403(b) Problems
What's in your 403(b)?
Likely a lot of high risk and high fee variable annuities. 403(b) plans in school districts are notorious for having hidden fees, a lack of diversification, and stock market risk. What can you do to protect yourself? Scroll to dig deeper into this topic, or just click to "Schedule a 403(b) Review" to get your questions answered.
"Patient education about 403(b) plan...
Steve was very informative about educating me in the transition from a 401K plan to a 403B plan. Steve was very patient with me and thoroughly answered all my questions and addressed my concerns. It was a pleasure working with Steve because he genuinely cares about his teachers!
Stacy Diggs, Winslow
"Reduced risk from stock market crashing...
When I had questions about my tax shelter, Mr. Carter sat with me and broke down the information that I needed to know. Thinking of my future and financial matters, I decided to proceed with changes to increase my investment and put in less of a risk on the market. I am really glad I did that.
Maria Lalave, Camden
Why review your 403(b) now...
We have completed audits of hundreds of 403(b) plans which mostly consist of Variable Annuities.
We frequently find that:
1. Our clients are often unaware of the policy details.
2. The policies are often not the right fit for their situations.
3. Their annuities often include hidden fees and stock market risk.
4. There are policies with better benefits that you haven't been made aware of.
5. Many people are losing money every single day - and in some cases losing a lot of money right before they retire.
Are your policies underperforming? Are you missing out on a better deal?
We’d be happy to do a complimentary analysis of your 403(b) annuity policies - including looking for hidden fees and digging the fine print of the contracts. If there are problems, we will find them. If there are better options, we will find those too.
During my TPAF and Retirement Review I was very impressed with Steve Carter. He answered my questions and basically was there to help me. It didn’t matter if I signed up with him or not, he was willing to assist me. When I told him I needed time to think about what I wanted to do with my investments at that point in my life, he said no problem. I did not feel pressured at all.
I did decide to invest differently and mostly because I was impressed with Steve’s knowledge and helpfulness. Every time we needed to meet Steve asked me what was the best time for me and he would make it happen. He takes the clients needs into consideration and that doesn’t happen much anymore.
I have had some problems getting my previous company to release me and I was never on my own. Steve was there to help me through the process. I have met with several others during a review and none of them helped me like he has. I trust him and I believe that he really wants the best for his clients.
Alice j stewart, teacher
Dudley Elementary School, Camden, NJ
"A great help for me and my family...
Steve was a great help for me who delivered a very good presentation to me about retirement. He explained a few options that would benefit me and my family after I retire. Mr. Carter knows the business and I recommend him to anybody who needs assistance with PLANNING for their retirement.
L. Marty Johnson, Pennsauken
"Explained options to increase savings...
Steve was able to answer all the questions that I had concerning my retirement. He explained the various options I have available to me and showed me ways that I could increase my retirement savings. I was not aware of these options and I now feel more confident of my future, especially as I reach retirement age.
Denise Moran, Winslow
What can you do about your 403(b) problems?
Step #1. Understand your 403(b) details.
We've described the problems and solutions as best we can in this website. But, you really need to understand the policy details. Let's just start with quick call or chat online.
Step #2. Make changes to your 403(b).
There may be better options inside your 403(b) that have lower fees and less stock market risk.
Step #3. Get help with your 403(b) paperwork.
You are busy and maybe even overwhelmed. We can help you step-by-step to do what you need to do.
"Made process easy…patient...
Steve was very helpful in explaining my 403B to me and calculating when I can retire. He came to me at my school and was very accommodating with the time of our meeting. I know he lives very far away and it meant a lot that he made the process so easy for me to do. He had some issues with my old company and he was very patient and walked me through the process of what to do step by step. I was so pleased with him that I referred him to a co-worker and she too was very pleased with his work. Thanks again Steve!
Amy Nicholls, Kindergarten Teacher
"Explained in terms I understand…quick...
Steve Carter was extremely helpful during my TPAF and retirement review. It was all brand new information for me, and Steve was able to explain everything in language and terms that I would understand. He works around your schedule and makes sure his appointments are quick! I am very pleased with my experience!
Bridget, Ocean Township
What's the process like?
The process is very easy - especially since we've switched to web conferences via Zoom or Google Meet during COVID times.
Schedule a meeting online. We can review your policies and make a plan. Then Steve will give you whatever support you need to implement it.
About IvyWest Financial
Steve Carter has focused on helping educators with their financial planning and retirement planning for more than 25 years. He has talked to thousands of teachers and is passionate about helping them take simple steps to improve their financial situations. Steve and his wife reside in Manasquan, New Jersey and travel frequently to South Carolina.
Sam Ingersoll has worked with numerous non-profits and after spending time in the financial services, real estate, and mortgage industries, is now a passionate advocate for consumers. Sam's wife is a physician and they have four children including one with Down syndrome and two adopted through state social services.
While IvyWest Financial serves many affluent families, our practice has become increasingly devoted to supporting educators and teachers who do so much to help our children.