Welcome to 457(b)wise Thanks to recent legislation, the 457(b) is an especially attractive way to save for retirement. We've compiled a list of articles, information and notes in this section that we think are a great way to get to know both the 457(b) and 457(b)wise.     About Us 457(b)wise is brought to you by the same people who bring you 403(b)wise, a nationally recognized site dedicated to educating educators and other non profit workers about the 403(b) retirement plan. First and foremost we are teachers. We know the unique demands and challenges of the profession. We also know how difficult it is for educators to get both quality investment information and access to quality investment options. This is the reason we started 403(b)wise, and it is the reason we started 457(b)wise.   Why Is There Suddenly So Much Interest in the 457(b)? The 457(b) plan has traditionally covered state and local government employees, which included some teachers. In the past, teachers who wished to contribute to both plans were limited to the total aggregate amount of the 457(b) which was only $8,500 at the time. The Economic Growth and Tax-Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001 (EGTRRA) repealed coordination of contributions between 457(b) and 403(b) plans [and between 457(b) and 401(k) plans]. In English, this meant that participants who are eligible to contribute to both plans, could contribute the maximum to both a 403(b) and a 457(b) [or to both a 457(b) and a 401(k)]. For 2005, this is $14,000 per plan for a whopping total of $28,000. Participants eligible for catch-up provisions can include even more. Not all employers offer both a 457(b) and a 403(b) plan [or both a 457(b) and a 401(k)], nor are they required to do so.   The list below, or online scavenger hunt if you will, should help you get wise to the 457(b) plan.     1. Read the following articles: 457(b) FAQ Contribute to both a 457(b) and a 403(b) Why Public School Districts Should Consider Adding an IRC 457 Plan [by Barbara Healy for 403(b)wise]     2. Now read how to Start a 457(b).     3. Take a look at our ResearchWise section. Here you'll find tools and calculators for wise 457(b) research.     4. Go to our discussion board. Introduce yourself with a post. Tell the community who you are and why you are here. Maybe drop a question or two. Go ahead. It's fun and easy.     5. Finally, take a look at our Disclaimer. The truly wise know that all information should be viewed with a discerning eye, including that found on this site.   Home | Disclaimer | © 2003-2005 bWise Guys, LLC. All rights reserved.