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Make Changes to Contribution Amounts & Investments

Northwestern University has two 403(b) retirement savings plans:

You decide how your account balances are to be invested. You have a selection of two Investment Companies, Fidelity Investments and Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association (TIAA). You are encouraged to contact the Investment Companies and explore their websites to find information on investment selections, retirement planning, and general investment education. You may also schedule an appointment with a Fidelity or TIAA representative.

Ensure you elect to maximize the Retirement Plan's 5% match BEFORE contributing to the Voluntary Savings Plan.  A Voluntary Retirement Plan Calculator is available to assist you with calculating how much to contribute to the Voluntary Savings plan to reach the IRS limits.

For deferral changes effective your first paycheck in 2024, you MUST make the request between the following dates:

Review and make changes to contribution amounts

Contribution amount changes can be made at any time during the year. Northwestern utilizes NetBenefits, administered by Fidelity, to provide enhanced services for the Retirement Savings Plans offered to faculty and staff. All contribution amount changes, even if you contribute to TIAA, are made using this system.

There are two ways to make this change for those in both TIAA and/or Fidelity:


Review and make changes to your investments

Faculty and staff have access to a wide range of funds at both TIAA and Fidelity. You choose and change investments through the Investment Companies:

Schedule a meeting with a representative.