My 401(k) fully vests this month—why my latest work anniversary is worth thousands

Employer 401(k) matching contributions don't automatically belong to you—vesting schedules determine when that money is truly yours, with some plans using cliff vesting (100% after 3 years) or graded vesting (increasing percentages over time). Financial experts say knowing your vesting status is critical before leaving a job, as the timing can mean forfeiting thousands of dollars in employer…