Updated 2026-03-30
Fidelity vs Transamerica 401(k) Comparison
Compare Fidelity Investments (#1, 9.5/10) and Transamerica (#11, 7.5/10) side by side across fees, ratings, features, and investment options.
Overall Comparison
| Feature | Fidelity | Transamerica |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 9.5/10 | 7.5/10 |
| Rank | #1 | #11 |
| AUM | $4.5 trillion | $300 billion |
| Participants | 43 million | 6 million |
| Plan Sponsors | 23,000+ | 35,000+ |
| Founded | 1946 | 1904 |
Ratings Comparison
| Category | Fidelity | Transamerica |
|---|---|---|
| Fees & Costs | 4.9/5 | 3.6/5 |
| Investment Options | 4.9/5 | 3.7/5 |
| Customer Service | 4.8/5 | 3.8/5 |
| Mobile App | 4.7/5 | 3.5/5 |
Fee Comparison
| Fee Type | Fidelity | Transamerica |
|---|---|---|
| Admin Fees | $0 - varies by plan | $750 - $3,000/year |
| Expense Ratios | 0.00% - 0.75% | 0.25% - 1.2% |
| Trading Fees | $0 for stocks/ETFs | Plan dependent |
| Advisory Fees | 0.35% - 1.0% | 0.35% - 0.85% |
Fidelity Strengths
- Zero expense ratio index funds (FZROX, FZILX)
- Industry-leading mobile app and online platform
- 24/7 customer service with dedicated retirement specialists
- Extensive investment options including BrokerageLink
Transamerica Strengths
- complete financial wellness programs
- Flexible plan design options
- Strong educational resources and tools
- Integrated workplace benefits platform
Rollover, Loans & Withdrawals
| Feature | Fidelity | Transamerica |
|---|---|---|
| Rollover Platform | NetBenefits | Transamerica.com |
| Loans Available | Yes | Yes |
| Withdrawal Methods | Online via NetBenefits, Phone (800-343-3548), Fidelity branch offices | Online via Transamerica.com, Phone (800-755-5801) |
| Distribution Options | Lump sum, Partial withdrawal, Installment payments, Rollover to IRA | Lump sum, Partial withdrawal, Installment payments, Rollover to IRA |
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Fidelity if you want:
- Large employers
- Cost-conscious investors
- Self-directed investors
- Solo 401(k) seekers
Choose Transamerica if you want:
- Mid-sized companies
- Integrated benefits seekers
- Financial wellness focus
Our Verdict: Fidelity vs Transamerica
Fidelity Investments wins this comparison with a score of 9.5/10 vs 7.5/10. Fidelity excels with zero expense ratio index funds (fzrox, fzilx), 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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Fidelity vs Transamerica: Complete 401(k) Comparison for 2026
Choosing between Fidelity Investments and Transamerica for your 401(k) is an important decision that affects your retirement savings. Fidelity offers largest provider while Transamerica is known for workplace benefits. In terms of fees, Fidelity charges 0.00% - 0.75% expense ratios compared to Transamerica's 0.25% - 1.2%. Fidelity manages $4.5 trillion in assets and serves 43 million participants, while Transamerica has $300 billion AUM and 6 million participants.
Key Differences: Fidelity vs Transamerica
When comparing Fidelity and Transamerica, consider their core strengths: Fidelity excels with zero expense ratio index funds (fzrox, fzilx), while Transamerica stands out for complete financial wellness programs. Both providers offer a wide range of investment options including target-date funds, index funds, and managed accounts. Fidelity's customer service rating is 4.8/5 compared to Transamerica's 3.8/5. For mobile experience, Fidelity scores 4.7/5 while Transamerica scores 3.5/5.
Which Provider is Right for You?
Choose Fidelity if you prioritize large employers. Choose Transamerica if you're looking for mid-sized companies. 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 Fidelity and Transamerica provider pages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fidelity Investments scores higher in our 2026 rankings with 9.5/10. Fidelity is best for large employers, while Transamerica is best for mid-sized companies. The right choice depends on your employer's plan and your priorities.
Fidelity charges expense ratios of 0.00% - 0.75% with admin fees of $0 - varies by plan. Transamerica charges 0.25% - 1.2% expense ratios with admin fees of $750 - $3,000/year. Fidelity's fees rating is 4.9/5 compared to Transamerica's 3.6/5.
Yes, you can roll over between Fidelity and Transamerica. Fidelity uses NetBenefits for rollovers, while Transamerica uses Transamerica.com. A direct rollover avoids mandatory tax withholding. Contact your new provider to initiate the transfer.
Fidelity offers 401(k) loans. Transamerica offers 401(k) loans. Both providers typically allow loans up to 50% of your vested balance or $50,000, whichever is less.
Fidelity scores 4.9/5 for investment options, while Transamerica scores 3.7/5. Both offer target-date funds, index funds, and managed accounts. Fidelity's investment options include Index Funds, Target Date Funds, Mutual Funds. Transamerica offers Mutual Funds, Target Date Funds, Stable Value.
For small businesses, consider plan minimums and per-participant costs. Fidelity is best for large employers, cost-conscious investors, self-directed investors, solo 401(k) seekers. Transamerica is best for mid-sized companies, integrated benefits seekers, financial wellness focus. Compare admin fees: Fidelity charges $0 - varies by plan vs Transamerica's $750 - $3,000/year.
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: 2026-03-30