Definition of a 457 plan:
A 457 plan is a nonqualified, deferred compensation plan established by state and local governments and tax-exempt employers. With a deferred compensation plan you postpone receiving a portion of you salary to be received at a later date. In many cases, employers that allow employees to participate in 403(b) plans also offer 457 plans to their employees.

457 plans offer the following features:

· a "standard" 457 catch-up provision,

· the unique ability to withdraw account savings before age 59 1/2, after separation from service, without a 10% early withdrawal penalty, and

· the flexibillity to consolidate retirement accounts.

· higher annual contribution limits, and