Human Resources

Transition guide packages are in the mail – get all the details on the UWRP/VIP changes

Changes to the UWRP and VIP are coming in 2026

The University of Washington is moving forward with the changes to the UWRP and VIP retirement plans announced earlier this summer.

  • New TIAA accounts were issued in late October, which you can access to change investments for future contributions and update beneficiaries at tiaa.org/washington.
  • Welcome Kits were sent (one per plan), which have your new TIAA account information and can also be accessed once you log in at tiaa.org/washington under Statements and documents.
  • Fidelity balances will move to TIAA during the blackout period between December 31, 2025 at 1pm PT and the week of January 26, 2026. See below for more information on the blackout period.
  • All UWRP and VIP retirement plan balances will be accessible at TIAA after the blackout ends in late January.

 Look for your transition guide package in the mail

For all the details on the transition and how money will transfer from Fidelity to TIAA, be on the lookout for a complete transition guide package that was mailed last week. You may also access these documents at tiaa.org/washington.

Here are some important reminders:

  • Your Fidelity balances will come to TIAA in the same investments you have when the blackout period begins on December 31, 2025, at 1 p.m. PT.
  • During the blackout
    • Your balances may not be visible at either Fidelity or TIAA for a period of time while the transfer is completed.
    • You will no longer have access to your Fidelity accounts.
    • You WILL still be able to access your TIAA account and make changes to any current TIAA balances, update your beneficiaries, and make changes to investment elections for future contributions.
  • Once the blackout ends, expected the week of January 26, 2026, you will see all of your UWRP and VIP balances in your new TIAA account(s) and will be able to change your transferred balance investments.

Learn more and ask your questions

We want you to be prepared and understand the retirement planning options available to you. To make the most of the transition, every UWRP and VIP participant should:

  1. Register for a webinar – Learn what’s changing and how it affects your UWRP/VIP accounts.
  2. Book a 1:1 consultation – Meet with a licensed TIAA financial consultant for personalized advice on your investments and retirement planning.

In partnership with The Whole U, you can also find TIAA at pop-up events across UW’s campuses and medical centers.  See the full schedule and register now for events happening through mid-December.

Where to go with questions

The move to TIAA is designed to make retirement planning easier, more secure and more cost-effective for you. If you have questions now, both UW and TIAA are ready to help:

 We are also continually updating our dedicated support webpage with information and FAQs to help guide you through the transition.