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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about 403(b) to Gold IRA conversions

403(b) to Gold IRA: Rules Specific to Tax-Exempt Employees

A 403(b) plan (also called a Tax-Sheltered Annuity) is available only to employees of specific tax-exempt organizations. Rolling these funds into a Gold IRA has unique considerations that differ from 401(k) rollovers.

Who Has a 403(b)?

  • Public school teachers & administrators
  • 501(c)(3) nonprofit employees
  • Hospital & healthcare workers (nonprofit)
  • Ministers and clergy members
  • University professors and staff

Rollover Timing Rules

  • After separation: Full rollover allowed
  • Age 59½+: In-service withdrawal permitted
  • Hardship: The IRS prohibits rolling over hardship distributions — eligible for distribution only
  • 15-year rule: Extra $3,000/yr catch-up for 15+ years of service
  • Direct rollover: Avoids 20% withholding

403(b) vs. 401(k) Differences

  • 403(b) may have annuity surrender charges
  • Fewer in-plan investment options
  • Same 2026 limit: $23,500 ($31,000 if 50+)
  • Special 15-year catch-up unique to 403(b)
  • Church plans may be exempt from ERISA

Watch out for annuity surrender charges: Many 403(b) plans use fixed or variable annuity contracts. Transferring before the surrender period ends (often 5-10 years) can trigger significant fees. Check your contract’s surrender schedule before initiating a rollover.

Reviewed by Our Editorial Team. Sources: IRS Publication 571, IRC §403(b), Revenue Ruling 2011-7.