Deferred compensation plans tend to offer better investment options than most 401(k) plans, but are at a disadvantage regarding liquidity. 457(b) plans and 401(k) plans are very similar.Both offer you the opportunity to make tax-deferred contributions to a retirement account. Comparison of governmental 457(b) plans and 401(k) plans: Features and corrections. I'm a reasonably well-informed investor and it just seems to me that the Deferred Compensation Plan is an unimpressive investment vehicle. Deferred compensation plans allow the participant to defer income today and withdraw it at some point in the future (usually upon retirement) The plan is designed to be a supplement to the City's mandatory retirement plan and is an additional way to invest long-term.