Updated 2026-03-20
Nationwide vs Betterment 401(k) Comparison
Compare Nationwide (#13, 7.3/10) and Betterment at Work (#20, 6.7/10) side by side across fees, ratings, features, and investment options.
Overall Comparison
| Feature | Nationwide | Betterment |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 7.3/10 | 6.7/10 |
| Rank | #13 | #20 |
| AUM | $250 billion | $45 billion |
| Participants | 3.5 million | 400,000 |
| Plan Sponsors | 30,000+ | 1,500+ |
| Founded | 1926 | 2010 |
Ratings Comparison
| Category | Nationwide | Betterment |
|---|---|---|
| Fees & Costs | 3.4/5 | 4.0/5 |
| Investment Options | 3.5/5 | 3.2/5 |
| Customer Service | 4.0/5 | 4.0/5 |
| Mobile App | 3.4/5 | 4.4/5 |
Fee Comparison
| Fee Type | Nationwide | Betterment |
|---|---|---|
| Admin Fees | $800 - $3,500/year | $150/month + $6/employee |
| Expense Ratios | 0.30% - 1.3% | 0.03% - 0.15% |
| Trading Fees | Plan dependent | $0 |
| Advisory Fees | 0.45% - 0.95% | Included in platform fee |
Nationwide Strengths
- Strong in 403(b) and 457 plans
- Guaranteed lifetime income options
- Good public sector solutions
- Stable value fund options
Betterment Strengths
- Fully automated portfolio management
- Tax-loss harvesting and tax-smart strategies
- Clean, modern user interface
- Low-cost ETF portfolios
Rollover, Loans & Withdrawals
| Feature | Nationwide | Betterment |
|---|---|---|
| Rollover Platform | Nationwide.com | Betterment App |
| Loans Available | Yes | No |
| Withdrawal Methods | Online via Nationwide.com, Phone (877-677-3678) | Online via Betterment app, Email support |
| Distribution Options | Lump sum, Partial withdrawal, Installment payments, Guaranteed lifetime income, Rollover to IRA | Lump sum, Partial withdrawal, 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 Betterment if you want:
- Tech companies
- Startups
- Hands-off investors
- ESG-conscious employers
Our Verdict: Nationwide vs Betterment
Nationwide wins this comparison with a score of 7.3/10 vs 6.7/10. 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 Betterment: Complete 401(k) Comparison for 2026
Choosing between Nationwide and Betterment at Work for your 401(k) is an important decision that affects your retirement savings. Nationwide offers public sector while Betterment is known for robo-advisor. In terms of fees, Nationwide charges 0.30% - 1.3% expense ratios compared to Betterment's 0.03% - 0.15%. Nationwide manages $250 billion in assets and serves 3.5 million participants, while Betterment has $45 billion AUM and 400,000 participants.
Key Differences: Nationwide vs Betterment
When comparing Nationwide and Betterment, consider their core strengths: Nationwide excels with strong in 403(b) and 457 plans, while Betterment stands out for fully automated portfolio management. 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 Betterment's 4.0/5. For mobile experience, Nationwide scores 3.4/5 while Betterment scores 4.4/5.
Which Provider is Right for You?
Choose Nationwide if you prioritize public sector employees. Choose Betterment if you're looking for tech 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 Nationwide and Betterment provider pages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Nationwide scores higher in our 2026 rankings with 7.3/10. Nationwide is best for public sector employees, while Betterment is best for tech companies. 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. Betterment charges 0.03% - 0.15% expense ratios with admin fees of $150/month + $6/employee. Nationwide's fees rating is 3.4/5 compared to Betterment's 4.0/5.
Yes, you can roll over between Nationwide and Betterment. Nationwide uses Nationwide.com for rollovers, while Betterment uses Betterment App. A direct rollover avoids mandatory tax withholding. Contact your new provider to initiate the transfer.
Nationwide offers 401(k) loans. Betterment does not offer 401(k) loans.
Nationwide scores 3.5/5 for investment options, while Betterment scores 3.2/5. Both offer target-date funds, index funds, and managed accounts. Nationwide's investment options include Mutual Funds, Target Date Funds, Fixed Annuities. Betterment offers ETF Portfolios, Target Date Portfolios, Socially Responsible Portfolios.
For small businesses, consider plan minimums and per-participant costs. Nationwide is best for public sector employees, teachers and nonprofits, guaranteed income seekers. Betterment is best for tech companies, startups, hands-off investors, esg-conscious employers. Compare admin fees: Nationwide charges $800 - $3,500/year vs Betterment's $150/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