Office of Human Resources

Roth 403(b)

Brandeis University is pleased to offer a new Roth 403(b) contribution source effective January 1, 2024. Roth 403(b) option offers the potential for tax-free retirement income.

Unlike a traditional pretax 403(b) the Roth 403(b) allows you to contribute after-tax dollar and then withdraw tax-free dollars from your account when you retire.*

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How the Roth 403(b) compares with a traditional pretax 403(b)

Just as with a traditional pre-tax 403(b):

You elect how much of your salary you wish to contribute.

Your contributions to a Roth 403(b) and traditional pretax 403(b) cannot exceed IRS limits.
Your contribution is based on your eligible compensation.
If eligible you may receive university matching contribution based on your Roth 403(b) election.

Unlike a traditional pretax 403(b), the Roth 403(b) allows you to withdraw your money tax free when you retire.* But it will also require you to make after-tax contributions now.

Who might benefit from a Roth 403(b)?

Taxes: Traditional Pre-tax 403 vs. Roth 403(b)

Contribution vs. Withdrawal	Traditional Pre-tax 403(b)	Roth 403(b)
Employee contributions	Pre-tax dollars	After-tax dollars
Employee withdrawals	Taxable upon withdrawal	Tax free upon withdrawal*

Deferral election changes are made on Fidelity’s NetBenefits (User Guide, page 7) or by calling the Retirement Service Center at 800-343-0860.

We encourage you to consult with a tax professional, financial advisor or retirement specialist to optimize your retirement savings strategy. They can provide personalized guidance based on your individual circumstances and goals.

*In the event of either retirement or termination, your earnings can be withdrawn tax free as long as it has been five tax years since your first Roth 403(b) contribution and you are at least 59½ years old. In the event of death, beneficiaries may be able to receive distributions tax free if the deceased started making Roth contributions more than five tax years prior to the distribution. In the event of disability, your earnings can be withdrawn tax free if it has been five tax years from your first Roth 403(b) contribution.