions.

Average 401(k) balances reached $84,300 during the third quarter, up more than 11% from $75,900 last year, according to an analysis of 12.6 million accounts by Fidelity Investments, the largest 401(k) provider in the country.

Much of the boost has come from investment gains. 

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