403(b) Retirement Plans

A 403(b) plan, also known as a tax-sheltered annuity (TSA) plan, is a retirement plan for certain employees of public schools, employees of certain tax-exempt organizations and certain ministers. It allows employees to make tax-deferred contributions from their salary to invest in retirement savings.

403(b) plans provide a valuable benefit for employees in the nonprofit sector and education, offering a way to grow their retirement savings on a tax-deferred basis, similar to the benefits of a 401(k) in the private sector.

• Tax Advantages: Contributions are made pre-tax, reducing taxable income for the year they are made.

• Catch-Up Contributions: Allows older employees to make additional contributions, aiding in accelerating retirement savings as they near retirement age.

• Annuities and Mutual Funds: 403(b) plans often offer investment options in both annuities and mutual funds, giving participants flexibility in how their contributions are invested.

• Employer Contributions: Some 403(b) plans also include employer contributions, which can take the form of matching funds to further enhance retirement savings.

• Maximize Contributions: Contributing the maximum allowed can significantly impact the growth of retirement funds due to tax-deferred compounding.

• Diversification: Choosing a mix of investments within the 403(b) can help manage risk and optimize returns.

403(b) plans are an essential tool for eligible employees, offering specialized retirement savings opportunities with significant tax advantages. Understanding how to effectively use and maximize these plans can lead to a more secure financial future.