Roth or Pre-Tax? New 2026 Rules for employees in the Delaware Medical Community
Understanding your 403(b) and Defined Contributions benefits – and what the new 2026 Roth catch-up rule means for your decision – in a no-obligation seminar for employees in the Delaware Medical Community
Why Attend?
Employees in the Delaware Medical Community have access to two powerful retirement benefits working together to build long-term financial security. But many professionals don't fully understand how to maximize these benefits—or they're making decisions without all the facts.
Here's what most employees in the Delaware Medical Community leave on the table:
- Incomplete 403(b) contributions — Contributing less than 6% means missing employer match dollars
- Pre-tax vs. Roth confusion — Not knowing the tax strategy that fits your situation
- Misunderstanding the Defined Contribution plan — Missing that your employer is automatically contributing 3–5% of your pay
- Not preparing for 2026 rules — New Roth catch-up requirements for higher earners age 50+ (over $150,000 in prior-year FICA wages)
This seminar cuts through the complexity. In 60 minutes, you'll understand both plans, see concrete examples of how much you're actually accumulating, and walk away with a clear action plan.
Your Retirement Benefits
The 403(b) Plan
You contribute on a pre-tax or Roth basis, and your medical employer matches 50% of the first 6% of your contributions. It's flexible—you can split between pre-tax and Roth strategies. Contribution limits are generous, especially if you're age 50 or older (catch-up contributions apply).
The Defined Contribution Plan
This is free money. your medical employer automatically contributes 3–5% of your pay based on your tenure, with no action required on your part. You're fully vested after 3 years. It's one of the most straightforward retirement benefits available.
What Changed in 2026?
A provision of the SECURE 2.0 Act that takes effect for the first time in 2026 requires certain higher earners to make their catch-up contributions as Roth, not pre-tax. Specifically: if you're 50 or older and earned more than $150,000 in FICA wages from your medical employer in 2025, your 2026 catch-up contributions must be Roth. This is actually a positive change—it forces tax diversification and creates tax-free growth opportunities. But many people don't understand what it means for their strategy.
Register for the Seminar
Lunch is provided. No sales pitch. No pressure. Just practical retirement planning for busy professionals.
About the Presenters
Tom Ervin, CFP®, CTS™ is a Senior Wealth Advisor at Diversified LLC who has been with the firm since 2011. He works alongside Andrew Rosen’s team, meeting with clients and prospects to build comprehensive financial plans, and serves on Diversified’s internal Planning Team. Tom holds a B.S. in Economics from Widener University, earned his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ designation in 2022, and holds the Certified Tax Specialist™ (CTS™) designation focused on tax planning strategy.
Max Berger, CFP®, MBA is a Senior Wealth Advisor at Diversified LLC who joined the firm in 2021 as an Associate Planner to Andrew Rosen. Before Diversified, Max spent 5+ years at SEI Investments working with financial advisors and their clients. He holds a B.S. from Syracuse University and an MBA from Villanova University School of Business, and has earned the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ designation.
Questions Before the Seminar?
Reach out anytime. We’re happy to answer preliminary questions or discuss your specific situation.
Tom Ervin
Senior Wealth Advisor, Diversified LLC
Phone: 302-765-3500
Email: tom@diversifiedllc.com
Website: DiversifiedLLC.com
Max Berger
Senior Wealth Advisor, Diversified LLC
Phone: 302-765-3500
Email: max@diversifiedllc.com
Website: DiversifiedLLC.com