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Why teams choose Basic Capital over Ascensus
A modern 401(k) with an independent custodian, 6,000+ funds, a built-in brokerage window and compliance testing on every payroll.
Best for
Basic Capital is better for teams that want an independent custodian, a broad fund menu with a built-in brokerage window and live compliance testing on every payroll.
May fit instead
Ascensus Essentials may fit employers with up to 75 employees that want a fast setup, 3(16) and 3(38) support at a published price, and a large provider with 500+ payroll integrations.
See the full side-by-side comparison
AICPA SOC 1 Type I
· SOC 2 Type II ·
Comparison reviewed
November 10, 2026
Three reasons to choose Basic Capital over Ascensus
Basic Capital is better for teams that want an independent custodian, a broad fund menu with a built-in brokerage window and live compliance testing on every payroll.
Keep plan assets with an independent custodian
Basic Capital plan assets are held by an independent third-party custodian. Ascensus Essentials plan assets are held by Ascensus Trust Company, an Ascensus subsidiary.
Go beyond the plan's fund menu
Offer 6,000+ fund options, plus a built-in brokerage window for employees who want individual stocks and ETFs. Ascensus Essentials uses fixed fund lineups selected by its investment manager.
See compliance risks during the plan year
Basic Capital monitors ADP, ACP and top-heavy tests continuously and flags a failing trend when it appears. It then drafts employee outreach for you to review and send.
Which is right for your team?
A side-by-side look at what each provider offers.
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Plan migration should feel effortless for your team
Basic Capital offers a white glove service to support your move to our platform.
Let your old record-keeper know you're transitioning and our team will handle the rest.
Switching to Basic Capital is easy
It takes two quick steps on your end: confirm a few plan details and forward one email we write for you. Basic Capital handles everything else.
We coordinate with your current provider
We reach out directly on your behalf to shepherd your plan through the transition.
We move your assets over
We work with your old recordkeeper and custodian so your plan’s funds transfer seamlessly.
We set up your employees’ accounts
With plan details, assets and payroll integrated, every account is ready. Most plans are live in about 30 days.
We cover the fees and the fine print
We cover any break-up fee your old provider charges, and carry over year-to-date contributions so employees stay within IRS limits.
Competitor information on this page is our good-faith summary of publicly available sources, such as each provider’s website, help center and regulatory filings, as of the review date below. It is not a statement of fact by or about any provider and may be incomplete or out of date. Basic Capital is not affiliated with or endorsed by the providers compared on this page. Confirm current offerings directly with each provider.
Sources
Comparison last reviewed:
November 10, 2026