Updated 2026-03-20
TIAA vs Slavic401k 401(k) Comparison
Compare TIAA (#9, 7.9/10) and Slavic401k (#25, 6.1/10) side by side across fees, ratings, features, and investment options.
Overall Comparison
| Feature | TIAA | Slavic401k |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 7.9/10 | 6.1/10 |
| Rank | #9 | #25 |
| AUM | $1.3 trillion | $3 billion |
| Participants | 5 million | 50,000 |
| Plan Sponsors | 15,000+ | 2,500+ |
| Founded | 1918 | 1995 |
Ratings Comparison
| Category | TIAA | Slavic401k |
|---|---|---|
| Fees & Costs | 4.0/5 | 3.2/5 |
| Investment Options | 4.0/5 | 4.8/5 |
| Customer Service | 4.3/5 | 3.4/5 |
| Mobile App | 3.9/5 | 3.0/5 |
Fee Comparison
| Fee Type | TIAA | Slavic401k |
|---|---|---|
| Admin Fees | Varies by institution | $1,200 - $2,500/year + per-participant |
| Expense Ratios | 0.05% - 1.0% | Varies by investment choice |
| Trading Fees | $0 for TIAA funds | $0 for stocks/ETFs, varies for options |
| Advisory Fees | 0.30% - 1.0% | N/A - self-directed |
TIAA Strengths
- Dominant in education sector
- Strong lifetime income/annuity options
- Mission-aligned for nonprofits
- Excellent retirement income planning
Slavic401k Strengths
- Full self-directed brokerage within 401(k)
- Trade individual stocks, ETFs, options
- Maximum investment flexibility
- TD Ameritrade/Schwab brokerage window
Rollover, Loans & Withdrawals
| Feature | TIAA | Slavic401k |
|---|---|---|
| Rollover Platform | TIAA.org | Slavic401k Portal |
| Loans Available | Yes | Yes |
| Withdrawal Methods | Online via TIAA.org, Phone (800-842-2252), TIAA offices | Phone (800-356-3009), Online portal |
| Distribution Options | Lump sum, Partial withdrawal, Lifetime income annuity, Systematic withdrawals, Rollover to IRA | Lump sum, Partial withdrawal, In-kind transfer of securities, Rollover to IRA, Required Minimum Distributions |
Which Should You Choose?
Choose TIAA if you want:
- Educators
- Nonprofits
- Healthcare workers
- Income-focused retirees
Choose Slavic401k if you want:
- Self-directed investors
- Active traders
- Sophisticated investors
- Those wanting maximum 401(k) flexibility
Our Verdict: TIAA vs Slavic401k
TIAA wins this comparison with a score of 7.9/10 vs 6.1/10. TIAA excels with dominant in education sector, 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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TIAA vs Slavic401k: Complete 401(k) Comparison for 2026
Choosing between TIAA and Slavic401k for your 401(k) is an important decision that affects your retirement savings. TIAA offers education focus while Slavic401k is known for self-directed. In terms of fees, TIAA charges 0.05% - 1.0% expense ratios compared to Slavic401k's Varies by investment choice. TIAA manages $1.3 trillion in assets and serves 5 million participants, while Slavic401k has $3 billion AUM and 50,000 participants.
Key Differences: TIAA vs Slavic401k
When comparing TIAA and Slavic401k, consider their core strengths: TIAA excels with dominant in education sector, while Slavic401k stands out for full self-directed brokerage within 401(k). Both providers offer a wide range of investment options including target-date funds, index funds, and managed accounts. TIAA's customer service rating is 4.3/5 compared to Slavic401k's 3.4/5. For mobile experience, TIAA scores 3.9/5 while Slavic401k scores 3.0/5.
Which Provider is Right for You?
Choose TIAA if you prioritize educators. Choose Slavic401k if you're looking for self-directed investors. 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 TIAA and Slavic401k provider pages.
Frequently Asked Questions
TIAA scores higher in our 2026 rankings with 7.9/10. TIAA is best for educators, while Slavic401k is best for self-directed investors. The right choice depends on your employer's plan and your priorities.
TIAA charges expense ratios of 0.05% - 1.0% with admin fees of Varies by institution. Slavic401k charges Varies by investment choice expense ratios with admin fees of $1,200 - $2,500/year + per-participant. TIAA's fees rating is 4.0/5 compared to Slavic401k's 3.2/5.
Yes, you can roll over between TIAA and Slavic401k. TIAA uses TIAA.org for rollovers, while Slavic401k uses Slavic401k Portal. A direct rollover avoids mandatory tax withholding. Contact your new provider to initiate the transfer.
TIAA offers 401(k) loans. Slavic401k offers 401(k) loans. Both providers typically allow loans up to 50% of your vested balance or $50,000, whichever is less.
TIAA scores 4.0/5 for investment options, while Slavic401k scores 4.8/5. Both offer target-date funds, index funds, and managed accounts. TIAA's investment options include TIAA Funds, CREF Variable Annuities, Target Date Funds. Slavic401k offers Individual Stocks, ETFs, Mutual Funds.
For small businesses, consider plan minimums and per-participant costs. TIAA is best for educators, nonprofits, healthcare workers, income-focused retirees. Slavic401k is best for self-directed investors, active traders, sophisticated investors, those wanting maximum 401(k) flexibility. Compare admin fees: TIAA charges Varies by institution vs Slavic401k's $1,200 - $2,500/year + per-participant.
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