Compare 403(b) Solutions
Use this 403(b) plan solutions chart to compare the differences between an annuity-based or non-annuity-based solution.
403(b) Plan Solutions Chart
There are two main types of 403(b) solutions: annuity-based or non-annuity-based. While annuity 403(b) plans can provide guaranteed returns and income options to help protect against outliving savings, they be problematic to your employees in three critical areas: fees, investment quality, and service.
By offering a retirement plan for your team that avoids high fees and offers meaningful support, you could help them to save potentially thousands of dollars over time.
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403(b) Solution #1
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403(b) Solution #2
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Annuity Platform
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Fisher Non-Annuity Platform
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Services
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Participant Services
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X
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✔
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Fiduciary Services
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X
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✔
|
|
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Administrative Support
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X
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✔
|
|
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Vendor Management
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X
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✔
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|
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Expertise
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Specialized Advisor
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X
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✔
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Program Tailored to Your Needs
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X
|
✔
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|
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Investments
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Zero Revenue Sharing
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X
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✔
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High Quality Low Cost Funds
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X
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✔
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Value-based Investment Options
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X
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✔
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Fees
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Reasonable Fees
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X
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✔
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No 12-b-1 Commissions or Revenue Sharing
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X
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✔
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- 1, 2Investing in securities involves the risk of loss. Intended for use by employers considering or sponsoring retirement plans; not for personal use by plan participants. Fisher Retirement Solutions®, Fisher\SMB™, FisherSMB™, and all related logos and designs are trademarks of Fisher Retirement Solutions, LLC, which is not connected to Fisher Investments. ©2026 Fisher Retirement Solutions
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403(b) Plans
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401(k) and 403(b) plans both help employees save for retirement, but differ in eligibility, compliance, and investment options. This guide helps business and non-profit leaders choose the right plan for their organization.