403b vs Roth IRA: Which Retirement Plan Is Right for You?

This content has been reviewed and edited by an Investment Advisor Representative working for Global Predictions, an SEC-registered Investment Advisor.

Choosing the right retirement plan might be one of the most important financial decisions of your life. If you’re a teacher, nurse, or work in the public sector, the 403(b) may seem like the obvious choice. But is a Roth IRA better for your long-term goals? Let’s explore these options to help you secure a solid financial future.

Key Takeaways

• 403(b) Plans: Employer-sponsored retirement accounts for nonprofit and public sector employees. They offer pre-tax contributions, higher contribution limits, and potential employer matches.
• Roth IRAs: Individual retirement accounts with after-tax contributions, providing tax-free withdrawals in retirement and flexible investment options.
• Choosing the Right Plan: Your decision depends on factors like your income, tax strategy, employer benefits, and long-term financial goals. Combining both plans can maximize benefits.

What Is a 403(b)?

A 403(b) is a retirement plan offered to employees of nonprofit organizations, public schools, and certain government entities. It functions similarly to a 401(k), allowing pre-tax contributions that grow tax-deferred until retirement.

Key Features:

• Tax Benefits: Contributions reduce your taxable income for the current year.
• Employer Match: Many employers match part of your contributions, boosting your savings.
• High Contribution Limits: In 2024, you can contribute up to $23,000 ($30,500 if age 50+).

Example: Sarah, a teacher, contributes $15,000 annually to her 403(b). Her school district matches 5% of her salary, adding an extra $2,500 to her plan each year.

What Is a Roth IRA?

A Roth IRA is an individual retirement account that allows after-tax contributions. Unlike a 403(b), Roth IRAs provide tax-free withdrawals of both contributions and earnings in retirement, provided certain conditions are met.

Key Features:

• Tax-Free Withdrawals: Ideal for those expecting to be in a higher tax bracket in retirement.
• Flexibility: No required distributions during your lifetime.
• Low Contribution Limits: $7,000 annually (or $8,000 if age 50+).

Example: Tom, a 30-year-old nurse, contributes $6,500 annually to his Roth IRA. By retirement, his withdrawals, including investment growth, are entirely tax-free, providing financial flexibility.

Comparing 403(b) and Roth IRA

Disadvantages of Each Plan

403(b):

• Fully Taxable Withdrawals: All distributions are taxed as ordinary income.
• Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs): You must begin withdrawals at age 73, regardless of whether you need the funds.
• Limited Investment Options: Often restricted to annuities and mutual funds.

Roth IRA:

• Lower Contribution Limits: Less room for saving compared to a 403(b).
• Income Restrictions: High earners may face reduced eligibility.
• No Employer Match: Contributions are solely from the individual.

Diverse Scenarios

• Freelancers: While they don’t have access to a 403(b), freelancers can combine a Roth IRA with other options like a SEP IRA or Solo 401(k).
• Part-Time Workers: A Roth IRA is ideal for those with lower incomes, especially if their current tax bracket is low.
• Professionals with Multiple Employers: Those working multiple jobs can maximize the benefits of a 403(b) offered by one employer while investing in a Roth IRA independently.

How to Choose the Best Plan

1. Evaluate Your Current and Future Tax Situation:

• If you’re in a high tax bracket now, a 403(b) can offer immediate tax savings.
• If you expect to be in a higher bracket in retirement, a Roth IRA’s tax-free withdrawals might be more advantageous.

2. Maximize Employer Contributions:

• Take full advantage of any employer match offered in a 403(b). It’s essentially free money for your retirement.

3. Consider Your Investment Goals:

• Roth IRAs often provide more diverse investment options, while 403(b)s tend to be more limited.

FAQs

Can I contribute to both a 403(b) and a Roth IRA?

Yes, you can contribute to both, as long as you stay within IRS contribution limits and meet Roth IRA income eligibility requirements.

What happens if I withdraw funds early?

For a 403(b): Early withdrawals (before 59½) incur a 10% penalty plus income tax.

For a Roth IRA: Contributions can be withdrawn tax-free, but earnings may be subject to taxes and penalties if conditions aren’t met.

Do Roth IRAs have income restrictions?

Yes, eligibility phases out for higher-income earners. For 2024, the phase-out starts at $146,000 for single filers (becoming completely ineligible at $161,000) and at $230,000 for married couples filing jointly (becoming completely ineligible at $240,000).