Melissa Ruiz reviews
Contact Melissa today and let’s start protecting what matters most together!
Why Melissa
We read every Google review that mentions Melissa. The same four things come up again and again.
9 of 16 reviews say Melissa explained things clearly and took her time.
“She explained everything clearly and answered all my questions.” — Simona Konegen, Google review
7 reviews call Melissa knowledgeable.
“Her knowledge of teacher retirement systems, pension options, and long-term financial planning was absolutely outstanding.” — Theodore Ahn, Google review
7 reviews describe hands-on help with accounts, paperwork and changes.
“Melissa went above and beyond to help me set up my account.” — Magda Grimaldo, Google review
Teachers say she responds promptly and checks in.
“Melissa was very helpful, checked in consistently, and made me feel very comfortable!” — Sukhman Khila, Google review
Client wins
Next step toward retirement
Melissa’s knowledge helped Nikki take her next step toward retirement.
Melissa was extremely knowledgeable and helped me make the next step towards retirement.
Coverage review
Melissa came in, explained what was going on with Angelina’s coverage, and helped her make changes and updates.
Melissa, was able to come in explain what was going on with my coverage and help to make changes and updates.
Plain-language help
When Wendy didn’t understand something, Melissa took the time to explain it.
Melissa R is very helpful and knowledgeable. She took time to explain when I did not understand.
“Melissa Ruiz is the best!❤️”
Results
Every Google review that mentions Melissa by name gives her five stars.
The questions California educators ask most about 403(b) and 457(b) plans.
Both let you save for retirement through payroll deductions with tax advantages. A 403(b) is offered by public schools and certain nonprofits; a 457(b) is a deferred-compensation plan offered by state and local government employers, including many school districts. The biggest practical difference: money in a governmental 457(b) can be withdrawn after you leave that job without the 10% early-withdrawal penalty, at any age. Most 403(b) withdrawals before age 59½ carry that penalty.
You choose an amount to set aside from each paycheck, and it goes into investments you pick from the plan’s options. With traditional (pre-tax) contributions you lower your taxable income now and pay tax when you withdraw in retirement. If your plan offers a Roth option, you pay tax now and qualified withdrawals in retirement are tax-free.
No. A 403(b) is an employer plan funded through payroll; an IRA is an account you open on your own. They have separate contribution limits, so you can contribute to both. Some 403(b) plans also offer a Roth 403(b) option, which works like a Roth IRA for taxes but follows the 403(b) plan’s rules.
Usually only in limited cases, and it depends on your plan. Common options are loans, hardship withdrawals for a 403(b), unforeseeable-emergency withdrawals for a 457(b), or in-service withdrawals once you reach age 59½. Early 403(b) withdrawals can also mean income tax plus a 10% penalty, so it’s worth checking your options with Melissa first.
No. Your pension pays a defined monthly benefit based on your salary and years of service. A 403(b) or 457(b) is a separate savings account you fund yourself; what you have at retirement depends on how much you contribute and how the investments perform. Many educators use one to help close the gap between their pension and the income they want in retirement.
Yes, if your employer offers both. The 403(b) and 457(b) have separate annual contribution limits, so educators with access to both can save up to twice as much as with one plan alone. Melissa can help you decide how to split contributions between them.
General information, not tax or legal advice. Rules vary by plan; Melissa can review yours.
Have questions?
Fill out the form, and Melissa will get back to you shortly. Or book a time that works for you.