If you need more time to put aside money for retirement, a 457 plan is best for you. It has a better catch-up policy and will allow you to stash away more money for retirement. A 403(b) is likely to be your best bet if you want a larger array of investment options.
Secondly, should I do both 403b and 457b?
A question I get often is, “Can I contribute to both a 403(b) and 457 plan?” The answer is yes. If your employer offers both, you can contribute to (and max out) both. Let’s take a closer look at the retirement picture in higher education and how you can maximize your retirement plan contributions.
One of the main advantages of saving in this type of account is that it’s a non-qualified plan. This means that it’s not subject to the same withdrawal rules as a 401(k). They aren’t technically retirement plans and don’t come with early withdrawals penalties.
Hereof, what are 403b and 457 used for?
Similar to 401(k) plans, 403(b) and 457(b) plans allow you to contribute pre-tax money from your paycheck to your 403(b) or 457(b) plan to invest in certain investment products. These pre-tax contributions and their investment earnings will not be taxed until you withdraw the money, typically after you retire.
What are the disadvantages of a 403 B?
One disadvantage of 403(b) plans is that investment options tend to be more limited compared to other retirement savings plans. As mentioned above, 403(b) plans generally only invest in annuities and mutual funds. For those looking for a wider range of investment options 401(k) plans or IRAs are a better option.
What is the advantage of a 457 plan?
Contributions to a 457 are taken from your gross income, reducing your taxable wages. Your money then grows tax-deferred until you withdraw it, at which point it will be taxed as income. And because, like a 401(k), the deductions are automatic, a 457 offers one of the more painless ways to save for retirement.