Updated 2026-03-30
TIAA vs Transamerica 401(k) Comparison
Compare TIAA (#9, 7.9/10) and Transamerica (#11, 7.5/10) side by side across fees, ratings, features, and investment options.
Overall Comparison
| Feature | TIAA | Transamerica |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 7.9/10 | 7.5/10 |
| Rank | #9 | #11 |
| AUM | $1.3 trillion | $300 billion |
| Participants | 5 million | 6 million |
| Plan Sponsors | 15,000+ | 35,000+ |
| Founded | 1918 | 1904 |
Ratings Comparison
| Category | TIAA | Transamerica |
|---|---|---|
| Fees & Costs | 4.0/5 | 3.6/5 |
| Investment Options | 4.0/5 | 3.7/5 |
| Customer Service | 4.3/5 | 3.8/5 |
| Mobile App | 3.9/5 | 3.5/5 |
Fee Comparison
| Fee Type | TIAA | Transamerica |
|---|---|---|
| Admin Fees | Varies by institution | $750 - $3,000/year |
| Expense Ratios | 0.05% - 1.0% | 0.25% - 1.2% |
| Trading Fees | $0 for TIAA funds | Plan dependent |
| Advisory Fees | 0.30% - 1.0% | 0.35% - 0.85% |
TIAA Strengths
- Dominant in education sector
- Strong lifetime income/annuity options
- Mission-aligned for nonprofits
- Excellent retirement income planning
Transamerica Strengths
- complete financial wellness programs
- Flexible plan design options
- Strong educational resources and tools
- Integrated workplace benefits platform
Rollover, Loans & Withdrawals
| Feature | TIAA | Transamerica |
|---|---|---|
| Rollover Platform | TIAA.org | Transamerica.com |
| Loans Available | Yes | Yes |
| Withdrawal Methods | Online via TIAA.org, Phone (800-842-2252), TIAA offices | Online via Transamerica.com, Phone (800-755-5801) |
| Distribution Options | Lump sum, Partial withdrawal, Lifetime income annuity, Systematic withdrawals, Rollover to IRA | Lump sum, Partial withdrawal, Installment payments, Rollover to IRA |
Which Should You Choose?
Choose TIAA if you want:
- Educators
- Nonprofits
- Healthcare workers
- Income-focused retirees
Choose Transamerica if you want:
- Mid-sized companies
- Integrated benefits seekers
- Financial wellness focus
Our Verdict: TIAA vs Transamerica
TIAA wins this comparison with a score of 7.9/10 vs 7.5/10. 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 Transamerica: Complete 401(k) Comparison for 2026
Choosing between TIAA and Transamerica for your 401(k) is an important decision that affects your retirement savings. TIAA offers education focus while Transamerica is known for workplace benefits. In terms of fees, TIAA charges 0.05% - 1.0% expense ratios compared to Transamerica's 0.25% - 1.2%. TIAA manages $1.3 trillion in assets and serves 5 million participants, while Transamerica has $300 billion AUM and 6 million participants.
Key Differences: TIAA vs Transamerica
When comparing TIAA and Transamerica, consider their core strengths: TIAA excels with dominant in education sector, 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. TIAA's customer service rating is 4.3/5 compared to Transamerica's 3.8/5. For mobile experience, TIAA scores 3.9/5 while Transamerica scores 3.5/5.
Which Provider is Right for You?
Choose TIAA if you prioritize educators. 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 TIAA and Transamerica provider pages.
Frequently Asked Questions
TIAA scores higher in our 2026 rankings with 7.9/10. TIAA is best for educators, while Transamerica is best for mid-sized companies. 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. Transamerica charges 0.25% - 1.2% expense ratios with admin fees of $750 - $3,000/year. TIAA's fees rating is 4.0/5 compared to Transamerica's 3.6/5.
Yes, you can roll over between TIAA and Transamerica. TIAA uses TIAA.org for rollovers, while Transamerica uses Transamerica.com. A direct rollover avoids mandatory tax withholding. Contact your new provider to initiate the transfer.
TIAA 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.
TIAA scores 4.0/5 for investment options, while Transamerica scores 3.7/5. Both offer target-date funds, index funds, and managed accounts. TIAA's investment options include TIAA Funds, CREF Variable Annuities, Target Date Funds. Transamerica offers Mutual Funds, Target Date Funds, Stable Value.
For small businesses, consider plan minimums and per-participant costs. TIAA is best for educators, nonprofits, healthcare workers, income-focused retirees. Transamerica is best for mid-sized companies, integrated benefits seekers, financial wellness focus. Compare admin fees: TIAA charges Varies by institution 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