Annuities✓ Verified · outline & fact-checked · Sep 2026Difficulty 1/5
Which employer is eligible to offer its employees a 403(b) tax-sheltered annuity?
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Answer & full 3-part explanation (select an option above, or peek)
Why A is correct
403(b) plans are available to employees of public educational institutions (schools, colleges, universities) and to employees of certain tax-exempt organizations under IRC Section 501(c)(3), as well as public-sector and church employees. For-profit businesses use 401(k) plans instead. The employer's tax status is the determining factor for 403(b) eligibility.
Why the other options are wrong
- B) For-profit corporations sponsor 401(k) plans; they do not qualify for 403(b) coverage.
- C) REITs are for-profit investment entities and are not eligible 403(b) sponsors.
- D) A self-employed individual without employees would use a SEP or solo 401(k); 403(b) plans cover employees of eligible organizations.
Memory hook
403(b) = schools, churches, and 501(c)(3)s. For-profit firms get the 401(k) instead.