Understanding the Basics of Retirement Savings

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 128 views

What is the difference between 401(k) and 403(b) accounts?

Understanding the Basics of Retirement Savings

When it comes to saving for retirement, two popular options are 401(k) and 403(b) accounts. Both plans offer tax benefits and the potential for long-term growth, but they have distinct differences in terms of eligibility, contribution limits, investment options, and withdrawal rules. In this article, we will delve into the details of each plan, highlighting the key differences between 401(k) and 403(b) accounts.

A. How much money you can save

One of the primary differences between 401(k) and 403(b) accounts is the contribution limit. The 401(k) plan has a higher contribution limit compared to the 403(b) plan. For the 2022 tax year, the 401(k) contribution limit is $19,500, with an additional $6,500 catch-up contribution allowed for those 50 and older. In contrast, the 403(b) plan has a contribution limit of $19,500, with no catch-up contribution allowed.

401(k) Contribution Limits

Employee contributions: $19,500 (2022)
Catch-up contributions (50 and older): $6,500 (2022)
Employer matching contributions: varies by plan

403(b) Contribution Limits

Employee contributions: $19,500 (2022)
No catch-up contributions allowed
Employer matching contributions: varies by plan

B. Who can open each account

Another significant difference between 401(k) and 403(b) accounts is the eligibility criteria. A 401(k) plan is typically offered by for-profit companies, while a 403(b) plan is offered by tax-exempt organizations, such as non-profit hospitals, schools, and charities.

401(k) Eligibility

Offered by for-profit companies
Typically available to employees who work at least 1,000 hours per year
May be available to part-time employees, but eligibility varies by plan

403(b) Eligibility

Offered by tax-exempt organizations, such as non-profit hospitals, schools, and charities
Typically available to employees who work at least 1,000 hours per year
May be available to part-time employees, but eligibility varies by plan

C. Where you can choose to invest

Both 401(k) and 403(b) plans offer a range of investment options, including stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and exchange-traded funds (ETFs). However, the investment options available may vary depending on the plan and the provider.

401(k) Investment Options

Stocks: company stock, individual stocks
Bonds: corporate bonds, government bonds
Mutual Funds: equity, fixed income, balanced
ETFs: equity, fixed income, balanced
Other options: real estate, commodities, etc.

403(b) Investment Options

Annuities: fixed, variable, indexed
Mutual Funds: equity, fixed income, balanced
Other options: real estate, commodities, etc.

D. When your money is invested

The timing of investments in a 401(k) or 403(b) plan can also differ. In a 401(k) plan, investments are typically made on a pre-tax basis, meaning that contributions are made before taxes are withheld. In contrast, 403(b) plans may offer after-tax investments, where contributions are made after taxes are withheld.

401(k) Investment Timing

Pre-tax investments: contributions are made before taxes are withheld
Post-tax investments: not typically available
Rollovers: allowed from other qualified plans

403(b) Investment Timing

Pre-tax investments: not typically available
Post-tax investments: allowed, but may be subject to income tax
Rollovers: allowed from other qualified plans

Conclusion

In conclusion, while both 401(k) and 403(b) accounts offer tax benefits and the potential for long-term growth, they have distinct differences in terms of eligibility, contribution limits, investment options, and withdrawal rules. Understanding these differences is essential for making informed decisions about your retirement savings. By choosing the right plan for your needs, you can take the first step towards securing a comfortable retirement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between a 401(k) and a 403(b) plan? A: A 401(k) plan is offered by for-profit companies, while a 403(b) plan is offered by tax-exempt organizations.
Q: How much can I contribute to a 401(k) or 403(b) plan? A: The contribution limit for both plans is $19,500, with an additional $6,500 catch-up contribution allowed for those 50 and older.
Q: Can I invest in a 401(k) or 403(b) plan on a post-tax basis? A: In a 401(k) plan, investments are typically made on a pre-tax basis. In a 403(b) plan, post-tax investments may be available, but may be subject to income tax.

