Updated 2026-03-30
Schwab vs Nationwide 401(k) Comparison
Compare Charles Schwab (#3, 9.1/10) and Nationwide (#13, 7.3/10) side by side across fees, ratings, features, and investment options.
Overall Comparison
| Feature | Schwab | Nationwide |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 9.1/10 | 7.3/10 |
| Rank | #3 | #13 |
| AUM | $8.5 trillion | $250 billion |
| Participants | 28 million | 3.5 million |
| Plan Sponsors | 3,200+ | 30,000+ |
| Founded | 1971 | 1926 |
Ratings Comparison
| Category | Schwab | Nationwide |
|---|---|---|
| Fees & Costs | 4.5/5 | 3.4/5 |
| Investment Options | 4.7/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Customer Service | 4.7/5 | 4.0/5 |
| Mobile App | 4.5/5 | 3.4/5 |
Fee Comparison
| Fee Type | Schwab | Nationwide |
|---|---|---|
| Admin Fees | $0 - varies by plan | $800 - $3,500/year |
| Expense Ratios | 0.03% - 0.80% | 0.30% - 1.3% |
| Trading Fees | $0 for stocks/ETFs | Plan dependent |
| Advisory Fees | 0% - 0.80% | 0.45% - 0.95% |
Schwab Strengths
- Excellent customer service with 24/7 support
- complete research and education tools
- Schwab Intelligent Portfolios (free robo-advisor)
- Strong integration after TD Ameritrade merger
Nationwide Strengths
- Strong in 403(b) and 457 plans
- Guaranteed lifetime income options
- Good public sector solutions
- Stable value fund options
Rollover, Loans & Withdrawals
| Feature | Schwab | Nationwide |
|---|---|---|
| Rollover Platform | Schwab.com | Nationwide.com |
| Loans Available | Yes | Yes |
| Withdrawal Methods | Online via Schwab.com, Phone (800-724-7526), Schwab branch offices | Online via Nationwide.com, Phone (877-677-3678) |
| Distribution Options | Lump sum, Partial withdrawal, Systematic withdrawals, Rollover to IRA | Lump sum, Partial withdrawal, Installment payments, Guaranteed lifetime income, Rollover to IRA |
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Schwab if you want:
- Full-service seekers
- Active traders
- Those wanting local branches
- TD Ameritrade users
Choose Nationwide if you want:
- Public sector employees
- Teachers and nonprofits
- Guaranteed income seekers
Our Verdict: Schwab vs Nationwide
Charles Schwab wins this comparison with a score of 9.1/10 vs 7.3/10. Schwab excels with excellent customer service with 24/7 support, 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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Schwab vs Nationwide: Complete 401(k) Comparison for 2026
Choosing between Charles Schwab and Nationwide for your 401(k) is an important decision that affects your retirement savings. Schwab offers full service while Nationwide is known for public sector. In terms of fees, Schwab charges 0.03% - 0.80% expense ratios compared to Nationwide's 0.30% - 1.3%. Schwab manages $8.5 trillion in assets and serves 28 million participants, while Nationwide has $250 billion AUM and 3.5 million participants.
Key Differences: Schwab vs Nationwide
When comparing Schwab and Nationwide, consider their core strengths: Schwab excels with excellent customer service with 24/7 support, while Nationwide stands out for strong in 403(b) and 457 plans. Both providers offer a wide range of investment options including target-date funds, index funds, and managed accounts. Schwab's customer service rating is 4.7/5 compared to Nationwide's 4.0/5. For mobile experience, Schwab scores 4.5/5 while Nationwide scores 3.4/5.
Which Provider is Right for You?
Choose Schwab if you prioritize full-service seekers. Choose Nationwide if you're looking for public sector 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 Schwab and Nationwide provider pages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Charles Schwab scores higher in our 2026 rankings with 9.1/10. Schwab is best for full-service seekers, while Nationwide is best for public sector employees. The right choice depends on your employer's plan and your priorities.
Schwab charges expense ratios of 0.03% - 0.80% with admin fees of $0 - varies by plan. Nationwide charges 0.30% - 1.3% expense ratios with admin fees of $800 - $3,500/year. Schwab's fees rating is 4.5/5 compared to Nationwide's 3.4/5.
Yes, you can roll over between Schwab and Nationwide. Schwab uses Schwab.com for rollovers, while Nationwide uses Nationwide.com. A direct rollover avoids mandatory tax withholding. Contact your new provider to initiate the transfer.
Schwab offers 401(k) loans. Nationwide offers 401(k) loans. Both providers typically allow loans up to 50% of your vested balance or $50,000, whichever is less.
Schwab scores 4.7/5 for investment options, while Nationwide scores 3.5/5. Both offer target-date funds, index funds, and managed accounts. Schwab's investment options include Index Funds, Target Date Funds, Mutual Funds. Nationwide offers Mutual Funds, Target Date Funds, Fixed Annuities.
For small businesses, consider plan minimums and per-participant costs. Schwab is best for full-service seekers, active traders, those wanting local branches, td ameritrade users. Nationwide is best for public sector employees, teachers and nonprofits, guaranteed income seekers. Compare admin fees: Schwab charges $0 - varies by plan vs Nationwide's $800 - $3,500/year.
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: 2026-03-30