Updated 2026-03-30
Transamerica vs Nationwide 401(k) Comparison
Compare Transamerica (#11, 7.5/10) and Nationwide (#13, 7.3/10) side by side across fees, ratings, features, and investment options.
Overall Comparison
| Feature | Transamerica | Nationwide |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 7.5/10 | 7.3/10 |
| Rank | #11 | #13 |
| AUM | $300 billion | $250 billion |
| Participants | 6 million | 3.5 million |
| Plan Sponsors | 35,000+ | 30,000+ |
| Founded | 1904 | 1926 |
Ratings Comparison
| Category | Transamerica | Nationwide |
|---|---|---|
| Fees & Costs | 3.6/5 | 3.4/5 |
| Investment Options | 3.7/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Customer Service | 3.8/5 | 4.0/5 |
| Mobile App | 3.5/5 | 3.4/5 |
Fee Comparison
| Fee Type | Transamerica | Nationwide |
|---|---|---|
| Admin Fees | $750 - $3,000/year | $800 - $3,500/year |
| Expense Ratios | 0.25% - 1.2% | 0.30% - 1.3% |
| Trading Fees | Plan dependent | Plan dependent |
| Advisory Fees | 0.35% - 0.85% | 0.45% - 0.95% |
Transamerica Strengths
- complete financial wellness programs
- Flexible plan design options
- Strong educational resources and tools
- Integrated workplace benefits platform
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 | Transamerica | Nationwide |
|---|---|---|
| Rollover Platform | Transamerica.com | Nationwide.com |
| Loans Available | Yes | Yes |
| Withdrawal Methods | Online via Transamerica.com, Phone (800-755-5801) | Online via Nationwide.com, Phone (877-677-3678) |
| Distribution Options | Lump sum, Partial withdrawal, Installment payments, Rollover to IRA | Lump sum, Partial withdrawal, Installment payments, Guaranteed lifetime income, Rollover to IRA |
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Transamerica if you want:
- Mid-sized companies
- Integrated benefits seekers
- Financial wellness focus
Choose Nationwide if you want:
- Public sector employees
- Teachers and nonprofits
- Guaranteed income seekers
Our Verdict: Transamerica vs Nationwide
Transamerica wins this comparison with a score of 7.5/10 vs 7.3/10. Transamerica excels with complete financial wellness programs, 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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Transamerica vs Nationwide: Complete 401(k) Comparison for 2026
Choosing between Transamerica and Nationwide for your 401(k) is an important decision that affects your retirement savings. Transamerica offers workplace benefits while Nationwide is known for public sector. In terms of fees, Transamerica charges 0.25% - 1.2% expense ratios compared to Nationwide's 0.30% - 1.3%. Transamerica manages $300 billion in assets and serves 6 million participants, while Nationwide has $250 billion AUM and 3.5 million participants.
Key Differences: Transamerica vs Nationwide
When comparing Transamerica and Nationwide, consider their core strengths: Transamerica excels with complete financial wellness programs, 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. Transamerica's customer service rating is 3.8/5 compared to Nationwide's 4.0/5. For mobile experience, Transamerica scores 3.5/5 while Nationwide scores 3.4/5.
Which Provider is Right for You?
Choose Transamerica if you prioritize mid-sized companies. 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 Transamerica and Nationwide provider pages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Transamerica scores higher in our 2026 rankings with 7.5/10. Transamerica is best for mid-sized companies, while Nationwide is best for public sector employees. The right choice depends on your employer's plan and your priorities.
Transamerica charges expense ratios of 0.25% - 1.2% with admin fees of $750 - $3,000/year. Nationwide charges 0.30% - 1.3% expense ratios with admin fees of $800 - $3,500/year. Transamerica's fees rating is 3.6/5 compared to Nationwide's 3.4/5.
Yes, you can roll over between Transamerica and Nationwide. Transamerica uses Transamerica.com for rollovers, while Nationwide uses Nationwide.com. A direct rollover avoids mandatory tax withholding. Contact your new provider to initiate the transfer.
Transamerica 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.
Transamerica scores 3.7/5 for investment options, while Nationwide scores 3.5/5. Both offer target-date funds, index funds, and managed accounts. Transamerica's investment options include Mutual Funds, Target Date Funds, Stable Value. Nationwide offers Mutual Funds, Target Date Funds, Fixed Annuities.
For small businesses, consider plan minimums and per-participant costs. Transamerica is best for mid-sized companies, integrated benefits seekers, financial wellness focus. Nationwide is best for public sector employees, teachers and nonprofits, guaranteed income seekers. Compare admin fees: Transamerica charges $750 - $3,000/year 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