Updated 2026-03-20
Merrill vs ForUsAll 401(k) Comparison
Compare Merrill Lynch (#8, 8.0/10) and ForUsAll (#22, 6.4/10) side by side across fees, ratings, features, and investment options.
Overall Comparison
| Feature | Merrill | ForUsAll |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 8.0/10 | 6.4/10 |
| Rank | #8 | #22 |
| AUM | $3.0 trillion | $2 billion |
| Participants | 5 million | 50,000 |
| Plan Sponsors | 2,500+ | 2,000+ |
| Founded | 1914 | 2012 |
Ratings Comparison
| Category | Merrill | ForUsAll |
|---|---|---|
| Fees & Costs | 3.3/5 | 3.3/5 |
| Investment Options | 4.5/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Customer Service | 4.1/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Mobile App | 4.2/5 | 3.8/5 |
Fee Comparison
| Fee Type | Merrill | ForUsAll |
|---|---|---|
| Admin Fees | Varies by plan size | $120/month + $6/employee |
| Expense Ratios | 0.03% - 1.5% | 0.03% - 0.50% + crypto fees |
| Trading Fees | $0 - $6.95 | $0 for funds, varies for crypto |
| Advisory Fees | 0.45% - 1.5% | Included |
Merrill Strengths
- Bank of America Preferred Rewards benefits
- Strong advisory and guidance services
- complete financial planning
- Wide investment selection
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 | Merrill | ForUsAll |
|---|---|---|
| Rollover Platform | Benefits OnLine | ForUsAll App |
| Loans Available | Yes | No |
| Withdrawal Methods | Online via Benefits OnLine, Phone (888-968-4015), Bank of America branches | Online via ForUsAll platform, Email support |
| Distribution Options | Lump sum, Partial withdrawal, Installment payments, Rollover to IRA | Lump sum, Partial withdrawal, Rollover to IRA, Required Minimum Distributions |
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Merrill if you want:
- BofA customers
- Advice seekers
- Large employers
- Full-service needs
Choose ForUsAll if you want:
- Crypto-curious employees
- Tech-forward companies
- Employers wanting alternative investments
- Small businesses
Our Verdict: Merrill vs ForUsAll
Merrill Lynch wins this comparison with a score of 8.0/10 vs 6.4/10. Merrill excels with bank of america preferred rewards benefits, 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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Merrill vs ForUsAll: Complete 401(k) Comparison for 2026
Choosing between Merrill Lynch and ForUsAll for your 401(k) is an important decision that affects your retirement savings. Merrill offers bofa integration while ForUsAll is known for crypto 401(k). In terms of fees, Merrill charges 0.03% - 1.5% expense ratios compared to ForUsAll's 0.03% - 0.50% + crypto fees. Merrill manages $3.0 trillion in assets and serves 5 million participants, while ForUsAll has $2 billion AUM and 50,000 participants.
Key Differences: Merrill vs ForUsAll
When comparing Merrill and ForUsAll, consider their core strengths: Merrill excels with bank of america preferred rewards benefits, 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. Merrill's customer service rating is 4.1/5 compared to ForUsAll's 3.5/5. For mobile experience, Merrill scores 4.2/5 while ForUsAll scores 3.8/5.
Which Provider is Right for You?
Choose Merrill if you prioritize bofa customers. 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 Merrill and ForUsAll provider pages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Merrill Lynch scores higher in our 2026 rankings with 8.0/10. Merrill is best for bofa customers, while ForUsAll is best for crypto-curious employees. The right choice depends on your employer's plan and your priorities.
Merrill charges expense ratios of 0.03% - 1.5% with admin fees of Varies by plan size. ForUsAll charges 0.03% - 0.50% + crypto fees expense ratios with admin fees of $120/month + $6/employee. Merrill's fees rating is 3.3/5 compared to ForUsAll's 3.3/5.
Yes, you can roll over between Merrill and ForUsAll. Merrill uses Benefits OnLine for rollovers, while ForUsAll uses ForUsAll App. A direct rollover avoids mandatory tax withholding. Contact your new provider to initiate the transfer.
Merrill offers 401(k) loans. ForUsAll does not offer 401(k) loans.
Merrill scores 4.5/5 for investment options, while ForUsAll scores 3.5/5. Both offer target-date funds, index funds, and managed accounts. Merrill's investment options include Mutual Funds, ETFs, Stocks. ForUsAll offers Index Funds, Target Date Funds, Cryptocurrency.
For small businesses, consider plan minimums and per-participant costs. Merrill is best for bofa customers, advice seekers, large employers, full-service needs. ForUsAll is best for crypto-curious employees, tech-forward companies, employers wanting alternative investments, small businesses. Compare admin fees: Merrill charges Varies by plan size 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