Total Transparency

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The Bottom Line:

Uncover the hidden cost
of retirement plans

Pricing for retirement plans has long been confusing and inconsistent—filled with hidden costs, complex fee structures, and shifting terms. For too long, businesses and their employees have struggled to understand what they’re paying for and why.

At Vestwell, we put your interests first. We believe that pricing shouldn’t be an obstacle to offering retirement benefits—it should enable more employers and employees to participate with confidence.

Our mission is to make saving simpler, and that starts with a pricing model that’s clear, fair, and built for the modern workplace.

Promotional strategies to watch for

Promotions are a smart way to get employers’ attention—we like them too!

But if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Some look generous upfront, only to hide costs or conditions that surface later. Knowing what’s underneath the offer helps you choose a partner built for the long game.

Fully “Fee-Free” Plans

Plans may appear free to the employer, but participants often bear the cost through variable asset-based fees (AUM). Additionally, short contract terms mean that pricing can increase after the first or second year, making costs unpredictable.

Discounted Startup Fees

Providers may waive setup fees initially, only to increase monthly base or per-participant fees later, offsetting the perceived savings.

Technology or Marketing Credits

Some providers offer credits for tech integrations, employee education, or engagement tools. While these may seem like a perk, they often come with conditions, limited duration, or require ongoing spending, and before long, you realize how difficult they are to actually claim.

“No Transaction Fees” Claims

Some providers promote “no transaction fees” as a differentiator, but the reality is that these costs are often recovered elsewhere - commonly through higher asset-based fees or bundled charges that impact all participants. At Vestwell, we believe transaction costs should be paid only by those who make them, not spread across everyone in the plan.

In addition, some recordkeepers require the inclusion of their own proprietary fund products in the investment lineup. This can increase costs for participants compared to benchmark alternatives and may present a potential fiduciary risk for the plan sponsor.

How Vestwell prices fairly

Vestwell was built to help close America’s $50 trillion savings gap. Our pricing model is transparent and sustainable, without hidden costs or gimmicks. We do the heavy lifting of designing the plan that is right for your business model so it benefits both you and your employees.

Simple, Transparent Structure
Our plans feature a straightforward pricing approach with clearly defined components and predictable costs. You know exactly what you’ll pay every month.

Pay to Play, Not to Exist
You only pay for participating employees, not every eligible employee on your payroll. If they’re not saving, you’re not paying.

Stable Over Time
We guarantee a three-year price lock, giving you predictability and peace of mind as your business grows.

Get clarity on 401(k) costs

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Why transparency matters

When pricing is clear, participation increases.

Employers can confidently budget.
Advisors can recommend plans without hidden conflicts.
Payroll providers can trust their savings partner to elevate their brand and strengthen client loyalty.
And savers can know that their hard-earned money is actually working for them—not against them.

At Vestwell, we see transparency not just as a pricing strategy, but as a responsibility.

Avoid letting unexpected costs stack up

We understand how important it is to manage costs effectively. That’s why Vestwell’s pricing model helps sponsors avoid the mounting variable fees often seen with other providers. As setup charges, price increases, and fluctuating participation rates of eligible employees add up elsewhere, Vestwell keeps your costs predictable and under control.

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Notes

This document is for informational purposes only and highlights a sample of available pricing options. Actual fees and features may vary by plan, partner, and participant count. Vestwell may charge asset-based fees on our 3(38) services and recordkeeping with payroll partners, and some 3(38) offerings may include stable value investments and revenue sharing. Please review your plan agreement or consult your Vestwell representative for specific details.

*Vestwell has agreed to waive your plan level base fee for the first 12 months of your initial contract term, if this contract is executed before 1/1/2026.