MoneyInJapan

NISA vs iDeCo vs taxable account

Compare access, contribution tax treatment and withdrawal rules before provider features.

System rules

  • NISA: no contribution deduction, qualifying returns sheltered, withdrawals flexible.
  • iDeCo: eligibility and limits depend on pension status; contributions may be deductible and access is generally restricted until later life.
  • Taxable accounts have no wrapper allowance but generally offer flexible access and loss/tax handling rules.

Provider features to verify

  • Administration and product costs
  • Eligible assets and service access
  • Transfer, beneficiary and departure procedures

Steps

  • Keep near-term money accessible.
  • Check pension category and tax benefit from official records.
  • Compare wrappers before comparing providers.

Safety notes

  • This comparison is education, not a recommendation to maximize either allowance.

Official sources