401k rollover INTO 403b?

[jasg]

It is time to dump the MegaCorp 401k and roll it into another account and start investing in index funds. Vanguard or Fidelity IRAs are the obvious and popular options. However, I have another intriguing possibility.

It looks like I have a chance to roll into an old Stanford TIAA-CREF 403b plan that has lain fallow for over 30 years. The fund selection is great, all of the TIAA-CREF funds (Institutional class), the TIAA-CREF annuities and it includes many Vanguard funds, both index and managed.

TIAA-CREF has a local office (actually their Wealth Management Group) and I like both the company and having the possibility of face to face meetings if needed.

I know very little about 403b accounts. Are there any gotchas in using them in retirement or with a rollover?

Would you do this?

[Htown Harry]

I've seen this site referenced a few times here on the forum.

403(b)wise . The Leading Source of 403(b) Information on the Web

One potential benefit to rolling to the 403(b) from a 401 (k), according to this table and other resources I have seen: since you have separated from service, penalty-free withdrawals can begin at 55 instead of 59-1/2.

Comparison of Deferred Income Plans

I'd confirm this from several sources before counting on it, however.

[jasg]

Thanks, but I'm 64. Will check out the site.