Updated 2026-03-20
Nationwide vs Vestwell 401(k) Comparison
Compare Nationwide (#13, 7.3/10) and Vestwell (#21, 6.5/10) side by side across fees, ratings, features, and investment options.
Overall Comparison
| Feature | Nationwide | Vestwell |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 7.3/10 | 6.5/10 |
| Rank | #13 | #21 |
| AUM | $250 billion | $30 billion |
| Participants | 3.5 million | 300,000 |
| Plan Sponsors | 30,000+ | 25,000+ |
| Founded | 1926 | 2016 |
Ratings Comparison
| Category | Nationwide | Vestwell |
|---|---|---|
| Fees & Costs | 3.4/5 | 3.6/5 |
| Investment Options | 3.5/5 | 3.8/5 |
| Customer Service | 4.0/5 | 3.6/5 |
| Mobile App | 3.4/5 | 3.5/5 |
Fee Comparison
| Fee Type | Nationwide | Vestwell |
|---|---|---|
| Admin Fees | $800 - $3,500/year | Set by advisor/distributor |
| Expense Ratios | 0.30% - 1.3% | 0.03% - 1.0% |
| Trading Fees | Plan dependent | $0 |
| 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
Vestwell Strengths
- Modern API-first technology platform
- White-label options for advisors
- Open architecture investment lineup
- Integrates with 100+ payroll providers
Rollover, Loans & Withdrawals
| Feature | Nationwide | Vestwell |
|---|---|---|
| Rollover Platform | Nationwide.com | Vestwell Portal |
| Loans Available | Yes | Yes |
| Withdrawal Methods | Online via Nationwide.com, Phone (877-677-3678) | Through financial advisor, Plan administrator portal, Phone support |
| 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 Vestwell if you want:
- Financial advisors
- Payroll companies
- Institutional distributors
- State IRA mandate compliance
Our Verdict: Nationwide vs Vestwell
Nationwide wins this comparison with a score of 7.3/10 vs 6.5/10. 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 Vestwell: Complete 401(k) Comparison for 2026
Choosing between Nationwide and Vestwell for your 401(k) is an important decision that affects your retirement savings. Nationwide offers public sector while Vestwell is known for white label. In terms of fees, Nationwide charges 0.30% - 1.3% expense ratios compared to Vestwell's 0.03% - 1.0%. Nationwide manages $250 billion in assets and serves 3.5 million participants, while Vestwell has $30 billion AUM and 300,000 participants.
Key Differences: Nationwide vs Vestwell
When comparing Nationwide and Vestwell, consider their core strengths: Nationwide excels with strong in 403(b) and 457 plans, while Vestwell stands out for modern api-first technology platform. 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 Vestwell's 3.6/5. For mobile experience, Nationwide scores 3.4/5 while Vestwell scores 3.5/5.
Which Provider is Right for You?
Choose Nationwide if you prioritize public sector employees. Choose Vestwell if you're looking for financial advisors. 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 Vestwell provider pages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Nationwide scores higher in our 2026 rankings with 7.3/10. Nationwide is best for public sector employees, while Vestwell is best for financial advisors. 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. Vestwell charges 0.03% - 1.0% expense ratios with admin fees of Set by advisor/distributor. Nationwide's fees rating is 3.4/5 compared to Vestwell's 3.6/5.
Yes, you can roll over between Nationwide and Vestwell. Nationwide uses Nationwide.com for rollovers, while Vestwell uses Vestwell Portal. A direct rollover avoids mandatory tax withholding. Contact your new provider to initiate the transfer.
Nationwide offers 401(k) loans. Vestwell 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 Vestwell scores 3.8/5. Both offer target-date funds, index funds, and managed accounts. Nationwide's investment options include Mutual Funds, Target Date Funds, Fixed Annuities. Vestwell 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. Vestwell is best for financial advisors, payroll companies, institutional distributors, state ira mandate compliance. Compare admin fees: Nationwide charges $800 - $3,500/year vs Vestwell's Set by advisor/distributor.
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