403(b)
Americans working for non-profit groups, charitable organizations, and our public schools do much to improve society and deserve a retirement option that offers them the chance to save for a comfortable, secure retirement. The First Investors 403(b) option is reserved especially for individuals in these fields, giving them a tax-advantaged investment account that offers the potential for retirement savings growth.
A 403(b) offers two distinct tax incentives for an account holder: pre-tax contributions and tax-deferred growth.
- Annual 403(b) contributions are made on a pre-tax basis, lowering your overall tax burden — in fact, you can save on federal income tax in each paycheck. Your personal tax adviser or your First Investors registered representative can better explain how the 403(b) rules affect you.
- All gains from investments made through your account, such as capital gains, dividends, or interest, are tax deferred until you make withdrawals. This means that while you are in your accumulation phase, more money will be available to generate growth.
Limits
There are two basic limitations on how much a 403(b) account holder can save:
- The annually prescribed limit which can change each year.
- The Maximum Contribution Calculation (“MCC,” also formerly referred to as an “MEA” calculation), which, depending on the salary, age and years of service, may allow you to contribute as much as $25,000 as of January 2009. Please see a registered representative for a customized calculation relevant to your situation.
Reminder: The 403(b) was designed to encourage saving for retirement. Withdrawing funds from this account before the age of 59 ½ (or age 55 in certain circumstances) may be subject to income tax and an additional 10% tax penalty.
First Investors has made a particularly strong commitment to serving the retirement needs of employees of non-profit organizations and schools, especially K-12 educators. Today, we are currently involved with over 2,000 such systems throughout the country. First Investors was one of the first companies to offer mutual funds in many states in conjunction with 403(b) programs.
First Investors is a member/supporter of ASBO (Association of School Business Officials, International), and as such has actively participated at the national and many statewide ASBO conferences and exhibits. Please visit www.asbointl.org for more information about this worthwhile organization.
For more information about First Investors funds when planning your 403(b), you may obtain a free prospectus and shareholder manual by contacting your registered representative, writing to the address below, or calling (800) 423-4026. You should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of the funds carefully before investing. The prospectus contains this and other information about the funds, and should be read carefully before you invest or send money. An investment in these funds is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or any other government agency.
