When an Employee Can Join a 403(b)

Q. When can an employee join a 403(b) plan?

A. The terms of the employer’s 403(b) plan govern when an employee may enroll. However, a 403(b) plan is generally required to allow all eligible employees to participate in the plan as of their employment commencement date (the universal availability rule). Employees should check with their employer to determine how to enroll in the plan.