Updated 2026-03-20
Nationwide vs Ascensus 401(k) Comparison
Compare Nationwide (#13, 7.3/10) and Ascensus (#18, 6.8/10) side by side across fees, ratings, features, and investment options.
Overall Comparison
| Feature | Nationwide | Ascensus |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 7.3/10 | 6.8/10 |
| Rank | #13 | #18 |
| AUM | $250 billion | $800 billion |
| Participants | 3.5 million | 12 million |
| Plan Sponsors | 30,000+ | 100,000+ |
| Founded | 1926 | 1975 |
Ratings Comparison
| Category | Nationwide | Ascensus |
|---|---|---|
| Fees & Costs | 3.4/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Investment Options | 3.5/5 | 4.0/5 |
| Customer Service | 4.0/5 | 3.7/5 |
| Mobile App | 3.4/5 | 3.3/5 |
Fee Comparison
| Fee Type | Nationwide | Ascensus |
|---|---|---|
| Admin Fees | $800 - $3,500/year | Varies by advisor and plan |
| Expense Ratios | 0.30% - 1.3% | 0.03% - 1.5% |
| Trading Fees | Plan dependent | Plan dependent |
| Advisory Fees | 0.45% - 0.95% | Set by financial advisor |
Nationwide Strengths
- Strong in 403(b) and 457 plans
- Guaranteed lifetime income options
- Good public sector solutions
- Stable value fund options
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
Rollover, Loans & Withdrawals
| Feature | Nationwide | Ascensus |
|---|---|---|
| Rollover Platform | Nationwide.com | Ascensus Portal |
| Loans Available | Yes | Yes |
| Withdrawal Methods | Online via Nationwide.com, Phone (877-677-3678) | Through financial advisor, Phone (800-345-6363), Plan administrator portal |
| Distribution Options | Lump sum, Partial withdrawal, Installment payments, Guaranteed lifetime income, Rollover to IRA | Lump sum, Partial withdrawal, Installment payments, Rollover to IRA, Required Minimum Distributions |
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Nationwide if you want:
- Public sector employees
- Teachers and nonprofits
- Guaranteed income seekers
Choose Ascensus if you want:
- Financial advisor clients
- Businesses wanting advisor-guided plans
- Multi-plan employers
- Open architecture seekers
Our Verdict: Nationwide vs Ascensus
Nationwide wins this comparison with a score of 7.3/10 vs 6.8/10. Nationwide excels with strong in 403(b) and 457 plans, 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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Nationwide vs Ascensus: Complete 401(k) Comparison for 2026
Choosing between Nationwide and Ascensus for your 401(k) is an important decision that affects your retirement savings. Nationwide offers public sector while Ascensus is known for largest independent. In terms of fees, Nationwide charges 0.30% - 1.3% expense ratios compared to Ascensus's 0.03% - 1.5%. Nationwide manages $250 billion in assets and serves 3.5 million participants, while Ascensus has $800 billion AUM and 12 million participants.
Key Differences: Nationwide vs Ascensus
When comparing Nationwide and Ascensus, consider their core strengths: Nationwide excels with strong in 403(b) and 457 plans, while Ascensus stands out for largest independent recordkeeper in the us. Both providers offer a wide range of investment options including target-date funds, index funds, and managed accounts. Nationwide's customer service rating is 4.0/5 compared to Ascensus's 3.7/5. For mobile experience, Nationwide scores 3.4/5 while Ascensus scores 3.3/5.
Which Provider is Right for You?
Choose Nationwide if you prioritize public sector employees. Choose Ascensus if you're looking for financial advisor clients. 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 Nationwide and Ascensus provider pages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Nationwide scores higher in our 2026 rankings with 7.3/10. Nationwide is best for public sector employees, while Ascensus is best for financial advisor clients. The right choice depends on your employer's plan and your priorities.
Nationwide charges expense ratios of 0.30% - 1.3% with admin fees of $800 - $3,500/year. Ascensus charges 0.03% - 1.5% expense ratios with admin fees of Varies by advisor and plan. Nationwide's fees rating is 3.4/5 compared to Ascensus's 3.5/5.
Yes, you can roll over between Nationwide and Ascensus. Nationwide uses Nationwide.com for rollovers, while Ascensus uses Ascensus Portal. A direct rollover avoids mandatory tax withholding. Contact your new provider to initiate the transfer.
Nationwide offers 401(k) loans. Ascensus offers 401(k) loans. Both providers typically allow loans up to 50% of your vested balance or $50,000, whichever is less.
Nationwide scores 3.5/5 for investment options, while Ascensus scores 4.0/5. Both offer target-date funds, index funds, and managed accounts. Nationwide's investment options include Mutual Funds, Target Date Funds, Fixed Annuities. Ascensus offers Open Architecture, Mutual Funds, Target Date Funds.
For small businesses, consider plan minimums and per-participant costs. Nationwide is best for public sector employees, teachers and nonprofits, guaranteed income seekers. Ascensus is best for financial advisor clients, businesses wanting advisor-guided plans, multi-plan employers, open architecture seekers. Compare admin fees: Nationwide charges $800 - $3,500/year vs Ascensus's Varies by advisor and plan.
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