Is there a special enrollment period each year, like insurance?

No, 403b is different from insurance. Once you are eligible, you can enroll at any time.

How often can I make changes to how much I'm contributing to my 403b from my paycheck?

Any changes submitted through your Vanguard online account at least three days prior to the payroll cutoff will go into effect for that pay period.  If you make multiple changes prior to a payroll cutoff, only the last change will be retained.

How often can I make changes to my investment options?

As often as you want. Vanguard also allows you to choose whether to apply those changes to your entire portfolio, any future contributions, or to rebalance your portfolio.

How long does it take to see my contributions in my Vanguard Account?

It generally takes 48 hours after the paycheck check date before your funds are shown in your Vanguard account. 

How often is the 403b Employer Match paid out?

The employer match to your 403b plan will be paid out one time per year, typically, in the first month of the year following the plan year.  In order to receive the match, you would need to be employed as of 12/31 of the plan year.  

What happens to my account if I leave staff?

• If your account balance is < $1000: Vanguard/Newport Group will disburse your funds to you and you will have opportunity to reinvest within a time period stated.

• If your account balance is >$1000 and < $5000: Vanguard/Newport Group will disburse your funds into an IRA with Vanguard unless you give different instructions. 

• If your account balance is > $5000: Vanguard/Newport group will maintain your account for you until you decide to roll it over to another employer.  However it is recommended that you move your account as soon as practical.