TIAA Supplemental Retirement Plan
The TIAA 403(b) retirement plan is a voluntary, deferred compensation plan that serves as a source of supplemental retirement income. Deferrals to the plan are made via payroll deduction, and the individual account itself (including investment options) is managed by the participant in conjunction with TIAA. A participant may choose the amount of contribution (deferral) per pay period as well as the taxable status of the deferrals. There is no minimum amount required, but annual maximums (see below) are determined by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). For those age 50 and over, the annual maximum is higher (referred to as a catch-up contribution). Participants must also choose whether the deferrals are to be deducted on a pre-tax or post-tax (Roth) basis OR a combination of the two. See below for more information regarding this choice.
Should I choose Roth deferrals (post-tax) or pre-tax deferrals? This is a determination you must make, and it is dependent on your retirement goals and current financial needs. It is best to consult a financial advisor when making this decision, but is some online information to help you understand the differences and make a determination that is best for you.
Annual Contribution Maximum
Year: 2025
Under Age 50: $23,500
Age 50 and Over: additional $7,500
Total: $31,000
Year: 2026
Under Age 50: $24,500
Age 50 and Over: additional $8,000*
* Congress passed the SECURE 2.0 Act in 2022 to strengthen retirement savings opportunities and improve long-term financial security for workers. Specifically, Section 603 of the act affects how certain employees may make “catch-up” contributions to their retirement plans. Under this provision, participants who are age 50 or older and whose FICA wages from the prior calendar year exceed $150,000 will be required to make all catch-up contributions as Roth (after-tax) contributions beginning January 1, 2026.
To begin participation in the plan, click on this form and follow the enumerated steps. You will first set up an account with TIAA, then you will complete a payroll deduction form and salary deferral agreement (link in the form).
If you are a current TIAA participant and want to make changes to your contributions, please use this .