Updated 2026-03-20
Ascensus vs ForUsAll 401(k) Comparison
Compare Ascensus (#18, 6.8/10) and ForUsAll (#22, 6.4/10) side by side across fees, ratings, features, and investment options.
Overall Comparison
| Feature | Ascensus | ForUsAll |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 6.8/10 | 6.4/10 |
| Rank | #18 | #22 |
| AUM | $800 billion | $2 billion |
| Participants | 12 million | 50,000 |
| Plan Sponsors | 100,000+ | 2,000+ |
| Founded | 1975 | 2012 |
Ratings Comparison
| Category | Ascensus | ForUsAll |
|---|---|---|
| Fees & Costs | 3.5/5 | 3.3/5 |
| Investment Options | 4.0/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Customer Service | 3.7/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Mobile App | 3.3/5 | 3.8/5 |
Fee Comparison
| Fee Type | Ascensus | ForUsAll |
|---|---|---|
| Admin Fees | Varies by advisor and plan | $120/month + $6/employee |
| Expense Ratios | 0.03% - 1.5% | 0.03% - 0.50% + crypto fees |
| Trading Fees | Plan dependent | $0 for funds, varies for crypto |
| Advisory Fees | Set by financial advisor | Included |
Ascensus Strengths
- Largest independent recordkeeper in the US
- Works through financial advisor network
- Supports 401(k), IRA, 529, and HSA plans
- Strong compliance and administration
ForUsAll Strengths
- First 401(k) with crypto investment options
- Coinbase-powered crypto trading window
- Automated 5% crypto allocation guardrail
- Modern technology platform
Rollover, Loans & Withdrawals
| Feature | Ascensus | ForUsAll |
|---|---|---|
| Rollover Platform | Ascensus Portal | ForUsAll App |
| Loans Available | Yes | No |
| Withdrawal Methods | Through financial advisor, Phone (800-345-6363), Plan administrator portal | Online via ForUsAll platform, Email support |
| Distribution Options | Lump sum, Partial withdrawal, Installment payments, Rollover to IRA, Required Minimum Distributions | Lump sum, Partial withdrawal, Rollover to IRA, Required Minimum Distributions |
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Ascensus if you want:
- Financial advisor clients
- Businesses wanting advisor-guided plans
- Multi-plan employers
- Open architecture seekers
Choose ForUsAll if you want:
- Crypto-curious employees
- Tech-forward companies
- Employers wanting alternative investments
- Small businesses
Our Verdict: Ascensus vs ForUsAll
Ascensus wins this comparison with a score of 6.8/10 vs 6.4/10. Ascensus excels with largest independent recordkeeper in the us, making it the stronger choice for most investors in this matchup. However, the best choice ultimately depends on your specific needs, employer plan availability, and investment preferences.
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Ascensus vs ForUsAll: Complete 401(k) Comparison for 2026
Choosing between Ascensus and ForUsAll for your 401(k) is an important decision that affects your retirement savings. Ascensus offers largest independent while ForUsAll is known for crypto 401(k). In terms of fees, Ascensus charges 0.03% - 1.5% expense ratios compared to ForUsAll's 0.03% - 0.50% + crypto fees. Ascensus manages $800 billion in assets and serves 12 million participants, while ForUsAll has $2 billion AUM and 50,000 participants.
Key Differences: Ascensus vs ForUsAll
When comparing Ascensus and ForUsAll, consider their core strengths: Ascensus excels with largest independent recordkeeper in the us, while ForUsAll stands out for first 401(k) with crypto investment options. Both providers offer a wide range of investment options including target-date funds, index funds, and managed accounts. Ascensus's customer service rating is 3.7/5 compared to ForUsAll's 3.5/5. For mobile experience, Ascensus scores 3.3/5 while ForUsAll scores 3.8/5.
Which Provider is Right for You?
Choose Ascensus if you prioritize financial advisor clients. Choose ForUsAll if you're looking for crypto-curious employees. Your decision should also consider your employer's plan availability, fee sensitivity, desired investment options, and customer service expectations. For detailed reviews, visit our individual Ascensus and ForUsAll provider pages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ascensus scores higher in our 2026 rankings with 6.8/10. Ascensus is best for financial advisor clients, while ForUsAll is best for crypto-curious employees. The right choice depends on your employer's plan and your priorities.
Ascensus charges expense ratios of 0.03% - 1.5% with admin fees of Varies by advisor and plan. ForUsAll charges 0.03% - 0.50% + crypto fees expense ratios with admin fees of $120/month + $6/employee. Ascensus's fees rating is 3.5/5 compared to ForUsAll's 3.3/5.
Yes, you can roll over between Ascensus and ForUsAll. Ascensus uses Ascensus Portal for rollovers, while ForUsAll uses ForUsAll App. A direct rollover avoids mandatory tax withholding. Contact your new provider to initiate the transfer.
Ascensus offers 401(k) loans. ForUsAll does not offer 401(k) loans.
Ascensus scores 4.0/5 for investment options, while ForUsAll scores 3.5/5. Both offer target-date funds, index funds, and managed accounts. Ascensus's investment options include Open Architecture, Mutual Funds, Target Date Funds. ForUsAll offers Index Funds, Target Date Funds, Cryptocurrency.
For small businesses, consider plan minimums and per-participant costs. Ascensus is best for financial advisor clients, businesses wanting advisor-guided plans, multi-plan employers, open architecture seekers. ForUsAll is best for crypto-curious employees, tech-forward companies, employers wanting alternative investments, small businesses. Compare admin fees: Ascensus charges Varies by advisor and plan vs ForUsAll's $120/month + $6/employee.
Pavlo Pyskunov
Managing Director & Investment Fund Director
Pavlo Pyskunov analyzes employer-sponsored retirement plans using IRS publications and DOL Form 5500 filings, helping workers maximize their 401(k) savings through data-driven guidance.
Last updated: 2026-03-20