Updated 2026-03-30
Schwab vs Transamerica 401(k) Comparison
Compare Charles Schwab (#3, 9.1/10) and Transamerica (#11, 7.5/10) side by side across fees, ratings, features, and investment options.
Overall Comparison
| Feature | Schwab | Transamerica |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 9.1/10 | 7.5/10 |
| Rank | #3 | #11 |
| AUM | $8.5 trillion | $300 billion |
| Participants | 28 million | 6 million |
| Plan Sponsors | 3,200+ | 35,000+ |
| Founded | 1971 | 1904 |
Ratings Comparison
| Category | Schwab | Transamerica |
|---|---|---|
| Fees & Costs | 4.5/5 | 3.6/5 |
| Investment Options | 4.7/5 | 3.7/5 |
| Customer Service | 4.7/5 | 3.8/5 |
| Mobile App | 4.5/5 | 3.5/5 |
Fee Comparison
| Fee Type | Schwab | Transamerica |
|---|---|---|
| Admin Fees | $0 - varies by plan | $750 - $3,000/year |
| Expense Ratios | 0.03% - 0.80% | 0.25% - 1.2% |
| Trading Fees | $0 for stocks/ETFs | Plan dependent |
| Advisory Fees | 0% - 0.80% | 0.35% - 0.85% |
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
Transamerica Strengths
- complete financial wellness programs
- Flexible plan design options
- Strong educational resources and tools
- Integrated workplace benefits platform
Rollover, Loans & Withdrawals
| Feature | Schwab | Transamerica |
|---|---|---|
| Rollover Platform | Schwab.com | Transamerica.com |
| Loans Available | Yes | Yes |
| Withdrawal Methods | Online via Schwab.com, Phone (800-724-7526), Schwab branch offices | Online via Transamerica.com, Phone (800-755-5801) |
| Distribution Options | Lump sum, Partial withdrawal, Systematic withdrawals, Rollover to IRA | Lump sum, Partial withdrawal, Installment payments, 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 Transamerica if you want:
- Mid-sized companies
- Integrated benefits seekers
- Financial wellness focus
Our Verdict: Schwab vs Transamerica
Charles Schwab wins this comparison with a score of 9.1/10 vs 7.5/10. 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 Transamerica: Complete 401(k) Comparison for 2026
Choosing between Charles Schwab and Transamerica for your 401(k) is an important decision that affects your retirement savings. Schwab offers full service while Transamerica is known for workplace benefits. In terms of fees, Schwab charges 0.03% - 0.80% expense ratios compared to Transamerica's 0.25% - 1.2%. Schwab manages $8.5 trillion in assets and serves 28 million participants, while Transamerica has $300 billion AUM and 6 million participants.
Key Differences: Schwab vs Transamerica
When comparing Schwab and Transamerica, consider their core strengths: Schwab excels with excellent customer service with 24/7 support, while Transamerica stands out for complete financial wellness programs. 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 Transamerica's 3.8/5. For mobile experience, Schwab scores 4.5/5 while Transamerica scores 3.5/5.
Which Provider is Right for You?
Choose Schwab if you prioritize full-service seekers. Choose Transamerica if you're looking for mid-sized 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 Schwab and Transamerica 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 Transamerica is best for mid-sized companies. 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. Transamerica charges 0.25% - 1.2% expense ratios with admin fees of $750 - $3,000/year. Schwab's fees rating is 4.5/5 compared to Transamerica's 3.6/5.
Yes, you can roll over between Schwab and Transamerica. Schwab uses Schwab.com for rollovers, while Transamerica uses Transamerica.com. A direct rollover avoids mandatory tax withholding. Contact your new provider to initiate the transfer.
Schwab offers 401(k) loans. Transamerica 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 Transamerica scores 3.7/5. Both offer target-date funds, index funds, and managed accounts. Schwab's investment options include Index Funds, Target Date Funds, Mutual Funds. Transamerica offers Mutual Funds, Target Date Funds, Stable Value.
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. Transamerica is best for mid-sized companies, integrated benefits seekers, financial wellness focus. Compare admin fees: Schwab charges $0 - varies by plan vs Transamerica's $750 - $3,000/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