Starter(k)

For Advisors

Reach untapped clients

Starter 401(k)s are available only to employers who haven’t offered a retirement plan before, opening doors to businesses that are ready for a trusted advisor to lead the way.

Simplify plan setup and oversight

With preset features and exemption from annual nondiscrimination and top-heavy testing, Starter 401(k)s make it easy to launch and manage a compliant plan without added complexity.

Help clients meet state mandates

As more states require employers to offer retirement benefits, Starter 401(k)s give you a high-quality, compliant option that helps businesses avoid penalties while building long-term savings habits.

Start simple, scale up

When a client is ready for more flexibility—like employer match or profit sharing—their Starter 401(k) can be converted to a traditional 401(k) without starting over, keeping you at the center of their growth.

Give clients a cost-effective offering

Since employers are not required to make contributions and there is no need for nondiscrimination testing, Starter 401(k) plans are a cost-effective option for businesses.

Mobile App

Employees can manage their account and savings on the go with the Vestwell mobile app. They can set contributions, adjust account details, and track progress anytime, anywhere.

Download on the App Store

Managed Accounts

A tool that provides a more personalized asset allocation into portfolios based on retirement and investment goals. Funds can be selected by a third-party investment fiduciary or the plan’s advisor acting as 3(38) or 3(21) fiduciary.

Learn more

Learning Center

A complimentary, integrated library of financial wellness resources and interactive learning modules on foundational topics, from budgeting to saving for a home to planning for milestones.

Built to power advisor success.

Our 401(k) solutions are built to work the way you do—offering plan transparency, an intuitive advisor dashboard, and the flexibility to take on as much or as little as you choose.

Lets see your potential savings!

If you start a qualified retirement plan with auto-enrollment, you may qualify to earn more than $150,000 in tax credits over a three-year period.

Do you currently have a 401(k) plan?

YesNo

How many employees (including owners) were paid more than $5k in W-2 wages last year??

How many of those 10 employees will earn more than $100k this year??

How many of those 10 employees are classified as owners (as defined by the IRS)??

Who will pay the monthly employee fees??

EmployerEmployee

Which plan type?

WorkplacePlusFlex

OPTIONAL Is a financial advisor receiving a flat fee as part of this plan?

SelectYesNo

Calculate Savings

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Level up your 401(k) offering.

Grow your book with 401(k) plans that save you time, simplify administration, and give you the tools to deliver better client outcomes.

Who can offer a Starter 401(k)?

Any business not currently offering a workplace retirement plan is eligible.

Are employer contributions allowed?

No, Starter 401(k) plans do not permit employer contributions, which keeps costs predictable for plan sponsors.

Is auto-enrollment required?

Yes. Employers must automatically enroll eligible employees between 3% and 15% of pay, with opt-out available.

Can the plan be upgraded later?

Yes. Clients can convert to a traditional 401(k) at any time to add features like employer match, profit sharing, or custom plan design.

What are the employee contribution limits?

Contribution limits are set annually by the IRS and are lower than traditional 401(k) limits. Check the current IRS guidelines for up-to-date amounts.

403(b)

A retirement plan for schools, nonprofits, and certain public organizations

Pooled Plans

A shared retirement plan with other companies offering administrative benefits

Safe Harbor 401(k)

A streamlined 401(k) plan with simplified compliance and maximized contributions.