What’s the Difference Between 401(k) and 403(b)?

401(k) and 403(b)

If you’re not taking advantage of the option to invest in a 401(k) or 403(b) at work, you’re throwing money away. Here’s the difference between a 401(k) and 403(b) and how to take advantage of them.

Hear about the differences of 401(k)s and 403(b)s:

The differences between 401(k)s vs 403(b)s

How do employer-sponsored retirement accounts work? How much free money will the organization you work for contribute toward your retirement? And how can participating put you on the road to financial security?

On today’s episode of Queer Money®, we’re sharing all the differences of 401(k)s vs 403(b)s. We explain how employees make contributions to these accounts via a payroll deduction and what types of investments fund administrators put that money toward.

We go on to discuss the similarities between 401(k)s and 403(b)s, weighing in on their like contribution limits, withdrawal fees, and tax-free rollovers. Listen in for insight around what distinguishes the 401(k) from the 403(b) in terms of investment options and learn how participating in your employer-sponsored retirement account can help you achieve financial security!

Topics covered about the difference between a 401(k) and 403(b)

The top ways to achieve financial security

Homeownership
Employer-sponsored retirement accounts
Invest in real estate or stocks

The basics of an employer-sponsored retirement account

401(k) and 403(b) are the most common types
Make contributions through payroll deduction
Employer, administrator and participant

The difference between a Roth and traditional 401(k)

Traditional gets tax break when money is taken out
Roth gets tax break at end (when $ withdrawn)

The 3 investments associated with the 401(k) + 403(b)

Mutual funds
ETFs
Managed portfolios

How the 401(k) and 401(b) are alike

Contribution limits of $19K, up to $25K for catchup
10% withdrawal penalty before age 59½
Employer match up to a certain amount or %
Charge to manage plans + transaction fees
Tax-free rollover if leave employer (take $ with you)

What unique about the 403(b)

Tax-exempt organizations (nonprofit, hospital or school)
Typically vest immediately
May allow additional $3K/year after 15 years at a job
Fewer investment options

What’s unique about the 401(k)

For-profit, public companies
Usually, require a vesting period
Can purchase stock in the company at a lower rate
May have access to socially responsible funds