Additional Resources

IRS Publication 571: Tax-Sheltered Annuity Plans (403(b) Plans)
IRS Publication 560: Retirement Plans for Small Business
Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Investor Bulletin: 401(k) and 403(b) Plans
Frequently Asked Questions: 401(k) and 403(b) Plans

Understanding Your Retirement Savings Options

When it comes to saving for retirement, two popular options are 401(k) and 403(b) plans. Both plans offer tax benefits and the potential for long-term growth, but they have distinct differences in terms of eligibility, contribution limits, investment options, and withdrawal rules. In this article, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about 401(k) and 403(b) plans.

Q: What is the difference between a 401(k) and a 403(b) plan?

A: A 401(k) plan is offered by for-profit companies, while a 403(b) plan is offered by tax-exempt organizations, such as non-profit hospitals, schools, and charities.

Q: How much can I contribute to a 401(k) or 403(b) plan?

A: The contribution limit for both plans is $19,500, with an additional $6,500 catch-up contribution allowed for those 50 and older.

Q: Can I invest in a 401(k) or 403(b) plan on a post-tax basis?

A: In a 401(k) plan, investments are typically made on a pre-tax basis. In a 403(b) plan, post-tax investments may be available, but may be subject to income tax.

Q: What are the eligibility requirements for a 401(k) or 403(b) plan?

A: Both plans typically require employees to work at least 1,000 hours per year to be eligible. However, eligibility may vary depending on the plan and the employer.

Q: Can I roll over my 401(k) or 403(b) plan to an IRA?

A: Yes, you can roll over your 401(k) or 403(b) plan to an IRA. This can provide more investment options and flexibility.

Q: What are the tax implications of a 401(k) or 403(b) plan?

A: Contributions to a 401(k) or 403(b) plan are made on a pre-tax basis, which reduces your taxable income. However, withdrawals from the plan are taxed as ordinary income.

Q: Can I borrow from my 401(k) or 403(b) plan?

A: Yes, you can borrow from your 401(k) or 403(b) plan, but there may be fees and interest charges. Additionally, you will need to repay the loan within a certain timeframe.

Q: What happens to my 401(k) or 403(b) plan if I leave my job?

A: If you leave your job, you can roll over your 401(k) or 403(b) plan to an IRA or leave it with your former employer. However, you may be subject to penalties for early withdrawal.

Q: Can I invest in a 401(k) or 403(b) plan through a brokerage firm?

A: Yes, you can invest in a 401(k) or 403(b) plan through a brokerage firm, but you will need to follow the plan's investment options and guidelines.

Q: What are the fees associated with a 401(k) or 403(b) plan?

A: Fees associated with a 401(k) or 403(b) plan may include administrative fees, management fees, and investment fees. These fees can vary depending on the plan and the provider.

Q: Can I withdraw from my 401(k) or 403(b) plan before age 59 1/2?

A: Yes, you can withdraw from your 401(k) or 403(b) plan before age 59 1/2, but you may be subject to a 10% penalty and income tax.

Q: What happens to my 401(k) or 403(b) plan if I pass away?

A: If you pass away, your 401(k) or 403(b) plan may be inherited by your beneficiaries. However, the plan's rules and tax implications may vary depending on the plan and the provider.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 401(k) and 403(b) plans offer tax benefits and the potential for long-term growth, but they have distinct differences in terms of eligibility, contribution limits, investment options, and withdrawal rules. By understanding these differences and answering your frequently asked questions, you can make informed decisions about your retirement savings.

Additional Resources

IRS Publication 571: Tax-Sheltered Annuity Plans (403(b) Plans)
IRS Publication 560: Retirement Plans for Small Business
Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Investor Bulletin: 401(k) and 403(b) Plans
National Association of Plan Administrators (NAPA) Retirement Plan Resource Center