Office of Human Resources

Retirement Savings Plan

Brandeis University provides a 403(b) defined contribution retirement plan that enables eligible employees to direct contributions to investment options sponsored by Fidelity Investments.

The Brandeis Retirement Planning User Guide (pdf) will walk you through how to enroll in your Brandeis Retirement Plan online and how to make changes to your account.

Contributions

Contribution Limits for 2025

  • Employees 49 or younger: $23,500 - 403(b) Employee Elective Deferral Limit-increased $500 from 2024.
  • Employees 50 or older: $31,000 - 403(b) Employee Elective Deferral Limit, the latter of which includes a maximum $7,500 "catch-up" contribution.
  • Special Catch Up for Ages  60 to 63: $34,750 - 403(b) Employee Deferral Limit , the latter of which includes a maximum $11,250 "catch-up" contribution (Secure 2.0 Act)
    • Increased to the greater of $10,000(indexed) or 150% of the regular catch-up contribution amount
    • This replaces the standard $7,500 "catch-up" for those in this age range.
  • Workday will not permit you to make contributions above the IRS maximum contribution limit. However you are responsible for monitoring your contributions if you were contributing at another employer during year.

Important Reminders

  • You must contribute a minimum Employee Contribution of 5% if paid semi monthly, 3% if paid weekly to qualify for the university match. Your employee contribution can be one or a combination of Pre-Tax Basic Deferral and/or ROTH After-Tax Contributions. Any deferrals below the 5% or 3% threshold will not be eligible for the University's matching contribution.
  • You are responsible for monitoring your annual contribution amounts, which are reflected on your pay slip.
  • You may seek assistance in determining your contribution amount from representatives at Fidelity (800-343-0860) or your tax advisor.