Updated 2026-03-20
Nationwide vs Paychex 401(k) Comparison
Compare Nationwide (#13, 7.3/10) and Paychex (#16, 7.0/10) side by side across fees, ratings, features, and investment options.
Overall Comparison
| Feature | Nationwide | Paychex |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 7.3/10 | 7.0/10 |
| Rank | #13 | #16 |
| AUM | $250 billion | $48 billion |
| Participants | 3.5 million | 730,000 |
| Plan Sponsors | 30,000+ | 740,000+ |
| Founded | 1926 | 1971 |
Ratings Comparison
| Category | Nationwide | Paychex |
|---|---|---|
| Fees & Costs | 3.4/5 | 3.4/5 |
| Investment Options | 3.5/5 | 3.6/5 |
| Customer Service | 4.0/5 | 3.8/5 |
| Mobile App | 3.4/5 | 3.5/5 |
Fee Comparison
| Fee Type | Nationwide | Paychex |
|---|---|---|
| Admin Fees | $800 - $3,500/year | $80 - $150/month + per-employee fees |
| Expense Ratios | 0.30% - 1.3% | 0.10% - 1.2% |
| Trading Fees | Plan dependent | Included |
| Advisory Fees | 0.45% - 0.95% | 0.50% - 1.0% |
Nationwide Strengths
- Strong in 403(b) and 457 plans
- Guaranteed lifetime income options
- Good public sector solutions
- Stable value fund options
Paychex Strengths
- Seamless payroll-to-401(k) contribution processing
- One of the largest recordkeepers in the US
- Plans for businesses from 1 to 1,000+ employees
- Bundled HR, payroll, and retirement services
Rollover, Loans & Withdrawals
| Feature | Nationwide | Paychex |
|---|---|---|
| Rollover Platform | Nationwide.com | Paychex Flex |
| Loans Available | Yes | Yes |
| Withdrawal Methods | Online via Nationwide.com, Phone (877-677-3678) | Online via Paychex Flex, Phone (800-741-6277), Through plan administrator |
| 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 Paychex if you want:
- Paychex payroll clients
- Small to mid-size businesses
- Companies wanting bundled HR+retirement
- PEO participants
Our Verdict: Nationwide vs Paychex
Nationwide wins this comparison with a score of 7.3/10 vs 7.0/10. 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 Paychex: Complete 401(k) Comparison for 2026
Choosing between Nationwide and Paychex for your 401(k) is an important decision that affects your retirement savings. Nationwide offers public sector while Paychex is known for payroll integration. In terms of fees, Nationwide charges 0.30% - 1.3% expense ratios compared to Paychex's 0.10% - 1.2%. Nationwide manages $250 billion in assets and serves 3.5 million participants, while Paychex has $48 billion AUM and 730,000 participants.
Key Differences: Nationwide vs Paychex
When comparing Nationwide and Paychex, consider their core strengths: Nationwide excels with strong in 403(b) and 457 plans, while Paychex stands out for seamless payroll-to-401(k) contribution processing. 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 Paychex's 3.8/5. For mobile experience, Nationwide scores 3.4/5 while Paychex scores 3.5/5.
Which Provider is Right for You?
Choose Nationwide if you prioritize public sector employees. Choose Paychex if you're looking for paychex payroll 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 Paychex provider pages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Nationwide scores higher in our 2026 rankings with 7.3/10. Nationwide is best for public sector employees, while Paychex is best for paychex payroll 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. Paychex charges 0.10% - 1.2% expense ratios with admin fees of $80 - $150/month + per-employee fees. Nationwide's fees rating is 3.4/5 compared to Paychex's 3.4/5.
Yes, you can roll over between Nationwide and Paychex. Nationwide uses Nationwide.com for rollovers, while Paychex uses Paychex Flex. A direct rollover avoids mandatory tax withholding. Contact your new provider to initiate the transfer.
Nationwide offers 401(k) loans. Paychex 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 Paychex scores 3.6/5. Both offer target-date funds, index funds, and managed accounts. Nationwide's investment options include Mutual Funds, Target Date Funds, Fixed Annuities. Paychex offers Mutual Funds, Target Date Funds, Index Funds.
For small businesses, consider plan minimums and per-participant costs. Nationwide is best for public sector employees, teachers and nonprofits, guaranteed income seekers. Paychex is best for paychex payroll clients, small to mid-size businesses, companies wanting bundled hr+retirement, peo participants. Compare admin fees: Nationwide charges $800 - $3,500/year vs Paychex's $80 - $150/month + per-employee fees.
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