403(b) plans and 401(k) plans are very similar but with one key difference: whom they're offered to. While 401(k) plans are primarily offered to employees in for-profit companies, 403(b) plans are offered to not-for-profit organizations and government employees.
First, a 403(b) plan may potentially offer a plan participant more flexibility: You can opt out of participating or change your contributions with each paycheck if you like, whereas a 401(a) may have mandatory contributions set by your employer. On the other hand, a 401(a) plan has a much higher contribution limit.
Excess deferrals are taxed both in the year contributed and in the year distributed. Earnings on excess deferrals are taxed in the year distributed. Under EPCRS, these excess deferrals are still subject to double taxation.
Yes! Because every dollar you invest in the 403b lowers your taxes, both federal and state. And has the potential for capital gains due to the increase in stock prices.
Since a 403(b) can be an important component of your retirement income, in addition to Social Security and other investments or savings, experts advise contributing between 10 to 15 percent of your salary and to start as soon as you become eligible.
Annual contribution limits Your total contribution for one year is based on your annual salary times the percent you contribute. However, your annual contribution is also subject to certain maximum total contributions per year. The annual maximum for 2025 is $23,500.
Sub section 403(b)(1) describes annuity contracts that may be made available to employees under a Section 403(b) plan. Sub section 403(b)(7) describes custodial accounts (mutual funds) that may be made available to employees under a Section 403(b) plan.
All 403(b) plans are subject to Title I of ERISA unless an exemption applies.
403(b) plans and 401(k) plans are very similar but with one key difference: whom they're offered to. While 401(k) plans are primarily offered to employees in for-profit companies, 403(b) plans are offered to not-for-profit organizations and government employees.